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Not sure where to start with your Orlando trip? Let us lead the way.
While most people head to Orlando for the theme parks, there’s a whole other side of the city that’s packed with nature, great food, and off-the-beaten-path fun, and we’ve mapped it all out for you. After multiple trips to Orlando, we’ve crafted this flexible itinerary to help you experience the best of the city without getting stuck in theme park crowds.
From gliding through crystal-clear springs to tasting local favorites and uncovering spooky stories downtown, this guide is full of unique ways to explore Orlando at your own pace, and maybe even add a little magic along the way. Let the adventure begin!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Orlando was this Everglades airboat tour! Riding in an airboat was a thrilling experience, and we saw Florida’s swamps full of alligators, birds, boars, and more.
Check out the 2,100+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Before we dive into the itinerary, we need to get some logistics out of the way.
Since Orlando is massive and not very walkable, this trip is designed with a rental car in mind to make getting around easy and efficient. Rideshares are available, but they can add up fast, especially when visiting places outside the city center. With three thoughtfully planned days and an optional day for theme park fun, you’ll get to experience Orlando’s nature, culture, and hidden gems, all without standing in line for hours.
Day 1: Kick things off with an airboat tour through the Everglades, followed by a relaxed afternoon exploring Downtown Orlando’s museums, art, and Lake Eola. Enjoy tapas and cocktails at Thrive, then end the night with a spooky (and fun!) ghost tour through historic streets.
Day 2: Spend the day at the Kennedy Space Center, where guided tours, rockets, and hands-on exhibits bring space exploration to life. In the evening, head to Disney Springs for burgers at D-Luxe, live music, and drinks at The Edison.
Day 3: Start the morning kayaking through the clear waters of Rock Springs, then refuel with Latin favorites at Pio Pio. Spend the afternoon at Universal CityWalk, playing mini golf and checking out the EPIC Universe Preview Center. Wrap up the night with unlimited pizza and laughs at the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show.
Day 4 (Optional): Have extra time? Plan a full day at Universal Studios or Magic Kingdom. We skipped them this trip because we already did Universal in LA, but if you haven’t, they’re Orlando must-dos packed with rides, characters, and nonstop fun.
Day 1
Morning – Ride an Airboat in Everglades National Park
There’s more to Orlando than skyscrapers, and a day out in the Everglades is the ultimate escape. Just 45 minutes south of the city, we kicked off our trip with this thrilling airboat tour that zipped us through Florida’s protected wetlands—no hiking boots required.
We chose the 10:15 am half-day package, which includes lunch, and it was hands-down the best decision. Just make sure to plan ahead because this tour isn’t available on Sundays.
Skimming across the water with the breeze in our faces, we got up close with sunbathing gators, swooping bald eagles, and even caught a glimpse of wild boars rustling through the brush. Our guide, Mark, kept us laughing while dishing out fascinating facts about the swamp’s delicate ecosystem. But the biggest surprise was spotting a roseate spoonbill, a bright pink bird so striking that it looked like a CGI creation!
After the ride, we wandered through Wild Florida’s Wildlife Park, home to over 200 animals. Lemurs, zebras, and even a camera-loving sloth made appearances. And yes, we grabbed a selfie with Fluffy the gator—because how could you not?
Cap it all off with a plate of smoked ribs at the Chomp House Grill (included in the half-day upgrade), and you’ve got a solid start to your trip. This was hands-down one of the best things we did in Orlando, and clearly, we aren’t the only ones who loved it. Just peek at the thousands of five-star reviews here to see why this is a can’t-miss Orlando adventure!
Secure your spot on this popular airboat ride here before spots fill up!
Afternoon – Explore Downtown Orlando
After your airboat adventure ends just after 2 pm, head back into Downtown Orlando for a totally different vibe. This historic part of the city is a great spot to slow things down, soak in a bit of culture, and enjoy a relaxing stroll.
