Discover Orlando - Where Fantasy Meets Thrills

• Day 1: Arrival & Magic Kingdom’s Royal Welcome

  • Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Pick up your rental car (or arrange for Mears Connect/Uber/Lyft to your resort). Check into your chosen Disney Value Resort, such as Disney’s Pop Century Resort (Budget Tip: ~$200-280/night). Allow 1-1.5 hours for airport procedures and travel to the resort. Settle in, drop off luggage, and get ready for the magic! Use the Disney Skyliner (conveniently accessible from Pop Century) to travel to Hollywood Studios, then transfer to a bus for Magic Kingdom, or take a direct bus from the resort. This transfer can take 30-60 minutes.
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Enter Magic Kingdom! Head straight to Fantasyland for classic attractions like “It’s a Small World,” “Peter Pan’s Flight,” and “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.” For lunch, grab quick service at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café in Tomorrowland (average cost for family of 4: ~$60). Explore Tomorrowland, riding “Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin” and “Tomorrowland Speedway.” Use the My Disney Experience app to check wait times and Mobile Order food.
  • Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Enjoy an early dinner at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe in Frontierland (Quick Service, ~$70). Find a good spot on Main Street, U.S.A., to watch the “Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade” (check daily schedule, usually around 3 PM or 6 PM) and then the “Happily Ever After” fireworks spectacular over Cinderella Castle (often around 9:00 PM). Allow 30-45 minutes to find a good viewing spot for fireworks. Afterwards, take a Disney bus back to your resort (allow 45-75 minutes for exit and travel). Estimated daily food budget: $175.

• Day 2: Epcot’s Future & World Flavors

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Utilize Disney’s complimentary bus service or the Skyliner from your resort to Epcot (allow 30-45 minutes travel). Arrive before park opening (Rope Drop is key!) and head straight to Future World. Ride “Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind” (requires Virtual Queue or Individual Lightning Lane purchase via Genie+, if available) and “Test Track” (use Single Rider line for adults if kids can’t ride or for faster experience). Enjoy “Spaceship Earth” and “Living with the Land.”
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Begin your culinary journey around the World Showcase. Grab lunch at Sunshine Seasons inside The Land Pavilion (Quick Service, ~$65). Explore Mexico, Norway (try a School Bread from Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, ~$5 each), and China. Ride “Frozen Ever After” in Norway (prepare for long waits or use Genie+). Enjoy street performers and unique merchandise in each pavilion.
  • Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Indulge in a delicious dinner at a Quick Service location in World Showcase, such as Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie in France or Regal Eagle Smokehouse in The American Adventure (total ~$80). After dinner, find a viewing spot near World Showcase Lagoon for Epcot’s nighttime spectacular, “Luminous The Symphony of Us” (check schedule, usually 9:00 PM). Allow 30-45 minutes for prime viewing. After the show, take the Skyliner/bus back to your resort. Estimated daily food budget: $180.

• Day 3: Hollywood’s Thrills & Star Wars Saga

  • Morning (8:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Take the Disney Skyliner from your resort directly to Disney’s Hollywood Studios (a quick 15-20 minute ride). Arrive at Rope Drop for optimal access to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Head straight to “Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance” or “Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.” If you plan to ride Slinky Dog Dash, consider purchasing Genie+ for this day. Grab a quick breakfast at Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land (Quick Service, ~$40) before the lines get too long.
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Explore Toy Story Land, riding “Toy Story Mania!” and “Alien Swirling Saucers.” Have lunch at PizzeRizzo in Muppet*Vision 3D’s Grand Avenue (Quick Service, ~$70). Experience the iconic “Twilight Zone Tower of Terror” and the thrilling “Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith” (if appropriate for your family). Stroll down Sunset Boulevard and Hollywood Boulevard.
  • Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Enjoy a themed dinner at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant (Table Service, reservation highly recommended, ~$150 for family of 4, plus tip) for a unique drive-in movie experience. Conclude your day with the spectacular “Fantasmic!” nighttime show at the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater (check schedule, often 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM). Arrive 45-60 minutes early for good seats. Take the Skyliner back to your resort. Estimated daily food budget: $200 (includes one Table Service meal).

