Explore Orlando Like a Local: Orlando Itineraries for 2, 3, 5 and 7 Days
Explore Orlando Like a Local: Orlando Itineraries for 2, 3, 5 and 7 Days
Planning a trip to Orlando? Overwhelmed by all the theme park options? Wondering what else there is to do outside the usual Mickey Mouse madness?
That’s why I put together this fun, flexible guide packed with things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks. Whether you’ve only got a couple of days or a full week to explore, I’ve built out two-day, three-day, five-day and seven-day itineraries to help you make the most of every moment.
Explore Orlando Like a Local With This Tailored Itinerary
And yes, I’ll absolutely hit the highlights like Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe (trust me, it’s worth the hype), but I’m also diving deep into downtown gems, outdoor adventures, local eats, a nearby dude ranch you can visit, plus the best beaches in Orlando.
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of adventure and chill vibes, I’ve got you covered! Whether you're visiting with kids, friends or just doing a solo escape, this guide is tailored to give you a real taste of what Orlando has to offer beyond the roller coasters and thrill rides. Let’s get into it!
First Things First: Where to Stay
If you’re looking for family-friendly resorts in Orlando, listen up! I’ve stayed at both Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa and Westgate Palace Resort, and honestly, they’re both perfectly placed for hitting Universal’s main theme parks and Epic Universe, without the chaos of being right in the middle of it all.
Not only that, both resorts are close to Downtown Orlando, Winter Park and other popular neighborhoods bustling with activities and delicious foodie hotspots.
At Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, I loved cooling off at Treasure Cove Water Park and grabbing a casual dinner at Drafts. Plus, I visited the property’s onsite spa, Serenity Spa, and loved it. I was in total reset mode after a long day exploring.
Over at Westgate Palace Resort, it was all about location and space. It’s super close to International Drive (I mean, you can walk outside and you’re there) and literally right down the road from Epic Universe (15 minutes away), so you’re not wasting too much time in traffic. I stayed in one of the two-bedroom suites, which made it feel more like a condo than a hotel. I highly recommend both resorts!
What to Ask Yourself Before Visiting Orlando
Orlando is so jam-packed with things to do and places to see that you won’t see everything on your trip. It’s important to manage expectations and narrow down your must-dos to leave you satisfied once your trip ends.
Plus, whatever you don’t get to means you’ll just have to come back. Here are some questions to help you prioritize your time and make sure your optimizing your overall experience:
Am I visiting for the theme parks or looking for things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks?
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This is huge. If you're all-in on Disney or Universal, your schedule (and budget) will revolve around those. But if you're open to Downtown Orlando activities, nature trails and local food scenes, you’ll want a more flexible itinerary.
What’s my daily budget for activities, food and transportation?
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Theme parks can cost over $150/day just for tickets, not including meals and parking. On the flip side, outdoor adventures and local attractions are often way more budget-friendly or even free.
How many full days do I actually have in the city?
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Flight times and check-ins eat up more time than people think. Be realistic about what you can do, and build in downtime, especially if you’re traveling with kids).
Am I renting a car, relying on rideshares or staying somewhere with shuttle access?
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Orlando is spread out. Your transportation situation can make or break your ability to hit farmers markets near Orlando, go on day trips or explore different neighborhoods.
Who am I traveling with, and what kind of experiences will everyone enjoy?
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Adults-only trip? Family with little ones? Multi-generational crew? Tailor your plans accordingly. The Crayola Experience and Gatorland hit different depending on your age group.
Do I want to stay near the parks, downtown or somewhere quieter with resort-style amenities?
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A resort like Westgate Lakes gives you a “vacation within a vacation” vibe. But if you're all about the theme parks, you might want to splurge and stay on property.
What are my top three must-do experiences?
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Pick your non-negotiables first. Whether that’s riding Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure, kayaking in a spring or catching the Saturday Night Rodeo at Westgate River Ranch, plan around those.
What time of year am I visiting and how will the weather affect my plans?
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Summer = crowds + heat + rain. Winter and early spring = milder weather but peak pricing. Pack and plan accordingly.
