“There’s something for everyone” is a tired cliche, but in Orlando, it’s exactly what you’ll find. This is a city that’s built around fun for all, and every traveler can fill their Orlando weekend getaway with new experiences.
A trip to Orlando is likely to include a visit to one of the many parks at Walt Disney World Resort. But beyond the iconic Mouse and friends, Orlando’s dining and nightlife scenes draw adults, and a plethora of kid-friendly attractions mean the little ones will never be bored.
Read on for itineraries filled with fun for families; exciting group getaways; and romantic experiences for couples.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Fun for Families
Start your weekend off with some excitement at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games Orlando, right off International Drive. Orlando’s weather can be unpredictable, but the indoor track assures no rain will spoil your parade. For lunch, head to Disney Springs and dine at T-Rex Cafe, serving traditional American family fare in a prehistoric surrounding filled with animatronic dinos.
Head to the Lego Store, just across from the restaurant, and let the kids explore to burn off some steam. The minifigure factory here will also allow kiddos to create their very own figurine out of blocks.
Make your way to Loch Haven Park, Orlando’s arts corridor, and visit the planetarium and exhibitions at the Orlando Science Center, or catch a kid-friendly performance at the city’s family-centric repertory theatre, Orlando Family Stage, which stages inclusive, sensory-friendly plays.
Romantic Escape
Start with a couples massage at your hotel spa before heading to a leisurely brunch at celebrity chef Melissa Kelly’s signature farm-to-table restaurant, Primo at JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, featuring fresh produce, eggs and honey from local farms and the on-site Primo Garden.
Head to ICON Park, one of Orlando’s major entertainment and attraction complexes, and take in bird’s-eye views from the slow-moving Orlando Eye, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel with enclosed, air-conditioned capsules. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Space Coast and spot the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA.
Venture north into one of Orlando’s most picturesque neighborhoods, Audubon Park, and stroll through Harry P. Leu Gardens, where 50 acres of trees and flowers blossom year-round. Sit down for dinner at Prato in nearby Winter Park. Later, wander hand-in-hand down the lantern-lit, historic Park Avenue.
Group Getaway
High-adrenaline activities make memories and kick off a fast-moving Orlando weekend, so start with an indoor skydiving experience at iFLY. A little too intense? Solve a mystery together and beat the clock in one of the themed rooms at The Escape Game Orlando. For a lunch or brunch that emphasizes both weekend fun and excellent food, visit Moa Kai Diner in the buzzy Mills 50 area. Enjoy towering plates of Hawaiian classics alongside rounds of espresso martinis.
For some excellent shopping, head to The Mall at Millenia and explore some luxury looks. If you’re on a budget and still want something cute, make sure to check out Orlando International Premium Outlets or Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets.
In the evening, head downtown for dinner at Reyes Mezcaleria, where you’ll find a seemingly endless cocktail menu and great Mexican fare. Then make your way down South Orange Avenue for barhopping with the locals.
Finish the night at World of Beer and sit on the outdoor veranda overlooking Orlando’s centerpiece, Lake Eola Park (and its color-changing fountain).
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