I have a different "hot take" about 192. Once Disney and Universal started pricing up to a point that catered to upper middle class, it left nothing for people trying to do Disney "cheap". 10 years ago you could get a five day pass to WDW for $350. If you could find a Best Western for $50 per night, and took your food in to the parks, you could do Disney at a middle class price. But now, if you're able to pay $1000 per person to go to the parks for five days, you "might as well" stay on property and pay the higher hotel prices. 192 was our way to be Disney regulars. I haven't been in three years because taking my family of four costs me 15% of our annual income.
We still as a family stay on 192. There are some great apartment like hotels we have stayed at Including Bare Foot Resorts and Wyndham! Not only do we save a ton of $$ but we enjoy the restaurants over there as well and the gift shops. Disney has made it their goal to Price out most family’s, so in order to still be able to enjoy the best of Orlando we need to stay in the less busy less popular areas. Ty for doing this video, it nice to see the place we enjoy highlighted!
I go to Disney two times a year. I’ve stayed on 192 every single time. I’ve never had any issues with anything. It’s a great bargain for those looking to save money on lodging. Lots of restaurants, gift shops, and things to do.
That property next to the Gator Inn was the old "Jungleland" in Kissimmee. It always felt like a cheap Gatorland knock off, so, I have never been compelled to go in. Thanks for the video!
This was a really interesting vid, Dev! Thanks for documenting the changes along 192. I know it was sketch but that area is still worth keeping an eye on and videos like these ensure it’s not forgotten.
All those motels died when Disney opened cheaper resorts like All Star and Pop Century on their property. As the motels died so did the other businesses around them. Many of those motels now house the homeless as portrayed in “The Florida Project”. It used to break my heart when I drove to work at Disney and saw all the children waiting for the school bus in front of those motels.
@@horaciolinares8597 compared to the other on property resorts the "value resorts" are cheaper and much more in line with your typical hotel in the surounding area in orlando. if a orlando hotel is under 200 a night it's either a dump or you're the luckiest person in the universe
Now that Disney is charging more for their "cheap" (and they make Motel-6 look like the Ritz-Carlton) than full-service Marriotts, these places should clean their act up and start competing with the Disney hotels. Include transportation and cut Disney by 1/2 - a lot of $ to be made.
I grew up in Kissimmee my whole life and it’s improving allot lately .Many abandon places are being renovated and repurposed. Still has more improvements and investments needed in the future.
It was way,way before 2020 when 192 started dying.Those hotels really east on 192 are where people stayed in the 80s and 90s when Disney didn't have 30 hotels.The area near Celebration and by Margaritaville/Sunset Walk is still an area that's doable but you still have to be careful as there's still sketchy sections near there.
Started dying in maybe in 96 or 97. Somewhere around there. When Osceola parkway opened the interchange with the turnpike. Before that, people had to get off at 192.
When you said it smelled like "Maryjane" I cracked up! I work in transportation and it is a smell I am tired of smelling. You would think the smokers would respect families with children traveling, but nope. It's everywhere I guess.
I smelled at Epcot exit near tram parking Sunday night. Extra strong. Also, recently at the Orange County Convention Ctr. walkway to parking lot. Very strong..... 🤮🤮🤮
@Bald_Sauerkraut I voted and will vote for legalization. I do not like the smell. I have a right to fresh air, just like you have a right to smoke. I do not impose things on those who like to smoke mj. But smokers should consider when out in public, those who don't want to smell it. It goes both ways.
I remember visiting Orange World when I was a kid, such an iconic place in 192. Just visit Daytona a few weeks ago and WOW the beach area is so sad, no turist around, the streets smell so bad, the places to eat looks so nasty and the hotels are in terrible conditions.
Hey Dev!! Wow, 192...Old Town and Fun Spot!! I got so excited when I noticed you were at where I had been 😊 My husband and I were there during Covid, November 2022. We're from Chicago to came to celebrate his 50th Birthday 🎂. One day we went to Fun Spot and a car show was going on. All the stores you showed in this video were closed. You could ride what you wanted by paying separately for each thing or get a book of tickets. We went on the Go Carts and the wooden roller coaster that goes upside down. There's an arcade too. Pretty fun! We stayed at Marriott hotels during our time there and went to Universal and Disney World too. What a good time we had! We almost went on a helicopter ride as well but they didn't have a nighttime one so I didn't want to do it. Thank you so much for going down 192 and filming what you did. My husband passed away in June 2022. I miss him alot.
@@PCDev Thank you, Dev. I appreciate it. I've gone to Florida a few times so far and love going to the theme parks, doing things that I don't do everyday and just relaxing in my hotel room ☺️ I've watched your videos on here for a few years Dev and you're doing great. I wish you and Bianca the best. Do you know when the big day will be yet??
We stayed at regal Oaks around the corner from Old Town.. we enjoyed our time. The resort wasn't huge and it was safe and clean. Old town was fun, could grab cheap drinks and hang out, look at the shops and junk, we loved the fun spot and the go Karts, they were amazing!!! We felt safe, I would say it was kind of a colourful crowd... lots of families so all good smelt weed and more so cigarettes but it's all legal in. Canada.! I did watch your previous video before we went down. We did drive a lot and saw some homeless, not too bad. We went to medieval times and no problem.. so maybe it gets sketchier past that?? Orange world was still closed when we were there in April. Thanks for the update.
