The Ultimate 4 Day Orlando Itinerary

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Enjoy the theme park capital of the world with a well-planned 4 day Orlando itinerary

Home to fire-breathing dragons, superheroes, and talking mice, Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. However, planning a trip to Orlando can be overwhelming. There's so much to see and do, meaning it can be hard to know where to start.

Don't worry, though; this in-depth itinerary has got you covered! It includes visits to the best attractions to help you make the most of your time in the city. This Orlando trip plan covers an array of places, from Disney World and Universal Studios to downtown Orlando and even some local wineries.

Are you traveling with kids? No problem! Family-friendly options are covered as well. So gas up the car or buy your plane tickets to Orlando International Airport, and get ready to plan your perfect 4 day Orlando itinerary.

Are you on your way to Orlando last-minute?

When visiting Orlando, book your accommodations and experiences before you go. See the short list of top suggestions below.

🏨 Top accommodations in Orlando

☂️ Top tours and experiences in Orlando

4 Days in Orlando Itinerary

Orlando 4-Day Itinerary Video

Check out our highlights video of the stops covered in this Orlando itinerary.

Orlando 4-Day Itinerary Map

A map of Orlando. Use the map to explore all the days and stops.

Orlando 4-Day Itinerary Map

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Start your adventure at the Walt Disney World Resort

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A wide road with a sign with cartoon characters on each side and greenery at the back
A visit to Walt Disney World Resort is a must when in Orlando, Florida

Ready to feel like a kid again? To kick off your Orlando trip itinerary, you'll head to Disney World for a fun-filled day at the "happiest place on earth."

This massive theme park complex is arguably the most famous Orlando landmark and boasts over 100 rides and attractions across four parks. Disney practically put Orlando on the map, and no visit to this Florida city is complete without a stop to see Mickey Mouse.

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Trees and greenery in front of a dome-shaped building reflecting the sun's rays
Epcot is one of four theme parks you can choose from at Disney World in Orlando

Pick your favorite Walt Disney World theme park

Start by picking your favorite Disney park to visit. While park hopper passes are available for an additional fee, one park per day is plenty for most people. Rides and attractions usually have a wait, sometimes over an hour.

To get the most out of your experience in any Disney World theme park, download the Disney Genie App to check wait times and help you plan your activities. You can also purchase Lightning Lane passes for select rides to get in faster.

☂️ Visit Walt Disney World Resort with an experience

🏨 Accommodations close to Walt Disney World Resort

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Entrance to a large gray castle with gold accents, with a round "50" sign above
Cinderella's Castle is one of the most recognizable features in the Magic Kingdom

Option 1 - Magic Kingdom

The oldest and most popular of the Disney parks is the Magic Kingdom; it's the original and most famous and an ideal family destination. Home to some of the most beloved Disney characters like Cinderella and Snow White, a visit to the Magic Kingdom will bring back childhood nostalgia to parents and be a delight for the kids.

Each section of the Magic Kingdom has its own theme. For example, Adventureland features the famous Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean. Fantasyland transports park-goers into their favorite storybook classics featuring Cinderella's Castle and the Mad Hatter's tea cups.

Frontierland is full of thrills with the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad coaster. Lastly, Tomorrowland has a futuristic feel with exciting rides like Space Mountain. You can also explore Main Street, USA, and Liberty Square. These areas don't have rides but have shops and many other attractions.

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A large white metallic sphere propped by pillars above trees and other structures
A visit to the Epcot Center introduces you to international cultures

Option 2 - Epcot

Epcot is the second most popular Disney park, with a theme centered around technological innovation and international cultures. Spaceship Earth, a large spherical-shaped ride showcasing the history of communication, is one of the most recognizable symbols of the park.

Other space and technology-themed rides and attractions can be found throughout the park. Another popular attraction is the World Showcase, which offers an immersive experience of international cultures with pavilions architecturally styled after each country.

Nations on display include countries like France, Mexico, China, and others. Guests can step inside to learn more about each country via shows, rides, and other attractions.

🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to Epcot

A stone wall with wires and metal gadgets attached to it and more wires overhead
Galaxy's Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios is a must-visit for Star Wars fans

Option 3 - Disney's Hollywood Studios

Dedicated to the magic of movies, Disney's Hollywood Studios brings the big screen to life through numerous rides and attractions. You can step back in time at Walt Disney Presents to see 100 years of Disney magic in the making or take a thrill ride on the Rock-n-Roller Coaster or the Tower of Terror.

Younger kids will enjoy the milder Toy Story ride or Frozen Sing-Along Show. Additionally, Star Wars fans will love Galaxy's Edge, one of the newer parts of the park dedicated to the Star Wars franchise. You can ride on the Millenium Falcon, see dancing Storm Troopers, or build a droid at the Droid Depot.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to Disneys Hollywood Studios

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A building with an "Animal Kingdom" sign and a replica of an elephant's head
Visiting the Animal Kingdom introduces you to information about animal conservation

Option 4 - Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is the newest theme park in the Disney World lineup, emphasizing conservation education. Each attraction tells a story about environmental issues like wildlife poaching and deforestation. The park is divided into sections that mimic natural landscapes, such as the savannas of Africa and the jungles of Asia.

The most popular attraction at Animal Kingdom is the Kilimanjaro Safari. Guided jeep tours take guests through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, a 110-acre sanctuary where over 30 species of animals roam.

On the tour, you may spot zebras, giraffes, lions, and other African wildlife. Other popular attractions include the Lion King shows and thrill rides like Expedition Everest and Kali River Rapids.

🏨 Places to stay near Disneys Animal Kingdom Theme Park

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A fountain with a tree-lined street and shops at the back and a hot air balloon above
Disney Springs is where you can take a break from your theme park adventures

End the day at Disney Springs

When you've had your fill of theme park fun, head over to Disney Springs, where you can unwind with dinner, drinks, and maybe even a show.

Disney Springs is a large outdoor dining, shopping, and entertainment complex located a short drive from the parks. If you are staying at a Disney hotel, it's a quick shuttle or boat ride away.

Dining options include everything from fast-casual to fine dining, and there are fun-themed restaurants like T-Rex Cafe and Rainforest Cafe, both featuring animatronic animals. Want to be entertained? You can find live music at the House of Blues or catch a show at Cirque du Soleil.

🏨 Stay nearby Disney Springs

Head to Universal Orlando Resort for more thrilling fun

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A visit to Universal Orlando Resort should be on your 4 day Orlando itinerary
The movie buff in you will be thrilled by what Universal Orlando Resort offers

If you've had your fill of Disney World, it's time to see the other side of the theme park capital of the world. On day two, you'll head to Universal Studios, another large theme park complex in Orlando catering to thrill seekers and movie buffs.

Alternatively, some people choose to pass multiple days in one park, like spending two days in the Magic Kingdom. If you are traveling with little ones who are Disney fanatics, feel free to head back to Disney.

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A body of water with flowery bushes in front and colorful structures and trees behind
You can visit both theme parks in Universal Studios in a day if you start early

Pick your favorite Universal Studios Florida theme park

Universal Studios has two theme parks with adventures from mild to wild. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can purchase the two-park pass, which admits you to both parks, but ensure you get an early start to beat the queuing.

Download the Universal Orlando App for live park maps and wait times to make the most of your adventures. You can purchase a Universal Express Pass to skip the lines on some rides.

🏨 Accommodations nearby Universal Studios Florida

☂️ See Universal Studios Florida on a tour

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A red-and-black train on tracks emerging from a tunnel next to a brick building
You can hop on the Hogwarts Express at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Option 1 - Universal Studios

Visiting the original Universal Studios lets you enter the screen of some of your favorite films and TV shows. For example, you can ride Elliott's bicycle of ET fame or tag along with Dom on a high-speed chase in Fast and Furious.

You can also take a virtual reality ride through the fictional town of Springfield on The Simpsons ride. Of course, no Universal Studios trip is complete without visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Diagon Alley!

