Orlando, Florida is a popular tourist destination with plenty of entertainment options. A 3-day itinerary can help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in the city. This guide will highlight the must-see attractions and activities, from theme parks to museums, to help you experience the best of Orlando in just three days.
Day 1: Theme Park Adventure
Start with a thrilling adventure at the Magic Kingdom for the first day of your Orlando itinerary. This iconic theme park is home to classic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and It’s a Small World.
Morning at Magic Kingdom
Arrive early to beat the crowds and make the most of your day. Start with a ride on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, a family-friendly coaster that takes you through the diamond mines of Snow White’s dwarfs. Then head over to Fantasyland for a spin on the Mad Tea Party teacups and a flight on Peter Pan’s Flight.
Afternoon at Epcot
After a morning of magic, head over to Epcot for a taste of international culture. Start with a stroll through the World Showcase, where you can visit 11 different countries and sample their cuisine. Don’t miss the popular rides like Soarin’ Around the World and Test Track.
Evening Entertainment Options
In the evening, there are plenty of entertainment options to choose from. Catch the nightly fireworks show at Magic Kingdom, or head back to Epcot for the IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth show. For a unique dining experience, book a reservation at the Be Our Guest restaurant in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland.
Day 2: Exploring Beyond the Parks
Orlando is known for its theme parks, but there is much more to explore beyond them. Day 2 of your Orlando itinerary is all about exploring the city’s other attractions.
Morning at Discovery Cove
Start your day at Discovery Cove, a tropical paradise where you can swim with dolphins, snorkel with colourful fish, and relax on white sand beaches. The park is all-inclusive, so your admission includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks.
After a brief orientation, you can head straight to the Grand Reef, where you can swim among thousands of tropical fish and rays. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try the underwater SeaVenture experience, where you’ll walk along the ocean floor wearing a special helmet.
Of course, the highlight of any visit to Discovery Cove is the chance to swim with dolphins. You’ll get to spend 30 minutes in the water with these amazing creatures, learning about their behaviour and even getting a kiss from them.
Afternoon at The Wheel at ICON Park
After a morning of swimming and adventure, head over to ICON Park for a leisurely afternoon. The Wheel at ICON Park is a 400-foot-tall observation wheel that offers stunning views of the city.
Before you board the wheel, take some time to explore the park. There are plenty of shops and restaurants, as well as other attractions like the Orlando StarFlyer, a swing ride that takes you 450 feet in the air.
Once you’re on the wheel, you’ll get to enjoy a 23-minute ride with breathtaking views of the city. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even upgrade to a VIP capsule with a glass floor and a private bar.
Evening at Universal CityWalk
End your day at Universal CityWalk, a lively entertainment district with restaurants, bars, and live music. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re in the mood for burgers and fries or sushi and sake.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, be sure to stop by the Wizarding World of Harry Potter store, where you can stock up on Hogwarts robes, wands, and other souvenirs. And if you’re looking for some nightlife, check out the Red Coconut Club, a high-energy dance club with a tropical vibe.
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Day 3: Leisure and Shopping
On the final day of the 3-day Orlando itinerary, visitors can indulge in some leisure time and shopping. Here are some suggestions for how to spend the day.
Morning at Orlando Premium Outlets
The Orlando Premium Outlets is a shopper’s paradise, with over 160 stores offering discounts on designer brands. Visitors can expect everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics. Some of the popular stores include Nike, Coach, and Michael Kors. The outlet is open from 10 am to 9 pm on weekdays, making it the perfect place to start the day.
Afternoon Relaxation at a Resort
After a busy morning of shopping, visitors can take some time to relax at one of the many resorts in Orlando. Many of the resorts offer spa services, pools, and other amenities. Visitors can choose a resort that fits their budget and preferences. Some of the popular resorts include the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and the Waldorf Astoria Orlando.
Evening Show at Dr. Phillips Center
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a state-of-the-art venue that hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway productions, concerts, and comedy shows. Visitors can check the schedule to see what shows are playing during their visit. The centre also offers dining options, making it a great place to spend the evening.
Dining Options
When it comes to dining in Orlando, there are plenty of options available to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the best dining options for your three-day trip.
