A week in Florida

A Week in Florida Itinerary - 5 to 7 Days in Orlando & Miami for First Timers

Visit both of these Florida hotspots for a sun-soaked vacation to remember
By Katie Sagal

Florida has so much to offer families - Orlando, Miami, and a side trip to Key West is totally achievable in a week. Read on for the only itinerary you'll need!

What’s better than a family road trip through Florida? The museums, the beaches, the amusement parks – it’s hard not to love this delightful destination. If you’re thinking of spending an adventurous week in Florida but aren’t sure what to put on your must-do list, then check out our sample itinerary for a week-long trek through the Sunshine State.

We’ve grouped the ideas by neighborhood and city, assuming you’ll be able to spend some time in both Orlando and Miami, as well as Tampa, Key West, and more. 

International Drive Attractions: ICON Orlando (formerly Coca-Cola Orlando Eye), WonderWorks, Madame Tussauds Orlando... 
Tampa Bay & St. Petersburg Attractions: Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise, Museum of Science & Industry... 
Fort Lauderdale Attractions: Lion Country Safari, Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling Trip... 
South Beach Attractions: Duck Tours South Beach, Miami Bike Rental, Art Deco Walking Tour 
Downtown Miami / Bayside Marketplace Attractions: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour, Biscayne Bay Sightseeing Cruise, Jungle Island...
 South of Miami Attractions: Key West Day Trip, Zoo Miami, Miami Seaquarium

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International Drive Attraction Options to Add to Your Itinerary: 

ICON Orlando (formerly Coca-Cola Orlando Eye)

beautiful-cyan-sky-icon-orlando-eye

See the city from the best vantage point possible – 400 feet above the ground! This massive observation wheel is actually the tallest in the Eastern U.S., so it’s worth a ride to enjoy the height. You’ll get to see the theme parks, downtown Orlando, I-Drive, and even Cape Canaveral. The entire ride takes about one hour. 

Getting in: ICON Orlando is separately ticketed.

WonderWorks

If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great option to add to your one week in Florida itinerary. This indoor amusement park has plenty of educational fun to offer kids of all ages, from interactive exhibits to immersive activities. Plus, it’s all located in an upside-down venue! 

Getting In: WonderWorks tickets are included on all Go City® Orlando passes.

Madame Tussauds Orlando

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The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

If you want to meet a few celebrities during your vacation but don’t have any plans to head to L.A., then Madame T’s is the place to be. These wax replicas are so lifelike that you’ll be fooled (at least for a second) by their staging and presence. Come here to see international stars, as well as local Florida favorites. 

Getting In: Madame Tussauds Orlando is included on all Go City® Orlando passes.

SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando

If anyone in your group loves aquatic creatures, SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando is a must-visit destination. Organized into multiple themed and regional areas, including a touch tank, and an ocean tunnel, this aquarium will put a smile on everyone's face. They also have special talks and activities periodically, so check out their website to see what’s on during your visit. 

Getting In: SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando is included on all Go City® Orlando passes.

Tampa Bay & St. Petersburg Attraction Options to Add to Your Itinerary: 

Starlite Cruises: Majesty Daytime Cruise

If you’re in search of a relaxing cruise, this daytime option from Starlite Cruise is a sure bet. Enjoy striking views of the Clearwater Harbor as you listen to informative narration. Snacks or a sit-down luncheon are available as options. The entire cruise takes around two and a half hours. 

Getting InStarlite Cruises: Majesty Daytime Cruise is separately ticketed.

Museum of Science & Industry

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Another one for curious travelers, the Museum of Science and Industry is filled with over 100 interactive exhibits and displays. There’s a sparkling planetarium, a ropes course, and the ever-popular Idea Zone. You could spend hours upon hours here - kids will adore it!

Getting InMuseum of Science and Industry is separately ticketed.

Fort Lauderdale Attraction Options to Add to Your Itinerary: 

Lion Country Safari

Pay a visit to the African Savanna – without leaving Florida, or your car! Drive through Lion Country Safari on a four-mile route to see some of the over 900 animals that call this massive park home. You're likely to see giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and lions (of course!) Then, stop by the Safari World Amusement Park for more fun.

Getting In: Lion Country Safari is included on all Go City® Orlando passes.

Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling Trip

glass-bottom-boat

Cruise through a coral reef on a glass-bottom boat to make the most of this delightful aquatic excursion. You’ll get to see the striking coral structures, vibrant tropical fish, and perhaps even a sea turtle or two. You can opt to stay on the boat, or snorkel alongside to see the sights even closer up. 

Getting In Fort Lauderdale Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling Trip is included on the Go City® All-Inclusive Pass only.