This newer section is a favorite of wizards and muggles alike. Take a ride on the Hogwarts Express, sip on Butterbeer at the Leaky Cauldron, pick out a wand from Ollivanders, and marvel at the giant, fire-breathing dragon.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to Universal Studios Florida

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An orange lighthouse towering over a body of water, a bridge, and an amusement park
Indulge your thrill-seeking side with a visit to the Islands of Adventure theme park

Option 2 - Islands of Adventure

Universal Studios' newest addition, Islands of Adventure, was made for thrill seekers and superhero fans. At the park, you can soar through the sky with Spiderman or test the limits of gravity on The Incredible Hulk Coaster.

Next, step back in time on the Jurassic Park River Adventure featuring a jaw-clenching 85-foot drop into the water. Islands of Adventure also features its share of Harry Potter rides and attractions like Hagrid's Magical Motorbike Adventure. You can even chow down on Sherbert Lemons at Honeydukes!

🏨 Stay in close proximity to Universals Islands of Adventure

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A sign that says "Universal Studios Citywalk" with trees at the back on a sunny day
Take a breather from the theme park excitement with a stroll along Universal Citywalk

Head to Universal Citywalk for dinner and a show

Located a short walk from both Universal parks, Universal Citywalk is the best place to end your day or start your night; with a never-ending array of unique shops, restaurants, and shows, there's something for everyone at Universal Citywalk.

You can grab a bite at places like the famous Bob Marley's, serving up Jamaican dishes, island-themed cocktails, and live Reggae music. Drool-worthy sweet and savory treats can be found at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen. This steampunk-themed dessert cafe has offerings like coconut milk and pineapple upside-down cake shakes.

If you want to party a little later into the night, Pat O'Briens, a dueling piano bar with a New Orleans flair, is open until 1 AM. An outdoor stage overlooking the lagoon at Citywalk also features live music on some nights.

🏨 Places to stay near Universal CityWalk Orlando

Discover Downtown Orlando

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Downtown Orlando offers a more leisurely sightseeing option away from the theme parks

By day three, you're probably ready for a break from the theme parks. You can head to Downtown Orlando for a day of leisurely sightseeing around the city, but don't worry, there's still plenty to do and even more rides in case you aren't quite ready to relax yet!

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Lake Eola is a serene spot that offers other activities, like swan boat rides

Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park is a serene oasis in the middle of downtown Orlando. With its 43 acres of lush greenery and sparkling waters, a morning stroll through the park is a great way to start your day. You can also grab a cup of coffee or breakfast at one of the many cafes surrounding the lake.

Taking a self-guided audio tour of Lake Eola Park is another fun activity to enjoy. In addition, the park usually has a lively calendar of events which includes outdoor yoga classes, farmers' markets, and live music. You can also rent a signature swan boat to take out on the water.

🏨 Stay near Lake Eola Park

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A circular building with a sign on it, surrounded by trees under a cloudy sky
The Orlando Science Center allows you to be hands-on with science experiments

Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center features a wide array of exhibits on science, technology, and natural history. You can get hands-on with science experiments, learn about the solar system, and get up close and personal with some dinosaur bones.

Perfect for families, the Orlando Science Center also features Kids Town, designed exclusively for the "littlest of scientists" to play and learn. There are also two theaters showing a variety of nature and science documentaries on extra wide, immersive-style screens.

🏨 Accommodation near the Orlando Science Center

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You can find spacecraft exhibits within the huge complex of the Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center (Optional)

If you're in the mood for more science-y fun and don't mind the drive, head to the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. The attraction is a massive complex of spacecraft exhibits where you can learn about the history of space travel and see decommissioned spacecraft, rockets, and astronaut memorabilia.

Kennedy Space Center deserves a spot on your Orlando trip itinerary, so check its schedule, and you may even witness a launch! It takes about an hour to get there from downtown Orlando, but it's well worth it. Don't feel like driving? Book a Kennedy Space Center tour that includes transportation.

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A huge, white Ferris wheel from below, with a sign underneath saying "Icon Park"
One of the best places to visit in Orlando, aside from theme parks, is Icon Park

Icon Park

Icon Park is the perfect place to end your day with an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Visiting this park is also one of the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks!

