Orlando Itineraries Trip Planning & Itineraries

Day 1: Hello, Walt

Let's face it, Walt Disney has the corner on Orlando theme-park fun with no less than four memory-making theme parks, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney MGM Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom. So no Orlando trip, with or without kids, would be complete without visiting at least one of the parks.

For those who plan on hitting all the Disney parks, there's no beating the 4-Day Magic Your Way Ticket (also available in a 7-Day version). The pass includes admission to all the parks, with various options to include Disney water parks and no expiration options, etc.

Speaking of water parks, taking the plunge (in more ways then one) is a favorite way for visitors to have fun and stay cool. Why not learn how to surf with a two-and-a-half-hour Florida Surf Lesson in Cocoa Beach? The lesson can be one on one or with a small group of family and friends. Beginners encouraged.

Day 2: Fun Outside the Theme Parks

While it is quite possible to never leave the fantasyland environs of Orlando's many theme parks for the whole of your trip, taking a few jaunts outside their gates may be a welcome change of pace.

It's not a theme park but the Kennedy Space Center is truly an out-of-this world attraction for visitors of all ages. Just a few highlights include getting a close-up view of the space shuttle launch pads from an observation gantry, walking beneath a Saturn V rocket, and the Astronaut Hall of Fame.

For those seeking high-speed thrills of a different sort, visiting the home of the world-famous Daytona 500 is sure to get your heart racing. Tour includes a whirl around the circuit pit road and victory lane, and a visit to the usually restricted VIP suites. Plus, speed-demon wannabes can participate in a race against others in Acceleration Alley.

Day 3: More Classic Orlando Fun

Even though Mickey brings vast amounts of joy to Orlando visitors, many a non-Mouse theme parks and other attractions also elicit thousands of smiles, giggles and lifelong memories.

Spending time at Universal Orlando's two theme parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, will dazzle with its fun thrill rides and it's movie magic. (The Universal Orlando 2-Park One Week is definitely a smart way to go.)

Hungry? Enjoy a few laughs and magic with your meal at Wonder Works' Outta Control Dinner Show. Unlimited yummy pizza, popcorn, and drinks are served as the wholly entertaining 90-minute show of high-energy improv and magic will have you entranced.