In 2024 alone, EK helped attract more than 10.4 million visitors, underscoring its impact on both the local economy and the broader tourism industry. By championing collaboration and forward-thinking strategies, Experience Kissimmee continues to shape the future of Osceola County as a world-class travel hotspot.
Under the leadership of President and CEO DT Minich, Experience Kissimmee has seen visitation increase by 70% over the past ten years, with Tourist Development Tax (TDT) collections doubling to an impressive $81.6 million in 2023.
“I could not be prouder of the incredible milestones we’ve reached while staying steadfast to our mission. Our growth has been extraordinary, but what makes this anniversary truly special is all the individuals, partners and elected officials that have stood with us year after year,” said DT Minich, President and CEO of Experience Kissimmee. “From doubling our impact in tourism to expanding our global reach, we’ve helped Osceola County evolve into a world-class destination.”
Experience Kissimmee’s global presence has also flourished, expanding its international representation from just three countries in 2014 to 17 in 2024. The organization’s unaided brand awareness grew from 2% to 30% over the past decade, reflecting its success in raising the profile of Osceola County worldwide.
The Kissimmee Sports Commission has been instrumental in driving local economic growth through sports tourism, with room nights in the sports segment increasing from 90,000 in 2015 to over 450,000 in 2024. The economic impact of sports events has surpassed $1 billion over the last ten years.
“Ten years ago, a group of industry leaders had a vision of what Experience Kissimmee could become. The success of the organization and our destination since then is beyond our wildest dreams,” said Mark McHugh, President and CEO of Gatorland®.
Experience Kissimmee has forged strong partnerships with notable brands like Advent Health, Brand USA, Brightline, and Major League Baseball (MLB), among others. These collaborations have not only boosted tourism but also solidified Kissimmee’s reputation as a top travel destination.
In 2018, Kissimmee was proudly trademarked as the Vacation Home Capital of the World®, and the county celebrated its first Michelin Key for the ette hotel this year, further strengthening its stature in the accommodations and dining sectors.
“Looking at our local vacation rental industry today, we recognize that the privatization of Experience Kissimmee just ten years ago has proven to be one of the most impactful steps in growing the Osceola County tourism industry. While hotels and attractions already had plenty of marketing efforts back then, I believe the vacation rental industry was lagging behind. The last ten years have demonstrated the organization’s overall success in many ways, particularly by recognizing the vacation rental home industry as a significant potential for the destination. Experience Kissimmee has been very successful in marketing and promoting our wonderful destination as the vacation rental home capital of the world, offering many travelers their own home away from home. Kudos to Experience Kissimmee!” said Rembert Vonk, Owner of Excellent Vacation Homes.
“Over the last ten years, Omni at ChampionsGate has been blessed to enjoy an incredible partnership with the team at Experience Kissimmee. The results have outsized everyone’s wildest dreams. Can’t wait to see how Experience Kissimmee will continue to lead and create effective programs to allow Osceola County to grow as a destination. Next stop, $100,000,000 on bed tax! Go, team Go!” said Marc Reicher, Senior Vice President of Operations of Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate.
As Experience Kissimmee looks forward to the next decade, the organization says it is committed to continuing its mission of promoting Osceola County as a leading travel destination for years to come.