You can experience as much or as little as you'd like in a choose-your-own-adventure night out. To save on admission to attractions and make exploring easy, consider purchasing a Go-City Orlando Explorer Pass.

Looking for more thrills? Then take a ride on the 400-foot-high, iconic Ferris wheel with incredible views of the Orlando skyline. You can also visit the Max Action Arena for virtual reality games, axe throwing competitions, and escape rooms.

Another excellent attraction to check out is Madame Tussand's Orlando. This famous wax museum features lifelike replicas of some of your favorite celeb icons, superheroes, and historical figures. The Museum of Illusions also offers a fun, unique experience.

When it's time to eat, over a dozen restaurants offer comfort food, tacos, and everything in between. After dinner, head over to the Tin Roof to enjoy their live music and craft cocktails, and for more family-centered fun, check out the arcade.

🏨 Stay nearby ICON Park

Wind down with a water park and wine tasting

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A visit to a water park like Volcano Bay adds fun to your Orlando trip

It's your final day in Orlando; surely you've earned some relaxation time? Head over to Volcano Bay to wind down with some water park fun before a relaxing evening of wine tastings.

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A replica of a volcano with water gushing from its top into a pool below
Krakatau is an iconic 200-foot-tall volcano with a thrilling waterfall

Volcano Bay

Whether you want to relax on a beach, catch some waves, or ride a coaster, Volcano Bay has you covered. This popular water park has something for everyone with its beautiful scenery and Polynesian vibes.

While summer is the best time to visit Orlando for families, the heat can be brutal. Therefore, planning a family trip to Volcano Bay is a great idea, as the cool waters are a welcome reprieve from the summer heat.

Thrillseekers will love Krakatau, the park's iconic 200-foot-tall volcano. You can take the Ko'okiri Plunge or Kala and Tai Nui Serpentine Slides inside Krakatau. It also houses the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, a heart-pounding roller coaster that plunges straight through a waterfall.

Are you looking for a more relaxing time? No problem; you can lounge on Waturi Beach or float effortlessly down the Kopiko Wai Winding River on a raft. You can also enjoy swimming in several lagoons and wave pools.

The line system is delightfully different at Volcano Bay. All lines are virtual, and guests are given a wearable band reminiscent of a smartwatch to check in for each ride. While waiting for your ride, you are free to roam the park, swim, or relax on comfy poolside lounge chairs.

🏨 Stay near Universals Volcano Bay

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A group of wooden boxes containing bottles of wine lying vertically and a sign above
Orlando isn't just about theme parks; it also has a great wine scene

Get ready for a night of food, fun, and wine tastings

Most people don't think of wineries as places to visit while in Orlando, Florida, and are surprised to learn of Orlando's great wine scene. Orlando is full of wineries, wine bars, and tasting rooms, so pick your favorite for a relaxing way to conclude your final night in Orlando.

Option 1 - Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards

Located 30 minutes from Orlando, Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards offers tours, tastings, food, and live music. Covering 127 acres, Lakeridge is Florida's largest winery and produces many varietals.

You can tour the vineyard, get a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, and taste some of their award-winning wines. Do note that the winery closes in the early evening, so plan an afternoon trip to this winery before returning to Orlando to check out top wine bars.

Option 2 - Quantum Leap Winery

In the heart of downtown Orlando, Quantum Leap Winery is a smaller, more cozy winery focusing on sustainability with a great selection of fine wines. You can try organic and sustainably produced wines in the tasting room. While the winery doesn't serve food, food trucks frequent the area outside.

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A red-brick building with red window canopies, black balconies, and a sign on it
Wine Bar George has an impressive wine list curated by a famed sommelier

Option 3 - Wine Bar George

In Disney Springs, you'll find the famous Wine Bar George, a sommelier-led wine experience and "World's Best Wine List" winner. Wine Bar George boasts an impressive wine list curated by famed master sommelier George Miliotes. They also have a full food menu serving everything from small bites to four-course meals.

🏨 Places to stay close to Wine Bar George - A Restaurant & Bar

Option 4 - Eola Wine Company

Known as your friendly neighborhood wine bar, Eola Wine Company is a local and tourist favorite across from Lake Eola. The bar has an extensive selection of boutique wines with a menu of tapas-style food pairings.