You should change the title to "I got traumatized in the middle of the day, in a normal city" Of course fun spot will not be packed right at open time, night time and weekends you won't be able to find parking. I had a blast with my wife, 2 and 3 year old boy. Compose yourself, handle yourself correctly, and stay aware. That is how you should be all day everyday. We had a blast at fun spot and will be back soon. Best Puerto Rican food and live music is at dos bocas across from Old Town
Someone looked at me, and all I was doing was walking around a motel talking to myself while carrying a tiny camera on a selfie stick. It's scary here!
Oh please it's not that bad 😂....I've lived in St Cloud right off of 192 for years. It's a little run down but not the war zone you're talking about haha.
Just some potholes that need to be addressed, and yeah there's some homeless people around but I never fear for my life or anything. Now I've driven from the far end of east 192 at night a couple times, down there it's a bit creepy since there was just a small area with one gas station for miles, but even then I didn't feel unsafe. And this is coming from a woman, lol.
192 isn't as bad as youre making it out to be. I got married at Star Island resort few years ago and it was very nice. And yes there are some run down places and some homeless/sketchy people hanging around as well but it just depends on the area you go to....
"The Florida Project" familiarized me with the Orlando area in the first place, so I am glad to see that you mentioned it! After watching that movie, I started researching Orlando and ultimately ended up moving here with my family; it brings back quite a lot of memories.
Agree!! Stayed at a resort recently right across from Orange World. It wasn’t fenced in. Def a little sketchy at night. Noticed how dead the area is as well. Restaurants were not busy at all and every shopping place also didn’t have a ton of shoppers. Been coming to the same area for years and we are still telling people how eerie our recent last trip was there.
This was a fun video! I always remember venturing off property to 192 to hit some of the stops we don't have in NJ....Olde Town, and Smokey Bones or Steak and Shake...the big Flea Market...but you definitely could tell it changed little by little the further you went down the road... Thank you for a fun unique view on the area!
I'm 39 now. Was fortunate enough to be born in Florida just 2 and a half hours away from Orlando. I went every year multiple times a year for at least 20 years of my life. Now I live in Northern California Sonoma and I love it here, but I'd be lying if I didn't say I missed Orlando so much. I haven't been there in years. Thanks for the awesome video brother. Very nostalgic for me .
I remember back in its day, driving by and seeing so many people walking along the sidewalks, shopping and enjoying all that part of Orlando had to offer. Its sad realization.
Totally agree about how far 192 East has fallen, we've been visiting since the end of 90's and used to love going down 192 East at night, it was so vibrant. 192 West to where Target\Margaritaville has had lots of new restaurants, redevelopment happening.
I live right near the rack room shoe store in the video. I’ll say visually and traffic wise it’s a bit depressing and beggars are out almost every day at most lights. Once you get comfortable with the area you realize there isn’t much danger just people trying to get by
They built Margaritaville west off of 429. That’s were everything went. We use to stay out too. That side is hopping. I’m a kid of the 70’s , never thought I’d see 192 like it is
its not that bad. i work close to 192. Just people trying to get by in life. Yes the motels are run down, and a little cheap, not everyone can afford the good stuff.
Old town is ok during the day, a cool area to walk around grab a beer and a bite, but at night it gets more hectic and intimidating, but it’s not worth the cost anymore, if you like that invisible bubble protection feeling, then stick to springs, icon, citywalk areas… 🇺🇸🏴
Since you like to explore, I suggest that you come down to Lakeland Fl and visit the Antique Mall here one day if you haven’t yet. It is a fun place to look around and you might find a treasure or two 😉.
Thanks for the video. I stayed on 192 . A long time ago. So sorry to see that this is really bad news for the community. Sure miss the old days, when everyone was busy and prospering. Please say hello to Bianca. Glad she got to go with you. Meow meows ❤❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉
I am sure the 2000’s was hard on the surrounding areas. WDW cornered the market: Magical Express- No transportation needed, Free Dining Plan, discounted resort stays with tickets. You never had to leave Disney property. Back in the 70’s/80’s/90’s it didn’t exist so the surrounding areas flourished. You can see how everything is connected- How adding some game pieces caused the others to collapse 😕
Thank you for this honest update. I like when you do these videos. I've been visiting Florida for over 30 years since age 10 and the changes over the years have been quite significant. Not all bad but HUGE increase in construction & homes. Place has changed a lot, And that definitely includes 192 and I Drive. I even stayed in a motel along the West side in 08 I think. Last minute accommodation and would never recommend it again. Was rather eventful. It's been sad to see the decay but I'm hopeful for the future. Even if that means a complete overhaul.
Prior to buying DVC, we stayed at one of the motels on 192 back in 1996. It had an Hawaiian theme. Can’t remember the name I believe it was across the highway from Denny’s as far as motels go, it was a very nice, clean place. Every motel was booked up then. So sad to see what it has become. Looking forward to visiting Orange World though! Thanks for the video 🥰
I remember going to Orange world as a kid! Very cool to see it! All those motels could be repurposed into efficiency apartments. I’m sad to see it in the shape that it’s in.
The Original name of the attraction at the Gator Motel is Alligatorland Safari Zoo. It was renamed at a later date to Jungle Land. If I remember correctly they houses over 25 gators.
I live 4 miles west of wdw on 192. It's a nice area and very busy especially near the Target shopping center. Many popular restaurants are in this area and also a few resorts. Nothing like you just showed us east on 192.
