2 Days in Orlando - A Weekend in Orlando Itinerary That's Fun for Everyone

Published: July 18, 2024
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Planning a weekend in Orlando, but unsure what to do to maximize your time? We've got you covered. We put together a great itinerary for 2 days in Orlando that will show you some of the most fun and exciting things to do in this popular Central Florida destination in just one weekend! This weekend itinerary allows you to enjoy some of Orlando’s exciting theme parks without spending all your money on pricey admissions. This itinerary includes:

  • Gatorland
  • Fun Spot America
  • Orlando Brewing Company
  • Kennedy Space Center
  • American Police Hall of Fame

We’ve also put together a 1 day and 3 day itinerary, should you be spending more or less than a weekend in town.

Save on Attraction Admission

Pick up a 2-Day Go Orlando Card and save off combined admission vs paying at the gate. Remember, this 2 days in Orlando itinerary is just one of many ways to experience the area during your trip. Our pass 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.

DAY 1 Stop #1: Gatorland: The Alligator Capital of the World

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Known as the Alligator Capital of the World, Gatorland is an Orlando theme park unlike any other. This 110-acre wildlife preserve/ entertainment park is the perfect place to get up close (well, sort of) with Florida’s most iconic animals. There are also a number of shows, animal encounters, and photo opportunities for the whole family, including Gator Wrestlin' (a show that features Gator Wranglers interacting with 6-8 feet alligators) and Gator Jumparoo (which features some of the largest alligators in the world putting on a one-of-a-kind show with alligators jumping out of the waters to snatch food out of the trainers' hands). There’s even a petting zoo, featuring the park’s younger and gentler creatures. Depending on whether or not you want to take in any of the animal performances, we recommend leaving between 1-2 hours to spend at this exciting animal park. Getting In: Gatorland Orlando tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card.

Stop #2: Fun Spot America

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Fun Spot America is a perfect amusement park option for those looking for classic theme park thrills and excitement. It's a great alternative to some of the other pricey parks, and is just as fun for the little ones and their parents. As a bonus, a visit here definitely does not have to be an all-day proposition like the other parks. With your 4-ride sampler, you can choose from a wide variety of rides and attractions like bumper cars, roller coasters, bumper boats, and even go-karts. Check out our tips for visiting Fun Spot America to make the most of your trip. Getting In: We recommend leaving yourself about 1-2 hours to enjoy this attraction, although you may want more time if you choose to upgrade for more ride choices. Getting In: Fun Spot America Theme Park - 4 Ride Sampler tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card.

Stop #3: Orlando Brewing Company

To close out your day, hop in the car for a quick ride up to downtown Orlando and take a tour of the Southeast’s first organic brewery and taproom. They specialize in beers that abide by the German standards for pure, authentic beer, meaning they only utilize water, hops, yeast, and malted barley as ingredients. A tour here is a great chance to try some of their delicious brews for free. Tours are currently offered Monday through Friday at 6 pm, although that schedule may change. As an added bonus, the Orlando Brewing Company also features free live entertainment on the weekends. It’s bound to be great fun for traveling couples or friends. People of all ages are welcome on this tour, although only those 21+ can sample the beer. We recommend budgeting at least an hour for this stop. Getting In: This attraction is free, although additional purchases will incur costs not covered by the Go Orlando Card.

DAY 2 Stop #1: Kennedy Space Center

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The Kennedy Space Center (KSC), located in Cape Canaveral, is truly a sight to see. With a visit here you'll get the unique chance to tour NASA's real life launch and landing facilities. Fun for the whole family, the KSC includes interactive spaceflight simulators, live shows, tours, and more. It's definitely an Orlando must-see to include in your weekend itinerary. We suggestion reserving between 3-4 hours to visit the Kennedy Space Center. Getting In: Kennedy Space Center tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card.

Stop #2: American Police Hall of Fame

Conveniently located just a few short miles west of the Kennedy Space Center, the American Police Hall of Fame is an often overlooked and one of the most underrated Orlando attractions. Home to thousands of artifacts and interesting displays, you'll learn all about the who, what, when, and where of police investigation work with entertaining and informative exhibits. It's an important attraction for anyone with family who work as first responders, or those who might be interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice themselves. Plan to spend about 1-2 hours at this attraction. Getting In: American Police Hall of Fame tickets are included on the Go Orlando Card.