Sawgrass Recreation Park Everglades Airboat Adventures

Everglades National Park

You simply can’t leave Florida without a trip to the iconic Everglades. This striking National Park is too vast to explore in its entirety, but you can enjoy an overview and a good look at nature and wildlife on an airboat trip. The brave can even opt to participate in their “Hold a Baby Alligator Experience,” just to see these fearsome creatures up close (while they're not so fearsome, of course). 

Getting In: Sawgrass Recreation Park Everglades Airboat Adventures are included with the Go City® Orlando All-Inclusive Pass only.

South Beach attraction options to add to your itinerary: 

Duck Tours South Beach

Navigate through the waterfront city of Miami with a vessel that embodies the dual nature of this amazing place – a duck boat! You’ll ride through the streets and sail through the Bay, enjoying the sights and sounds en route. Plus, you’re sure to get a kick out of your entertaining tour guide! This tour takes about an hour and a half. 

Getting In: Duck Tours South Beach tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

Miami Bike Rental

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If you want to stay active on your Florida vacation, then a bike ride is just the thing. Rent a bike and pedal along the boardwalks of South Beach, or use the included map and roam the streets. Your rental is good for a full day, but you can keep it for only a few hours if you have more to do, or don’t want to use it as transit. 

Getting In: Miami Bike Rentals are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

One of Miami’s cultural treasures is its historic Art Deco District. Take a walking tour and learn about the world’s largest concentration of Art Deco architecture. The tours are run by volunteers, and take about an hour and a half. 

Getting In: Art Deco Walking Tour tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

Downtown Miami / Bayside Marketplace attraction options to add to your itinerary: 

Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Take a convenient tour of Miami to see all the sights without the hassle of driving or looking up directions. This hop-on hop-off option from Big Bus offers multiple loops (Beach Loop and City Loop) that you can choose from. Or, you can also opt to ride both!

Getting In: Big Bus tickets are included with all Go City® Miami passes.

Biscayne Bay Sightseeing Cruise

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You can’t leave Miami without enjoying the water at least a little bit! Take a fun cruise of Biscayne Bay and soak up the sights, from boundless natural beauty to the impressive homes of the rich and famous along South Beach. The cruise lasts about 80 minutes. 

Getting InBiscayne Bay Sightseeing Cruise tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Jungle Island

kid-feeding-macaw-parrot-tropical-zoo

Host to a plethora of wild and wonderful species, Jungle Island is filled with exhibits that animal lovers won’t want to miss. Enjoy observing, or participate in hands-on interactive experiences alongside a keeper. They also host periodic shows throughout the day, like “Wild Encounter” and “Winged Wonders,” so check out the schedule before your visit to see what’s happening.

Don't miss the new Neo Splash Water Park pop-up this summer, one of the best new features that was added during Jungle Island's recent renovation. 

Getting In: Jungle Island tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

Miami Children’s Museum

A delightful place for younger kids and their families, the Miami Children’s Museum is filled with dozens upon dozens of engaging exhibits. All are designed to encourage children to learn through play, so it’s a nice combination of entertainment and education. Featured exhibits include Castle of Dreams, Ocean Odyssey, Everglades Park, and several more. 

Getting In: Miami Children’s Museum tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

Pérez Art Museum Miami

Exhibits here emphasize Miami’s unique geographic and cultural role, with art from all across the Americas. You’ll find plenty of rotating special exhibitions, family programming, and even fun limited events (typically separately ticketed). Take a free tour of the museum, and don’t forget to ask for a family pack at the desk if you’re traveling with kids. 

Getting In: Pérez Art Museum Miami tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

South of Miami attraction options to add to your itinerary: 

Key West Day Trip

key-west

This trip to the southernmost tip of the continental U.S. will take an entire day of your week in Florida, but it’s so worth it. Head down to Key West from Miami and enjoy the best of what this charming little island has to offer. While you’re there, you’ll get to explore the island on your own. You could enjoy activities and attractions like an eco-kayak tour, a visit to the Hemingway House, a trolley ride, and more. 

Getting In: Key West Day Trip tickets are included with the Go City® All-Inclusive Miami pass only.

Zoo Miami

little-kid-boy-watching-feeding-giraffe

If the kids (or you!) simply can’t get enough of animal adventures, Zoo Miami should be on your list. See animals from around the world and across the globe, including species that hail from Africa, Asia, the Amazon, Australia, and, of course, the Everglades. Feed select animals, enjoy featured keeper talks, and let the kids roam free in exhibit areas like Playworld Playground. 

Getting In: Zoo Miami tickets are included on all Go City® Miami passes.

Miami Seaquarium

One more for our animal lovers! The Miami Seaquarium offers plenty of fun alongside important education. Learn all about their renowned conservation efforts, see playful critters in recreated habitats, and enjoy a variety of exhibits from “Tortuga Passage” to “Penguin Isle.” 