B10:42 that might be what's left of JungleLand, kinda like a Temu GatorLand. They even had a huge concrete alligator in the parking lot. I stayed at the Enterprise when i was a kid.
Love you guys vids, this one of better ones, be safe out thier filming dev..I'm actually thinking want to stay at one of thos hotels save alot of money..going to disney..you guys should do a cost savings video again prices are crazy
That's insane it's like that now. I remember bringing my oldest when he turned 5 to Disney and that was in the early 90's and we went 192 and it was really nice back then.
192 is a much different place than it was when I was living in Kissimmee and working at WDW as a monorail cast member in the mid-seventies. There was literally NOTHING between the outskirts of Kissimmee proper and WDW, but there was also very little traffic.
Glad you and Bianca are ok that’s scary I just visited last week for 7 days I always stay on property at universal and don’t really like walking international drive at night not like I use to back in the 90’s so different now love watching your vlogs Dev❤. Give my love to Bianca ❤
I was lucky enough to go to Florida in the late 90s/00s from the UK, but we would stay on iDrive. So it's interesting to have another part I haven't been to. Sadly the whole world is feeling the hard times. People just don't have the money to spare.
I think International Drive is the reason 192 is a dump. Cause I use to think International drive was a dump back in the day. Now I think International drive is the old 192. I think it's cause more people want to go to Universal, not saying they don't go to Disney but now want to enjoy both parks.
International Drive's rise certainly created more competition for US 192. Now even I-Drive has some spots that are struggling, especially since Wet 'n Wild (which was doing 1.3 million visitors at its peak) closed at the end of 2016. As Universal and Disney continue to exert greater influence over the Central Florida tourism market, things are going to get tougher outside the Universal and Disney bubbles. This really does not bode well for US 192.
The Pandemic hit us hard. Could never recover. Old Towne is a night spot. Lots of ppl crossing 192 on foot bc there's no parking. It's become the nation's #1 pedestrian accident prone area. For sure the other side of Celebration is awesome especially Margaritaville 😊
Hey Dev you tend to go during the day when you go to Old Town but in the evenings it’s way more people there. The weekends are usually packed over in that area of 192 between and the Food truck area
Reminds me of the movie the Florida Project. Wonderful film, if you get a chance to see. It takes its name from what Disney called the Wdw concept, but it’s the reality of life in a certain area outside the Disney bubble.
Honestly, it's not even just US 192 thats bad. I used to drive through the streets around I4 to get home to Haines City from working at Seaworld. Every single day, traffic was absolutely atrocious. I was forced to drive past US 192 and everything following through International drive to Poinciana was just awful. It's amazing that a county that has so much tourism AND an extremely high cost of living, can't simply clean up the areas outside of the theme parks.
That's because the theme park giants like Disney World are trying to make sure tourists are spending their money within their parks. Food, entertainment, nightlife, lodging, and shopping. They don't payout to the county. That is what DeSantis is fighting against. Please no political attacks, that's not why I'm here for. Just pointing out that Disney doesn't care about Orlando as long as you can find your way in.
We used to stay by Old Town from around 2005 to 2015. It was a great spot and Old Town was a nice break from Disney. Places were inexpensive. I think we even stayed at Seralago for like 50 bucks. It was ok back then. You just sleep there. But I remember driving in the morning east and even back then you got into some rougher areas. Old hotels were either barely hanging on or shut down. There was an Arabian Knights (or similar) show that way and it was fine. The one walmart in the area was over there. I think the newer places are targeting 192 but way over to the west where the new Margaritaville went it
Hmmm do we really wonder why this area has gone 'down hill'? Its because the cost of living is outrageous and unattainable. Rent is so high, that many..or honestly..most people who work in the surrounding area cannot even afford to rent apartments. God forbid someone who lives pay check to pay check has some sort of catastrophe, medically or financially to where they cant afford their rent anymore. If they get evicted, then they cant rent anymore for 7 years (and I promise because I called every rental agency in central Florida). So what is the result? People live in Motels. Which can very quickly become expensive. Not only because they are paying week to week or day by day. But because most likely these people have all their belongings in storage, they wont have kitchens so they are eating out for the majority of their meals. They are juggling the outstanding bills that are hanging over their heads that landed them in this situation. God forbid they have children who don't understand why they had to leave all their toys in storage. This isn't a one off situation, this is so prevalent right now, that all the motels in this area are overflowing. All due to rental greed, and people buying up residential areas to make Airbnb profit. So before you feel so high and mighty to call these places 'Sketchy'. Realize that those people you are fearful and disgusted of are people who are struggling and may have lived a life close to your own in the very recent past. I hate when I see videos like this. Why don't you go talking to the people who stay in these area, that they have been condemned to call home and ask them how they got there. Florida residents, people who work in the vacation industry are struggling!
I am staying farther West on 192 in November. Westgate Resort. I have never had a problem over that way. But I have also noticed they are building some nice houses over on the west side.
I like interesting videos like this. I would definitely like to see your experience from a cheap run down motel view and that scary haunted house in old town! Can’t wait 😊
What up Dev , just booked my trip for 2025 to stay at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort in August. Can’t wait my man!! Can you give insight when it get closer to epic universe opening as to if the premier hotels have express passes included & park tickets included for Epic universe?
