Things to do around Orlando

3-Day Orlando Itinerary Beyond the Theme Parks

This 3-day plan focuses on downtown, local neighborhoods, food, culture, and nature — perfect if you want to see Orlando beyond the big theme parks.

For full official listings, events, and ticketed attractions, always check the Visit Orlando “Things to Do” guide .

How to Use This Itinerary

Think of this as a flexible framework. You can swap mornings and afternoons, linger longer in a neighborhood you love, or pair this with one theme park day if you want a mix. Distances are short: most of these spots are within a 10–25 minute drive of each other.

Day 1: Downtown Orlando, Lake Eola, and Thornton Park

Your first day stays close to the city center: lake views, public art, walkable streets, and plenty of food and drink options.

Morning · Lake Eola & Downtown Orientation

Start at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. Walk the loop around the lake, check out the swan boats, and get your bearings around the skyline.

• Walk the paved lake path and snap photos of the fountain and city views.
• Grab coffee or a light breakfast at a nearby café around the park.
• Check the official Visit Orlando events listings for any markets or festivals around the lake on your dates.

Afternoon · Arts, Culture, and City Stroll

Spend a few hours exploring downtown’s cultural side and nearby streets.

• Visit a museum or gallery in the downtown / Loch Haven area, depending on opening hours.
• Walk a few blocks to see murals, historic buildings, and public art pieces.
• Take a break in a local coffee shop or bakery and people-watch.

Evening · Thornton Park Dinner & Drinks

In the evening, shift toward Thornton Park, just east of Lake Eola, known for patios, bars, and relaxed dining.

• Walk the brick streets and browse boutiques or small shops.
• Choose a restaurant with outdoor seating for dinner.
• End the night with a casual drink at a wine bar, cocktail spot, or neighborhood pub.

Local tip: If you’re in town on a weekend, look for farmers markets, art walks, or special downtown events on the Visit Orlando site before you go.

Day 2: Ivanhoe Village and Mills 50 – Indie, Food, and Street Art

Day two is all about Orlando’s indie personality: lakeside views, vintage shops, murals, and some of the city’s most talked-about food.

Morning · Ivanhoe Village & Lake Views

Start in Ivanhoe Village, just north of downtown, known for its lakefront scenery, vintage shops, and artsy vibe.

• Walk along Lake Ivanhoe for views and photos.
• Browse antique and vintage shops in the “Antique Row” area.
• Stop for brunch or a late breakfast at a local spot in or near Ivanhoe Village.

Afternoon · Museums or Urban Trail Time

Choose how active or relaxed you want to be in the middle of the day:

• Check out nearby cultural venues in the Loch Haven area (art, science, or theater spaces), or
• Walk or bike a segment of the Orlando Urban Trail for a mix of lakes, trees, and city views.

Evening · Mills 50 Food, Murals, and Nightlife

Head over to Mills 50, one of Orlando’s most eclectic districts, known for street art and diverse dining.

• Walk a few blocks to spot colorful murals and creative storefronts.
• Pick a restaurant for dinner — you’ll find everything from Asian and fusion spots to modern American and plant-based options.
• If you’re up for it, end the night at a local bar, brewery, or live-music venue.

Local tip: Mills 50 and Ivanhoe Village both appear in the Orlando neighborhood guides . Check them for updated restaurant, bar, and event suggestions.

Day 3: Winter Park, Gardens, and a Slower Pace

On your last day, slow things down with leafy streets, lakes, gardens, and boutique shopping just north of Orlando.

Morning · Gardens or Scenic Walk

Start with a nature-forward experience to balance out the city time.

• Visit a botanical garden or lakeside park for a quiet walk and photo stops.
• Spend time in shaded paths, reading a book or simply relaxing.

Afternoon · Winter Park’s Park Avenue & Lakes

Drive over to Winter Park, a nearby city known for its European-style streets, lakes, and museums.

• Stroll along Park Avenue for boutiques, cafés, and galleries.
• Have lunch at a sidewalk restaurant and enjoy the slower pace.
• Optionally take a scenic boat tour on the Winter Park chain of lakes if time and weather allow.

Evening · Last-Night Dinner Back in Orlando

For your final evening, either stay in Winter Park or head back toward downtown / Thornton Park / Ivanhoe Village.

• Pick one favorite neighborhood to revisit for a “last night” dinner.
• Walk one more loop around Lake Eola after dark if you’re staying central.
• Double-check the Visit Orlando event listings to see if any concerts, shows, or special events line up with your final night.

Packing tip: For this 3-day plan, bring comfortable walking shoes, a light rain layer, and a refillable water bottle. Orlando’s weather can be warm and humid, even outside of summer.

Plan and Double-Check With Official Listings

This itinerary is meant as a friendly starting point. Opening hours, events, and new openings change frequently, so before you lock in plans, visit the official Visit Orlando “Things to Do” page for the latest attraction info, tickets, and neighborhood guides.