Getting In: Miami Seaquarium tickets are included with all Go City® Miami passes.

Save up to 50% on Orlando and Miami attractions  

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Where to Stay in Miami

Situated between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, Florida is famed for its beautiful beaches and clear blue skies. The Sunshine State draws in over 20 million visitors each year – and with good reason! And while Miami is proud of its wonderful natural attributes, there’s a lot more to see here than just the city’s wonderful beaches. No, really – we mean it. For those who like to be in the center of everything, South Beach is a great choice. If you’re a creative type, we recommend Wynwood. Or, if you’re looking for something a little quieter, Coconut Grove really hits the spot. Remember, there’s no one perfect area – rather, one that is best suited to your travel needs. Still not certain about where you’d like to stay in Miami? Don’t worry, we’re got you covered! Have a read through our list of some of the most popular places that people like to stay in when travelling in Miami. However you choose to enjoy your trip, we’re sure it’ll be great! South Beach When most people picture Miami, the paradisial image of palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters springs to mind. Most people ain’t wrong. Thankfully, the city’s major tourist hub South Beach offers the chance to stay close up to the beach with the added bonus of being in the center of all of the action. Vibrant and buzzing with life, this area is great for those who like to be entertained. Streets are flanked with beautiful art-deco buildings, indie boutiques and sandal-friendly cafes – so you know that there’s no shortage of things to do here. Come nightfall, the area comes to life with celebrity chef dining options, beachside cocktail bars, and nightclubs. Whilst the area can get a little crowded, it’s one of the most fun places in Miami to stay in. South Beach can also be a little more expensive than other areas of Miami, especially during the summer months when the city becomes especially crowded. Still, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach. If you do plan to stay here, we suggest booking far in advance. Little Havana As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, Miami presents no shortage of places to rest your head, each as wonderful as the next. If you're looking for a fun and cost-effective area to stay in, Little Havana just might be the answer. Located just west of downtown, this place is a center of social, cultural and political activity in Miami. Little Havana is currently the best-known Cuban exile neighborhood in the world, and is characterized by its vibrant community, historical landmarks and great food. In addition, the district is known for its historic bungalows, Mission Revival blocks and oolitic limestone facades, all of which are protected by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Teeming with culture and full of life, this area when it comes to staying in Miami without breaking the bank. Plus, the food is to die for – hey, what more would we ask for, right? Downtown Miami is perhaps best-known for its pristine white-sand beaches, though visitors will also find a whole host of other great things to appreciate from fascinating historic sites to delicious eats and beyond. If you’re looking to experience the Magic City from a whole other perspective, we recommend staying Downtown. Though Downtown is recognized as the historic heart of the city, this area has experienced something of a renaissance; walking through the streets, you’ll find an eclectic mix of modern high-rises and fascinating landmarks. Stay here, and you’ll be within minutes of a lot of popular visitor attractions, including the Pérez Art Museum, Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science and HistoryMiami Museum. In addition, the area grants spectacular views of the picturesque Biscayne Bay. Another plus side of staying downtown is that the area is well-recognized for its abundance of fun dive bars, cocktail lounges and mega-clubs. With so much to see, do and experience, those who stay here will be spoilt for choice! Coconut Grove Another one of our favorite places to stay in Miami has got to be Coconut Grove. A tranquil oasis set just south of downtown, this spot delivers on every level. Known colloquially as The Grove by locals, this is the oldest continuously-inhabited neighborhood in the city. Brimming with history and culture, Coconut Grove has much to offer for those who like to incorporate a little education into their holiday experience. In addition, this area is well-recognized for its scenic lush greenery and relaxed atmosphere, as well as the peacocks which roam the streets. The area is a little quieter and less crowded than say South Beach or Little Havana, making it perfect for those who are looking for a laid-back vacation experience. The only downside of staying in Coconut Grove is that accommodation prices are higher than average, so you should be aware of that. Still, for a touch of culture and storied history, there’s nowhere better to stay in the city. Wynwood & the Miami Design District A sprawling metropolis seated along the southeastern coastline, Miami has much to offer for all types of travellers. If you’re an artsy type, you might want to consider checking out either Wynwood or the Miami Design District. A once-gritty community, Wynwood is now a revitalized subdistrict with much to offer for those with a passion for the arts. Some of its most popular visitor attractions include Oasis, a massive outdoor entertainment venue, and Wynwood Walls, one of the largest outdoor urban art museums in the world. A few blocks away is the modern and upscale Miami Design District, known for its sleek architecture, trendy shopping destinations and great galleries. Those looking for great culture and vibrant nightlife should enjoy either of these areas, depending on the budget. Miami is a fantastic place to visit any time of the year. There are a ton of fantastic things to do, places to visit, and great spots to eat in The Magic City. And now, you don’t have to miss out! Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Things to do in Design District Miami