Here are a few highlights worth checking out:
- Orange County Regional History Center – This five-story museum covers everything from Florida’s indigenous roots to modern-day Orlando. It’s housed in a beautifully restored 1927 courthouse, and you’ll find fascinating exhibits from citrus farming to theme park evolution. You’ll want about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore at a comfortable pace here.
- CityArts – Just a short walk from the History Center, this unique art spot showcases eight separate galleries under one roof. From contemporary sculpture to local street art, the rotating exhibits keep things fresh. It’s small but inspiring—you can enjoy it fully in about an hour.
- Lake Eola Park – Finish the afternoon with some fresh air at this peaceful city park centered around a shimmering lake. Walk the scenic one-mile loop, relax under the palm trees, or rent a swan boat and paddle around the lake for a playful break from sightseeing.
Dinner – Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery
Just around the corner from CityArts, Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery is the perfect spot to wind down after a culture-filled afternoon. This trendy downtown gem is known for its stylish vibe, creative drinks, and a unique tapas menu that’s made for sharing (or not—no judgment).
Expect small plates like Korean BBQ sliders, truffle mac and cheese bites, and crispy Brussels sprouts with a sweet chili glaze. The drinks are just as impressive as the food—balanced, bold, and beautifully presented. Whether you’re sitting at the bar or tucked into a cozy booth, it’s a fun, modern space to relax and refuel before your evening plans.
Evening – Learn about Orlando’s history on a ghost tour
End your first day in Orlando with something a little spooky and a lot of fun! Just a 5-minute walk from Thrive, this downtown ghost tour dives into the city’s haunted history, blending eerie tales with hands-on ghost-hunting gear. Tours start at 7 pm, 8 pm, or 8:30 pm (whichever fits your schedule best), and you’ll need to check in 15 minutes early, so get there ahead of schedule.
With K2 meters and dowsing rods in hand, we wandered past historic buildings and shadowy side streets, stopping at key spots to test for paranormal activity. Our guide, Brooke, struck the perfect balance—she was warm and funny, but could shift into spooky mode in an instant.
At Church Street Station, she shared the tale of a ghostly woman in white said to drift through late at night. Right as she finished, a gust of wind swept through, and someone’s K2 meter spiked.
Coincidence? Maybe. But we weren’t so sure!
This interactive ghost hunt made us feel like true paranormal investigators. Whether you’re a die-hard skeptic or fully on board with the supernatural, it’s a unique way to experience a side of Orlando most visitors never see.
Book your spot on this downtown ghost tour here—if you dare!
Day 2
Full day – Spend a day at the Kennedy Space Center
Get ready for liftoff! Day two is all about the Kennedy Space Center, and it’s not just for die-hard space fans. Whether you’ve dreamed of being an astronaut or just love a good interactive museum, this guided tour makes the entire experience smooth, fun, and surprisingly emotional. It runs from 8 am to around 7 pm, so block off your day and prepare to be wowed.
We recommend booking the “Kennedy Space Center Tour”, their best-selling option—it was absolutely worth not having to hassle with admission. Plus, with multiple pickup points around Orlando, it was easy to choose a location that worked for us.
Once we arrived, our guides, Bob and Vera, took the lead, sharing insider stories that made NASA’s history come alive while helping us navigate the sprawling complex without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
This place is part high-tech museum, part theme park. We stared up at the massive Saturn V rocket, felt the simulated rumble of a shuttle launch, and stood directly beneath the Space Shuttle Atlantis, marveling at its 60 interactive exhibits. Add-ons like an airboat ride, lunch with an astronaut, or a private bus tour to restricted areas allow you to customize your day and go even deeper.
From start to finish, this tour made space feel closer than ever! If you’re still not convinced, check out the glowing five-star reviews here and see for yourself why this is a top-rated experience.
