How to Spend 5 Days in Orlando

Orlando offers a delightful mix of fun, entertainment, culture, and vibrant energy. If you’re asking yourself, “What can I do in Orlando in 5 days?” the answer is a diverse array of attractions and activities tailored to every interest. We’re here to help you make the most of your week in this exciting city. Start your adventure by exploring the heart of Orlando, where you can dive into street art, savor delicious cuisine, and experience the city’s unmatched multicultural vibe.

Of course, no trip to Orlando is complete without a visit to its world-famous theme parks: Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. These entertainment powerhouses promise to whisk you away from the everyday routine and let you unleash your adrenaline on their thrilling rides. Don’t be surprised if the magic feels like it’s becoming real!

Keep reading to gather all the inspiration you need for your Orlando visit and find out exactly what to do in 5 days in this fantastic city!

Plan Your Orlando Itinerary! Exciting Activities Await

Get ready to dive into the magic of Orlando with a carefully crafted 5-day itinerary! If you’re coming from another city or country, flying directly into Orlando International Airport (MCO) is your best bet. For those closer to this theme park paradise, renting a car offers the freedom to explore the city at your own pace, without relying on public transportation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top activities and attractions for an unforgettable week in Orlando. Just plan your time wisely and get ready to experience more fun and adventure than ever before! Let’s get started!

Day 1: Explore Downtown Orlando

Kick off your week in this bustling, cosmopolitan area where excitement and energy are always in the air. Downtown Orlando boasts captivating public art, the scenic Lake Eola Park, and a mix of museums and shops that are sure to delight. Whether you’re in the mood for a night of laughter at a comedy show or seeking a cozy atmosphere in a speakeasy, Downtown Orlando has something for everyone. Here are the top spots you shouldn’t miss:

Lake Eola Park:

This is Orlando’s premier park, featuring a stunning lake surrounded by vibrant wildlife. Enjoy picturesque walking trails, flower-lined paths, picnic areas, and a beautiful fountain that lights up the night. For a bit of fun on the water, rent a paddleboat or swan-shaped pedal boat and float around the lake!

Church Street Station:

Wondering what to do during your 5 days in Orlando? Start with this historic area, which offers a variety of shops and themed restaurants serving delicious dishes from around the world. Catch live music or magical performances at the diverse venues along the street. And don’t forget to snap some photos of the eye-catching historic architecture!

See Art Orlando:

For a unique cultural experience, explore See Art Orlando, an outdoor space featuring 9 contemporary sculptures made from materials like stainless steel and limestone. These works incorporate kinetic energy, solar power, and LED lights, creating an interactive and visually stunning art experience. Wander through and uncover the story behind each piece!

Day 2: Disney and Its Magical Theme Parks

On your second day, dive into the enchantment of one of the world’s most famous and visited theme parks. At Disney World, you’ll discover a treasure trove of attractions, shows, and magical experiences with beloved Disney characters. Here’s a glimpse of two must-visit theme parks that will transport you to a world of fun and wonder:

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is Disney’s most iconic park, renowned for its majestic Cinderella Castle and a plethora of attractions and live entertainment. The park is divided into six distinct themed lands, each offering its own unique atmosphere and adventures. From the whimsical rides in Fantasyland to the thrilling attractions in Adventureland, every corner of Magic Kingdom promises a magical experience. Explore the enchanting realms and let your imagination soar!

1. Main Street USA: as soon as you step into Disney, Main Street USA will greet you with a nostalgic journey back in time. This area boasts a charming early 20th-century Victorian design, evoking a sense of classic Americana. Here, you’ll experience the daily “Festival of Fantasy Parade”, where dazzling floats and iconic Disney characters come to life in a vibrant procession. It’s the perfect way to start your magical adventure through the park!

2. Adventureland: where the thrill of exploration awaits in settings inspired by the tropical landscapes of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, South America, and the South Pacific. This adventurous realm is home to some of the park’s most beloved attractions, including: Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin and Swiss Family Treehouse each attraction offers unforgettable escapades inspired by diverse cultures from around the globe.

3. Frontierland: where the spirit of the Wild West comes alive with a range of cowboy and frontier-themed attractions. One highlight is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, an exhilarating roller coaster that takes you on a thrilling ride through an abandoned gold mine. As you explore, you’ll also encounter live music and dance performances, adding a vibrant touch to your frontier adventure.

4. Liberty Square: a beautifully crafted area that transports you to a colonial New England village from the 18th century. Here, you’ll find attractions that immerse you in history and adventure. Dare to conquer your fears at the Haunted Mansion, where eerie encounters await. For a more serene experience, take a scenic cruise aboard the Liberty Belle Riverboat, gliding along the river that encircles this historic land.