Am I OK with long lines or should I pay extra for express passes/skip-the-line experiences?
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If time is money, express passes or VIP tours may actually save you money in the long run, especially during high season.
Where do I want to splurge and where can I save?
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Maybe it’s worth it to splurge on one fancy dinner or deluxe park experience and go casual the rest of the trip. Knowing this up front helps big-time with budgeting.
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Two-Day Orlando Itinerary
Alright, the time has come, but remember, this is just a sample, weeklong, itinerary that you can mix and match to your heart’s content. Here we go!
Day 1: An Epic Adventure
If you’re lucky enough to grab tickets, you have to start your Orlando vacation with a trip to Universal’s Epic Universe! The park is filled with five lands to explore: Celestial Park, How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic!
The two must-do attractions at the park are Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry and Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.
If you’re a fan of roller coasters, you’ll also want to ride:
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Curse of the Werewolf - Dark Universe
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Mine-cart Madness - Super Nintendo World
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Stardust Racers - Celestial Park
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Hiccup’s Wing Gliders - How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk
Along with other attractions, you’ll want to check out all the dragon meet-and-greets in How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk. Universal created life-like dragon animatronics that you can see up-close and touch!
Because the park is brand-new, you’ll want to experience everything, so consider buying tickets for more than one day if you can.
Day 2: Make a Splash
It’s hot most of the year in sunny Orlando, so get your chills and thrills at an Orlando water park!
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Volcano Bay (Universal Orlando) – This tropical-themed paradise is built around a massive erupting volcano and features the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, a not-so-lazy river that actually goes through caves and TapuTapu wristbands, so you can skip physically waiting in lines and chill more.
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Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon – With the largest wave pool in North America, a sandy beach and slides that launch you through shipwrecks and waterfalls, this storm-struck island is both thrilling and relaxing for all ages.
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Disney’s Blizzard Beach – A ski resort turned water park? Yes, please. Zoom down the near-vertical Summit Plummet or float along Cross Country Creek surrounded by snow-themed scenery (without the frostbite).
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Aquatica Orlando (SeaWorld) – Known for its high-speed slides and clear tube rides through dolphin-filled waters, Aquatica blends wildlife and water fun like no other park in town.
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Island H2O Live! – Orlando’s most tech-savvy water park, where rides are synced to music, you can livestream your splashy adventures and customize your experience via an app. Perfect for teens and digital diehards.
After a day staying cool, visit Disney Springs or CityWalk and enjoy a nice meal and post-dinner stroll.
Top Disney Springs Restaurants
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Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ – Southern comfort food at its best. The fried chicken is crispy and juicy, and the moonshine cocktails hit the spot.
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Wine Bar George - Chill wine bar with an impressive list by the glass and shareable bites. Great for a laid-back date night or friends hangout.
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The Boathouse – Waterfront dining with fresh seafood and great views. The lobster roll and cocktails make it worth the stop. Plus, you just might see some amphicars, cars that turn into boats in the water! It’s a new take on dinner cruises in Orlando.
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Morimoto Asia – Sleek and upscale. Go for the spare ribs and sushi — some of the best you’ll find in the area.
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The Edison – Industrial-style spot with live entertainment and solid American food. A fun atmosphere, especially at night.
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Gideon’s Bakehouse – After dinner, enjoy half-pound cookies with serious hype — and they live up to it. Flavors change often, but they’re always rich, soft and indulgent. Share (or don't) — no judgment!
Top Universal CityWalk Restaurants
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Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food – Experience vibrant Mexican flavors with dishes like freshly made guacamole and street-style tacos, all set within lively décor and accompanied by live mariachi music.
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The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar – This innovative spot combines gourmet burgers and fresh sushi, offering unique creations like "Burgushi"—a fusion of both.
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Vivo Italian Kitchen – Enjoy classic Italian dishes crafted with fresh ingredients in a modern setting. The open kitchen allows you to watch chefs prepare your meal.
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Bigfire – Specializing in open-fire cooking, Bigfire offers American fare with a smoky twist. The cozy, lakeside ambiance enhances dishes like its signature bison burger.