• Day 4: Animal Kingdom’s Wild Adventures

  • Morning (8:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Take a Disney bus from your resort to Disney’s Animal Kingdom (allow 30-45 minutes travel). Aim for Rope Drop! Head directly to Pandora – The World of Avatar to ride “Avatar Flight of Passage” (long waits are common, consider Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lane). Next, embark on a “Kilimanjaro Safaris” adventure in Africa for incredible wildlife viewing.
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Have lunch at Harambe Market in Africa (Quick Service, ~$65) for delicious African-inspired street food. Afterwards, explore Asia, brave the heights of “Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain,” and cool off on “Kali River Rapids” (prepare to get wet!). Discover the various animal trails like the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail.
  • Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Enjoy dinner at Yak & Yeti Restaurant in Asia (Table Service, reservation recommended, ~$130 for family of 4, plus tip) offering Pan-Asian cuisine. After dinner, walk around Discovery Island to see the “Tree of Life Awakenings,” beautiful projection shows on the park’s iconic tree (runs continuously after dark). Take the Disney bus back to your resort. Estimated daily food budget: $190.

• Day 5: Universal Studios & Diagon Alley Magic

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Check out of your Disney resort. Arrange an Uber/Lyft to Universal Orlando Resort (approx. $25-40, 20-30 minutes drive). Check into Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort (Budget Tip: ~$200-250/night for a family suite with kitchenette). Drop off bags and use Universal’s complimentary bus service to Universal Studios Florida (short 5-10 minute ride). Head straight to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley. Ride “Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.”
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Grab lunch at The Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley (Quick Service, ~$70) and sample some Butterbeer (must-try!). Explore the shops and hidden corners of Diagon Alley. Venture into other areas of Universal Studios Florida: ride “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” “TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D,” and “Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.”
  • Evening (6:00 PM - 9:30 PM) Enjoy a vibrant dinner at Universal CityWalk, perhaps at Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar or Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food (Table Service, ~$140-160 for family of 4, plus tip). Take your time exploring CityWalk’s shops and entertainment before taking the complimentary bus back to Cabana Bay. Estimated daily food budget: $200 (includes one Table Service meal).

• Day 6: Islands of Adventure & Hogwarts Adventures

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Take Universal’s complimentary bus or walk the short path from Cabana Bay to Islands of Adventure (approx. 15-20 minutes walk). Aim for Rope Drop! Head to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade. Ride “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” inside Hogwarts Castle and “Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure” (prepare for potentially long waits or consider Universal Express Pass if budget allows, ~$100-200/person/day for front-of-line access).
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Take the Hogwarts Express from Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley and back to experience both sides of the Wizarding World. Have lunch at Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade (Quick Service, ~$70). Explore Jurassic Park River Adventure (expect to get wet!) and Skull Island: Reign of Kong. Head to Marvel Super Hero Island for thrilling rides like “The Incredible Hulk Coaster” and “The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man.”
  • Evening (6:00 PM - 9:30 PM) Enjoy a casual dinner at Mythos Restaurant in The Lost Continent (Table Service, reservations recommended, ~$120 for family of 4, plus tip), consistently voted best theme park restaurant. Finish with last-minute souvenir shopping at the Universal gift shops near the park exit or CityWalk. Take the complimentary bus back to your resort. Estimated daily food budget: $185.

• Day 7: Leisure, Last Bites & Departure

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy a relaxed morning at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Take advantage of the resort’s fantastic pools, lazy river, and bowling alley for some final family fun. Enjoy a casual breakfast at the resort’s Bayliner Diner (Quick Service, ~$50). This is a great time to grab any last-minute souvenirs at the resort’s gift shop.
  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM) Check out from Cabana Bay. Have a farewell lunch at CityWalk, perhaps at Vivo Italian Kitchen or Fat Tuesday for a final taste of the Orlando vibe (Quick Service/Casual Table Service, ~$80). Allow enough time to return your rental car at MCO or take your pre-arranged Mears Connect/Uber/Lyft to Orlando International Airport (MCO). Travel to MCO (approx. 20-30 minutes). Allow 2-3 hours for airport check-in and security before your flight.
  • Evening Depart from MCO, filled with magical memories from your Ultimate Family Theme Park Adventure! Estimated daily food budget: $130.