I was just out that way the end of august and remembering how it used to be back in the 90's!! So much on west 192 has been torn down and rebuilt. Some stuff is still there from the early 2000's too but I haven't stayed down that side in over 20yrs because the crime was so bad back then. People started to abandon that area for entertainment once more newer parks and affordable hotels built up further north. To be it seems to be gaining new life for sure considering how I remember it being 😂
It's sad about Old town we always went there. I love Orange World they are so iconic and a cool place to check out. I love your video's and how cool they are. I love your Universal and Disney but these are my favorite.
192 sort of caters to moderate-middle income. The area is ancillary to the theme parks and what you might do on a extra day. I suspect, that Disney, Universal, and so on have basically priced out moderate-middle income so basically you have to be upper middle or wealthy to go to the big theme parks these days and they spend more time on Disney property rather than go to 192. So I think the death of affordability of the big theme parks may be damaging 192. Moderate income is avoiding Orlando altogether because the big parks are unaffordable and they can get what 192 has at a county fair or six flags.
The thing is for people travelling from abroad now the Disney/universal bubble, although more expensive is just so much more convenient. We used to book a fly drive back in the 80's/90's and just find a motel along 192 for $30-40 a night and drive to the parks, which there were significantly less of back then so you found more things to do along 192 like all the mini golf, shops, and other attractions. Now with all the Disney, universal parks, seaworld, busch gardens etc you can easily spend your 2 weeks just there now without really venturing out as you just can't fit it all in, and when it is costing upwards of £6000 at times and only being able to go once a year (or more if you are lucky) its hard to justify not doing as much park time as possible, plus with less people having cars for a whole trip or at all most don't even know this stuff exists
lived in Kissimmee off of 192 for 8 years from 1992-2000....it was a paradise.....from 2005 onward it became a poverty crime addicted dump..so sad.....
I agree with the other comments that this was a really interesting video. I like seeing other parts of orlando besides the WDW and universal area. It's sad what happened to those hotels. I hope orange world survives. That 7-11 story is crazy though! I don't think you should stay overnight in one of those hotels!
Wow. Did not realize it had gone downhill so much. Turning into a Route 66 kind of thing. I'm guessing with all the perks you get staying on Disney property (early access to the parks etc.) I can see why these hotels are having a hard time.
Nobody on a regular budget has been able to visit Disney in the last 10 years, so all those cheaper hotels lost loads of business. I remember staying along there in 2010 and it was totally fine. I drove on that street last year and it was CRAZY to see the difference and how fall it's fallen.
That building with the water feature looks like it used to be part of the gator hotel. They has a big gator statue out front of it. Lots of bushes and plants growing out of the sides of it. I was looking at it on street view.
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I have a different "hot take" about 192. Once Disney and Universal started pricing up to a point that catered to upper middle class, it left nothing for people trying to do Disney "cheap". 10 years ago you could get a five day pass to WDW for $350. If you could find a Best Western for $50 per night, and took your food in to the parks, you could do Disney at a middle class price. But now, if you're able to pay $1000 per person to go to the parks for five days, you "might as well" stay on property and pay the higher hotel prices. 192 was our way to be Disney regulars. I haven't been in three years because taking my family of four costs me 15% of our annual income.
And this does not help the community outside the Disney bubble.
They're working on 192 and it's improving.
You are right. I would not be able to afford to take my family these days.
A lot of these motels are for homeless
192 is WDWs version of katella blvd
We still as a family stay on 192. There are some great apartment like hotels we have stayed at Including Bare Foot Resorts and Wyndham! Not only do we save a ton of $$ but we enjoy the restaurants over there as well and the gift shops. Disney has made it their goal to Price out most family’s, so in order to still be able to enjoy the best of Orlando we need to stay in the less busy less popular areas. Ty for doing this video, it nice to see the place we enjoy highlighted!
I live by there and it ain’t bad to me, same as any city to always be alert to your surroundings
I go to Disney two times a year. I’ve stayed on 192 every single time. I’ve never had any issues with anything. It’s a great bargain for those looking to save money on lodging. Lots of restaurants, gift shops, and things to do.
That property next to the Gator Inn was the old "Jungleland" in Kissimmee. It always felt like a cheap Gatorland knock off, so, I have never been compelled to go in.
Thanks for the video!
This was a really interesting vid, Dev! Thanks for documenting the changes along 192. I know it was sketch but that area is still worth keeping an eye on and videos like these ensure it’s not forgotten.
All those motels died when Disney opened cheaper resorts like All Star and Pop Century on their property. As the motels died so did the other businesses around them. Many of those motels now house the homeless as portrayed in “The Florida Project”. It used to break my heart when I drove to work at Disney and saw all the children waiting for the school bus in front of those motels.
people tend to forget that The Florida Project, while fiction, is still a portrayal of reality for many on 192
Cheaper? Really?
@@horaciolinares8597 compared to the other on property resorts the "value resorts" are cheaper and much more in line with your typical hotel in the surounding area in orlando. if a orlando hotel is under 200 a night it's either a dump or you're the luckiest person in the universe
Now that Disney is charging more for their "cheap" (and they make Motel-6 look like the Ritz-Carlton) than full-service Marriotts, these places should clean their act up and start competing with the Disney hotels. Include transportation and cut Disney by 1/2 - a lot of $ to be made.
@@FD2003Abc highly doubt that would happen lol
I grew up in Kissimmee my whole life and it’s improving allot lately .Many abandon places are being renovated and repurposed. Still has more improvements and investments needed in the future.
you gotta swing by Food Truck World. 10/10. 192 ain’t so bad, you just gotta know what you’re looking for.