Quick Service
For those on a tight schedule or looking for a quick bite to eat, Orlando has plenty of quick-service options available. From fast food chains to local eateries, there is something for everyone. Some popular quick-service options include:
- Blaze Pizza
- Chick-fil-A
- Earl of Sandwich
- Shake Shack
- Taco Bell
Table Service
If you have a little more time to spare and want to sit down for a meal, Orlando also has a variety of table service options available. These restaurants offer a more relaxed dining experience and often have a wider range of menu options. Some popular table service options include:
- Bahama Breeze
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Hard Rock Cafe
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
Fine Dining
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Orlando also has several fine dining options available. These restaurants offer high-quality food and service, but can also come with a higher price tag. Some popular fine dining options include:
- Bull & Bear Steakhouse
- The Capital Grille
- Christini’s Ristorante Italiano
- Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
- Ocean Prime
Accommodation Recommendations
When planning a 3-day trip to Orlando, choosing the right accommodation is crucial. Here are some recommendations for budget-friendly, mid-range, and luxury resorts to suit every traveller’s needs.
Budget-Friendly Hotels
Orlando has several budget-friendly options for those looking to save money on accommodation. One such hotel is the Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando, located in the heart of the city. The hotel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, with amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, and on-site restaurant.
Another option is the Red Roof Inn Orlando South – Florida Mall, which is located close to popular attractions such as SeaWorld and Universal Studios. The hotel offers clean and basic rooms at a reasonable price, with amenities such as free Wi-Fi and a complimentary continental breakfast.
Mid-Range Hotels
If you’re willing to spend a little more, several mid-range hotels in Orlando offer a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. One such hotel is the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld, which offers spacious rooms and a range of amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, and on-site restaurants.
Another option is the Hyatt Regency Orlando, located in the heart of the city. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, with amenities such as a spa, swimming pool, and on-site restaurants.
Luxury Resorts
For those looking for a luxurious stay, Orlando has several options to choose from. One such resort is the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, which offers spacious rooms and suites, a world-class spa, and a range of on-site restaurants.
Another option is the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, located close to popular attractions such as Universal Studios and SeaWorld. The resort offers luxurious rooms and suites, with amenities such as a golf course, spa, and on-site restaurants.
No matter what your budget or preferences, Orlando has a range of accommodation options to suit every traveller’s needs.
Transportation Tips
Getting to Orlando
Orlando is easily accessible by air, with two major airports serving the area: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando-Sanford International Airport (SFB). MCO is the larger airport and is located closer to the city centre, while SFB is about 30 miles north of Orlando.
If you’re driving, Orlando is conveniently located at the intersection of several major highways, including I-4, the Florida Turnpike, and the Beachline Expressway.
Navigating the City
Orlando is a sprawling city, so it’s important to plan your transportation ahead of time. Renting a car is a popular option, but it’s not the only way to get around. The Lynx bus system offers affordable transportation throughout the city, and there are also plenty of taxi and ride-sharing options available.
One thing to keep in mind is that traffic can be heavy in Orlando, especially during peak tourist season. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going, and consider using a GPS or map app to help you navigate.
Theme Park Shuttles
Many of Orlando’s theme parks offer shuttle service from select hotels and resorts. This can be a convenient option if you’re staying at one of the participating properties. Be sure to check with your hotel or the theme park’s website for more information about shuttle schedules and availability.
It’s also worth noting that some theme parks offer on-site transportation, such as the monorail at Walt Disney World or the Hogwarts Express at Universal Orlando. Take advantage of these options to save time and avoid the hassle of parking.
Budgeting Your Trip
When planning a trip to Orlando, it’s important to budget wisely to ensure that you can fit everything you want to do into your itinerary. Here are some tips for budgeting your trip:
Park Tickets and Passes
One of the biggest expenses when visiting Orlando is park tickets and passes. It’s important to research the different options available and choose the best one for your needs. Some parks offer multi-day passes, which can save you money if you plan to visit multiple times. Additionally, purchasing tickets in advance online can often save you money compared to buying them at the gate.
Souvenirs and Shopping
Souvenirs are a fun way to remember your trip, but they can also be a major expense. To save money, consider setting a budget for souvenirs before you arrive and sticking to it. You can also look for deals and discounts, such as buying souvenirs in bulk or purchasing them at off-site stores instead of in the parks.
Food and Dining Budget
Food and dining expenses can add up quickly, especially if you’re eating in the parks. To save money, consider bringing your snacks and drinks into the parks instead of buying them there. You can also look for deals and discounts on dining, such as purchasing meal plans or eating at off-peak times.
