Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Kissimmee. Kissimmee Gateway Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 35 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of ISM:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 35-minute journey each way by Lynx Bus, Taxis/Rideshare, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Kissimmee from ISM
You have two main options for getting from Kissimmee Gateway Airport into town:
- Lynx Bus, Taxis/Rideshare: About 35 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 55 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Kissimmee layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Exploring Kissimmee on a Layover
If you head into Kissimmee, here are two things worth checking out:
Old Town Kissimmee is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Kissimmee Lakefront Park is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ISM, check out Kissimmee Air Museum or Signature Aviation FBO Lounge to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Columbia Restaurant – Celebration and Savion’s Place are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Kissimmee.
- At the airport: Prop Shop Cafe and Signature Aviation Grab & Go will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Storing Your Luggage at Kissimmee Gateway Airport
You can store your luggage at No dedicated public luggage storage facilities available.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Kissimmee as well.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ISM is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kissimmee and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ISM has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kissimmee doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 35 minutes from ISM, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.