Facts
It was way,way before 2020 when 192 started dying.Those hotels really east on 192 are where people stayed in the 80s and 90s when Disney didn't have 30 hotels.The area near Celebration and by Margaritaville/Sunset Walk is still an area that's doable but you still have to be careful as there's still sketchy sections near there.
Started dying in maybe in 96 or 97. Somewhere around there. When Osceola parkway opened the interchange with the turnpike. Before that, people had to get off at 192.
Thanks for the update!!! We haven't been to Orange World since the fire glad to see they have reopened.
I stayed on US 192 when I was a little kid in the late 1970s. Today it now reminds me of Atlantic City, NJ as it's rundown.
When you said it smelled like "Maryjane" I cracked up! I work in transportation and it is a smell I am tired of smelling. You would think the smokers would respect families with children traveling, but nope. It's everywhere I guess.
I smelled at Epcot exit near tram parking Sunday night. Extra strong. Also, recently at the Orange County Convention Ctr. walkway to parking lot. Very strong..... 🤮🤮🤮
Seriously, get over it.
Over embellish much? Seriously I don’t smoke, but at the same token it’s about to be legal in Florida…chill out
@Bald_Sauerkraut I voted and will vote for legalization. I do not like the smell. I have a right to fresh air, just like you have a right to smoke. I do not impose things on those who like to smoke mj. But smokers should consider when out in public, those who don't want to smell it. It goes both ways.
I don't smoke MJ. But I don't mind it. Cigarette smell is worse. You're overreacting.
I remember visiting Orange World when I was a kid, such an iconic place in 192. Just visit Daytona a few weeks ago and WOW the beach area is so sad, no turist around, the streets smell so bad, the places to eat looks so nasty and the hotels are in terrible conditions.
Hey Dev!! Wow, 192...Old Town and Fun Spot!! I got so excited when I noticed you were at where I had been 😊 My husband and I were there during Covid, November 2022. We're from Chicago to came to celebrate his 50th Birthday 🎂. One day we went to Fun Spot and a car show was going on. All the stores you showed in this video were closed. You could ride what you wanted by paying separately for each thing or get a book of tickets. We went on the Go Carts and the wooden roller coaster that goes upside down. There's an arcade too. Pretty fun! We stayed at Marriott hotels during our time there and went to Universal and Disney World too. What a good time we had! We almost went on a helicopter ride as well but they didn't have a nighttime one so I didn't want to do it. Thank you so much for going down 192 and filming what you did. My husband passed away in June 2022. I miss him alot.
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. Thank you for sharing this story. Sounds like you and your family made many wonderful memories here!
@@PCDev Thank you, Dev. I appreciate it. I've gone to Florida a few times so far and love going to the theme parks, doing things that I don't do everyday and just relaxing in my hotel room ☺️ I've watched your videos on here for a few years Dev and you're doing great. I wish you and Bianca the best. Do you know when the big day will be yet??
We stayed at regal Oaks around the corner from Old Town.. we enjoyed our time. The resort wasn't huge and it was safe and clean. Old town was fun, could grab cheap drinks and hang out, look at the shops and junk, we loved the fun spot and the go Karts, they were amazing!!! We felt safe, I would say it was kind of a colourful crowd... lots of families so all good smelt weed and more so cigarettes but it's all legal in. Canada.!
I did watch your previous video before we went down. We did drive a lot and saw some homeless, not too bad. We went to medieval times and no problem.. so maybe it gets sketchier past that??
Orange world was still closed when we were there in April. Thanks for the update.
You should change the title to "I got traumatized in the middle of the day, in a normal city" Of course fun spot will not be packed right at open time, night time and weekends you won't be able to find parking. I had a blast with my wife, 2 and 3 year old boy. Compose yourself, handle yourself correctly, and stay aware. That is how you should be all day everyday. We had a blast at fun spot and will be back soon. Best Puerto Rican food and live music is at dos bocas across from Old Town
Someone looked at me, and all I was doing was walking around a motel talking to myself while carrying a tiny camera on a selfie stick. It's scary here!
I live in Indialantic. 192 is called 5th Ave and ends at A1A.
Oh please it's not that bad 😂....I've lived in St Cloud right off of 192 for years. It's a little run down but not the war zone you're talking about haha.
he didnt even reach john young🤣 of course he thinks its a warzone, he only sees the parts impacted by disney
Just some potholes that need to be addressed, and yeah there's some homeless people around but I never fear for my life or anything. Now I've driven from the far end of east 192 at night a couple times, down there it's a bit creepy since there was just a small area with one gas station for miles, but even then I didn't feel unsafe. And this is coming from a woman, lol.
It 100% stop the cap lmao
192 isn't as bad as youre making it out to be. I got married at Star Island resort few years ago and it was very nice. And yes there are some run down places and some homeless/sketchy people hanging around as well but it just depends on the area you go to....
"The Florida Project" familiarized me with the Orlando area in the first place, so I am glad to see that you mentioned it!
After watching that movie, I started researching Orlando and ultimately ended up moving here with my family; it brings back quite a lot of memories.
Great video. West 192 is great but I stay away from East 192. Once you pass old town heading east ish starts to get sketchy.
