If you’re looking to squeeze in a few hours of classic American amusement with a touch of nostalgic charm, the Old Town experience in Kissimmee might just be your ticket. For around $15 per person, you get access to a Ferris wheel, some thrilling attractions, and a laid-back dinner, all set within a lively, old-fashioned fairground environment. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or family, it’s a compact outing packed with diverse options.
What we love about this experience is the stunning views from the Ferris wheel—you’ll see Kissimmee and neighboring Orlando from over 85 feet up—and the opportunity to try your hand at the Xtreme Ninja Challenge, which really tests your agility. The haunted house adds a spooky twist that’s surprisingly fun, not just frightful. The all-American dinner at A&W offers straightforward, nostalgic comfort food that ties the day together nicely.
That said, a few considerations are worth mentioning. The value for money can feel a bit hit-or-miss, especially with some reviews pointing out restrictions on meal deals or short attractions like the haunted house. Plus, if you’re expecting a full day of attractions, this may be more of a quick, fun-filled addition rather than a comprehensive theme park experience.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate simple, nostalgic fun paired with some light thrills, especially if you want a low-cost, flexible outing. Families with kids, or anyone craving a taste of Americana without the hefty price tag, will find plenty to enjoy here.
Key Points
- Affordable fun: At just $15, this combo ticket offers a lot of variety in a relaxed setting.
- Stunning views: The Ferris wheel provides panoramic sights of Kissimmee and Orlando, especially pretty at sunset.
- Diverse attractions: From haunted houses to ninja courses, there’s something to suit different tastes.
- Nostalgic atmosphere: The vibe of Old Town is lively, colorful, and reminiscent of traditional fairgrounds.
- Limited attraction depth: Some visitors find the attractions short or with restrictions, so manage expectations accordingly.
- Family-friendly: The offerings are suitable for children and adults alike, making it a fun family outing.
A Detailed Look at the Old Town Experience
Old Town in Kissimmee is a lively 18-acre outdoor district that brings a slice of small-town Americana to life. Its wide walkways, vintage storefronts, and carnival-style rides make it a cozy yet vibrant place to spend part of your day. The central draw, for many, is the Ferris wheel, a custom-made Italian ride featuring 18 gondolas, each seating six. Once aboard, you’ll be treated to spectacular views—a chance to take in the sights of Kissimmee, the nearby Orlando attractions, and perhaps spot a few classic cars cruising below.
Planning more time in Kissimmee? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Ferris Wheel: A View Worth Climbing For
We loved the way the Ferris wheel is designed for comfort and visibility, with gondolas that feel spacious enough for a relaxed ride. The height of 85 feet provides excellent vantage points, especially at sunset or when the lights turn on at night, transforming the wheel into a colorful spectacle. Some reviews, like the one from Fedeline C, describe their experience as “nothing short of epic and beautiful,” emphasizing how memorable the views can be.
Just keep in mind, if you’re expecting a lengthy ride, it’s more of a quick scenic lift—a few minutes at most—so don’t plan on a long sightseeing session up there. Still, the illuminated night display is a highlight, especially as the sky darkens.
Thrilling Attractions for All Ages
The Xtreme Ninja Challenge is a genuine crowd-pleaser, especially for those who enjoy Ninja Warrior-style courses. It’s the only one of its kind in Central Florida, making it a rare opportunity for kids and adults to test their agility. One traveler mentioned, “Fun for adults and kids alike,” which captures the appeal perfectly. Expect to climb, swing, and balance your way through a series of obstacles designed to challenge your strength and coordination.
The Mortem Manor Haunted House adds a spooky edge. It’s a two-story haunted attraction outfitted with animatronics and live actors, aiming to scare visitors in a fun, theatrical way. Multiple reviews highlight its entertaining scares—though some noted it’s relatively short, lasting around 5-10 minutes, so don’t expect a lengthy horror experience.