With beautiful beaches, tropical weather and great journeys of the imagination, it's no wonder that Miami is an uber-popular destination for all types of travellers. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor to the Magic City, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Located just north of Downtown, the Miami Design District is a cutting-edge and creative neighborhood with a lot to be discovered. Though small, the area packs a punch with everything from trendy art galleries and luxury shopping destinations to enticing food halls and bars. Still not sure how to tackle the Miami Design District? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Have a read through our list of things to see and do in the area. However you choose to explore this unique area of Miami, we’re sure that you’ll have a blast! Get Creative Those looking for art and culture in Miami will not be disappointed with what the Design District has to offer. For a long time, the area has been a center of innovation and creative thought, drawing visitors in from both near and far. If you’re looking for a source of inspiration, perhaps the De La Cruz Collection would be right up your alley. This trendy attraction works to educate its visitors, with a focus on well-established current working artists. Those featured here are a result of reputation, research and exquisite work. Though the institute specializes in contemporary art, you’ll notice that there’s a wide variety of styles – from abstract and surrealist paintings to unique video work and installations, there truly is a lot to see here. We love this place because it’s refreshing and gives us a taste of what’s new in the art world. Some of the best trips include a day or two spent deep inside the halls of a museum. Luckily, perhaps no area more than any other presents more opportunity for fulfilling this very need other than the Design District. If you’re looking to view some first-class art within a beautiful space, there’s no better place to be than the Institute of Contemporary Art. The gallery’s impressive and thoughtfully considered repository works to showcase the recent history of modern art as well as new development within the community. Though the collection steers towards emerging artists, the institute’s permanent collection has works by Pablo Picasso, Yves Klein, and Roy Lichtenstein, among others. Whether you’re a modern art aficionado or a crafting geek, you’re sure to enjoy this wonderful bright space. Art galleries are chock-a-block in the Miami Design District, each offering something a little different. Founded in 1998 by ultra-cool duo COOPER and Elizabeth Withstandley, Locust Projects is a non-profit exhibition space for up-and-coming contemporary artists. Built into a bright renovated warehouse which screams cool, the site is a joy to visit and tends to attract the more creative crowd. Since the space encourages innovation and experimentation, you’ll find a wide variety of styles on display here. The staff is knowledgeable and approachable, so don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions. We love this spot because it works to provide a great look into where the art scene is heading next. Eat and Drink in the Design District Aside from all of the great creative spaces which the Design District is perhaps best known for, the area boasts some seriously great food stops. In fact, there are so many great places that it would be difficult to list them all, but if you’re looking to sample a few different things, we recommend checking out some of its fantastic food halls. A favorite for locals and visitors alike, one of the area’s most renowned food halls has got to be St. Roch Market, a southern-style stop with all the flavor. Serving up a carefully cultivated mix of local food and beverage talent, this place is a sure winner. Another one of our top picks is MIA Market, known for its gourmet culinary offerings and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you’ll find a tempting mix of cuisines from all across the globe. Whichever you choose to go with here, there’s seriously no going wrong! As if all of the fantastic cultural attractions weren’t enough, the Design District is also home to a great variety of places to wet your whistle. From cool, laidback hangouts to ritzy cocktail lounges, the area has much to offer no matter your style. If you’re looking for the ultimate upscale experience, we recommend Abaco Premium Wines for their scheduled tastings. Known for its impressive collection and knowledgeable staff, this place will make you feel like you’re sipping Pinot Noir in the Napa Valley. Whilst the drinks aren’t cheap here, the experience can’t be beaten. For those who are looking for something a little more laidback, we recommend Wood Tavern, a cozy all-American style bar which specializes in quality craft beers. The Design District comes to life after the sun goes down, so we recommend staying to check out some of the area’s fantastic watering holes, such as Sweet Liberty and Jaguar Sun. Learn Something New When travelling, it’s always a good idea to incorporate a little education into your vacation. For this reason, one of our favorite spots in the Design District is the award-winning Haitian Heritage Museum. Since its inception in 2004, the institute has worked to highlight and maintain the rich culture and background of the region internationally, nationally and locally. The institute is known for its carefully-curated and transcending exhibitions featuring everything from historic artefacts and documents to fantastic art and music. Walking around the place, you’ll no doubt be drawn in by everything that it has to show. Combining art, history and culture all under one roof, there’s a lot to see here. Since Little Haiti is nearby, we recommend taking some time to explore this beautiful and complex area of the city – trust us when we say that you won’t regret it for one minute! Forever fun and undoubtedly cool, the Design District is one of the best places in Miami to explore. Explore the area to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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