Overall Budget Summary (Estimates for 2 adults, 2 children):

• Accommodation: Disney Value Resort (4 nights) + Universal Prime Value Resort (2 nights) = ~$1400 - $1600
• Park Tickets: 4-Day Disney Base Tickets + 2-Day Universal Park-to-Park Tickets = ~$3800 - $4200 (includes estimated Genie+ for 2 Disney days)
• Food & Non-alcoholic Drinks: ~$1200 - $1400
• Transportation: MCO transfers, Uber/Lyft between Disney/Universal areas = ~$200 - $300
• Souvenirs & Incidentals: ~$400 - $500
• TOTAL ESTIMATED: $7000 - $8000

Practical Tips for the Trip:

• Hydration & Sun Protection: Orlando is hot! Bring reusable water bottles, drink plenty of water, and apply sunscreen frequently. Hats and sunglasses are essential.
• Comfortable Shoes: You will be walking miles every day. Wear broken-in, comfortable shoes.
• Mobile Order: Use the My Disney Experience and Universal Orlando Resort apps to mobile order food at quick-service locations to save significant time.
• Rope Drop: Arrive at the parks 30-60 minutes before opening to be among the first in and maximize your ride time for popular attractions.
• Genie+ (Disney): Consider purchasing Disney Genie+ on busy days, especially for Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, to use Lightning Lane for select attractions and save time. Individual Lightning Lane purchases are separate for the most popular rides.
• Universal Express Pass: If your budget allows (it’s a significant additional cost), Universal Express Pass can dramatically reduce wait times at Universal.
• Snacks: Pack some non-perishable snacks (granola bars, fruit snacks) to save money and time in the parks.
• Reservations: Make dining reservations for Table Service restaurants (especially at Disney) 60 days in advance (or as early as possible).
• Power Banks: Keep your phone charged for apps, photos, and communication.

• Day 1: Universal’s Island of Adrenaline & CityWalk Nights

  • Morning (7:30 AM - 12:00 PM) Begin your thrilling adventure at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. If staying at a Universal Premier Resort (like Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay, or Loews Royal Pacific Resort), take advantage of Early Park Admission (usually one hour before general opening). Head directly to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade. Ride the highly popular Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure (this ride does not accept Express Pass and often has long waits, so early arrival is crucial) and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
    • Practical Tip: Universal Express Unlimited Pass is highly recommended (and complimentary if staying at a Premier Resort) to maximize ride time. Estimated cost: $100-200+ per person per day, highly variable by date.
    • Distance: Walking distance or a short water taxi ride if staying at a Universal Premier Resort.
    • Time Needed: 4-5 hours.
  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Continue your thrill-seeking through Islands of Adventure. Conquer the mighty Jurassic World VelociCoaster and the classic Incredible Hulk Coaster. For lunch, enjoy a themed meal at Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade (traditional British fare, ~$20-30/person) or a more diverse, table-service option at Mythos Restaurant (Mediterranean, often rated one of the best theme park restaurants, ~$30-50/person). Afterward, head back to your resort for a brief rest or a refreshing dip in the pool.
    • Time Needed: 4-5 hours in the park, 1-2 hours for rest/travel back.
  • Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Dining: Experience an upscale dinner at The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar in Universal CityWalk (eclectic fusion, expect ~$70-120 for two with drinks) or, for a more sophisticated atmosphere, consider BiCE Ristorante at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel (fine Italian dining, ~$100-180 for two with drinks). Nightlife: After dinner, explore CityWalk’s vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a live show at Rising Star (karaoke with a live band) or grab cocktails at Fat Tuesday or Red Coconut Club.
    • Transportation: Walk or take a water taxi from your Universal resort to CityWalk.

• Day 2: Magical Alley & Lakeside Luxury

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Head to Universal Studios Florida. Start your day immersing yourselves in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley. Experience the thrilling Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Don’t miss the fire-breathing dragon atop Gringotts Bank! Then, journey through other popular attractions like Revenge of the Mummy and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit (if you’re up for more G-force).
    • Practical Tip: Utilize your Universal Express Unlimited Pass to bypass lines efficiently.
    • Distance: A short walk or a magical ride on the Hogwarts Express from Islands of Adventure (requires Park-to-Park tickets, which are highly recommended for the full Harry Potter experience).
    • Time Needed: 4-5 hours.
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) For lunch, consider a quick bite at the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley (~$20-30/person) or try a unique culinary experience at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Kitchen in CityWalk (steampunk theme, unique entrees and decadent desserts, ~$50-80 for two). Afterward, retreat to your resort for some well-deserved relaxation. Enjoy the resort’s pool amenities – many Universal Premier Resorts boast elaborate pools with sand beaches, waterfalls, and cabanas available for rent. Consider booking a couple’s massage at your resort’s Mandara Spa (available at Portofino Bay and Loews Royal Pacific, est. $300-500 for a couple’s massage).
    • Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours for lunch, 2-3 hours for pool/spa.
  • Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Dining: Indulge in an exquisite dinner at Mama Della’s Ristorante at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel (classic Italian with live opera singers, ~$100-180 for two with drinks) or Islands Dining Room at Loews Royal Pacific Resort (Pan-Asian cuisine, ~$80-150 for two). Nightlife: Take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful grounds of your resort, enjoy a final cocktail at the hotel bar, or simply relax and watch the sunset over the lagoon.
    • Transportation: Resort internal walking or water taxi.

