With so much to see, do and experience in sunny Orlando, it should come as no surprise that the city is one of America’s top tourist destinations. The best things to do in the area run the gamut – from out-of-this-world fun to greatly educational. Those seeking a little adventure are sure to find it here – with famous theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios right at your fingertips, you’ll never be bored. Or, how about soaking up the sun at Orlando’s unique nature reserves? If you still have time to venture downtown, make sure to check out the fantastic cultural institutions in the area and grab a bite at some of the city’s best restaurants. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to find something for you. Still, don’t worry if it's all a little bit overwhelming – that's what we’re here for! If you’re planning to make the visit, check out our list of the best things to do in the area. Let’s get started!
Day 1 - See The Sites
Travelling can be exhausting for many, which is why we’re starting off with something a little more low-key. If you’re looking for a relaxed day trip to kick off your vacation in the City Beautiful, look no further than the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. As fascinating as it is engaging, this museum works to present a comprehensive view of space travel and aviation for a broad audience. The center is divided into ‘’Mission Zones’’, each focusing on different areas of space travel – from the Race to the Moon to the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, this place has all the bases covered. Still, if you’re coming to step into the shoes of a real astronaut, you won’t be disappointed. Perhaps the institute’s biggest draw, the institute’s Shuttle Launch Experience recreates a rocket’s takeoff into orbit. Offering a fantastic educational experience for those of all ages, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend our first afternoon in the city.
Come evening time, we recommend checking out Universal CityWalk where the fun never stops coming. Drawing in the crowds all throughout the year, this popular tourist attraction is known for providing world-class entertainment, shopping and dining options of all kinds. Before grabbing a bite to eat, we recommend checking out some of the fun activities available; challenge your friends and family with a game of minigolf, catch a movie at the Cinemark theater, or even partake in a spot of karaoke – the choice is yours! This walkable entertainment district also boasts a wide variety of restaurants and dinner shows to choose from to keep everybody happy. Whether you’re looking for elevated American fare or easy quick service options, you’re sure to find it here. Great for those travelling with family, there’s a little something for everybody here.
Day 2 - Hit the Theme Parks
Of course, you can’t visit Orlando without checking out Magic Kingdom. Quite possibly the most famous theme park in the world, this legendary stop is not only a major part of the city’s identity, but plays into American identity as a whole. Bringing iconic Disney productions to life for generations, this place is often billed as ‘’the happiest place on earth’’ - and with good reason. To prepare for visiting, we recommend wearing your comfiest walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothes – and bringing lots of sunscreen! With over 40 rides, attractions and shopping destinations to choose from, there’s a whole lot to see here in just one day. Don’t worry about fitting it all in – just make sure you get to see your favorites! Remember to take some snaps to capture those great memories whilst you’re there. We recommend staying at the park until the evening time, since Disney runs a spectacular firework show over its famous Cinderella Castle – trust us when we say that you won’t want to miss it!
Day 3 - Take a Break
After a tiring day at the theme park, you might just be looking for something a little bit more relaxing. Well, look no further than the Disney Wilderness Preserve. Tucked away just south of the city, this hidden gem is the perfect place to take in the natural wonders of the area and enjoy a peaceful hike. With over 12, 000 acres of flatwoods and swamplands to be explored, you could easily spend an entire day here. Located on Everglades National Park, the site exhibits an entirely unique ecosystem currently found nowhere else on earth. Walking through the site, you’ll be able to enjoy over 1, 000 species of plants and animals, including 70 species of butterfly, 80 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 151 species of bird. Exceptionally serene and fascinating to explore, the place offers the perfect respite from the city.
Day 4 - Try the Classics
Now, you can’t go to Orlando and only visit one theme park. That’d be nuts, right? But how do you choose which one to make your way to next? Well, we kind of let the people do the work for us here. Standing as the most popular amusement park outside of the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios is a long-time favorite choice for visitors and locals alike. Perfect for all film and pop culture lovers, the park is famed for its fun entertainment industry theme. Universal is made up of eight different areas, each with their own unique theme. There’s a lot of ground to cover here – but we’re sure you can handle it! Exploring the park, you’ll find over 40 rides, attractions and live shows to choose from. No matter what your favorite flick may be, you’re sure to find something that’s right up your alley. Living up to its name, this place truly offers an entertainment experience that everybody can enjoy.
Day 5 - Wind Down
Enjoy the last day of your vacation by exploring the downtown area of the city. The historic center of Orlando presents an entirely different energy that’s definitely worth getting into. Forever lively and thriving with cultural activity, this place presents a great mixture of popular tourist attractions and hidden treasures at your disposal. If it’s museums that you’re after, then you won’t have to look too far – the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum and Wells' Built Museum will be right within walking distance. Or, if you’re a lover of the performed arts, the Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts provides world-class entertainment across a wide array of genres. Aside from what the area has to offer in the realm of culture, the neighborhood is brimming with great shopping opportunities, restaurants and bars to be discovered. Offering something a little different from the typical Orlando tourist experience, we love this spot for its ’'live like the locals’' vibe.
Maybe five days doesn’t seem like a lot – but with the right amount of planning, you should be able to fit in everything, your way. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