5. Fantasyland: a realm where magic comes to life and fairy tales become reality. This enchanting area features timeless attractions such as “It’s a Small World”, where a charming boat ride takes you on a musical journey through diverse cultures, and “Peter Pan’s Flight”, an exhilarating adventure that makes you feel like you’re soaring over London and Neverland. Visit Fantasyland to discover the wonders of these classic experiences and answer the question of what to do in Orlando for 5 unforgettable days.

6. Tomorrowland: one of Disney’s most thrilling areas, designed to transport you into an imaginative and futuristic world. Experience the excitement of Space Mountain, a high-speed roller coaster that simulates a breathtaking journey through outer space. Compete for the highest score at Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, where you’ll shoot lasers at targets in a quest to save the galaxy. The dazzling special effects and cutting-edge attractions in Tomorrowland are sure to leave you in awe!

Tickets for Magic Kingdom:The price for a 1-day ticket to Magic Kingdom ranges from $109 to $189. Please note that ticket prices may vary depending on the specific park and the date of your visit.

Magic Kingdom Hours: Early Entry: 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM – Regular Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a celebration of cinema and television, bringing to life iconic settings from some of the world’s most beloved films. Explore thrilling attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Toy Story Land, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. The park also offers live shows and interactive exhibits, making it an immersive experience for all ages. Get ready to dive into these captivating worlds!

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

In this renowned attraction, visitors are transported to Batuu, a distant planet within the Star Wars galaxy. The attention to detail in this themed area is truly remarkable. As you wander through narrow streets lined with buildings and shops inspired by the Star Wars saga, you’ll encounter characters and creatures from the films, bringing the galaxy to life around you!

This galactic adventure features two main attractions. The first is the iconic Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, where you’ll take the controls to complete a team mission. Each role—pilot, gunner, or engineer—plays a vital part in the success of the mission, making every ride a unique and interactive experience.

The second attraction, Rise of the Resistance, immerses you in an epic battle between the Resistance and the First Order. This experience blends a starship journey, dramatic scenes, and a thrilling drop. From the meticulously recreated spacecraft to the authentic costumes, you’ll feel like a part of the Star Wars universe. Who will you become in this battle for the galaxy?

Toy Story Land

Entering Toy Story Land feels like shrinking down to the size of a toy, where you’ll be surrounded by giant Rubik’s cubes, crayons, and building blocks. Step into Andy’s world and enjoy some of the land’s best attractions!

• Slinky Dog Dash: Is a family-friendly roller coaster that promises a whirlwind of excitement with steep hills, sharp turns, and free-fall drops. Let your adrenaline soar on this thrilling ride!

• Alien Swirling Saucers: You’ll find yourself in a flying saucer controlled by one of the lovable aliens from Toy Story. The ride is filled with fun twists and turns that will spin your world upside down.

In addition to the rides, Toy Story Land offers a variety of food and shopping options. Savor tasty sandwiches and milkshakes at Woody’s Lunch Box, or pick up exclusive souvenirs at the gift shop. Adventures await in the world of toys!

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

An attraction inspired by the iconic sci-fi and horror television series “The Twilight Zone”. Your adventure begins as you explore the eerie, 13-story tower, where you’ll learn the chilling tale of a group of guests who mysteriously vanished from the elevator back in 1939.

Next, you’ll board the same elevator, and your journey through space and time will begin. As you ascend and descend at breakneck speeds, you’ll experience the spine-tingling sensation of free-falling through the void. The attraction is designed to be thrilling and a bit spooky, but not too intense for children. Get ready for a terrifyingly fun adventure!

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

Get ready to rock on this legendary attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Step into G-Force Records, where you’ll be greeted by the members of Aerosmith and invited to take a ride in their custom-designed super-stretch limousine, complete with high-quality speakers. As the music of Aerosmith pumps through the sound system, your car will speed off, launching you through a series of thrilling tunnels, sharp turns, and steep drops.

This roller coaster is designed to be both exhilarating and intense, with speeds reaching up to 100 km/h (62 mph) in some sections. Throughout the ride, you’ll be surrounded by dazzling special effects, including bright lights, surround sound, and a giant screen showcasing the band’s best performances. It’s a rock-and-roll adventure that amps up the excitement and answers the question: what to do in 5 days in Orlando?

Tickets for Hollywood Studios:The price for a 1-day ticket to Hollywood Studios ranges from $109 to $189. Please note that ticket prices may vary depending on the park and the date you choose to visit.

