8 day itinerary
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 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 , which has a water park on-site!
- Evening: Head to for a stroll. Enjoy the classic car show (Fridays and Saturdays) and grab dinner at one of the many restaurants. Try for some delicious pizza!
Day 2: Universal Orlando Resort
- Morning: Start your day at . Arrive early to beat the crowds. Don’t miss the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Transformers: The Ride 3D.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at in Diagon Alley. Afterward, explore . The is a must-see!
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at . is a fun spot for dessert lovers!
Day 3:
- Morning: Take a day trip to the (about 45 minutes from Orlando). Start with the exhibit.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at the . Don’t miss the and the Heroes and Legends exhibit.
- Evening: Return to Orlando and have a relaxing dinner at for some funky pizza and fun atmosphere.
Day 4: Nature and Wildlife
- Morning: Visit the 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 . After lunch, head to the for interactive exhibits and live science demonstrations.
- Evening: Dinner at , a gastropub with a great menu that’s family-friendly.
Day 5: Water Fun Day
- Morning: Spend the day at , 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 at SeaWorld for a unique dining experience surrounded by marine life.
Day 6: Explore the Outdoors
- Morning: Head to 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 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 for some shopping. It’s a beautiful mall with a variety of stores.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at in the mall. Afterward, head to for a ride on The Wheel for stunning views of the city.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at , 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 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 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! 🌞✈️
