3 Days in Orlando for First Timers

South Florida is full of sunshine and entertainment. From animal attractions to water parks and fairgrounds, Orlando is a great getaway spot. Here are our top tips for first-time visitors.

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Wheel

Heading to Orlando for a long weekend without any firm plans? Check out our suggestions for things to do during three days in Orlando. This itinerary is filled with tons of fun for the whole family and is designed to give you a great overview of the area’s best attractions.

This 3 day itinerary includes:

  • WonderWorks
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando
  • Gatorland: The Alligator Capital of the World
  • The Wheel at ICON Park
  • Gray Line Orlando Tour
  • LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
  • Fun Spot America
  • Madame Tussauds Orlando

Only have a few days in Orlando? We’ve also put together a sample 2 day itinerary.

DAY 1 Stop #1:WonderWorks

WonderWorks Orlando is one amazing attraction. For starters, everything is upside-down! With more than 100 fun and interactive exhibits to explore, you’ll never tire of this place. Some highlighted exhibits include a 36-foot-tall indoor ropes challenge course, a 4-D Extreme Motion ride, simulated earthquakes and hurricanes, a machine that allows you to measure the speed of your baseball pitch, and many more!

Among these many delightful activities, a few of our favorites also include an awesome glow-in-the-dark ropes course and the always-enjoyable laser tag. We recommend reserving about 2 hours for this attraction.

Stop #2: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

two-cute-kids-watching-variety-colorful-aquarium

Home to more than 5,000 diverse sea creatures from vibrant, tiny little fish to a Giant Sea Octopus, SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando is an excellent place for those who love animals and all things aquatic. Filled with multiple themed habitats and several interactive components – including a very popular rock pool filled with sea anemones – this aquarium is a must-visit.

You should also make sure not to miss Orlando's only 360-degree ocean tunnel, which allows you to walk *under* majestic sea creatures.

Stop #3: Gatorland

florida-gator-floating-on-water

There’s no other place quite like it in the world – Gatorland is a truly unique destination dedicated to the most iconic of all Floridian creatures, the alligator. Of course, they’ve got a few crocodiles, too! You’ll experience everything from tours and performances to exhibits and nature walks, all contained within this 110-acre wildlife preserve. There’s even a petting zoo! (Don’t worry – there are no alligators there.)

Be sure to also check out their Gator Gully Splash Park, which turns this already awesome attraction into a delightful place to be amid Florida humidity. This attraction is a quintessential destination for the Orlando traveler. We recommend reserving between 2-3 hours for this attraction.

Stop #4: The Wheel at ICON Park

beautiful-cyan-sky-icon-orlando-eye

You've got to make sure you spend some time at the tallest observation wheel on the East Coast! The Wheel at ICON Park offers truly astonishing views of Orlando – stretching far and wide. No matter what time of day you plan to visit, we are sure you will have amazing sights of the Central Florida.

This place is an amazing addition to I-Drive. You're also very close to a number of other fun attractions that you could explore, either in addition to today's itinerary, or on another day. From an aquarium to a museum to a golf course, there is plenty to love about this area!

DAY 2 Stop #1: Gray Line Orlando Day Tour

Since you spent most of yesterday indoors, dedicate today to exploring the great outdoors. This day-long excursion provides a comprehensive perspective on the city of Orlando and its surrounding environs.From Lake Eola and charming Winter Park to the shopping distinct of Park Avenue and Disney’s City of Celebration, you’ll get a great overview of the area’s biggest highlights.

You’ll even get plenty of time on your own to spend exploring each distinct neighborhood. This tour lasts for approximately 7 hours. Because the tour does last all day, plan to each lunch along the way – perhaps along Park Avenue?

DAY 3 Stop #1: LEGOLAND® Florida

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is actually the biggest LEGOLAND® park in the world, and that’s saying something! This 150-acre theme park features more than 50 rides, shows, attractions, restaurants, and gardens for you to explore – all of which are LEGO®-themed.

