Orlando tours, sightseeing, things to do

Orlando

Trip Planning & Itineraries

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The Mickey Mouse drawcard has turned Orlando into the fourth-ranking US destination for overseas travelers - only Miami, Los Angeles and New York City are more popular. Everybody's a fan of Orlando's big-name theme parks, and they've spawned smaller versions all over the world. But Orlando sightseeing means much more - from hot-air balloon rides to adventures in the Everglades to day tours from Orlando. And if you're traveling with kids, look no further!

Orlando: Top 3 Must-Do Experiences

Best of Orlando: Suggested Itineraries

Suggested Itineraries in Orlando

There's no separating Orlando from that famous Mouse, or from the other popular theme parks that have helped make it one of the top tourist destinations in the US. While fantastic roller coasters, water rides and life-sized storybook characters may be the key draw for most visitors, Orlando is home to many other wow attractions.

See a summary of our Suggested Itineraries for Orlando sightseeing below or read the full Orlando Itineraries. And check out the Orlando vacation guide from SmarterTravel.com.

Day 1: Hello Walt Disney

Orlando Disney Wold Tickets

Let's face it, Walt Disney has the corner on Orlando theme-park fun, with no less than four memory-making theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney MGM Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom. If you plan on hitting all the Disney parks, there's no beating the 4-Day Magic Your Way Ticket (also available in a 3-, 5- and 7-Day versions).

If you're not too pooped by the day's activities, take in one of many entertaining dinner shows. Top choices include Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament, Pirates Dinner Adventure and a Disney Character Dinner.

Day 2: Fun at the Kennedy Space Center

Orlando  Kennedy Space Center Tours

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. Tours from Orlando include a whirl around the circuit pit road and victory lane, and a visit to the usually restricted VIP suites.

Day 3: Everglades Adventure & Day Trips

Day Trips from Orlando

Spending time at Universal Orlando's two theme parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, will dazzle with their fun thrill rides and movie magic.

And for a truly unique and intellectually stimulating and fun park experience, Wonder Works is a must. More than 100 interactive and imaginative exhibits are featured -- making science fun and fascinating.

For more adventure, go on a multi-day trip across the Florida Everglades on an exhilarating airboat ride, and make your dreams come true and swim with dolphins at Key Largo!

Best of Orlando: Top 3 Restaurants


Squirrel soup and gator tail were once the specialties of the region; these days, bland buffets and identikit franchises woo kiddie palates. Thankfully, there are a few places in town that cater for more adventurous tastes. A couple of fine ethnic eateries offer good solutions for hamburger fatigue.

Le Coq Au Vin

Le Coq au Vin is a local favorite for French food, and chefs from the area are known to frequent it. The Coq's eponymous signature dish is available year-round. The food is elegant, but the atmosphere is relaxed.

Little Saigon

Nothing is expensive and everything is good at Little Saigon, an Orlando institution (the menu is on display at the Historical Center). It offers excellent service, quality charbroiled beef and pho (meat and noodle soup), and great spring rolls.

Tijuana Flats

A good bet for lunch, Tijuana Flats has huge burritos and gooey quesadillas that come with your choice of 12 different hot sauces.

Best of Orlando: Top 3 Hotels

Disney may be the big draw in the area, but that doesn't mean your hotel has to be kid stuff. Orlando has plenty of grown-up options. Of course, if kid stuff is what you want, you'll find that too. In addition to these options, browse hotels in Orlando at Uptake.com or save money on your Orlando vacation at HomeAway.com.

EO Inn & Spa

Sleek and understated, this downtown boutique inn overlooks Lake Eola, with neutral-toned rooms that are elegant in their simplicity and mostly child-free.

Peabody Orlando Hotel

If you feel like a splurge, check yourself into the Peabody Hotel. More shiny-modern than its Memphis counterpart, but with the same main attraction: daily duck parades at 11:00 and 17:00.

Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn

Wow, bet you've never been greeted by Spongebob Squarepants at your average Holiday Inn. This is a kid's dream, starting with an actual lobby train that chugs them to their cartoon-themed suites. The day-glo swimming lagoon structure has slides, water flumes and a 400-gallon dump bucket that drenches everyone. All suites have kitchenettes.

Orlando: featured traveler photos
Captain!

Photo by: Brenda H, United States of America

Doing what: Clearwater Beach Day Trip from Orlando

Christmas in Orlando
Christmas in Orlando

Spend Christmas in Orlando! From dinner at Planet Hollywood to spectacular lights in St. Augustine to a winter wonderland in Florida, find a tour to make this Christmas extra special!

SeaWorldŽ Orlando Ticket
SeaWorldŽ Orlando Ticket SeaWorldŽ Orlando Ticket From USD $68.99

Experience close encounters with killer whales, sharks, polar bears and turtles at SeaWorld Orlando! With over 30 attractions, show and rides, SeaWorld Orlando has something for everyone!

Last-Minute Orlando from Viator

Traveling within the next 48 hours? Call us for last-minute Orlando availability toll-free at 1-866-753-4923!

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