Let’s Recap

So there’s a great example of how to spend a weekend in the Orlando area – filled with the best alternative theme park options. This 2 days in Orlando itinerary will truly make you feel like you’ve made the most of your limited time without sacrificing any of the attractions you really wanted to see. Remember, the Go Orlando Card All-Inclusive Pass includes admission to over 30 attractions--so it's easy to tailor an alternate itinerary to your sightseeing style. Pick up a Go Orlando Card and save on combined admission when you visit Gatorland, Fun Spot America, the Kennedy Space Center, and the American Police Hall of Fame.

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

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The Best Winter Markets in Orlando for Festive Fun

When the holidays arrive in Orlando, the whole city kicks into celebration mode. Palm trees get twinkly, cocoa flows (yes, even in shorts weather!), and our markets transform into wonderlands packed with good cheer, quirky treats, and Florida-style festive fun. Whether you’re a planner mapping out every shopping stop or a laid-back browser who enjoys sampling peppermint everything, Orlando’s winter markets provide all the holiday feels you crave—plus plenty of surprises.  We’ve explored the city’s most delightful seasonal happenings, from European-style open-air markets to beloved neighborhood pop-ups, plus the big festive adventures you should build into your holiday trip. Get ready for gingerbread, glitter, and all the local flair you could want—and discover the best Orlando winter markets and magical holiday experiences that’ll have you counting the days until your visit.  Our favorite Orlando winter market experiences:  Lake Eola Holiday Market  Winter Park Christmas Market  Orlando Farmer’s Market—Holiday Edition  German Christmas Market at Avalon Park  Promenade at Sunset Walk Holiday Market  Enzian’s Annual Outdoor Holiday Market & Movie  Ivanhoe Village Jingle Eve  Winter Wonderland at Boxi Park  Night of a Million Lights at Island H2O Water Park  Winter Park Christmas Market  Charming downtown Winter Park pulls out all the festive stops with its annual Christmas Market in Central Park. Think winding brick paths, cheerful stalls, and trees strung with lights—all the ingredients for winter wonder, Florida style. This market feels like a warm hug: welcoming, walkable, and packed with gifts you’ll actually want to give (and get).  You’ll find artisan pottery, jewelry, candles, hand-knitted toys, and locally made foodie treats—hello, gingerbread popcorn and peppermint fudge! The market encourages plenty of snacking, so start with a warm beignet or apple cider, then scope out sweet and savory bites from food trucks and pop-up stalls. Caricature artists, carolers, and a mini-train for kids keep the whole family smiling.  After you’ve shopped and nibbled your way through the market, take a stroll up Park Avenue for boutique shopping, holiday window displays, and a coffee or glass of wine outside one of the many sidewalk cafés. The overall atmosphere is festive but relaxing, perfect for winding down after a day of Orlando adventure.  Orlando Farmer’s Market—Holiday Edition  Held every Sunday year-round, the Orlando Farmer’s Market gets an extra burst of magic during the holiday season. Picture the regular treasure trove of top-notch produce, baked goods, and plants—plus a serious upgrade in the festive department. This is our go-to for holiday bouquets, wreaths, and the city’s friendliest fruitcake purveyors.  What sets it apart? The focus on both fresh and quirky gifts. Local artists line the path with handmade woodwork, soy candles in winter scents, and watercolor prints of Lake Eola’s beloved swan boats. Bakery popups roll out ginger cookies and mini pies, while food trucks ladle up hot chowders and creative holiday lattes.  Kids love the crafts tent and Santa photo ops, and the grownup crowd enjoys live acoustic sets and seasonal mimosas. The market’s dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join in the festive fun (bandana in holiday plaid, obviously).  German Christmas Market at Avalon Park  Orlando goes full European with the annual German Christmas Market in Avalon Park. This is as close as you’ll get to a Bavarian winter fest in the subtropical sun—a merry maze of stalls selling gingerbread hearts, wooden toys, and classic imported decorations, plus music and food straight out of Munich.  From your first whiff of cinnamon and roasted nuts, you’ll be hooked. Vendors sell crisp potato pancakes, bratwurst on crusty rolls, hot mulled wine, and decadent stollen—all perfect for eating while you wander. Peruse handmade ornaments, nutcrackers, and gifts from local crafters.  