You look like an undercover vice cop-thats why you got the hard looks 😂
Agree!! Stayed at a resort recently right across from Orange World. It wasn’t fenced in. Def a little sketchy at night. Noticed how dead the area is as well. Restaurants were not busy at all and every shopping place also didn’t have a ton of shoppers. Been coming to the same area for years and we are still telling people how eerie our recent last trip was there.
This was a fun video! I always remember venturing off property to 192 to hit some of the stops we don't have in NJ....Olde Town, and Smokey Bones or Steak and Shake...the big Flea Market...but you definitely could tell it changed little by little the further you went down the road...
Thank you for a fun unique view on the area!
Great video Dev, a little different and a refreshing change, more of these types from around Orlando and surrounding areas !
I appreciate the feedback!
I'm 39 now. Was fortunate enough to be born in Florida just 2 and a half hours away from Orlando. I went every year multiple times a year for at least 20 years of my life.
Now I live in Northern California Sonoma and I love it here, but I'd be lying if I didn't say I missed Orlando so much. I haven't been there in years. Thanks for the awesome video brother. Very nostalgic for me .
I remember back in its day, driving by and seeing so many people walking along the sidewalks, shopping and enjoying all that part of Orlando had to offer. Its sad realization.
I appreciate your tour of 192
I remember some of it as a tourist years ago
Totally agree about how far 192 East has fallen, we've been visiting since the end of 90's and used to love going down 192 East at night, it was so vibrant. 192 West to where Target\Margaritaville has had lots of new restaurants, redevelopment happening.
I live right near the rack room shoe store in the video. I’ll say visually and traffic wise it’s a bit depressing and beggars are out almost every day at most lights. Once you get comfortable with the area you realize there isn’t much danger just people trying to get by
They built Margaritaville west off of 429. That’s were everything went. We use to stay out too.
That side is hopping. I’m a kid of the 70’s , never thought I’d see 192 like it is
Facts 💯
Wow, thank you for this info! Sad.
its not that bad. i work close to 192. Just people trying to get by in life. Yes the motels are run down, and a little cheap, not everyone can afford the good stuff.
The point is that it used to be nice, clean, and affordable.
Old town is ok during the day, a cool area to walk around grab a beer and a bite, but at night it gets more hectic and intimidating, but it’s not worth the cost anymore, if you like that invisible bubble protection feeling, then stick to springs, icon, citywalk areas… 🇺🇸🏴
Since you like to explore, I suggest that you come down to Lakeland Fl and visit the Antique Mall here one day if you haven’t yet. It is a fun place to look around and you might find a treasure or two 😉.
I heard about that place! It’s on the list when I make it out that way.
No I don’t suggest Lakeland. It’s far and boring with too many burglaries.
Thanks for the video. I stayed on 192 . A long time ago. So sorry to see that this is really bad news for the community. Sure miss the old days, when everyone was busy and prospering. Please say hello to Bianca. Glad she got to go with you. Meow meows ❤❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉
I am sure the 2000’s was hard on the surrounding areas. WDW cornered the market: Magical Express- No transportation needed, Free Dining Plan, discounted resort stays with tickets. You never had to leave Disney property. Back in the 70’s/80’s/90’s it didn’t exist so the surrounding areas flourished. You can see how everything is connected- How adding some game pieces caused the others to collapse 😕
Yes! East 192 has gone down hill compared to what it was back in the day. Osceola mall was so nice. Had 2 movie theaters.
Biggest problems with the hotels on 192 is that majority of the hotels needs refurbs and and they seem to not want to do the work
They probably don't make enough money for renovations
My friend moved into a renovated hotel and they made them studio apartments
They can't afford to.
Thank you for this honest update. I like when you do these videos. I've been visiting Florida for over 30 years since age 10 and the changes over the years have been quite significant. Not all bad but HUGE increase in construction & homes. Place has changed a lot, And that definitely includes 192 and I Drive. I even stayed in a motel along the West side in 08 I think. Last minute accommodation and would never recommend it again. Was rather eventful. It's been sad to see the decay but I'm hopeful for the future. Even if that means a complete overhaul.
I swear I saw vlogs at that place just around 2017- 2019 it was so crowded woth people at restaurants etc. It does look scary now... so recent
Prior to buying DVC, we stayed at one of the motels on 192 back in 1996. It had an Hawaiian theme. Can’t remember the name
I believe it was across the highway from Denny’s as far as motels go, it was a very nice, clean place. Every motel was booked up then. So sad to see what it has become.
Looking forward to visiting Orange World though!
Thanks for the video 🥰
Was it the Liki Tiki? We bought our timeshare there. It was beautiful in its day. Now it's on Groupon
Hey Dev, glad you guys are safe. Thanks for the video and heads up! Take care!
Thank you for the tour! Looks like an abandoned ghost town 😕
I remember going to Orange world as a kid! Very cool to see it! All those motels could be repurposed into efficiency apartments. I’m sad to see it in the shape that it’s in.
The Original name of the attraction at the Gator Motel is Alligatorland Safari Zoo. It was renamed at a later date to Jungle Land. If I remember correctly they houses over 25 gators.
I live 4 miles west of wdw on 192. It's a nice area and very busy especially near the Target shopping center. Many popular restaurants are in this area and also a few resorts. Nothing like you just showed us east on 192.
B10:42 that might be what's left of JungleLand, kinda like a Temu GatorLand. They even had a huge concrete alligator in the parking lot. I stayed at the Enterprise when i was a kid.
Just found your channel. I’ve lived in Orlando since 2002. You speak the truth.