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The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen – A steampunk-themed restaurant featuring an extensive menu and over-the-top desserts, including decadent milkshakes and sundaes.
Three Days in Orlando
For this three-day itinerary, we’re repurposing days one and two.
Day 3: Explore Orlando
On your third day, I would say to kick off your morning with East End Market, which isn’t far from Leu Gardens, where you should head to afterward.
Morning: At East End Market, which is a local food hall and artisanal marketplace, I really enjoy Lineage Coffee, Gideon’s Bakehouse (the original location with the same fantastic, half-pound cookies), Dochi (Japanese mochi donuts) and the Winter Park Biscuit Company – just to name a few. I would grab a biscuit sandwich, some coffee and maybe a cookie from Gideon’s (for later, of course) before heading to Leu Gardens.
Once you’re fueled up, Leu Gardens is just a few minutes down the road. It’s one of my absolute favorite spots in the city. It's peaceful, lush and packed with winding paths, tropical blooms and shaded benches. I’ve spent loads of time just walking around and taking photos of everything. I love flowers, so it’s the perfect place for me.
Morning/Afternoon: From there, I would hop in the car and head to Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando. I’d rent a giant swan boat and paddle in the lake surrounded by real-life swans. It’s surprisingly fun and a great way to take in the city’s skyline. Lake Eola is just under a mile in length, so take a few laps and enjoy the day!
All that walking and paddling works up an appetite, so for lunch, I would drive to Park Avenue in Winter Park. Park Avenue is full of quaint restaurants and shops, surrounded by multi-million-dollar homes. You could easily spend several hours just wandering the cobblestone streets. One restaurant you should try is Prato, an Italian spot that locals rave about.
If you have time, you could also check out the Orlando Science Center, which is a great spot for families, rain or shine. Who am I kidding, as an adult, I loved it too. This place specializes in making science fun and relatable, so check it out if you have any S.T.E.M. lovers in your family.
Night: This is one jam-packed day! So, if you have time, you could maybe head over to International Drive, Orlando’s tourist district, and dine at one of the many restaurants. Some top eateries include Maggiano’s Little Italy, Saltgrass, Café Tu Tu Tango and more!
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Day 4: Orlando’s Hidden Gems
For day four, I would recommend seeing the natural side to Orlando and its surrounding cities. These are some of my favorites:
Wekiva Island / Wekiwa Springs State Park (30 or 40 minutes away from Orlando)
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A local favorite for kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming in crystal-clear spring water. Wekiva Island has a laid-back, beachy vibe with cabana rentals, a riverside bar and food trucks. It’s a great escape when you want nature and chill vibes without the drive to the beach.
Kelly Park - Rock Springs (30-40 minutes away from Orlando)
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Known for its natural lazy river, this spot is perfect for tubing through emerald spring water under shady trees. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly and feels like discovering a secret Florida paradise. Get there early. This place fills up fast.
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour (20-25 minutes away from Orlando)
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A relaxing, hour-long boat tour through the lakes and canals of historic Winter Park. You’ll glide past beautiful mansions, lush gardens and Rollins College, all while hearing cool local history. It’s peaceful, picturesque and a great midday break.
Blue Spring State Park (45 minutes to an hour away from Orlando)
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Famous for its manatees in winter, this park offers a stunning natural spring perfect for swimming and snorkeling in warmer months. There’s a boardwalk for wildlife viewing and a designated swimming area. It’s one of the best places near Orlando to connect with Florida’s natural beauty.
Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve (30-35 minutes away from Orlando)
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A hidden gem for hikers and bird watchers, just minutes from Disney. This quiet preserve features well-marked trails, pine flatwoods, cypress swamps and plenty of shade. It’s great for spotting gopher tortoises and getting in some exercise during your vacation.
Five-Day Orlando Family Vacation Plan
For this five-day itinerary, go back and revisit the first few days.
Day 5: Visit a Real-Life Florida Dude Ranch
Spending the day at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo was one of the most unexpectedly fun adventures I’ve had outside of Orlando. It’s about two hours from the city, but it feels like you’ve stepped into a completely different world – one where you can put on your cowboy hat, take an airboat ride and see a live rodeo. As soon as I arrived, I knew this place was more than just a day trip.
Next time, I’m staying overnight and trying the glamping accommodations. The resort offers luxury teepees, tents and wagons that are decked out with A/C, in-suite bathrooms and access to golf carts to get around the expansive property. I can already picture myself sipping coffee on the front porch while watching the sunrise over the ranch.
Anyway, what really blew me away was how much there is to do, like horseback riding through scenic trails, archery, trap and skeet shooting and airboat rides. There’s even a petting zoo! I love baby farm animals, don’t you?
The activities staff are all friendly and accommodating, taking the time to explain all the instructions and safety protocol. Plus, they’re happy to talk more about the ranch and its Florida history.
For lunch, I grabbed some delicious BBQ at Smokehouse on the River, but I was sad I had to miss Cattle Company Chophouse & Bar, the resort’s signature dining restaurant. That’s definitely on my list for next time, too.
Day 6: Do Things You Missed or Redo Things You Loved
The end of this seven-day itinerary is coming to a close, but it’s not over yet. For day six, I think it’s important to schedule a little downtime. Take this opportunity to wind down your trip and do anything you wanted to do but didn’t think you’d have a chance to. You could also redo things you really enjoyed.
If you want to do something new, I recommend possibly taking another day trip. This time, you could head to one of Orlando’s nearby beaches. Here are a few that I recommend:
Cocoa Beach (1 hour from Orlando)
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This is Orlando’s go-to beach. It’s perfect for surfing, sunbathing and hitting the Cocoa Beach Pier for seafood and a sunset drink. It’s also super close to the Kennedy Space Center, so you can turn your beach day into a space day, too.
New Smyrna Beach (1 hour, 15 minutes from Orlando)
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Known for its chill local vibe, wide shoreline and artsy downtown area, New Smyrna is a favorite for surfers and people who want fewer crowds but still plenty of great dining and boutique shopping nearby.
Clearwater Beach (2 hours from Orlando)
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If you don’t mind the longer drive, Clearwater’s soft white sand and turquoise water are absolutely worth it. It’s consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the U.S., with a walkable boardwalk, dolphin tours and nightly sunset celebrations.
Daytona Beach (1 hour, 15 minutes from Orlando)
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This classic Florida beach lets you drive right onto the sand. It’s fun, lively and packed with things to do, from arcades to parasailing.
Canaveral National Seashore (1 hour, 15 minutes from Orlando)
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For a more natural, untouched coastal experience, this is your spot. No high-rises, no big crowds—just dunes, sea turtles and a peaceful shoreline. This spot is ideal for a quiet beach day and wildlife watching.
Seven-Day Orlando Itinerary
If you made it this far, you’ve had a pretty epic Orlando vacation, but there’s still some time left!
Day 7: Unwind on Your Last Day
Spend your last day with no real plans. Just wake up and see where the day takes you. You could pamper yourself at Serenity Spa at Westgate Lakes Resort or enjoy a nice brunch in Winter Park.
Your last day is also a good time to do some last-minute shopping. I mean, you need souvenirs to remember your trip, don’t you?
Some great shopping areas include Winter Park (Park Avenue), the Florida Mall, the Mall at Millenia and the Orlando International Premium Outlets.
And like day six, you could also do one more thing that you missed or eat at that one place you really enjoyed. Whatever you do, just relax and try not to think about heading back to reality once you get home.
Use Our Handy Map to Find Your Way Around!
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Wrapping Up Your Ultimate Orlando Vacation
After exploring Orlando beyond the theme parks, I can confidently say that this city seriously delivers. From kayaking at Wekiva Springs to shopping at the Mall at Millenia and eating in Winter Park, Orlando is full of things to do, and it’ll keep you coming back for more.
I love mixing chill moments with off-the-beaten-path adventures. You can be at Walt Disney World one day and taking surfing lessons at the beach the next day. Each day of your trip can be something different. There’s truly something for everyone in this city.
So whether you’re into food, nature, shopping, or yes, even a little magic, build your trip your way. Trust me, there’s way more to discover here than you think. For more tips on exploring Orlando, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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