We should also note that this is primarily designed for children ages 12 and under, so if you're a party of all adults, or with older children, you can substitute another attraction for LEGOLAND -- perhaps the iconic Kennedy Space Center?

Check out our guide for tips on visiting LEGOLAND Florida before your visit. We recommend reserving between 3-4 hours for this attraction.

Stop #2: Fun Spot America

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Looking for some extreme fun? Then check out Fun Spot America, one of Orlando’s more accessible theme parks. It’s a great way for everyone to burn off some steam and to keep the kids entertained after lunch.

Some of the things to do at this amazing theme park include include go-karts, bumper boats, bumper karts, the White Lightning roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, and a suspended car called the Paratrooper. We recommend reserving between 1-2 hours for this attraction.

Stop #3: Madame Tussauds Orlando

Madame Tussauds Orlando

For a final excellent I-Drive option to round out your three days in Orlando, Madame Tussauds Orlando is a fine choice. This international sensation offers excitement, inspiration, and just plain fun in one fun attraction.

Come here to see your favorite celebs in their signature scenarios, from Taylor Swift mid-concert to Shaq hitting a layup. Other themed areas include Film, History and Leaders, A-List, TV, and more. Don't forget to snap those perfect photos for Instagram!

Save up to 50% on Orlando attractions  

Remember, this 3 day Orlando itinerary is just one of many ways to experience Central Florida. A pass with Go City® gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from dozens of top attractions and create a vacation tailored to your interests.

Discover our full line-up of Orlando attractions from Kennedy Space Center to Fun Spot America.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Pick whichever Orlando attraction pass suits you, and save as you sightsee!

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Make Mondays Magical: Orlando’s Best Early-Week Adventures

