3 Days in Orlando: The Perfect Orlando Itinerary

When my wife Sarah and I decided to plan a 3-day trip to Orlando, our friends thought we were crazy. "Three days? You can't even do Disney World in three days!" they said. But we were determined to prove them wrong and experience the best of Orlando in just 72 hours.

As we started researching, we quickly realized that Orlando is so much more than just theme parks. Known as "The City Beautiful," Orlando offers a unique blend of fantastical experiences and real-world charm that keeps visitors coming back year after year. From world-famous attractions to hidden natural gems and a thriving food scene, Orlando has something for everyone.

In this guide, I'll share our perfectly crafted 3-day Orlando itinerary, along with insider tips and tricks to help you make the most of your trip. Whether you're a theme park enthusiast, nature lover, or culture vulture, this itinerary will help you experience the best of Orlando in just three days.

Planning Your Orlando Adventure

Before we dive into the day-by-day itinerary, let's cover some essential planning tips to ensure your 3 days in Orlando are as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Best Times to Visit Orlando

Orlando enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your priorities. Here's a quick breakdown:

• March to May: Pleasant weather (high 50s to high 80s°F) and reasonable prices, excluding peak holiday weekends.
• September to mid-November: Comfortable temperatures and affordable rates, though it's during hurricane season.
• Summer months: Hot and humid with higher prices and larger crowds, but perfect if you want to enjoy water parks.
• Winter months: Mild temperatures and festive atmosphere, especially around the holidays.

We chose to visit in early May, which turned out to be perfect – great weather and manageable crowds.

What to Pack for Your Orlando Trip

Orlando's weather and attractions require some strategic packing. Here's what we recommend:

• Comfortable walking shoes (you'll be on your feet a lot!)
• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Sunscreen and sunglasses (the Florida sun is no joke)
• Rain jacket or poncho (afternoon showers are common)
• Swimwear
• Portable phone charger
• Refillable water bottle
• Theme park tickets (printed or on your phone)
• Light jacket for cooler evenings (especially in winter months)

Transportation Options

Getting around Orlando is easier than you might think. Here are your main options:

1. Rental car: This gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main tourist areas. We rented a car and found it convenient for our packed itinerary.
2. Ride-sharing services: Uber and Lyft are readily available and can be cost-effective for shorter trips.
3. Public transportation: The LYNX bus service and SunRail provide affordable options, though they may not be as convenient for tight schedules.
4. Hotel shuttles: Many hotels offer free shuttles to major attractions, so check with your accommodation.

Where to Stay in Orlando

Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your Orlando experience. Here are some neighborhoods to consider:

1. Lake Buena Vista / Walt Disney World Area: Perfect for families and Disney enthusiasts. You'll be close to the magic but expect higher prices.
2. International Drive (I-Drive): This bustling tourist corridor is packed with attractions, restaurants, and hotels. It's a great central location for accessing multiple theme parks.
3. Downtown Orlando: If you want to experience the urban core of Orlando and mix with locals, this is your spot. It's great for those interested in nightlife and cultural attractions.
4. Winter Park: This charming suburb north of Orlando offers a more relaxed, upscale vibe. It's perfect if you want to balance theme park excitement with a bit of sophistication.

We chose to stay on International Drive, which gave us easy access to both Universal Orlando and Disney World, as well as plenty of dining options.

Day 1: Theme Park Magic

Morning: Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World Resort is the crown jewel of Orlando's attractions, and there's no better way to kick off your Orlando adventure. With four theme parks, two water parks, and the Disney Springs entertainment complex, you could easily spend your entire three days here. But we're on a mission to see the best of Orlando, so we'll focus on one park today.

We chose to start our day at the Magic Kingdom, arriving right when the park opened at 9 AM. The iconic Cinderella Castle greeting us as we entered Main Street U.S.A. was a magical moment that set the tone for our entire trip.

Pro tip: Use Disney's FastPass+ system to book your favorite rides in advance and skip the long lines. We managed to hit Space Mountain, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad all before lunch!

Key Information:

• Location: 1180 Seven Seas Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
• Hours: Vary by park, typically 9 AM to 9 PM or later
• Admission: Single-day tickets start at $109, but multi-day passes offer better value

Why Visit: Walt Disney World is the ultimate fantasy playground for both kids and adults, offering unparalleled immersive experiences and world-class entertainment.

Insider Tip: Download the My Disney Experience app to check wait times, make dining reservations, and navigate the parks easily.

Afternoon: Continue Park Exploration

After lunch at Be Our Guest Restaurant (make reservations well in advance!), we continued exploring the Magic Kingdom. The afternoon parade down Main Street U.S.A. was a highlight, featuring all our favorite Disney characters.

If you're more of a thrill-seeker, consider spending your afternoon at Disney's Hollywood Studios instead. The new Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge area is a must-visit for any Star Wars fan, and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror never fails to get your adrenaline pumping.

For those visiting during the hotter months, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach water parks offer a refreshing alternative to beat the heat.

Evening: Disney Springs

As the sun sets, head to Disney Springs for dinner and entertainment. This massive complex offers a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options that will keep you busy well into the night.