Hollywood Studios Hours: Early Entry: 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM – Regular Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Day 3: Beyond the Movies at Universal Studios, Florida

Midway through your week, set aside an entire day to explore Universal Studios, where cutting-edge technology meets virtual reality to create mind-blowing, immersive experiences. Here, you’ll find incredible attractions inspired by beloved characters like Harry Potter, the Minions, Transformers, and Jurassic Park, among others. Don’t miss out on the thrilling roller coasters that promise an adrenaline rush like no other. Make sure to divide your time between the two theme parks at Universal Orlando for a day full of unforgettable adventures!

Universal Studios Florida

This iconic theme park is designed to immerse you in some of the most blockbuster movies and TV shows in history. With a wide array of activities, live shows, and endless entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular attractions you won’t want to miss:

• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit: this high-speed roller coaster lets you choose your own music and video as you race along the track, creating a personalized thrill ride.

• Transformers: join the epic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons in this simulated attraction. Which side will you fight for?

• The Simpsons Ride: hop on this high-tech virtual reality simulator for a wild ride through Springfield with the Simpson family. It’s a hilarious and immersive experience you won’t forget.

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Step into the world of Gru and his mischievous minions in this fun-filled attraction. You’ll embark on a rescue mission to save Gru’s daughters, who have been kidnapped by the dastardly “Anti-Villain League“.

After enjoying the exciting attractions, don’t miss out on the spectacular live shows at Universal Studios Florida. Experience the high-flying stunts of the Spider-Men, the intense action of WaterWorld, and the vibrant Universal Superstar Parade that marches through the park daily. Every moment spent at Universal Studios Florida is sure to be unforgettable!

Tickets: 1-day tickets for 2 parks start at USD $164.00 per ticket.

Park Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Wondering What to Do in 5 Days in Orlando? Visit Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure, which opened in 1999, has quickly become one of the top destinations for theme park lovers worldwide. This renowned park is divided into several islands, each offering must-see attractions and entertainment. Get ready for a day filled with unforgettable thrills!

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: stroll through the snow-covered streets of the magical village of Hogsmeade before embarking on the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. This 3D motion-simulated adventure takes you through the grounds of Hogwarts, including its common room and the Quidditch pitch. Don’t forget to try the famous butterbeer!

• The Incredible Hulk Coaster: feel the power of the mighty Hulk on this towering roller coaster that reaches 150 feet in height and speeds up to 67 mph. The ride kicks off with an intense launch from 0 to 40 mph in just two seconds, catapulting you toward the sky. Prepare for a wild series of loops and drops that will leave you breathless.
  
  

• Jurassic Park River Adventure: welcome to the prehistoric world of dinosaurs! This thrilling water ride features animatronic Stegosauruses, Brachiosauruses, T-Rex, and more. Hop on a raft and brace yourself for an intense adventure as you try to escape the velociraptors that have overrun the dinosaur research facility. The ride ends with an exhilarating 85-foot drop at a 50-degree angle—plunge into the water and emerge soaked and full of excitement!

• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man: Meet Marvel’s iconic superhero, Spider-Man, on this action-packed adventure. Climb aboard the high-tech Scoops vehicle and join Spidey in battling villains like Doctor Octopus, the Green Goblin, and Electro. This realistic experience will have you feeling like a true hero as you help Spider-Man save the day!

• Skull Island: Reign of Kong: transport yourself to a remote island inhabited by dangerous prehistoric creatures. Inspired by Universal Pictures’ iconic “King Kong” film, this adventure begins in the island’s native village, where you’ll hear tales of the jungle’s lurking dangers. Then, embark on an off-road vehicle journey through the dense jungle, facing giant lizards, venomous snakes, and deadly spiders. The experience culminates in an epic battle between a T-Rex and Kong, with the mighty gorilla emerging victorious.

Tickets: 1-day tickets for 2 parks start at USD $164.00 per ticket.

Park Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Day 4: Shopping in Orlando

Shopping in Orlando offers endless possibilities! On your fourth day, treat yourself to some retail therapy. With a wide variety of stores offering irresistible discounts, you’ll be tempted to step inside and explore. Here are some of the most popular shopping spots in Orlando—pick your favorite and enjoy your day!

Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a premier shopping, dining, and entertainment district located within Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. This vibrant complex is home to a vast array of stores, from popular brands like the Disney Store, Lego, and World of Disney, to fashionable boutiques and unique souvenir shops. Disney Springs is divided into four distinct sections:

• Marketplace: as the oldest area of Disney Springs, the Marketplace is a treasure trove of iconic stores. Here, you’ll find the Lego Store, Disney’s Days of Christmas, Disney’s Pin Traders, and World of Disney—the largest Disney gift shop in the world. Hungry? You can dine at fun, themed restaurants like Earl of Sandwich, D-Luxe Burger, and the prehistoric-themed T-Rex Cafe.

