Before there were theme parks, world class hotels and unique restaurants, Florida was a simpler place. If you look a little closer when planning your next Central Florida trip or weekend out and about, you’ll find there’s a lot more to the area than coasters and shopping outlets. I had a fantastic, one-of-a-kind day with Experience Kissimmee getting to know some of the area’s other attractions first hand and experiencing some Florida charm.
Orlando Tree Trek
Did someone say adventure? This Treetop Adventure Park is full of it. Orlando Tree Trek has zip lines, ladders, nets and cable bridges for different levels of explorers to try. My inner child was present there for sure. As a kid I was pretty into climbing trees, tree forts, tree swings and playing in “forests” which is little Nicole terminology for empty lots in the neighborhood. Orlando Tree Trek’s harness system and exciting course let me feel like I was on a mission, or a t.v. show or fulfilling a childhood dream or all of the aforementioned. I also got to experience some great team building here. I showed up to try out this place with some strangers of the same profession and left with a bunch of new blogging friends. I found myself cheering on others and buzzing with excitement when I tackled obstacles that were kinda scary to me. Accomplishing fun physical feats like this can be great encouragement for your inner cheerleader as well and I left feeling exhilarated. Orlando Tree Trek is just around the corner from all the magic, only one stop away from Walt Disney World on I-4. See more info at OrlandoTreeTrek.com.
Pioneer Village
The next stop on this adventure was a walking history lesson. I’m all about Florida heritage and enjoyed visiting historic sites on field trips growing up in south Florida. Since I’ve moved to Orlando, I haven’t delved into the history of the area as much as I’d like. However, I learned a lot about central Florida history at Pioneer Village. This outdoor exhibit is “comprised of a permanent collection of authentic structures which once upon a time stood in different areas of Osceola County. They were carefully relocated to our present location and gently preserved to demonstrate how life was once lived before our modern times.” It was absolutely humbling to see how folks lived in the late 1800s. I also had a total fangirl moment seeing some of Dr. Phillips crates from the first citrus packing house in Florida. His name is on everything and he’s a legend of the area. More information at Osceolahistory.org/pioneer-village.
The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek
The last stop of the day was the most relaxing. Sort of. Going out was great but coming back we were swimming upstream and it was more of an adventure. The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek is located on 192. Cars are whizzing by and you’d never know this piece of.. peace.. exists. Hop in a kayak or canoe here and in just a few strokes of the paddle you’ll be surrounded by nature and quiet. I kayaked at The Paddling Center and enjoyed the trail for sure. The body of water we traveled took us to big open areas and narrow aquatic paths. I love kayaking anywhere and had no idea such a neat opportunity like this was right under my nose. There were some neat critters too. This is another great team building activity or a fabulous date idea for adventurers. Do you ever have the need to just exist? I mean just breathe and enjoy nature? This is a place you can do it. See more information at PaddlingCenter.com.
