From lush landscapes to America’s best beaches, find an authentic slice of the Sunshine State in Kissimmee and St. Pete-Clearwater.
When you think of Florida, you probably think of theme parks and gorgeous beaches, perhaps the lush beauty of the Everglades comes to mind, or maybe the shopping and endless entertainment.
But did you know you could get it all in one trip? When it comes to exploring the Sunshine State, make yours a twin-centre stay and you can combine outdoor adventure with the world’s best rides and rollercoasters, then finish up on white-sand beaches that have been voted some of the best in the US.
In the heart of Florida, you have Kissimmee, perfectly placed for theme park thrills and lush landscapes, and just a 90-minute drive away, you’ll find St. Pete-Clearwater with its laid-back vibe and sugar-sand beaches.
And it’s never been easier to plan a trip. Kissimmee is just minutes away from Orlando, and St. Pete-Clearwater is a 30-minute drive from Tampa, with Virgin Atlantic flying to both from London Heathrow.
The Virgin Atlantic Holidays Sale* is on now, too, meaning you can snap up a getaway for less. Choose from accommodation options to suit all budgets and count on the Virgin Atlantic Holidays experts to help tailor your trip with car hire and even attraction tickets included, too.
Key reasons you’ll love Kissimmee
They call it the big, bold heart of Florida, and it’s easy to see why. Kissimmee has larger-than-life attractions on its doorstep and is also a gateway to boundless adventures in nature.
Add in great golf, stylish shopping and an impressive foodie scene, and you have everything you could need for a fun and easy stay.
Start with larger-than-life attractions such as Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, then take in the breathtaking natural splendour of Central Florida.
Glide past alligators as you zoom across the Headwaters of the Everglades on an exhilarating airboat ride, or if you’re up for something of a slower pace, take the kids out for a little fishing trip with a guide service – who’ll be the first in your group to secure a big catch?
Over in Kissimmee’s Old Town, the Entertainment District revs up with the sound of engines as car enthusiasts flock to its iconic classic car shows. Motorheads can enjoy a weekly showcase of hot rods, muscle cars, and timeless rides, featuring live music, family-friendly entertainment, and a splash of nostalgia.
And with more than 55,000 local accommodation options, including vacation home rentals and spectacular resorts, Kissimmee is known as the Vacation Home Capital of the World®. There are plenty to choose from, with Virgin Atlantic Holidays offering the best pick of them all.
You’ll find yourself slipping into local life here, whether it’s taking in dinner shows or visiting craft beer microbreweries. There are restaurants serving up fresh delicacies to suit every palette and budget, great live music spots and bars offering craft cocktails to toast warm Florida evenings.
For a spot of retail therapy, browse designer outlets at luxury malls and outlets or unique boutiques on charming main streets.
Tee off on championship golf courses, or while away a relaxed afternoon at an art gallery. You’ll find it all in Kissimmee.
America’s best beaches
Over on the Gulf Coast, St. Pete Beach has previously been voted America’s number one beach by the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards. And its neighbour, Clearwater Beach, has similar coastal accolades.
Clearwater Beach is a breath of fresh air, with a lively and laid-back atmosphere, home to young artists and musicians who put on a nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60.
The sound of live music filtering through the quiet rush of the waves is the perfect ambience for watching the sun go down, cocktail in hand, as you sink your toes into the soft white sand.
And if you’re looking for activity and culture, St. Pete-Clearwater has it in spades and sandcastles. Go paddleboarding over the waves or soar above Florida’s Gulf Coast on a parasailing excursion.
Make sure to bring your appetite, here you’ll find everything from the beach shacks serving up fish sandwiches to bistros and fine-dining eateries offering the freshest local ingredients. No wonder it’s recently been announced as a destination partner of the Michelin Guide Florida 2025.
Need more? The arts scene here is thriving. You’ll find the largest collection of Salvador Dali works outside of Spain. For an even quirkier art experience, check out the interactive installations at FloridaRAMA.
Colours, neon lights and crazy shapes abound – think carnival crossed with escape room in a completely bonkers setting.
Mix and match St. Pete-Clearwater with Kissimmee and you’ll enjoy the perfect two-in-one holiday.
Think you know Florida? Think again. The secrets of the state are just waiting to be uncovered.
ON SALE: Book Florida with Virgin Atlantic Holidays
The Virgin Atlantic Holidays experts know Florida better than anyone and will help you plan a getaway that’s just right for you.
With direct flights into both Orlando and Tampa, and destinations like Kissimmee and St. Pete–Clearwater just a short drive away, planning a twin-centre escape has never been simpler.
And given you’ll be flying in style with Virgin Atlantic, your holiday will start as soon as you step onboard. no matter which cabin you’re in. Look forward to delicious food (which you can pre-order in advance), elevated entertainment, and warm, welcoming service all the way.
Whether you’re dreaming of thrill rides, beach days, or something in between, the experts make it easy to find and book the right holiday—with flexible packages that include everything from flights and accommodation to car hire, attraction tickets, and all the little extras that make a big difference.
Book today and let Virgin Atlantic Holidays take care of every last detail.
Discover discounts on getaways at VirginAtlantic.com/holidays
*Virgin Atlantic Holidays Sale runs from 00:01am Thursday 21st August 2025 to 23:59pm Tuesday 30th September 2025 for travel 22nd August 2025 to 30th June 2026. Bookings are subject to availability, and standard terms and conditions apply. Virgin Atlantic Holidays reserves the right to (i) withdraw the promoted price (ii) cancel or change the advertised price, (iii) amend these terms and conditions at any time if circumstances make this necessary and without further notice. For full Virgin Atlantic Standard Terms and Conditions, please visit https://www.virginatlantic.com/holidays/customer-support/terms-and-condition.