Love you guys vids, this one of better ones, be safe out thier filming dev..I'm actually thinking want to stay at one of thos hotels save alot of money..going to disney..you guys should do a cost savings video again prices are crazy
That's insane it's like that now. I remember bringing my oldest when he turned 5 to Disney and that was in the early 90's and we went 192 and it was really nice back then.
Great video. Lived here for over 20 years and 192 is very different than it used to be.
Idk, maybe it's just me growing up in rougher areas but I don't think 192 is that bad. It's empty but I wouldn't say it's sketchy.
Definitely I came from Brooklyn ny here to Kissimmee it’s not as bad but I do see the changes.
I often visited this place from 2008-2018 and attended many car, bike shows on weekends. Only the fondest memories about Old Town Kissimmee.
Glad you're safe dev. Thanks for the info. I'm a local but don't travel to Kissimmee a lot
I live in Celebration and was surprised at how scary you made 192 sound.
192 is a much different place than it was when I was living in Kissimmee and working at WDW as a monorail cast member in the mid-seventies. There was literally NOTHING between the outskirts of Kissimmee proper and WDW, but there was also very little traffic.
Huge gator statue used to be in that parking lot
Glad you and Bianca are ok that’s scary I just visited last week for 7 days I always stay on property at universal and don’t really like walking international drive at night not like I use to back in the 90’s so different now love watching your vlogs Dev❤. Give my love to Bianca ❤
I was lucky enough to go to Florida in the late 90s/00s from the UK, but we would stay on iDrive. So it's interesting to have another part I haven't been to. Sadly the whole world is feeling the hard times. People just don't have the money to spare.
Maxed out on their credit cards also
I think International Drive is the reason 192 is a dump. Cause I use to think International drive was a dump back in the day. Now I think International drive is the old 192. I think it's cause more people want to go to Universal, not saying they don't go to Disney but now want to enjoy both parks.
I Drive needs more today. Look at Fremonet street in Vegas. They have great ideas.
International Dr is nicer it's just dirty and filled with debris and trash. There's a few spots run down but not as bad as Kissimmee.
International Drive's rise certainly created more competition for US 192. Now even I-Drive has some spots that are struggling, especially since Wet 'n Wild (which was doing 1.3 million visitors at its peak) closed at the end of 2016.
As Universal and Disney continue to exert greater influence over the Central Florida tourism market, things are going to get tougher outside the Universal and Disney bubbles. This really does not bode well for US 192.
Once Epic Universe opens, that'll pretty much help I Drive since it's literally right behind it lol
The Pandemic hit us hard. Could never recover. Old Towne is a night spot. Lots of ppl crossing 192 on foot bc there's no parking. It's become the nation's #1 pedestrian accident prone area. For sure the other side of Celebration is awesome especially Margaritaville 😊
That is such a shame. Back in the late 70's was a nice area. But my sisterwho lived in Orlando for years told me how bad it is now. 😢
I remember the good old day in "Fleaworld" Sandford ...that is also gone., now is all about build build build......expensive apts..$$$
Hey Dev you tend to go during the day when you go to Old Town but in the evenings it’s way more people there. The weekends are usually packed over in that area of 192 between and the Food truck area
Glad that you are safe 🙏
Thank you for such a fantastic update.
Reminds me of the movie the Florida Project. Wonderful film, if you get a chance to see. It takes its name from what Disney called the Wdw concept, but it’s the reality of life in a certain area outside the Disney bubble.
Oops, dev just got to film that motel. Good to see. Has been repainted. No longer as garish. But still sad.
Hotels. Motels. Holiday inn.
Those hotels were hopping back in the 70s I remember staying in them
Thanks for the info Dev
Honestly, it's not even just US 192 thats bad. I used to drive through the streets around I4 to get home to Haines City from working at Seaworld. Every single day, traffic was absolutely atrocious. I was forced to drive past US 192 and everything following through International drive to Poinciana was just awful. It's amazing that a county that has so much tourism AND an extremely high cost of living, can't simply clean up the areas outside of the theme parks.
That's because the theme park giants like Disney World are trying to make sure tourists are spending their money within their parks. Food, entertainment, nightlife, lodging, and shopping. They don't payout to the county. That is what DeSantis is fighting against. Please no political attacks, that's not why I'm here for. Just pointing out that Disney doesn't care about Orlando as long as you can find your way in.
I live right off exit 58 and it’s brrruuuutttallll lol
@briangustavson6078 oh man, I feel for you lol. They're never going to fix the traffic situation there.
Hey Dev, thanks for stopping by OW, good to see you again 👊
Cool video, neat to see other parts of Orlando even if they are not sparkly and clean like Disney locations. Very informative!
😮
Disney is far from sparkly and clean these days
Thank you for watching!!
The Florida Project was a crazy movie. It looks totally different now. I always see Magic castle when we drive down lol
Ikr
We used to stay by Old Town from around 2005 to 2015. It was a great spot and Old Town was a nice break from Disney. Places were inexpensive. I think we even stayed at Seralago for like 50 bucks. It was ok back then. You just sleep there. But I remember driving in the morning east and even back then you got into some rougher areas. Old hotels were either barely hanging on or shut down. There was an Arabian Knights (or similar) show that way and it was fine. The one walmart in the area was over there. I think the newer places are targeting 192 but way over to the west where the new Margaritaville went it
I like Old Town. Haven’t been there in a while, but I used to love the Saturday night car shows.
Hmmm do we really wonder why this area has gone 'down hill'? Its because the cost of living is outrageous and unattainable. Rent is so high, that many..or honestly..most people who work in the surrounding area cannot even afford to rent apartments. God forbid someone who lives pay check to pay check has some sort of catastrophe, medically or financially to where they cant afford their rent anymore. If they get evicted, then they cant rent anymore for 7 years (and I promise because I called every rental agency in central Florida). So what is the result? People live in Motels. Which can very quickly become expensive. Not only because they are paying week to week or day by day. But because most likely these people have all their belongings in storage, they wont have kitchens so they are eating out for the majority of their meals. They are juggling the outstanding bills that are hanging over their heads that landed them in this situation. God forbid they have children who don't understand why they had to leave all their toys in storage. This isn't a one off situation, this is so prevalent right now, that all the motels in this area are overflowing. All due to rental greed, and people buying up residential areas to make Airbnb profit. So before you feel so high and mighty to call these places 'Sketchy'. Realize that those people you are fearful and disgusted of are people who are struggling and may have lived a life close to your own in the very recent past. I hate when I see videos like this. Why don't you go talking to the people who stay in these area, that they have been condemned to call home and ask them how they got there. Florida residents, people who work in the vacation industry are struggling!
Truth! 💯
Factz!!!!! I live in Kissimmee and rent is crazy!!!!
I am staying farther West on 192 in November. Westgate Resort. I have never had a problem over that way. But I have also noticed they are building some nice houses over on the west side.
I like interesting videos like this. I would definitely like to see your experience from a cheap run down motel view and that scary haunted house in old town! Can’t wait 😊
When I lived in Orlando I avoided 192 and the Kissimmee area like the plague. Traffic was a nightmare
We’ll be Orlando in a couple weeks. We’ll definitely check out Orange World.
Glad ur ok dev, please stay safe man
What up Dev , just booked my trip for 2025 to stay at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort in August. Can’t wait my man!! Can you give insight when it get closer to epic universe opening as to if the premier hotels have express passes included & park tickets included for Epic universe?
I was just out that way the end of august and remembering how it used to be back in the 90's!! So much on west 192 has been torn down and rebuilt. Some stuff is still there from the early 2000's too but I haven't stayed down that side in over 20yrs because the crime was so bad back then. People started to abandon that area for entertainment once more newer parks and affordable hotels built up further north. To be it seems to be gaining new life for sure considering how I remember it being 😂
It's sad about Old town we always went there. I love Orange World they are so iconic and a cool place to check out. I love your video's and how cool they are. I love your Universal and Disney but these are my favorite.
Aw I grew up in that area when we’d go to Disney, it’s sad it’s not as nice of an area that it used to be!
Oh damn stay safe Dev! I gotta go get the kids to bed but I'll come back and watch!
192 sort of caters to moderate-middle income. The area is ancillary to the theme parks and what you might do on a extra day. I suspect, that Disney, Universal, and so on have basically priced out moderate-middle income so basically you have to be upper middle or wealthy to go to the big theme parks these days and they spend more time on Disney property rather than go to 192. So I think the death of affordability of the big theme parks may be damaging 192. Moderate income is avoiding Orlando altogether because the big parks are unaffordable and they can get what 192 has at a county fair or six flags.
I want to stop by Orange World on my next visit. The orange juice looks delicious. Thanks Dev 🍊
The thing is for people travelling from abroad now the Disney/universal bubble, although more expensive is just so much more convenient. We used to book a fly drive back in the 80's/90's and just find a motel along 192 for $30-40 a night and drive to the parks, which there were significantly less of back then so you found more things to do along 192 like all the mini golf, shops, and other attractions. Now with all the Disney, universal parks, seaworld, busch gardens etc you can easily spend your 2 weeks just there now without really venturing out as you just can't fit it all in, and when it is costing upwards of £6000 at times and only being able to go once a year (or more if you are lucky) its hard to justify not doing as much park time as possible, plus with less people having cars for a whole trip or at all most don't even know this stuff exists
I have never stayed east of Celebration in 192. Always West. Still very interesting to see and know about.
lived in Kissimmee off of 192 for 8 years from 1992-2000....it was a paradise.....from 2005 onward it became a poverty crime addicted dump..so sad.....
Old Town... we used to go there in the 80's when I was a teenager.
192 definitely used to be hopping. I miss Shell World!!!
I agree with the other comments that this was a really interesting video. I like seeing other parts of orlando besides the WDW and universal area. It's sad what happened to those hotels. I hope orange world survives. That 7-11 story is crazy though! I don't think you should stay overnight in one of those hotels!
Wow. Did not realize it had gone downhill so much. Turning into a Route 66 kind of thing. I'm guessing with all the perks you get staying on Disney property (early access to the parks etc.) I can see why these hotels are having a hard time.
Nobody on a regular budget has been able to visit Disney in the last 10 years, so all those cheaper hotels lost loads of business. I remember staying along there in 2010 and it was totally fine. I drove on that street last year and it was CRAZY to see the difference and how fall it's fallen.
Our family ALWAYS stopped by Olde Town during our yearly Disney trips. Black Market is my favorite.
Terrible to see how it has changed. When we first started our yearly family trips, we always stayed in this area.
That building with the water feature looks like it used to be part of the gator hotel. They has a big gator statue out front of it. Lots of bushes and plants growing out of the sides of it. I was looking at it on street view.