Orlando is world-famous for its theme parks, but there’s so much to explore beyond the turnstiles. From hidden foodie gems to serene gardens and unexpected art finds, here’s how to make the most of five magical days in The City Beautiful—no fairy godmother required.
Day 1: Ease In with Iconic Orlando
Stick to the hits, and start your trip with the classics. Head straight to Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom—because you can’t come all this way and not see the castle. Pro tip: go early for the rope drop and knock out rides like Space Mountain and Tron Lightcycle Run before the crowds swell. Dine at The Boathouse in Disney Springs to enjoy dockside views, live music, and a breezy lakeside vibe. Be sure to stay in the park until dark for the evening fireworks.
Day 2: Universal Energy & Downtown Eats
Trade your mouse ears for movie magic at Universal Orlando Resort. Spend the morning at Islands of Adventure for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and new VelociCoaster. Then wander over to Epic Universe for Super Nintendo World and How to Train Your Dragon Isle of Berk. After you’ve conquered the coasters, head downtown for modern comfort food and tasty cocktails at The Monroe. If you’re up for a nightcap, stroll around Lake Eola Park, where breathtaking skyline views and illuminated swan boats make it a peaceful end to an action-packed day.
Day 3: Art, Gardens & Local Flavor
Take a breather from the action-packed theme parks. Start this day at the Orlando Museum of Art or the Mennello Museum for a dose of culture, then wander through Leu Gardens, a 50-acre botanical retreat just north of downtown. For lunch, pop into East End Market, a local food hall where everything—from artisanal coffee to ramen—is top-notch. Spend the afternoon in the Audubon Park district browsing indie shops and vintage stores. End the evening with dinner at Kabooki Sushi, where the tasting menu feels like an art form.
Day 4: Day Trip to the Coast
You’re less than an hour from the Atlantic, so hit the road for Cocoa Beach. Start with breakfast at Simply Delicious Café, then spend the day soaking up the sun or watching surfers near the pier. Before heading back, stop at the Kennedy Space Center—the Saturn V rocket and Shuttle Atlantis exhibits are awe-inspiring even if you’re not a space buff. If you time your trip carefully, you could even add more flair to your magical trip and see a live rocket launch.
Day 5: Hidden Gems & Sweet Goodbyes
It’s been a full schedule so far, which means it’s the perfect time to sleep in before savoring your last morning. Take a stroll through Winter Park, which is free from the snow and chills you’re looking to escape, and instead is a charming neighborhood filled with brick streets, upscale boutiques, and a relaxing boat tour that winds through the city’s chain of lakes. Grab a bite at The Glass Knife or Bocas, and if you can, squeeze in one more sweet stop at Gideon’s Bakehouse—the half-pound cookies are legendary for a reason. You’ll leave with a full heart, a full camera roll, and the feeling that Orlando has a little magic tucked into every corner.
As you head back to Grand Rapids, remember the only thing better than reflecting on your last trip is planning your next one. It’s never too early to start thinking about your return to America’s most magical city, especially when you can fly nonstop from Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Learn more, and book your next trip, at FlyFord.org.
