8 day itinerary for Orlando Florida

Itinerary

Orlando is a fantastic destination with so much to offer beyond Disney. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 8-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and create lasting memories. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Orlando

• Morning: Arrive at Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) from Moline. Pick up your rental car (it’s the best way to get around).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel. Consider staying at a family-friendly resort like the Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites - Waterpark, which has a water park on-site!
• Evening: Head to Old Town Kissimmee for a stroll. Enjoy the classic car show (Fridays and Saturdays) and grab dinner at one of the many restaurants. Try Flippers Pizzeria for some delicious pizza!

## Day 2: Universal Orlando Resort

• Morning: Start your day at Universal Studios Florida. Arrive early to beat the crowds. Don’t miss the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Transformers: The Ride 3D.
• Afternoon: Have lunch at The Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley. Afterward, explore Universal’s Islands of Adventure. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-see!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at CityWalk. Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is a fun spot for dessert lovers!

## Day 3: Kennedy Space Center

• Morning: Take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center (about 45 minutes from Orlando). Start with the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit.
• Afternoon: Have lunch at the Orbit Cafe. Don’t miss the Rocket Garden and the Heroes and Legends exhibit.
• Evening: Return to Orlando and have a relaxing dinner at Mellow Mushroom for some funky pizza and fun atmosphere.

## Day 4: Nature and Wildlife

• Morning: Visit the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford. It’s a great place for kids to learn about animals and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch at the zoo or nearby Lake Monroe Park. After lunch, head to the Orlando Science Center for interactive exhibits and live science demonstrations.
• Evening: Dinner at The Ravenous Pig, a gastropub with a great menu that’s family-friendly.

## Day 5: Water Fun Day

• Morning: Spend the day at Aquatica Orlando, SeaWorld’s water park. Enjoy the wave pools, lazy rivers, and thrilling water slides.
• Afternoon: Grab lunch at one of the park’s eateries. Don’t forget to check out the animal exhibits!
• Evening: After a fun-filled day, have dinner at Sharks Underwater Grill at SeaWorld for a unique dining experience surrounded by marine life.

## Day 6: Explore the Outdoors

• Morning: Head to Wekiwa Springs State Park for some outdoor fun. You can hike, swim, or rent canoes/kayaks to explore the springs.
• Afternoon: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. Afterward, take a leisurely hike on one of the many trails.
• Evening: Return to Orlando and have dinner at The Boathouse at Disney Springs (it’s not Disney, but it’s a great spot!). Enjoy the waterfront views and delicious seafood.

## Day 7: Shopping and Entertainment

• Morning: Visit The Mall at Millenia for some shopping. It’s a beautiful mall with a variety of stores.
• Afternoon: Have lunch at The Cheesecake Factory in the mall. Afterward, head to ICON Park for a ride on The Wheel for stunning views of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Tin Roof, a lively spot with live music and a fun atmosphere.

## Day 8: Departure Day

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit Lake Eola Park for a relaxing stroll and to see the swan boats.
• Afternoon: Grab a quick lunch at a local café before heading to the airport.
• Evening: Depart from Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) back to Moline.

And there you have it! An exciting, family-friendly 8-day itinerary in Orlando that skips Disney but still offers a ton of fun and adventure. Enjoy your trip! 🌞✈️