After dark, the market glows with fairy lights and feels like a cozy little village. This is a great outing if you're missing the traditions of a Northern holiday but appreciate browsing in a T-shirt. Regular performances of oompah bands and kids’ activities keep everyone smiling. Swing by for a spirited evening out—prost!  Enzian’s Annual Outdoor Holiday Market & Movie  Love your holiday shopping with a side of cult-classic movies? The Enzian Theater in Maitland hosts a standout outdoor holiday market each year, followed by their annual screening of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (or other equally merry faves). The vibe here is retro, artsy, and full of creative energy.  Explore the market for screen-printed tea towels, quirky ceramic mugs, indie jewelry, and letterpress cards—great for scoring gifts with personality. Food trucks at the ready serve everything from tacos to vegan donuts. Don’t forget to check the seasonal cocktail bar for spiced wine or winter punch.  Dusk brings out the crowds as picnic blankets and lawn chairs claim a spot in front of the giant outdoor screen. There’s something about watching Chevy Chase’s Christmas chaos under the stars (and moss-draped oaks) that just hits different. If you love blending festivity with film, this is an Orlando event not to miss.  Ivanhoe Village Jingle Eve  In the creative heart of Orlando, Jingle Eve in Ivanhoe Village kicks the winter season into high gear with a market-meets-block-party event spread out across the neighborhood. This is more than shopping—it’s sipping, strolling, and discovering hidden gems among art studios, indie boutiques, and historic haunts.  Stroll through rows of vendors peddling holiday crafts, vintage ornaments, jewelry, and upcycled homewares—there’s always something new and unexpected here. Food trucks and pop-up bars pep up the scene with holiday punch, booze-infused hot chocolate, and charcuterie cones, all to a soundtrack of local bands and roving carolers.  Don’t skip the annual “Boat Parade of Lights” on Lake Ivanhoe or the free wine walk, where local shops pour samples as you browse. The area’s creative, alternative vibe means you’re as likely to find a punk rock Santa as you are peppermint bark. It’s the kind of event that feels iconic to Orlando—friendly, a little quirky, and always fun.  Winter Wonderland at Boxi Park  Boxi Park in Lake Nona transforms its outdoor shipping-container village into a festive wonderland each winter with faux snow, pop-up shops, and a packed calendar of holiday events. This market hits that sweet spot between family-friendly and foodie heaven.  Vendors run the gamut: find handmade wooden puzzles, chunky knit hats (yes, Orlando gets a few cool nights!), and local artwork for gifting. The food scene makes it a real destination—think Nashville chicken sliders, lobster roll bites, barbecue tasting plates, and epic gourmet fries, all served from on-site containers alongside local craft beer and cocoa-to-go.  There are kid zones with crafts and visits from Santa, plus live holiday music and Instagram-perfect backdrops for every age. Whether you’re wrangling little ones, meeting friends, or out for date night, Boxi Park’s cheery scene makes every visit memorable. We recommend capping off the night with s’mores toasted tableside and a seasonal brew.  Night of a Million Lights at Island H2O Water Park  If you want jaw-dropping holiday sparkle, Night of a Million Lights at Island H2O Water Park is the event to build your holiday trip around. The market element here is surrounded by a full spectacle—millions of synchronized lights, dancing fountains, and themed photo ops at every turn. It’s immersive, vibrant, and pure, glittery fun.  Wander the decorated park spotting pop-up holiday market kiosks with art, gifts, and edible treats. From peppermint bark to personalized ornaments and local art, you’ll check off gifts on even the trickiest list. Hot cocoa and seasonal snacks pop up throughout, so there’s plenty to nibble as you explore.  The real draw? Holiday lights pulse to music, illuminated tunnels beckon for selfies, and surprise performances (think acrobats or choreographed Christmas dancers) pop up all evening. You’ll leave feeling the holiday high, arms full of gifts and your camera roll overflowing.  Ready for Your Orlando Winter Market Adventure?  Orlando’s winter market scene mixes just enough tradition with a helping of playful local flavor. From downtown’s community charm to markets bursting with international food, and show-stopping light displays that dazzle everyone, there’s a holiday adventure waiting at every turn. Bring an extra tote (or three!), keep your eyes peeled for the perfect artisan gift, and let yourself get swept up in Orlando’s unique brand of holiday cheer—all under sunny winter skies.    Like this? Check out our secret guide to Orlando’s hidden gems, 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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