aerial shot of lake eola park
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The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary For Weekend Getaway in Orlando

Orlando, Florida, the theme park capital of the world, offers exciting adventure activities, the finest dining options, and a variety of entertainment activities. Whether you want to splash in the water parks or enjoy thrilling adventure rides, Orlando has it all!

Are you planning a weekend getaway to Orlando? You have come to the right place! In this detailed guide, we will help you create a 3-day itinerary for your Orlando trip, combining fun and relaxing activities.

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Iconic Attractions

Day 1 is all about settling down, relaxing in the resort, and then visiting the world-famous theme parks of Walt Disney World Resort, offering extremely fun-filled experiences for all age groups. You will see amazing theme parks, explore adventure rides, and try out the finest dining restaurants. Here is a complete guide for your day 1 in Orlando!

Morning: Check-in & Relaxation

On the morning of Day 1, you will check in at the Westgate Town Center Resort, one of the most affordable Orlando resorts located near the Walt Disney World Resort, Seaworld Orlando, and Universal Orlando Resort. It is a unique resort offering exceptional amenities and benefits to its guests, including:

  • Furnished and spacious studio villas to 2-bedroom villas with private balconies
  • Shipwreck Water Park to enjoy water activities
  • 14 swimming pools and hot tubs
  • Tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts
  • Movie theatre to watch Disney movie
  • Fitness centre
  • 24-hour front desk services and much more

Westgate Town Center Balcony Image

For the perfect breakfast options, you can have made-to-order dishes at the on-site restaurants, including, including

  • Los Amigos Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar
  • Villa Italiano Chophouse
  • Sid’s Bistro

Afternoon: Theme Park Adventure

Once you are done with your morning breakfast, you will head to the popular destination, Walt Disney World Resort. It has four world-class theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and EPCOT. Each one of them offers unique rides and attractions. Let’s discuss each in brief so you can decide which one to visit:

Magic Kingdom

Explore the world of Disney through the iconic theme park, Magic Kingdom! From Cinderella’s Castle and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean, this park showcases stunning attractions, giving unique experiences for Disney lovers.

cinderella castle, magic kingdom

Hollywood Studios

Another exciting theme park by Disney is Hollywood Studios, which offers rides based on your favorite Disney movies. For example, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror offers a thrilling free-fall experience for adrenaline junkies while Fantasmic is a 29-minute musical show, that will take you into the world of Mickey Mouse’s dreams. Hollywood Studios is a magical experience filled with joy and fun for the entire family!

Animal Kingdom

Embark on the journey of the animal kingdom and witness the exotic animals and thrilling safaris and ride unique attractions. While there, do not miss the Expedition Everest-legend of Forbidden Mountain roller coaster ride featuring icy Himalayan peaks and Kali River Rapids showcasing immense lush green Asian jungles with high-water currents and 20-foot slopes.

disney animal kingdom

EPCOT

Explore the world-famous theme park, offering international cuisines, thrilling rides, and extravagant attractions. You can explore the annual International Flower & Garden Festival, greet your favorite Disney characters, or enjoy the fun journey of water inspired by Moana.

The major attractions of EPCOT are World Discovery, featuring Guardians of the Galaxy, Test Track, and Spaceship Earth, and World Showcase, featuring 11 different pavilions of different countries across the world.

Pro Tip: While you can expect longer lines during peak season, it is advised to arrive early before the opening of theme parks and make prior ticket reservations to avoid crowds.

Evening: Dining & Entertainment

In the evening, you can stroll along the famous International Drive, visit more attractions, and experience the finest dining. I-Drive offers multiple cuisines from around the world! Whether you are a fan of Japanese sushi or love steaks, you can taste any scrumptious meals of your choice. Here is a list of popular restaurants in the I-drive.

  • Kavas & Uncle Julio’s (Mexican Cuisine)
  • Helena Modern Riviera (Mediterranean)
  • Cuba Libre Restaurant & Bar (Cuban)
  • CoCo Thai Cusine & Ashirwad (Asian)
  • Giordano’s, Flippers Pizzeria, & Maggiano’s Little Italy (Italian)

ICON Park entrance

While you are at International Drive, you can head towards another iconic spot, that is: ICON Park! Here are the popular attractions in ICON Park:

  • Madame Tussauds: Click pictures with popular life-like wax statues of celebrities and other famous figures.
  • Sea Life Aquarium: Enjoy the sea life up close through an underwater tunnel walk-through to see spectacular sharks, turtles, and marine creatures.
  • The Wheel: Take a ride on the stunning 400-ft wheel to witness the fantastic views of the city as the sun sets.

This was all about the fun, adventure, and thrill of the first day. Let’s start with day 2!

Day 2: Outdoor Fun & Hidden Gems

Day 2 in Orlando is about enthralling rides at Universal Orlando Resort, followed by exploring Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk. Here is the detailed itinerary for day 2:

Morning & Afternoon: Thrilling Adventure

Start your day by exploring the Universal Orlando Resort. It offers an impressive and exclusive experience for all age groups. It has 3 jaw-dropping theme parks and a water park: Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe, and Volcano Bay. Let’s discuss each of these theme parks in detail!

Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida is a theme park packed with action, thrills, and adrenaline-rush rides. It offers rides based on Universal’s movies and TV shows, filled with fun and interactive experiences for all ages. The major attractions of Universal Studios Florida are Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Transformers: The Ride 3D, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and the Men in Black Alien Ride.

Universal Orlando

Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Explore the thrilling world of Universal at Islands of Adventure! It features electrifying and intense rides based on Universal movies, characters, and fictional worlds. The major attractions of Universal’s Islands of Adventure are The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Jurassic Park River Adventure, and Island: Reign of Kong.

Volcano Bay

Experience the thrill and adrenaline rush at Universal’s only water park, Volcano Bay. It features a tropical paradise with a massive volcano at the center, providing a unique splashing experience for all visitors. Krakatau Aqua Coaster, Waturi Beach, and TeAwa The Fearless River are the major attractions of this water park.

Pro Tip: To save your time and long hours of waiting in queues, you can buy express passes for major attractions.

Volcano Bay

Evening: Nightlife & Shopping

Want to go see the enthralling nightlife in Orlando? What is better than Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk? These are must-see destinations for exclusive entertainment, fine dining options, and premium shopping! Let’s discuss each in brief!

Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a popular spot in the Walt Disney World Resort, near Lake Buena Vista, Florida, that offers free entry to all the visitors! Disney Springs features many shopping, entertainment, and al fresco dining options that would be the perfect way to end day 2 in Orlando.

A few of the must-visit spots in Disney Springs are STK Orlando, a famous chicken and steak restaurant in open sitting, and The Boathouse, a popular American and seafood restaurant. And if you wish to enjoy live music performances in the evening, Disney Spring’s Amphitheatre is the perfect choice.

Disney Springs

Universal CityWalk

Universal CityWalk is the heart of entertainment, featuring multiple shopping, dining, and entertainment options. From fun cafes to adventure sports, you can explore major attractions, including Hard Rock Café, NBC Sports Grill & Brew, and Hollywood Drive-In Golf.

If you are looking for an affordable destination, Universal CityWalk is a perfect free getaway for nightlife and a shopping experience. From Universal-themed merchandise to popular-themed restaurants, it has it all!

Day 3: Relaxation & Farewell

Start your Day 3 by relaxing and chilling by the pool at Westgate Town Center Resort. Whether you want to take soothing spa sessions at the resort or enjoy other resort amenities, the final day is all about soaking up in relaxation!

Morning: Resort Amenities & Spa

If you are on a romantic getaway with your partner or a fun trip with family, the last day of your Orlando trip should be spent relaxing!

Start your day by taking comforting spa sessions or chilling in the pool at the Westgate Town Center. Whether you love soaking in the hot tub or basking in the sunshine, the resort offers exceptional experiences as per your choice.

westgate town center water park

Afternoon: Last-minute Exploration

In the afternoon, you can check out the unique Shipwreck Island water park at Westgate Town Center Resort! It offers cool slides and activities for you and your family and has major attractions like Lazy River splash zones for kids, Black Beard’s Pirate Ship, Cannon Ball Falls, Pirate’s Plunge Drop Slide, and Paradise Cove for toddlers.

Whether you want to splash in the waters or enjoy water slides, you can pamper yourself with plenty of fun things to do. You can check out more fun things to do at Shipwreck Island Water Park.

Evening: Departure & Final Tips

In the evening, start by packing up your luggage and your memories in Orlando. You can check out more amenities at the resort or buy some souvenirs for you and your loved ones before your trip ends.

So this was the guide for the perfect weekend getaway in Orlando! Let’s discuss some tips so you can make the most out of your trip to Orlando.

Tips for avoiding last-minute travel stress

  1. Make sure to buy theme park souvenirs at Disney Springs or Universal CityWalk. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can check out Orlando outlet stores.
  2. If you have a day extra, you can check out the Kennedy Space Center or Castillo de San Marcos, located on Florida’s east coast.
  3. Make all your necessary travel arrangements and double-check all the essential documents to avoid any hassle.
  4. Take full advantage of your resort amenities. You can chill by the pool, enjoy views from the private balcony, or check out the attractions within walking distance of the resort.

Orlando

Conclusion

With the above-mentioned guide, we have helped you plan a 3-day itinerary for your perfect dream vacation. From the thrilling rides and impressive attractions to trying delicious meals and exciting events, we have created an interactive experience for your entire family!

Whether you want to plan a trip with your family or a romantic getaways with your partner, this 3-day itinerary is perfect for you.

So, what are you waiting for now? Plan your next budget weekend getaway and grab the best Orlando resort deals with Orlando99.

About Orlando99

Book a vacation package for your next Orlando vacation with Orlando99! With 3-night deals starting at just $99, you will save big while enjoying amenities like swimming pools, hot tubs, a fitness center with tennis and basketball courts, an on-property water park and many more!

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