Monday in Orlando: Start Your Week Off Right  Let’s be honest: Mondays sometimes get a bad rap. But in Orlando, the first day of the week is actually one of the best times to explore. Crowds are lighter, the Florida sun is just as bright, and the city’s best attractions are wide open, ready to kick off your vacation vibes. Whether you’re craving wild rides, aquatic encounters, hands-on wonders, or great eats—the city delivers fun all week long.  So, what should top your Orlando Monday itinerary? We’re packing your day with unmissable attractions, delicious breaks, and hidden gems that make Monday feel like the start of a whole new adventure. Ready to ditch the desk and dive right in? Here’s your easy, playful guide to making Mondays in Orlando absolutely unforgettable!  Our favorite Monday moves in Orlando include:  Kennedy Space Center  The Orlando Eye  Madame Tussauds Orlando  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium  Gatorland  Museum of Illusions Orlando  WonderWorks Orlando  Island H2O Water Park  Fun Spot America  A visit to East End Market  Kennedy Space Center: Reach for the Stars  Channel your inner astronaut and kick off Monday with an awe-inspiring journey at the legendary Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Just an hour’s drive from downtown Orlando, this sprawling destination isn’t just a park—it’s a mind-blowing trip through space history, cutting-edge science, and pure rocket-fueled thrills.  First up, the atmosphere: it’s genuinely electric, with a palpable sense of mission. As you walk beneath a real Saturn V rocket (longer than a football field!) or stand nose-to-capsule with Atlantis—the shuttle that helped build the International Space Station—you’ll feel the goosebumps. Interactive exhibits let you try your hand at docking spacecraft, touch a moon rock, or simulate a launch. If the stars align, you might even get to chat with a real astronaut.  But we especially love how this place blends big moments with slightly quirky touches. There’s the Hall of Fame for astronaut selfies, splash zones for little future scientists, and even freeze-dried space ice cream in the gift shop. The expansive Rocket Garden sets up a great picnic spot, and the shuttle launch simulators are surprisingly intense (in a good way).  Why visit on a Monday? You’ll find the lines shorter and the curiosity higher. Everyone seems a little more chilled, and there’s more time to talk with the super-passionate staff and guides. Whether you’re a full-blown space nerd or just up for something new, Kennedy Space Center sends your week into orbit.  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Meet the Stars (And Yourself!)  Ever dreamed of a selfie with your favorite A-lister, or rubbing shoulders with renowned inventors and sports legends? Madame Tussauds Orlando puts you in the limelight—no velvet rope required. This Monday, skip the movie streaming and go straight to the (very lifelike) stars.  What’s the vibe? Playful and interactive from the start. The wax figures are shockingly realistic—it's almost irresistible not to pose, hug, or pull a face next to them. Snap a shot next to Tom Hanks, challenge Shaquille O’Neal to a dunk, or strike a regal pose with Queen Beyoncé. You’re encouraged to touch, snap, and experiment, making it perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers wanting to unleash their inner paparazzi.  The themed sets heighten the fun: take the stage with Taylor Swift, hop aboard a vintage motorcycle with Elvis, or get presidential in the Oval Office. Keep your phone charged—every turn invites a goofy or glamorous photo masterpiece.  Why is Monday especially great? You can take your time creating those Insta-worthy moments, and friendly staff are always happy to help set up your ultimate group shot. Madame Tussauds is pure hands-on fun and a wild way to start the week on a high note.  SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Dive Into a World Beneath the Waves  Sea creatures have a calming, hypnotic effect—a perfect Monday pick-me-up. SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, right at Icon Park, invites you to explore vibrant coral reefs, mysterious jelly exhibits, and thousands of dazzling marine animals, without even getting wet.  Here, tunnels curve overhead while sharks, rays, and turtles glide just inches above your head. Kids (and, let’s be honest, grown-ups too) love the 360-degree ocean tunnel—it feels like you’re wandering the ocean floor. If you’re a fan of weird sea creatures, you’ll spot seahorses, octopuses, and graceful jellyfish, all up-close and eye-level.  It’s interactive in all the right ways: hands-on touch pools, educational talks that keep things simple and surprising, and daily feedings where everyone gathers to watch the action. If you visit on a Monday, you’ll be able to drift from exhibit to exhibit with minimal crowds and spend more time chatting with the aquarists.  The peaceful aquatic atmosphere, gentle sounds, and ever-shifting blue lights feel restorative—almost spa-like. Whether you're with kids who are fascinated by every fish or just want somewhere cool and colorful to escape the midday sun, SEA LIFE is a Monday treat for all ages.  Museum of Illusions: Mind-Bending Fun for All Ages  Step into a world where nothing is quite what it seems. The Museum of Illusions on International Drive offers a welcome dose of quirky fun, perfect for shaking up a routine Monday. It’s part science, part wizardry, and entirely designed to make you question your senses.  The museum features dozens of mind-boggling rooms, optical illusions, and 3D installations that will have you walking on the ceiling, shrinking to miniature size, or balancing in endlessly tilted vortex tunnels. Each exhibit has a hands-on angle—perfect for families and anyone who thrives on interactive experiences.  