Orlando, USA-5-day-itinerary

Orlando Adventure: A 5-Day Itinerary

This itinerary balances the iconic theme parks with other Orlando experiences. Feel free to customize it based on your interests and budget!

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: International Drive offers affordable hotels and easy access to attractions. Consider Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando or Clarion Inn & Suites Maingate.
  • Mid-Range: Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort or Disney’s All-Star Resorts offer themed fun and convenient transportation.
  • Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes or Four Seasons Resort Orlando provide upscale amenities and exceptional service.

Transportation:

  • Rental Car: Best for flexibility exploring beyond theme parks, but parking can be expensive.
  • Ridesharing (Uber/Lyft): Convenient for getting around, especially within tourist areas.
  • Theme Park Shuttles: Most resorts offer free shuttles to their respective parks.

Things to Know:

  • Orlando is hot and humid, especially in summer. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated.
  • Purchase theme park tickets online in advance for discounts and to skip lines.
  • Consider a Park Hopper ticket if you want to visit multiple parks in one day.
  • Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.

Day 1: Welcome to the Magic Kingdom!

  • Morning: Arrive at Orlando International Airport (MCO), pick up your rental car or arrange transportation to your hotel. Settle in and grab lunch nearby.

  • Afternoon: Head to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World. Enjoy classic rides like It’s a Small World, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Haunted Mansion. Catch the Festival of Fantasy parade and end the day with the spectacular Happily Ever After fireworks show over Cinderella Castle.

  • Dinner: Be Our Guest Restaurant (reservations recommended) for a French-inspired meal in Beast’s castle.

Day 2: Universal Adventure

  • Morning: Explore Universal Studios Florida. Ride the Hogwarts Express to Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, experience thrilling attractions like The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

  • Lunch: Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley for a taste of British wizarding fare.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade, ride the Flight of the Hippogriff and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

  • Dinner: Mythos Restaurant (reservations recommended) at Islands of Adventure for award-winning cuisine in a mythical setting.

Day 3: Aquatic Fun and Relaxation

  • Morning: Cool down at Aquatica, SeaWorld’s water park. Experience exhilarating slides like Ihu’s Breakaway Falls and relax on the sandy beaches.

  • Lunch: Grab casual bites at one of Aquatica’s many restaurants.

  • Afternoon: Explore ICON Park, home to the Orlando Eye Ferris wheel, Madame Tussauds wax museum, and SEA LIFE Aquarium. Enjoy stunning views from the top of the Eye and discover fascinating marine life at SEA LIFE.

  • Dinner: Yard House at ICON Park for a diverse menu and lively atmosphere.

Day 4: Nature and Exploration

  • Morning: Visit Wekiwa Springs State Park. Rent kayaks or canoes to explore the crystal-clear springs, hike through lush trails, or relax on the sandy shores.

  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Orlando Science Center for interactive exhibits showcasing science and technology. Learn about dinosaurs at the DinoDigs exhibit or marvel at the wonders of space in the Crosby Observatory.

  • Dinner: Restaurant Row on Sand Lake Road offers diverse dining options, from upscale steakhouses to casual eateries.

Day 5: Farewell Orlando!

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Reflect on your Orlando adventures and grab souvenirs.

  • Afternoon: Depart from MCO, taking with you unforgettable memories of the theme park capital.

Tips for Your Trip:

  • Download the official app for each theme park to check wait times, show schedules, and make dining reservations.
  • Consider purchasing a multi-day park ticket if you plan on visiting several parks.
  • Pack light, comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it at fountains throughout the parks.
  • Plan breaks during the day to avoid exhaustion, especially in the hot Florida sun.

Have an amazing time exploring Orlando!