3-Day Orlando Itinerary: Unconventional Adventure & Shopping Excursion
Orlando, Florida
3 days
About Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida, is a world-class destination known for its thrilling theme parks, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options. Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld, it offers endless entertainment for families and thrill-seekers. Beyond the parks, explore Orlando's lush landscapes through golfing, boating, or hot air balloon rides. Experience the city's cultural side with its numerous art galleries, museums, and live performances. Indulge in shopping at premium outlets or enjoy the local cuisine at food festivals. With its year-round sunny weather, Orlando is a perfect getaway for all ages. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a magical experience, Orlando, Florida, promises an unforgettable vacation.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Adventure and Art Appreciation
Morning
Kick off your day with a Hot Air Balloon Ride. This adventure will give you a bird's eye view of Orlando's beautiful landscapes.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local seafood joint. Orlando is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, so this is a must-try.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at a local Art District. Here, you can explore various art galleries, studios, and murals. It's a great way to appreciate the local art scene.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant. These restaurants offer stunning views of the city, making for a memorable dining experience.
Evening
End your day with a visit to a local jazz club. Here, you can enjoy live music in a cozy and intimate setting.
Day 3
Nature Exploration and Laughter
Morning
Start your day with a hike in a local Nature Reserve. This reserve is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local farm-to-table restaurant. These restaurants are known for their fresh and organic ingredients, offering a unique and healthy dining experience.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring a local Botanical Garden. This garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers, making it a beautiful and peaceful place to visit.
Dinner
For dinner, head to a local pizzeria. Orlando is known for its delicious pizza, so this is a must-try.
Evening
End your day with a visit to a local comedy club. Here, you can enjoy a night of laughter and fun.
Attractions in Itinerary (7)
1Farmers Market
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local food.
2Food Truck Park
A vibrant park filled with a variety of food trucks offering diverse culinary experiences.
3Moonlit Kayak Tour
Experience the unique thrill of a moonlit kayak tour. Paddle through the calm waters of Orlando's beautiful waterways under the light of the moon. A perfect adventure for both beginners and experienced kayakers.
4Hot Air Balloon Ride
Take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a truly unforgettable experience. Enjoy breathtaking views of Orlando and its surrounding areas. Perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking for a unique adventure.
5Art District
Orlando's Art District is a vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, studios, and murals. It's a hub for the city's creative community and a must-visit for art lovers.
6Nature Reserve
A protected area of importance for wildlife, flora, fauna offering beautiful trails and guided tours.
7Botanical Garden
A stunning garden featuring a wide variety of plants and flowers, with educational exhibits about botany.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Cuban Sandwich
A popular sandwich in Orlando, Florida, made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread.
Key Lime Pie
A classic Floridian dessert made from Key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk in a pie crust. The pie originated in the Florida Keys.
Gator Bites
A unique Floridian delicacy, these are bite-sized pieces of alligator meat that are typically deep-fried.
Conch Fritters
A popular appetizer in Florida, made from conch meat, bell peppers, onions, and a variety of spices, then deep-fried to a golden brown.
Stone Crab Claws
A seasonal delicacy in Florida, these crab claws are usually served chilled with a side of mustard sauce.
Florida Rock Shrimp
A local seafood delicacy, these shrimps have a sweet, lobster-like flavor and are often served in a variety of dishes.
Florida Oranges
Florida is famous for its juicy and sweet oranges, which are a must-try when in season.
Fish Tacos
A popular dish in Orlando, these tacos are typically made with grilled or fried fish, cabbage slaw, and a creamy sauce.
Florida Spiny Lobster
A local seafood delicacy, this lobster is known for its sweet, tender meat and is often served grilled or in a variety of dishes.
Orange Blossom Honey
A local product, this honey is made from the nectar of orange blossoms, giving it a unique, citrusy flavor.
Florida Grapefruit Juice
A popular drink in Florida, this juice is made from locally grown grapefruits and is known for its sweet and tangy flavor.
Cuban Coffee
A strong, sweet espresso drink that's popular in Orlando due to its large Cuban population.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Orlando, Florida is typically from March to May. This is when you'll find the most pleasant weather (mid-60s to high 80s most days) and the least amount of tourists. Another great time to visit is from September to mid-November. During these months, you'll also enjoy manageable crowds and temperatures that range from the high 50s to high 80s. Keep in mind that the summer months are usually quite crowded with families making their annual trip to Orlando.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Orlando. It provides flexibility and convenience, especially for those planning to visit multiple attractions spread out across the city. Most major car rental companies have offices at Orlando International Airport and in the city center.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Orlando. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage. These services can be accessed through their respective apps.
Public Transportation
Orlando's public transportation system, operated by Lynx, offers bus service throughout the city and surrounding areas. The bus system can be a cost-effective way to travel, but it may not be as convenient or fast as other options. Lynx also operates a commuter rail service called SunRail, which runs through several counties in Central Florida.
Bicycle
Orlando is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. Bike rentals are available throughout the city, and there's also a bike-sharing program called Juice Bike Share. Biking can be a fun and healthy way to explore the city, especially the downtown area.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Orlando, especially in the downtown area and at major attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. While taxis can be convenient, they can also be more expensive than other transportation options.
Shuttle Services
Many hotels and resorts in Orlando offer shuttle services to and from major attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld. Some also offer shuttle services to and from Orlando International Airport. It's worth checking with your hotel to see if they offer this service.