Secure your spot here and get ready to explore the final frontier!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Evening – Check out Disney Springs
If you’re up for more adventure after returning to Orlando, spend your evening at Disney Springs, a lively outdoor district just 20 minutes from central Orlando filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. It’s located just outside of Disney World, offering all the energy and charm without needing a park ticket.
Check out the massive LEGO store, browse Disney’s souvenir shops, or simply stroll the waterfront as live music and street performers bring the area to life. If you’ve got time (and energy), go bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes, a fun, upscale bowling alley with food, drinks, and late-night vibes. Whether you stay for an hour or the whole evening, there’s plenty here to cap off your day with a bit of magic.
Dinner – D-Luxe Burger
There’s no shortage of food options in Disney Springs, but we kept it casual and delicious at D-Luxe Burger, and it totally hit the spot. Think thick, juicy patties, hand-cut fries, and a variety of house-made dipping sauces. We split the El Diablo burger (spicy and seriously flavorful) and the Barbecue Classic, plus a side of fries that disappeared fast. The vintage-style interior gives it a fun, laid-back vibe, and there’s plenty of outdoor seating if you’d rather people-watch with a shake or drink in hand.
Drinks – The Edison
Wrap up your night with drinks at The Edison, a trendy, industrial-chic lounge tucked right into Disney Springs. With leather booths, exposed brick, and soft, moody lighting, it feels like you’ve stepped into a swanky 1920s speakeasy—just with a bit more Disney flair. It’s stylish without being stuffy, making it a fun spot to unwind after a packed day.
The menu is full of creative spins on the classics like smoked old fashions, floral drinks, and expertly balanced sips with bold, unexpected flavors. Depending on the night, you might catch live music or even a little entertainment while you sip. It’s a laid-back yet lively way to close out your evening in Disney Springs.
Day 3
Morning – Explore Rock Springs in a glass-bottom kayak
Kick off day three with something cool—literally! Orlando’s heat can be intense, but this clear kayaking tour at Rock Springs is the perfect way to escape it.
Just a 30-minute drive north of the city, it starts at 8:45 am, so we recommend grabbing a quick breakfast near your hotel before heading out. The tour wraps up around 11:15 am, leaving plenty of time for more adventures once you return to Orlando.
We joined a small group and paddled through Emerald Cut, a crystal-clear section of the spring surrounded by lush tree canopies and teeming with wildlife. Before launching, our guides gave a quick (and beginner-friendly) paddling lesson that had everyone feeling confident in no time.
The journey upstream was relaxed, letting us soak in the beauty. Turtles basked on logs, fish darted beneath our kayak, and birds called from the trees overhead.
Our guides, Megan and Dany, brought so much energy to the experience, pointing out wildlife and sharing stories that made the springs come alive. But the highlight was jumping off a hidden wooden platform into the refreshingly cool water! It was an unexpected thrill we’ll never forget.
With kayaks, paddles, and life vests all provided, this is a low-effort, high-reward adventure, and a perfect start to the day!
Check out the rave reviews and book your spot here!
Lunch – Pio Pio
After your morning on the water, head back to your hotel to freshen up, then make your way to Pio Pio, a beloved Latin restaurant that locals rave about and tourists rarely find. This spot is known for its flavorful rotisserie chicken, savory sides, and generous portions that hit the spot without the theme park markup.
It’s casual, lively, and full of authentic flavor. Whether you’re craving tostones, arroz chaufa, or one of their juicy combos, you’ll leave full and happy. Bonus: it’s just a 6-minute drive from your next stop, making it a super convenient place to fuel up before the afternoon kicks off at Universal CityWalk.
Afternoon – Universal Citywalk
Once you’ve wrapped up lunch at Pio Pio, hop in your rental car and head to Universal CityWalk, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Orlando. This lively entertainment district outside Universal Studios is packed with colorful shops, themed restaurants, and plenty to explore, even if you’re not going into the parks.