• The Landing: this area is a haven for food lovers, with a variety of restaurants, many offering fine dining experiences. A standout is Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, inspired by Indiana Jones, where you can enjoy creative cocktails and movie-inspired cuisine. Don’t miss out on the stylish boutiques and clothing stores like The BOATHOUSE and The Disney Dress Shop.

• Town Center: fashionistas will love the selection here, with popular brands like Zara, Tommy Bahama, Uniqlo, and Sephora. You’ll also find an array of dining options, including Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, Amorette’s Patisserie, and The Polite Pig.

• West Side: entertainment takes center stage in this section, featuring attractions like Cirque du Soleil, the NBA Experience, the VOID virtual reality experience, the AMC Theater, and more.

Address: 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, USA.

The Mall at Millenia

The Mall at Millenia is one of Orlando’s most luxurious shopping destinations. Conveniently located near the city center, this upscale mall boasts over 150 stores, including a range of high-end designer brands known worldwide. Here, you’ll find luxury retailers like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Cartier, Versace, and Tiffany Co., along with trendsetting favorites like Zara, HM, Victoria’s Secret, and Forever 21.

Designed for those who appreciate elegance and modernity, The Mall at Millenia offers a refined shopping experience. Whether you’re a shopping enthusiast or simply looking for things to do in Orlando, this mall is the perfect place to immerse yourself in luxury. Take in the sophisticated ambiance and enjoy a day of indulgence at The Mall at Millenia.

Orlando Premium Outlets

Orlando Premium Outlets is the go-to destination for bargain hunters. This popular shopping center is renowned for offering a wide array of globally recognized brands at deeply discounted prices.

There are two convenient locations in Orlando: Vineland Avenue and International Drive. Each outlet features over 150 stores, including brands like Nike, Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Levi’s, and Michael Kors, among many others.

Unlike traditional malls, Orlando Premium Outlets is an open-air shopping center with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, making it a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience for visitors. Visit and take advantage of the incredible deals on offer!

The Florida Mall

The Florida Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in Orlando, located in the southern part of the city at 8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, FL 32809. With over 250 stores, it offers a mix of high-end and popular retail brands.

You’ll find prestigious department stores like Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Saks Fifth Avenue, alongside fashion favorites such as HM, Zara, Forever 21, and Victoria’s Secret. Enjoy one of the premier shopping destinations in Orlando and discover an unparalleled variety of stores all under one roof.

Day 5: Museums and Science Centers

To wrap up your answer to the big question, “What to do in 5 days in Orlando?” we recommend dedicating your final day to exploring Orlando’s museums and science centers. These venues offer a wealth of educational and entertaining experiences for all ages. Here are two of the city’s most popular spots to check out with your family on your fifth day.

Orlando Science Center

Is an interactive wonderland with over 200 exhibits covering everything from space exploration to marine life and technology. It’s packed with activities and programs for both kids and adults, including giant screen movies, special exhibits, and live science demonstrations. Dive into hands-on experiences and discover the fascinating world of science in a fun and engaging way!

Kennedy Space Center

is a NASA launch complex and visitor center that offers a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences. Explore the launch center on guided tours, try out space flight simulators, and marvel at displays of rockets and historic spacecraft. It’s an exciting and inspiring destination for anyone interested in space exploration and the remarkable achievements of NASA.

Stay Close to Your Favorite Attractions

Now that you know what to do in 5 days in Orlando, here’s a tip on where to stay to make the most of your week in the theme park capital. Choosing the right location can optimize your time and enhance your experience.

For proximity to Disney attractions, consider staying at one of the themed hotels within Disney World. These hotels provide a unique experience with complimentary transportation to the parks and other exclusive perks.

If Universal Studios is your main focus, there are numerous hotels near the park. Many of these hotels offer free shuttle service to the park and additional benefits for guests.

Alternatively, if you plan to explore downtown and its surroundings at a more relaxed pace, you might enjoy staying at high-end hotels like the Grand Bohemian Hotel or the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. These accommodations offer luxurious amenities such as spas, renowned dining options, and elegant pools. Choose the area that suits your preferences and make the most of your time in Orlando!

Frequently Asked Questions

Map to the Best Places in Orlando

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Thank you for reading through our guide! We hope to see you back soon. Goodbye for now!