• Day 3: Epcot’s Global Gourmet & Fireworks Spectacle

  • Morning (8:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Travel to Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort. Aim to arrive for rope drop (park opening) to maximize your time. Head directly to Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in the France Pavilion. Consider purchasing Disney Genie+ ($15-35 per person, daily variable pricing) and an individual Lightning Lane (separate purchase, variable pricing) for popular rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (highly recommended) or Frozen Ever After. Enjoy other Future World attractions like Test Track and Soarin’ Around the World.
    • Practical Tip: Use Uber/Lyft to get from your Universal Resort to Epcot (approx. 20-30 min drive, $25-40 depending on surge pricing).
    • Time Needed: 4-5 hours.
  • Afternoon (12:30 PM - 6:00 PM) Embark on a delightful culinary journey around World Showcase. Sample small plates and drinks from various pavilions. For lunch, enjoy tapas at San Angel Inn Restaurante in Mexico (inside the pyramid, lovely ambiance, ~$50-80 for two) or authentic German fare at Biergarten Restaurant (buffet, lively atmosphere, ~$60-90 for two). Continue exploring the unique shops and attractions in each country.
    • Relaxation: Find a quiet bench in a serene part of World Showcase (e.g., the gardens in Japan or Canada) or take a relaxing boat ride across the lagoon.
    • Time Needed: 5-6 hours.
  • Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Dining: For an exquisite fine dining experience, reserve a table at Monsieur Paul in the France Pavilion (upscale French, dress code, ~$180-250+ for two) or Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada Pavilion (signature steakhouse, ~$150-220 for two). Entertainment: Secure a good viewing spot for Luminous The Symphony of Us (Epcot’s nightly fireworks spectacular, showtime usually 9:00 PM). Prime spots are often around the World Showcase Lagoon. After the show, enjoy a final drink at La Cava del Tequila in Mexico or Rose & Crown Pub in the UK.
    • Transportation: Uber/Lyft back to your Universal Resort.

• Day 4: Gourmet Brunch & Serene Departure

  • Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Enjoy a leisurely start to your final day. Indulge in a luxurious brunch. Options include the highly acclaimed Boma - Flavors of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (buffet, diverse options, ~$70-90 for two, requires Uber/Lyft) or the equally elegant and more convenient The Kitchen at the Hard Rock Hotel (classic American, a la carte or buffet on weekends, ~$60-100 for two).
    • Relaxation: Savor your coffee and reflect on your exciting Orlando escape.
    • Time Needed: 2-3 hours.
  • Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4:00 PM) Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some last-minute relaxation. Spend a final hour by the pool, browse the shops at your resort for souvenirs, or simply unwind in your room. If you’re staying at a Universal Premier Hotel, you can often enjoy the resort amenities for the remainder of the day, even after checking out.
    • Practical Tip: Most hotels offer luggage storage after checkout.
    • Transportation: Arrange for airport transfer via Mears Connect Shared Ride service (book in advance, ~$35-45 for two round trip) or a pre-booked car service/Uber/Lyft (approx. $40-60 one way to MCO).
    • Time Needed: 3-4 hours.
  • Evening (Time Varies based on flight) Departure: Head to Orlando International Airport (MCO) for your flight home, carrying cherished memories of an exciting yet relaxing Orlando adventure.

• Day 1: Arrival, I-Drive Immersion & CityWalk Sparkle

  • Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Pick up your pre-booked rental car, essential for budget-friendly exploration beyond resort areas. Drive to your hotel, aiming for an option on or near International Drive (I-Drive) or Kissimmee that offers complimentary breakfast (e.g., Rosen Inn, Drury Inn & Suites). Check in or drop off your luggage. The drive from MCO to I-Drive is approximately 20-30 minutes (15-20 miles).
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Grab a budget-friendly lunch on I-Drive; options include Cicis Pizza (all-you-can-eat buffet for ~$10/person), or a local fast-casual spot. Spend the afternoon exploring ICON Park. Walking around the complex is completely free, offering great photo opportunities and people-watching. You can admire The Wheel, Madame Tussauds, and Sea Life Aquarium from the outside without paying for entry. If your budget allows for a small splurge, a ride on The Wheel at ICON Park offers fantastic views (approx. $30/person).
  • Evening Drive to Universal CityWalk (approx. 10-15 min drive from I-Drive). Parking at CityWalk is usually free after 6 PM, otherwise, it’s $30 for self-parking. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, live music, and street performers. For dinner, opt for more budget-conscious choices like sharing a pizza at Red Oven Pizza Bakery or grabbing a meal deal at Burger King Whopper Bar, both offering relatively affordable options compared to full-service restaurants. Alternatively, head back to I-Drive for dinner at a value-focused restaurant like Miller’s Ale House.

