Orlando Attractions Update – Old Town Kissimmee is in the midst of a $10 million renovation that will include new restaurants, remodeled restrooms, additional parking capacity, a concert stage, farmer’s market and the return of a Ferris Wheel and other rides, the company said this week.
“We are in the process of returning the property to its former glory and splendor,” said Brett Tollman, CEO of The Travel Corporation, which owns the 10-acre shopping and entertainment complex on Highway 192 in Kissimmee.
“Old Town has a nostalgic appeal, creating many special memories for visitors over the last 30 years, and we are committed to enhancing that experience for many years to come,” he said.
The attraction recently marked the 25th anniversary of its Saturday Nite Cruise, featuring more than 480 classic cars.
Old Town, built in 1986, already has been repainted to original color scheme.
The next phase of redevelopment includes a new entrance (“with a ‘wow’ factor,” an Old Town news release says). By this fall, a nearby vacant lot will be paved to accommodate 1,000 more vehicles.
“As a property that melds the worlds of tourism and retail, the improvements are being scheduled during times that are least intrusive to guests and tenants,” said General Manager Chris Spicer. “Every day reveals more progress and it’s exciting for us to be a part of the emergence of a new era for Old Town and to share that with area businesses, locals and tourists.”
Current tenants include the Legends: A Haunting at Old Town haunted house and Great Magic Hall attractions, restaurants, gift shops and other services.
Last fall, the complex’s carnival-style rides and the Windstorm roller coaster were removed from the property. A fence that separated Old Town from Fun Spot USA, the neighboring amusement park with go-karts and other rides, was taken down. A smart move when it comes to keeping visitors more engaged and giving them more options to choose from.