Eola Wine Company's location makes it a perfect place to unwind after a long day. You can enjoy light bites and sip on wine before taking a sunset stroll around the lake for some gorgeous views.

Option 5 - Imperial Wine Bar

At first glance, this downtown Orlando fan favorite will have you wondering whether you're in the right place. Don't worry; you are! Imperial Wine Bar is a cleverly disguised speakeasy within a furniture store.

By day, shoppers come to browse artfully crafted antique furniture. By night, they come back to enjoy unique wines and microbrews, with live music and a rotating menu of food thrown in.

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An upside-down building with columns, lit windows, and an entrance in the front
You can visit the kid-friendly WonderWorks after enjoying dinner during a comedy show

Option 6 - Kid-friendly nighttime fun option

If you're traveling with little ones and wine tastings are out of the question, don't worry, as there are many fun things to do with kids in Orlando in the evening. One great family-friendly option is going to Andretti Indoor Karting and Games.

At the entertainment complex, you can ride on go-karts, bowl, or play laser tag. The on-site restaurant, Andretti Grill, also serves sandwiches, fries, and other kid-friendly classics. Adults can enjoy a signature cocktail while the kids play in the arcade. It's fun for the whole family!

For another excellent kid-friendly option, get tickets to the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show. The family will enjoy dinner and laughs during this 90-minute comedy and magic show. After the show, you can go to WonderWorks, another kid-friendly attraction right next door.

Where to stay in Orlando, Florida?

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Orlando has over 480 hotels to choose from, which makes planning crucial

There are over 480 hotels in Orlando, so planning an Orlando vacation can be overwhelming when choosing where to stay. Here are a few top picks from frequent Orlando travelers and Florida locals.

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A huge red and blue building with many windows facing a body of water with a boat
Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort has a spa, lounges, pools, and many restaurants

Why not stay at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort?

One of the most popular resorts in the Disney collection, the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort is a tropical-themed paradise. This resort features numerous restaurants, bars, and lounges.

You can relax and spend the day at one of their luxurious pools or unwind at the spa. The resort is on Disney property, so it's just a short walk, shuttle, or boat ride to many Disney attractions.

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A colorful cylindrical sign on top of green and yellow bushes, with buildings behind
The colorful Cabana Bay Beach Resort offers a laid-back vibe and fun water activities

Why not stay at Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort?

With bright, colorful rooms and laid-back beachy vibes, Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a fan favorite among the Universal resorts. Love water activities? This resort has a lazy river, pool, and waterslides.

Additionally, the resort's food court offers a wide range of dining options, a bowling alley, and a games room. Best of all, Cabana Bay Beach Resort guests enjoy early access to Universal Orlando and free park transportation.

Why not stay at the Sheraton Orlando Lake Buena Vista?

The Sheraton Orlando Lake Buena Vista is a great, budget-friendly resort offering the Orlando magic without the theme park pricetag. Amenities include two pools with waterslides for the kids, on-site restaurants, and a spa. It's also conveniently located close to Orlando theme parks and offers some park shuttle services.

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View across a street of two colorful large buildings facing a round sign and greenery
True to its name, this resort offers a summery experience all year round

Why not stay at Universal's Endless Summer Resort?

For year-round summer, Universal's Endless Summer Resort offers a relaxing oasis close to attractions. Take a dip in their surfboard-shaped pool or grab a bite in their casual food court.

In addition to free park transportation, resort guests enjoy early entry to certain attractions, another great perk of staying on Universal property!

In Summary

Now you have the ultimate 4 day itinerary for Orlando, Florida! Be sure to enjoy the colorful sunsets, balmy breezes, and swaying palm trees while making your way through the theme park capital of the world.

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Written by Lauren Rey

L_Rey FORMER WRITER Lauren might be based in Florida, but she is always plotting out a new road trip route with her partner-in-crime, Pickles. Pickles is a mixed-breed rescue dog that loves hiking, road trips, and Starbucks as much as her mom does!

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