We had an incredible dinner at The Boathouse, feasting on fresh seafood while enjoying views of the lake. After dinner, we strolled around, checking out the unique shops and enjoying the live music performances scattered throughout the complex.

Key Information:

• Location: 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
• Hours: 10 AM to 12 AM (may vary by venue)
• Admission: Free entry, pay for individual purchases

Why Visit: Disney Springs offers a more relaxed Disney experience with world-class dining, unique shopping, and free entertainment.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the free boat rides on Lake Buena Vista – they're a great way to rest your feet and enjoy the scenery.

Day 2: Universal Thrills and Local Flavor

Morning: Universal Orlando Resort

After a day of Disney magic, it's time to switch gears and experience the movie magic at Universal Orlando Resort. We arrived early again, taking advantage of the Early Park Admission perk that came with our hotel stay.

Universal Orlando consists of two main theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure. Both are fantastic, but if you only have time for one, we recommend Islands of Adventure for its more thrilling rides.

Start your day with a ride on the Incredible Hulk Coaster – nothing wakes you up quite like going from 0 to 40 mph in two seconds flat! Then, make your way to Jurassic World VelociCoaster, the newest addition to the park and possibly the most thrilling coaster in Orlando.

Key Information:

• Location: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
• Hours: Typically 9 AM to 9 PM, but vary by season
• Admission: Single-park tickets start at $109, park-to-park tickets from $164

Why Visit: Universal Orlando offers a perfect blend of thrilling rides and immersive experiences based on popular movies and TV shows.

Insider Tip: If you're visiting both Universal parks, get a park-to-park ticket so you can ride the Hogwarts Express between them.

Afternoon: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

No visit to Universal Orlando is complete without experiencing The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This immersive area spans both parks, with Diagon Alley in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure.

We spent our afternoon exploring Hogsmeade, sipping Butterbeer (the frozen version is our favorite), and riding Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – an incredible motion simulator ride that makes you feel like you're really flying through Hogwarts.

If you have a park-to-park ticket, take the Hogwarts Express to Diagon Alley in Universal Studios. The train ride itself is a magical experience, with different scenes playing out on the "windows" depending on which direction you're traveling.

Evening: Explore International Drive

After a full day of thrills at Universal, it's time to experience some local flavor. Head to International Drive, or I-Drive as the locals call it, for dinner and entertainment.

Start your evening with a ride on The Wheel at ICON Park. This 400-foot observation wheel offers stunning views of Orlando, especially beautiful at sunset.

Key Information:

• Location: 8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
• Hours: 1 PM to 11 PM on weekdays, 1 PM to 12 AM on weekends
• Admission: $27.99 for adults, $22.99 for children

Why Visit: The Wheel offers unparalleled views of Orlando and is a great way to get your bearings in the city.

Insider Tip: Book your tickets online in advance for a discount, and consider the I-Drive 360 combo ticket if you want to visit other attractions in the complex.

For dinner, we recommend heading to Restaurant Row on Sand Lake Road, just a short drive from I-Drive. We had an incredible meal at Chatham's Place, a local favorite known for its intimate atmosphere and exceptional food.

If you're still up for more entertainment after dinner, check out Pointe Orlando. This entertainment complex offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and even a comedy club.

Day 3: Natural Beauty and Cultural Experiences

Morning: Harry P. Leu Gardens

Start your final day in Orlando by escaping the theme park crowds and experiencing some of the city's natural beauty at Harry P. Leu Gardens. This 50-acre botanical oasis is a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas.

We arrived early to beat the heat and spent a peaceful morning strolling through the various gardens. The rose garden was particularly beautiful, and the butterfly garden was a hit with the few families we saw.

Don't miss the historic Leu House Museum, which offers a glimpse into turn-of-the-century Florida living. The guided tours are informative and included with your garden admission.

Key Information:

• Location: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
• Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM daily
• Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children (4-17)

Why Visit: Leu Gardens offers a serene escape from the theme parks and a chance to experience Florida's diverse plant life.

Insider Tip: Check their event calendar before your visit. They often host movie nights and jazz concerts in the gardens.

Afternoon: Orlando Museum of Art

After lunch (we recommend East End Market, a neighborhood market and culinary food hub just a short drive from Leu Gardens), head to the Orlando Museum of Art for a dose of culture.

The museum's collection includes American art, African art, and contemporary graphics. We were particularly impressed by the Art of the Ancient Americas collection, which features over 900 works of art from pre-Columbian cultures.

Key Information:

• Location: 2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
• Hours: Tuesday–Friday: 10 AM to 4 PM, Saturday–Sunday: 12 PM to 4 PM, Closed Mondays
• Admission: $15 for adults, $5 for children (6-17)

Why Visit: The Orlando Museum of Art offers a world-class art experience and a chance to cool off during the hot Florida afternoons.

Insider Tip: First Thursdays, held on the first Thursday of each month from 6-9 PM, feature local artists, live music, and cash bars. It's a great way to experience the museum if you're in town on the right day.

Evening: Lake Eola Park

End your Orlando trip with a visit to Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. This beautiful park is centered around a lake and offers a different perspective on the city.

Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, rent a swan-shaped paddle boat for a unique view of the Orlando skyline, or simply relax on the grass and watch the fountains change colors as the sun sets.

For dinner, check out one of the many restaurants around the lake. We enjoyed Relax Grill, which offers outdoor seating with great views of the lake.

If you're visiting on a Sunday, don't miss the Orlando Farmers' Market held in the park from 10 AM to 3 PM. It's a great place to pick up local produce and artisanal goods.

Key Information:

• Location: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801
• Hours: 6 AM to 12 AM daily
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Lake Eola Park offers a glimpse into local Orlando life and a peaceful end to your trip.

Insider Tip: Time your visit to catch the Lake Eola fountain light show, which runs nightly at 8:00 PM and 9:30 PM.

Alternative Experiences and Customization

While our 3-day Orlando itinerary hits many of the city's highlights, there's so much more to see and do. Here are some alternative options to customize your trip:

For Families with Young Children

• Spend a day at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, about a 45-minute drive from Orlando.

• Visit the Orlando Science Center for interactive exhibits and planetarium shows.

• Enjoy animal encounters at Gatorland, a uniquely Floridian attraction.

For Nature Lovers

• Take a Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour to explore the chain of lakes in this charming suburb.

• Visit Wekiwa Springs State Park for swimming, canoeing, and hiking.

• Explore the Tibet-Butler Preserve for hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

For Thrill Seekers

• Experience indoor skydiving at iFLY Orlando.
• Take an airboat tour of the Central Florida Everglades.
• Visit Fun Spot America for some of the most unique roller coasters in Orlando.

Rainy Day Backup Plans

• Explore The Mall at Millenia for luxury shopping.

• Visit Madame Tussauds or SEA LIFE Aquarium at ICON Park.
• Enjoy a performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

Safety Guidelines and Local Tips

While Orlando is generally a safe city, it's always good to keep some safety tips in mind:

1. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
2. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
3. Use reputable transportation options, especially at night.
4. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun – Florida heat can be intense!
5. Follow all safety guidelines at theme parks and attractions.

Here are some additional local tips to enhance your Orlando experience:

• The Orlando Eye, now known as The Wheel at ICON Park, offers stunning views up to 40 miles on a clear day.
• Orlando is home to the world's largest McDonald's, spanning 19,000 square feet. It's worth a visit, even if just for the novelty!
• The Walt Disney World Resort is roughly the same size as San Francisco – plan accordingly!
• Orlando produces more than 85% of Florida's oranges. Try some fresh local oranges or orange juice during your visit.

Making the Most of Your 3 Days in Orlando

As our whirlwind 3-day Orlando adventure came to an end, Sarah and I were amazed at how much we had experienced in such a short time. From the magic of Disney to the thrills of Universal, and from the natural beauty of Leu Gardens to the cultural offerings of downtown Orlando, we had truly seen the best of what this diverse city has to offer.

Our friends were right – you can't do all of Disney World in three days. But you can absolutely experience the essence of Orlando in that time. The key is careful planning, early starts, and a willingness to embrace the city's diverse offerings.

Remember, this 3-day Orlando itinerary is just a starting point. Feel free to mix and match attractions based on your interests, travel style, and the time of year you're visiting. Whether you're a theme park enthusiast, a nature lover, or a culture vulture, Orlando has something for everyone.

As you plan your own 3 days in Orlando, keep in mind that the city is constantly evolving. New attractions, restaurants, and experiences are always popping up. Don't be afraid to ask locals for recommendations or to stumble upon your own hidden gems.

Orlando may be known for its theme parks, but it's the combination of fantasy and reality, of world-famous attractions and local charm, that makes this city truly magical. So pack your sunscreen, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable 3 days in Orlando. The City Beautiful is waiting to show you its many wonders!

Time-Crunched Traveler's Must-See Orlando Itinerary

If you're really pressed for time and want to hit the absolute can't-miss attractions in Orlando, here's a condensed itinerary:

Day 1: Walt Disney World

• Morning: Magic Kingdom (don't miss Space Mountain and the Haunted Mansion)
• Afternoon: Disney's Hollywood Studios (focus on Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and Toy Story Land)
• Evening: Epcot (enjoy dinner at one of the World Showcase restaurants)

Day 2: Universal Orlando Resort

• Morning: Universal's Islands of Adventure (prioritize The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the VelociCoaster)
• Afternoon: Universal Studios Florida (don't miss the new Super Nintendo World)
• Evening: Universal CityWalk for dinner and entertainment

Day 3: Orlando Highlights

• Morning: Harry P. Leu Gardens
• Afternoon: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (about an hour's drive, but worth it for space enthusiasts)
• Evening: Dinner and a show at Medieval Times

This itinerary hits the major theme parks and adds a touch of Orlando's natural beauty and nearby attractions. It's fast-paced, so be prepared for long days, but it will give you a taste of the best Orlando has to offer.

Remember, no matter how you choose to spend your 3 days in Orlando, the most important thing is to have fun, stay flexible, and create lasting memories. After all, isn't that what travel is all about?