The All-American Dinner
After working up an appetite, the A&W Restaurant offers a classic American fast-food experience. The combo meals include favorites like Bacon Double Cheeseburgers, Foot-long Chili Dogs, or Chicken Tenders, all served with a large fountain drink. Several reviews point out that the meals are straightforward, and some mention restrictions or extra charges for certain food options. For some, the food quality was disappointing, with one reviewer describing a crappy sandwich and a dirty restaurant. However, others appreciate the nostalgic, no-frills vibe that fits the old-time theme of Old Town.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat’s Included and What’s Not
The ticket price of $15 covers Ferris wheel admission, the A&W combo meal, and access to attractions like Mortem Manor and Xtreme Ninja Challenge, depending on your choice of package. You also gain entry to the Saturday Nite Classic Car Cruise and weekly live entertainment, which are often highlights for car enthusiasts or those wanting to soak in local culture.
However, additional rides and attractions outside those mentioned are not included, and hotel pickup or drop-off is not provided. This is more of a self-guided, walk-around experience rather than a motorcoach tour.
Authentic Feedback and Practical Insights
Looking at the reviews, you’ll find a mix of experiences. Some visitors, like Fedeline C, describe their time as “nothing short of epic and beautiful,” citing the overall joyful atmosphere and family bonding. Others, however, express disappointment—one mentioning that the haunted house was short, and the food was subpar with no sides included.
One traveler from the Netherlands observed, “It seemed like a good deal but it wasn’t,” citing restrictions on the meal offer and the fact that you can walk in without tickets, making the combo less valuable than anticipated. Another from the US called the Ferris wheel nice but felt the view wasn’t worth the cost compared to other options, and the short haunted house didn’t justify the price.
This variation highlights the importance of managing expectations—this experience is best viewed as a quick, fun outing rather than a full-day adventure or a premium attraction.
Timing and Logistics
Since this is a one-day activity, plan to arrive during daylight hours to enjoy the rides, attractions, and a leisurely walk through Old Town. The voucher exchange is at the Old Town General Store, so be sure to arrive with your printed or digital voucher ready. The ticket options offer some flexibility, and you can reserve now and pay later, which helps in planning your visit amidst other Orlando adventures.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Experience Suited For?
This outing is perfect for families with children, couples, or groups of friends looking for a low-cost, relaxed way to enjoy some simple Americana charm. If you’re after stunning views from the Ferris wheel, some light thrills, and a nostalgic dinner, it offers decent value.
Keep in mind, if you’re expecting lengthy rides or high-end entertainment, this may fall short. Short attractions like the haunted house and ninja course are fun but don’t take hours, so plan to combine this with other Orlando activities if you want a full day’s adventure. It’s ideal for a quick escape into a lively, colorful setting that’s more about fun and atmosphere than serious thrill-seeking.
FAQ
Is the Ferris wheel included in the ticket price?
Yes, the Ferris wheel admission is included in the $15 ticket, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of Kissimmee and Orlando.
Can I just walk into Old Town without a ticket?
Yes, you can walk into Old Town without a ticket, but to access specific attractions like the haunted house or ninja course with the combo deal, you need to exchange your voucher and purchase a ticket.
Are the attractions suitable for young children?
Most attractions, such as the Ferris wheel and ninja course, are suitable for kids, but the haunted house may be too spooky or short for very young children. Always check age restrictions in advance.
What does the meal deal include?
The meal deal includes a choice of classic American fast food—such as burgers, hot dogs, or chicken tenders—and a large fountain drink. Some reviews note restrictions or additional charges may apply.
How long does each attraction last?
The Ferris wheel ride lasts a few minutes, the ninja course varies based on your pace, and the haunted house might be around 5-10 minutes. Overall, plan for a few hours at most.
Is there live entertainment or special events?
Yes, weekly live entertainment, holiday events, and the classic car cruises are included in the overall experience, providing extra fun beyond the rides.
In all, Kissimmee’s Old Town offers a charming, budget-friendly way to enjoy some American fun—perfect for a quick break or a family outing. While it’s not a sprawling theme park, the distinctive atmosphere, stunning views, and nostalgic vibe make it a worthwhile stop if you’re nearby and craving a taste of classic Americana.
You can check availability for your dates here: