3 Days in Orlando Itinerary: Theme Parks and Beyond

Welcome to your ultimate guide for spending 3 unforgettable days in Orlando, Florida. From world-class theme parks to vibrant cultural experiences, this itinerary ensures a perfect blend of thrill and relaxation. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!

Day 1: Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World

Morning: Enter the Magic Kingdom

Start your Orlando journey with a visit to the enchanting Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. Arrive early to beat the crowds and take in the iconic Cinderella Castle, which makes for an excellent photo op to kickstart your day.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Address: Bay Lake, FL 32836

Mid-Morning: Classic Attractions

Dive right into some classic Disney attractions. Here are a few must-rides:

• Space Mountain: An exhilarating roller coaster ride through space.
• Pirates of the Caribbean: A swashbuckling boat journey through pirate-infested waters.
• Haunted Mansion: A spooky yet fun-filled haunted house experience.

Lunch: Quick Bites

Refuel with a quick bite at one of the park’s many dining options. Casey’s Corner offers delicious hot dogs and ballpark snacks that are sure to please everyone in your group.

Afternoon: Adventure Awaits

Continue your adventure with more magical experiences:

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: A wild ride through an Old West mining town.
• It’s a Small World: Enjoy a gentle boat ride through various cultures around the globe.
• Jungle Cruise: Embark on a hilarious and scenic riverboat adventure.

Evening: Parade and Fireworks

As the sun sets, claim a good spot for Happily Ever After, the spectacular fireworks show over Cinderella Castle. Don’t miss the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade for a magical celebration featuring Disney characters, music, and elaborate floats.

• Parade Time: 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM (subject to change)
• Fireworks Time: 8:00 PM (subject to change)

Dinner: Fairy Tale Dining

Wrap up your magical day with a fairy tale dining experience at Be Our Guest Restaurant. Located inside the Beast’s Castle, this unique restaurant offers French-inspired cuisine amidst a highly immersive setting.

End your day on a high note, brimming with memories of the enchanting Magic Kingdom. Prepare for another thrilling day as the adventure in Orlando continues!

Day 2: Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure

Morning: Universal Studios Florida

Kick off your second day at Universal Studios Florida. This park offers a wide array of exhilarating rides, live shows, and attractions based on your favorite movies and TV shows.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819

Top Attractions:

• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts: A thrilling multi-dimensional ride through Gringotts bank.
• Revenge of the Mummy: An indoor high-speed roller coaster that delves into ancient Egyptian tombs.
• Transformers: The Ride-3D: An action-packed, high-definition simulation ride.

Lunch: Springfield, USA

Head to Springfield, USA, home of the Simpsons, for a fun and thematic dining experience. Try a Krusty Burger or cool off with a Duff beer at Moe’s Tavern.

Afternoon: Islands of Adventure

In the afternoon, hop over to Islands of Adventure, just a short walk or ride away. This park features cutting-edge rides, shows, and attractions:

• The Incredible Hulk Coaster: A high-speed roller coaster with intense loops and drops.
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man: A 3D motion-based dark ride featuring your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man.
• Jurassic Park River Adventure: A water-based raft ride that concludes with an 85-foot plunge.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

A must-visit within Islands of Adventure is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Explore Hogsmeade, ride the Forbidden Journey, and sip on Butterbeer!

Evening: CityWalk Orlando

Conclude your day at Universal CityWalk, a buzzing dining and entertainment hub:

• Vivo Italian Kitchen: For delicious Italian cuisine.
• Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food: Experience vibrant Mexican flavors and live music.
• Bob Marley–A Tribute to Freedom: Enjoy Caribbean dishes while listening to reggae music in a setting that honors the late musician.

Wrap up your second day with a night out at CityWalk featuring vibrant nightlife and shopping options, just steps away from the Universal parks!

Day 3: Exploring Beyond the Theme Parks

Morning: Visit the Kennedy Space Center

For your final day, take a break from the theme parks and head out to the Kennedy Space Center. This space exploration complex offers fascinating exhibits, interactive experiences, and a chance to learn about NASA’s space missions.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953

Don’t miss the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit and the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where you’ll see one of only three remaining Saturn V rockets.

Lunch: Orbit Cafe

After your space adventure, enjoy a meal at the Orbit Cafe located within the Kennedy Space Center. The cafe offers a variety of American and space-themed dishes.

Afternoon: International Drive

Return to Orlando and explore International Drive (I-Drive), one of the city’s most vibrant areas filled with attractions, dining, and shopping:

• The Wheel at ICON Park: Take a ride on this 400-foot tall observation wheel for stunning views of Orlando.
• SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Get up close with marine life at this family-friendly aquarium.
• WonderWorks: An interactive science museum with over 100 hands-on exhibits.

For shopping enthusiasts, the Orlando International Premium Outlets and Pointe Orlando offer a wide range of stores and dining options.

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

Conclude your Orlando adventure with a delightful dinner at one of I-Drive’s many renowned restaurants:

• Café Tu Tu Tango: Enjoy a diverse menu of tapas-style culinary delights paired with live entertainment and local artwork.
• Bahama Breeze: Great for Caribbean-inspired dishes and tropical drinks, offering live music on weekends.
• Charley’s Steak House: For a fine dining experience featuring wood-fired steaks and seafood.

Nightlife: ICON Park

After dinner, head back to ICON Park which comes alive at night with bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Have a fun night at Mango’s Tropical Café.

End your Orlando trip on a high note, filled with the wonder of theme parks, the excitement of space exploration, and the vibrance of International Drive.