Family Travel Diary: Our Kissimmee, Florida Adventure from Nova Scotia

If you're planning a family getaway from the beautiful (but chilly) Nova Scotia to sunny Kissimmee, Florida, then buckle up! I'm excited to share our favorite things to do and see during our annual trip. This year, we'll be diving into the sunshine with thrill, adventure, and, of course, delicious food! Let’s get started on crafting your perfect family vacation in the “Sunshine State.”

Where We Stay: The Villas at Seven Dwarfs Lane

Our journey starts when we arrive at The Villas at Seven Dwarfs Lane. This family-friendly resort is perfect for our family of four, complete with spacious accommodations that give us the comfort we need after a day of exploring. There’s also a fantastic pool area, splash pad, sports courts, playground where the kids can play and unwind.

Disney Springs: A Magical Evening Tradition

No trip to Kissimmee would be complete without an evening at Disney Springs. With a ton of dining and shopping options (and let's not forget the amazing atmosphere), it provides the perfect place for family exploring. Our tradition is to make a stop at the Pin Trading Store where we snap our annual family photo. It's a fun way to capture our kids' growth over the years—not to mention a great opportunity for them to trade pins and mix with fellow Disney enthusiasts!

Choosing Our Theme Park: A Family Tradition

Each year, we take on the challenge of picking just one theme park to explore—it’s a bit like picking a favorite child! With our kids aging up (our son is 10 and our daughter is 12), we try to mix things up and keep the excitement alive. This year, our daughter had her heart set on Raising Cane’s, and trust me, you didn’t hear the end of it until we made that pit stop for those crispy chicken fingers!

The Charm of Old Town, Kissimmee

We love to walk around at Old Town in Kissimmee. It’s a quaint space that’s perfect for a family evening stroll. We especially look forward to the car shows on Saturdays or Tuesdays. The kids enjoy looking at classic cars and the atmosphere feels nostalgic—perfect for milkshakes and munching on funnel cakes while we walk around. 

Snack Attack: Target & Walmart Run

Every Florida vacation feels incomplete without a haul from Target and Walmart. We load up on fun snacks we can’t find at home in Canada. From candy to chips, we always come back with bags filled with goodies that become an exciting part of our stay. Plus, it gives the kids something to munch on during our evenings in—and trust me, you’ll need snacks for those theme park days!

Family Beach Day: Cocoa Beach vs. Daytona Beach

We love alternating between Cocoa Beach and Daytona Beach for our family beach day. Both offer so much fun in the sun! Cocoa Beach tends to have a more relaxed vibe, while Daytona is famous for its boardwalk and lively atmosphere. We like to check the weather before deciding on which beach to hit, and if the forecast is looking rainy (or just a bit cloudy), it’s the perfect time to visit the Orlando Premium Outlets.

Shopping Strategy: Rainy Days at Outlets

While we have our go-to shopping days planned, let’s be real—the deals at the Orlando Premium Outlets haven’t been that mind-blowing these past years. However, with a rainy day on our hands, it’s still a solid opportunity to browse and enjoy some retail therapy while staying dry—and getting out of the villa for a few hours. Plus, the kids can’t resist a quick game at the arcades nearby!

Wrapping Up!

A trip to Kissimmee, Florida from Nova Scotia is filled with laughter, exploration, and unforgettable memories for our family. Each year brings new adventures as the kids grow and their interests evolve. Whether it's picking a different theme park or trying out the latest local eatery (hello, Raising Cane’s!), our traditions keep the magic alive.

So, fellow Canadian mamas, if you plan on making your way down south, do yourself a favor and appreciate every moment with your family. Kissimmee, Florida, has something special for everyone—Sunshine State, here we come! 🌴✨ 

Happy travels!