Phase 1 of Lancaster Ranch Park, including Green Meadows Petting Farm opens in Kissimmee
- Shane Walton
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Kissimmee's newest park, Lancaster Ranch Park has officially opened, and with it, the long-awaited return of tGreen Meadows Farm Petting Farm.
The City of Kissimmee has officially opened Lancaster Ranch Park, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of Phase 1A. The event also celebrated the return of Green Meadows Petting Farm, a beloved community attraction now a key feature of the park. It offers an interactive experience for visitors of all ages, allowing them to engage with farm animals and enjoy hands-on activities.
Spanning 150 acres, Lancaster Ranch Park, when completed, will include walking and biking trails, playgrounds, pavilions, a dog park, and a connection to the Shingle Creek Bike Trail. The park honors ranching heritage, preserves natural resources, and provides spaces where the community can gather.
"The opening of Lancaster Ranch Park is a tremendous milestone for the City of Kissimmee, as it is set to become one of the largest parks in the City's history," says City Manager Mike Steigerwald. "This is part of the City’s ongoing $150+ Million Capital Improvement Campaign, which funds key projects in parks, roads, trails, community centers, and public safety facilities."
Lancaster Ranch Park has been decades in the making. The City acquired the land in 2001 and, with the help of a $3.2 million Florida Communities Trust Grant, purchased the 50-acre Lackey Parcel, laying the foundation for the park’s creation.
"On behalf of the City Commission, I want to express how proud we are to deliver on our promise to the community: more green space, family amenities, and reasons to love living and visiting Kissimmee," said City Mayor Jackie Espinosa.
With the opening of Phase 1A, the City is already planning Phase 1B, slated to open later this year. This phase will feature two pavilions, a small playground, and a restroom. Phase 2, expected in 3-5 years, will introduce new trails, an event lawn, protected green space, and a canoe/kayak launch. The park will continue to evolve, providing even more opportunities for outdoor recreation and community connection in the years to come.
“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved with Lancaster Ranch Park,” said Parks and Recreation Director Steve Lackey. “This park was built with everyone in mind, and we’re just getting started. We are looking forward to more phases that will further enhance this incredible space and our park system.”
During the event, Dan Keyes, owner of Green Meadows Petting Farm, expressed his excitement about being part of the project, calling it a dream come true. He also helped provide a tour of the petting farm, where visitors could interact with the animals and enjoy the various activities, highlighting the park as a special place for families to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
To learn more about Lancaster Ranch Park, visit kissimmee.gov/lancasterranch.
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