Pedicab
In downtown Orlando, you'll often see pedicabs - essentially, bicycle taxis. These can be a fun and eco-friendly way to get around, especially if you're not in a hurry. Just remember that pedicab drivers work for tips!
Walk
Walking can be a pleasant way to get around, especially in pedestrian-friendly areas like downtown Orlando and the theme parks. However, keep in mind that Orlando is a large city, and many attractions are spread out, so walking may not be practical for longer distances.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Orlando, Florida as a first time visitor
1
Orlando is located in Central Florida and is known for its warm, humid subtropical climate.
2
The city experiences two main seasons: a hot, rainy season from May to September, and a cooler, dry season from October to April.
3
During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 92°F (33°C), while in the winter, temperatures can drop to around 50°F (10°C).
4
Orlando is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET) and observes daylight saving time.
5
The city is a major hub for rental cars, so consider renting a car for convenience.
6
Public transportation is available through the Lynx bus system and the SunRail commuter train.
7
Orlando is a very spread out city, so plan your itinerary accordingly to minimize travel time.
8
The city is known for its numerous golf courses, so pack your clubs if you're a fan of the sport.
9
Orlando is home to many lakes, so activities like fishing, boating, and paddleboarding are popular.
10
The city has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
11
Orlando has a diverse food scene, with options ranging from food trucks to fine dining.
12
The city is known for its shopping, with options ranging from outlet malls to high-end boutiques.
13
Orlando is home to several professional sports teams, including the Orlando Magic (NBA) and Orlando City SC (MLS).
14
The city has a number of parks and gardens, perfect for picnics or leisurely strolls.
15
Orlando is a multicultural city with a large Hispanic population, so you'll find a variety of Latin American cuisine.
16
The city is very pedestrian-friendly, especially in areas like downtown Orlando and Winter Park.
17
Orlando has a number of museums and cultural institutions, including the Orlando Museum of Art and the Orlando Science Center.
18
The city is home to several universities and colleges, including the University of Central Florida, one of the largest universities in the U.S.
19
Orlando has a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival and the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.
20
The city is a popular destination for conventions and business meetings, with the Orange County Convention Center being one of the largest in the U.S.
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Swimwear
Flip flops
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunglasses
Hat
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Travel documents and essentials
Valid ID or passport
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Car rental confirmation (if applicable)
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Portable power bank
Camera
Charger for camera
Headphones or earbuds
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Reusable water bottle
Travel guidebook for Orlando
Umbrella or rain poncho
Backpack or daypack for daily essentials
Travel pillow and blanket for the flight
Travel-sized laundry detergent packets
Weather Conditions
Orlando, Florida, is known for its warm, tropical climate. The city experiences high temperatures and humidity throughout the year, with the average temperature ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 90°F (32°C). If you're planning a trip to Orlando, it's important to keep in mind that the summer months, from June to August, are the hottest and most humid. This is also the peak of the hurricane season, so it's advisable to check the weather forecast regularly and plan your activities accordingly. During the summer, it's recommended to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing. Don't forget to apply sunscreen regularly, as the sun can be quite strong, especially between 10 am and 4 pm. The winter months, from December to February, are relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C). These months are also drier, making it a great time to visit the theme parks and other outdoor attractions. Rainfall is common in Orlando, especially from June to September. Always carry an umbrella or raincoat with you, and consider indoor activities, like visiting museums or shopping malls, on rainy days. Despite the weather, Orlando offers a variety of attractions that can be enjoyed year-round. Just remember to plan ahead and prepare for the weather conditions during your visit.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 25° / 10° | January is a mild month in Orlando, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
February | 26° / 11° | February is slightly warmer than January, with temperatures ranging from 11 to 26 degrees Celsius. It's still a comfortable time to visit. |
March | 28° / 13° | March sees a rise in temperatures, ranging from 13 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit before the summer heat kicks in. |
April | 31° / 16° | April is a warm month in Orlando, with temperatures ranging from 16 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the theme parks. |
May | 34° / 20° | May is the start of the hot season, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather. |
June | 36° / 23° | June is a hot month in Orlando, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the water parks. |
July | 37° / 24° | July is the hottest month in Orlando, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 37 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the beaches and water parks. |
August | 37° / 24° | August is as hot as July, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 37 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather. |
September | 35° / 23° | September sees a slight drop in temperatures, ranging from 23 to 35 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit after the summer crowds have left. |
October | 32° / 19° | October is a mild month in Orlando, with temperatures ranging from 19 to 32 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the theme parks. |
November | 28° / 14° | November sees a further drop in temperatures, ranging from 14 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
December | 25° / 11° | December is a cool month in Orlando, with temperatures ranging from 11 to 25 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit for the holiday festivities. |
Did you know?
Places near by Orlando, Florida
Daytona Beach
Famous for its hard-packed sand beaches and the Daytona International Speedway.
Kennedy Space Center
NASA's primary launch center of human spaceflight.
Clearwater Beach
Known for its namesake stretch of soft, white sand.
St. Augustine
The oldest city in the U.S., with Spanish colonial architecture.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
An African-themed animal theme park located in the city of Tampa.
Everglades National Park
A 1.5-million-acre wetlands preserve on the southern tip of Florida.
Fort Lauderdale
Known for its beaches and boating canals.
South Beach
Known for its beaches and the Art Deco Historic District.
Key West
A U.S. island city, part of the Florida Keys archipelago.
Sarasota
Known for its sandy beaches and The Ringling, the State Art Museum of Florida.