Start with a round of mini golf at Hollywood Drive-In Golf, where neon lights, quirky obstacles, and retro horror/sci-fi themes make it fun for all ages. Then swing by the EPIC Universe Preview Center, a cool interactive space that teases what’s coming to Universal’s new theme park. Between attractions, take your time wandering through the shops. This is a great spot to grab last-minute souvenirs or just enjoy the theme park energy without needing a ticket.
Evening – Enjoy a magic and comedy dinner show
After a full day of kayaking, exploring, and shopping, wrap up your Orlando adventure with something completely different—this magic comedy dinner show, located inside the WonderWorks museum, just a 10-minute drive south of Universal CityWalk. The show kicks off at 6 pm and runs until about 8 pm, giving you a fun, laid-back way to close out the day.
This 90-minute interactive show had us laughing nonstop while being genuinely wowed by the magic. Our performer, Matt, kept the energy high with a mix of sleight of hand, improv comedy, and audience participation. One minute we were staring in disbelief at a card trick, the next we were laughing at a guy on stage, convinced he was a chicken. It’s goofy, it’s impressive, and best of all—it’s just plain fun!
And then there’s the food: unlimited hand-tossed pizza, fresh salad, and all-you-can-drink beverages. It’s one of those rare dinner shows where the food actually holds its own. We may or may not have gone back for thirds!
Want to level up your night? Upgrade to the VIP Combo to include WonderWorks admission and a round of laser tag after the show. It’s a great way to squeeze one last bit of fun out of your trip. Just check out the five-star reviews here and see why so many people call this one of their favorite Orlando memories!
Book your tickets here and get ready for a hilarious evening of magic!
Day 4
Universal Studios or the Magic Kingdom
If you’ve got extra time in Orlando, spending a full day at Universal Studios or Magic Kingdom is a must. These iconic theme parks are one of the biggest reasons people visit, and for good reason. Whether you’re chasing thrill rides, indulging your inner child, or soaking in the movie magic, there’s nothing quite like a day at one of these parks.
We skipped them on this trip since we had already explored Universal in LA, but if you haven’t been (or just want to relive the magic), we definitely recommend carving out a day for either one. Just be sure to plan ahead. Both parks are wildly popular and absolutely packed with things to do!
Related Read: Want even more ideas? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Orlando here for extra activities you can mix and match with this itinerary!
Where to Stay in Orlando, Florida
If you’re heading to Orlando, you’re going to need a great place to stay! With so many hotels to choose from, finding the right one can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve picked out the best options in prime locations—whether you want resort-style luxury, a comfortable mid-range stay, or an affordable yet convenient spot to base yourself while exploring everything Orlando has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
The JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is a top-tier luxury stay in Orlando, offering a blend of elegance and resort-style relaxation. This five-star property boasts a massive outdoor pool, a lazy river, and a world-class spa, making it the perfect retreat after a day of exploring the city. Plus, with multiple dining options and easy access to Orlando’s top attractions, you’ll have everything you need for a high-end getaway!
Room rates vary by season and suite, but typically range from around $360—$550 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Buena Vista Suites is a fantastic mid-range choice in Orlando, offering spacious all-suite accommodations perfect for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool, and an on-site steakhouse, making it easy to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Plus, its convenient location puts you just a short drive from Orlando’s top attractions, shopping, and dining options!
Prices usually average around $200 USD per night. Check availability and prices for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista is a great budget-friendly option in Orlando, featuring two outdoor pools, two on-site restaurants, and a shuttle for added convenience. The rooms come equipped with mini-fridges and coffee makers, making your stay even more comfortable. Plus, its prime location ensures you’re never far from the action!
Rooms start as low as $66 USD per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and book!
For more options, see all of Orlando’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We loved seeing another side of Orlando on this trip! While the theme parks are certainly fun, we loved exploring the city’s downtown, outdoors, and hidden gems. If you follow this itinerary, I know you’ll have a fantastic three days in Orlando!
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other USA blogs. We have resources on the top things to do, where to stay, and city itineraries for all over the country. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!
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