• Day 2: Wizarding Wonders at Islands of Adventure

  • Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a nearby diner. Head to Universal’s Islands of Adventure for opening (“rope drop”) to maximize your time. Focus on The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade first to experience the immersive theming and iconic rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. (Parking at Universal is $30. 1-Day 1-Park ticket for Islands of Adventure: ~$130-160/person, purchased online in advance. Total for 2 people: ~$260-320).
  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Continue exploring Islands of Adventure. Venture into Jurassic Park for thrilling rides like Jurassic Park River Adventure, then Marvel Super Hero Island for high-energy experiences. For lunch, choose a quick-service restaurant within the park, such as Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade or Captain America Diner in Marvel Super Hero Island. To save money, consider sharing larger portions or ordering water instead of soda.
  • Evening Depart Islands of Adventure. Drive a short distance outside the immediate park area for a more affordable dinner. Areas like Kirkman Road or the west end of I-Drive offer numerous casual dining options such as LongHorn Steakhouse (look for early bird specials or combos), or a local fast-casual chain like Chipotle or Panera Bread for a lighter, budget-friendly meal. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel.

• Day 3: Journey to the Stars at Kennedy Space Center

  • Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Have an early breakfast and hit the road for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (KSC). The drive to Merritt Island is approximately 1 hour (50 miles) from Orlando. Aim to arrive shortly after opening to make the most of your day. (Parking at KSC is $10. Tickets: ~$75/person, total $150 for 2, purchased online in advance).
  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Explore KSC. Take the included bus tour to the Apollo/Saturn V Center, a highlight of the complex. Spend time marveling at the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, walk through the Rocket Garden, and visit the Heroes & Legends exhibit. For lunch, KSC has several cafeteria-style options like the Orbit Cafe; while a bit pricier than outside, it’s convenient. Pack some snacks and water bottles to save on costs.
  • Evening Drive back to Orlando. For a change of scenery, consider dinner in the charming city of Winter Park (approx. 30-45 min drive from KSC, 15-20 min from I-Drive). Explore Park Avenue briefly (window shopping) then find a more casual eatery off the main street, such as a pizza place or a family-owned restaurant, for a relaxed and delicious meal.

• Day 4: Downtown Charms & Alligator Encounters

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando (free entry). Take a scenic walk around the lake (approx. 0.9 miles), feed the swans, and enjoy the city skyline. If it’s a Sunday, you might catch the weekly farmers’ market. For a small splurge, consider renting a swan boat for 30 minutes (approx. $15). Parking is available in nearby garages or metered street parking (approx. $5-10).
  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Grab a quick lunch in Downtown Orlando or head directly to Gatorland (“Alligator Capital of the World”) in Kissimmee (approx. 20-30 min drive from Downtown Orlando). Gatorland offers a unique, old-Florida attraction experience at a fraction of the cost of major theme parks. (Parking is free. Tickets: ~$33/person, total $66 for 2). Enjoy the alligator shows, Gator Jumparoo, and various animal exhibits. It’s a fun, quirky alternative!
  • Evening Drive to Disney Springs (free parking and free entry). Spend the evening window shopping, soaking in the lively Disney atmosphere, and enjoying the free live entertainment. For dinner, head to the Marketplace area for more budget-friendly options like Earl of Sandwich (known for delicious, affordable sandwiches) or Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza for customizable, personal pizzas. Resist souvenir temptation if you’re sticking to a tight budget!

• Day 5: Leisurely Morning & Departure

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local diner. If you’re looking for one last peaceful activity, visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens (approx. 15-20 min drive from I-Drive), a beautiful 50-acre botanical garden (Tickets: ~$15/person, total $30 for 2, free parking). Alternatively, relax by your hotel pool or revisit a favorite quick spot on I-Drive.
  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM) Grab a final budget-friendly lunch on International Drive or near the airport before heading out. Consider a Publix deli sandwich or a quick stop at a fast-food restaurant.
  • Evening Drive to Orlando International Airport (MCO), return your rental car, and depart, having experienced Orlando’s highlights without breaking the bank!