What sets this museum apart is its capacity for laughter. People leave grinning from ear to ear, scrolling through their phones to share mind-twisting photos. Besides the wow factor, there are tons of quirky educational tidbits explaining the psychology and physics behind the illusions.  Visiting on a Monday gives you even more room to play, pose, and puzzle things out without hurrying—plus, friendly guides are on hand for photo tips and extra weird science explanations. If you want a memorable, share-worthy start to the week, the Museum of Illusions delivers.  WonderWorks Orlando: Science Playground With a Twist  Ever seen an upside-down building on International Drive? You’ve found WonderWorks—a hands-on science center that bills itself as “an amusement park for the mind.” This uniquely quirky spot offers more than 100 hands-on exhibits for all ages, blending education and pure fun in a whirlwind of color.  From hurricane simulators to virtual roller coasters, lie detectors to laser tag, every corner is packed with opportunities to touch, build, and experiment. Test your skills on the indoor ropes course, land a spacecraft in a realistic NASA simulation, or let your little ones create a giant bubble around themselves.  WonderWorks is both brainy and silly, and it lets everyone’s curiosity run wild in (air-conditioned!) comfort. Mondays are often a bit quieter, so you’ll enjoy even more chance to try the most popular exhibits without waiting your turn.  The décor adds to the fun—think winding staircases, wacky colors, and oddball quotes on every wall. It’s a fantastic place for families, groups, or anyone who secretly wishes school was always this much fun.  Island H2O Water Park: Splash Your Monday Away  Orlando’s sunshine and splashy water parks go hand-in-hand, and Island H2O Water Park takes the experience to a new level with its tech-forward, music-infused attractions. Located in Kissimmee (just south of the main theme park drag), this park is designed for maximum giggles, Instagram moments, and cool-down time.  What sets Island H2O apart? For one, there’s a funky “live streaming” wristband that lets you control playlist tunes on certain slides, snap videos, or vote for the next pool party game. The park is packed with speedy slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and high-energy drop rides.  On Mondays, the park feels breezy and laid-back, with shorter lines and plenty of room to float, splash, and play in the Florida sun. Lounge in a cabana with a frozen drink, ride the family raft slide again and again, or let your teens explore selfie spots scattered throughout the park.  The vibe is friendly, vibrant, and made for social sharing—whether you’re on a family trip, a date day, or just need to cool off in style as the week begins.  Fun Spot America: Good, Old-Fashioned Thrills  If you’re in the mood for a classic amusement park experience—without the need for advance planning or endless (expensive) lines—Fun Spot America has your Monday covered. This locally adored mini-park offers heaps of fun at your own pace, with free parking and admission if you just want to wander and soak up the carnival atmosphere.  The rides range from fast, wild roller coasters to bumper cars, spinning swings, and a classic Ferris wheel. Want to feel like a big kid? Race your friends on the multi-level go-kart tracks, or win a giant prize at the midway games. There’s something for every age, and the park is compact enough to see it all in an afternoon or evening.  Monday tends to be extra relaxed—often you’ll find yourself hoping right back onto your favorite coaster or snagging the perfect seat for the park’s tasty funnel cakes or shakes. The vibe here is refreshingly down-to-earth and nostalgic, with friendly staff who seem to relish bringing a bit of old-fashioned fun to the start of your week.  Pro tip: if you’ve finished at the nearby Museum of Illusions or WonderWorks, Fun Spot is an excellent next stop only minutes away.  East End Market: Foodie Heaven With Local Flavor  After all that action, recharge with something more low-key (and delicious): a visit to East End Market. Situated in the hip Audubon Park Garden District, this indoor food hall is a hub for Orlando’s tastiest local eats, cool crafts, and genuine community spirit.  From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by bakery aromas, roasting coffee, and the cheerful bustle of hungry locals and in-the-know travelers. Sample artisan cheese at La Femme du Fromage, dig into a banh mi sandwich at Domu, or treat yourself to fresh-squeezed juices from Skyebird. Don’t skip Gideon’s Bakehouse for their giant, decadently gooey cookies—they regularly draw lines for a reason!  The vibe is artsy and friendly, with vibrant murals and communal tables indoors and out. Browse local makers’ stalls (think hand-poured candles, plants, and boho jewelry), or step outside to the lush garden for a moment of Floridian calm.  It’s a different flavor of Orlando—one that invites you to linger, people-watch, and savor the creative heart of the city. On Mondays, everything feels more relaxed, with plenty of seats and time to talk to the passionate foodies behind each stall.  Round Up Your Monday in Orlando  There’s something special about starting your week on a wave of discovery. Orlando’s Monday line-up is proof: you can hop from rockets to roller coasters, underwater worlds to bakery bliss, all with room to breathe and a little extra local flavor. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or flying solo, these attractions offer sights, tastes, and experiences that turn Monday into something to look forward to—even after you’ve gone back to reality. Enjoy your start-of-the-week adventure in Orlando—and don’t be surprised if this becomes your favorite day of your trip!    Like this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, or browse the city’s market scene.     Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
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