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A 7-Day Budget Itinerary: Orlando, Daytona Beach, Tampa, and Sarasota

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Thursday, December 21

Arrive in Orlando and check out flight and hotel prices on Kayak. Spend the morning exploring Orlando's vibrant downtown, visiting attractions like Lake Eola Park and the Orlando Museum of Art. In the afternoon, head to ICON Park for thrilling rides and panoramic views from the observation wheel. In the evening, enjoy dinner and live entertainment at Church Street Station.

  • Lake Eola Park: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Orlando Museum of Art: Estimated cost $15 per person, 2-3 hours
  • ICON Park: Prices vary for attractions, 2-3 hours
  • Church Street Station: Prices vary for dining and entertainment
Friday, December 22

Begin the day with a visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Titusville, just outside Orlando. Explore interactive exhibits, experience a simulated space shuttle launch, and marvel at real spacecraft. In the afternoon, drive to Daytona Beach and relax on its famous sandy shores. Before heading back to Orlando, catch the sunset at Ponce Inlet and climb the historic Ponce Inlet Lighthouse for panoramic views.

  • Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Estimated cost $57 per person, 4-6 hours
  • Daytona Beach: Free, relax as desired
  • Ponce Inlet: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Ponce Inlet Lighthouse: Estimated cost $10 per person, 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 23

Drive to Tampa and spend the day exploring the city. Start with a visit to the historic Ybor City district, known for its vibrant Cuban heritage and delicious cuisine. Enjoy authentic Cuban sandwiches and explore the unique shops. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the cultural offerings of Tampa by visiting the Tampa Museum of Art or the Florida Aquarium. End the day with a sunset stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk.

  • Ybor City: Cost of food varies, explore as desired
  • Tampa Museum of Art: Estimated cost $15 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Florida Aquarium: Estimated cost $32 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Tampa Riverwalk: Free, stroll as desired
Sunday, December 24

Return to Orlando and spend the day at Universal Orlando Resort. Experience the magic of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, enjoy thrilling rides, and explore the various themed lands within the park. In the evening, visit Disney Springs for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

  • Universal Orlando Resort: Estimated cost $109-$139 per person, full day
  • Disney Springs: Cost of food and entertainment varies, evening
Monday, December 25

Take a day trip to Sarasota and explore its natural beauty and cultural attractions. Start with a visit to the Ringling Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of European masterpieces and stunning gardens. In the afternoon, relax on the picturesque Siesta Key Beach, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters. End the day with a stroll through the vibrant St. Armands Circle, filled with boutiques and eateries.

  • Ringling Museum of Art: Estimated cost $25 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Siesta Key Beach: Free, relax as desired
  • St. Armands Circle: Cost of shopping and dining varies, evening
Tuesday, December 26

Enjoy a day of adventure at Gatorland, an affordable wildlife park and conservation area in Orlando. Watch thrilling alligator shows, explore nature trails, and even zipline over alligator-infested waters (additional cost). In the afternoon, visit the Orlando Science Center and engage in interactive exhibits and educational displays. End the day with a relaxing boat tour on Lake Eola.

  • Gatorland: Estimated cost $29.99 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Orlando Science Center: Estimated cost $19.95 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Lake Eola Boat Tour: Estimated cost $15 per person, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27

On your final day, explore the charming neighborhoods of Winter Park in Orlando. Start with a visit to the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, showcasing Tiffany glass masterpieces. Stroll along Park Avenue, known for its boutique shops and outdoor cafes. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat tour on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes. End your trip with a delightful dinner in Winter Park.

  • Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art: Estimated cost $6 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Winter Park: Cost of shopping and dining varies, afternoon
  • Winter Park Chain of Lakes Boat Tour: Estimated cost $14 per person, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Orlando, don't miss out on a visit to Leu Gardens, a beautiful botanical oasis. In Tampa, head to the Tampa Bay History Center to learn about the region's rich history. For a unique experience, check out the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, showcasing the surreal art of the iconic artist. Sarasota's hidden gem is the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, offering a tranquil retreat amidst tropical flora.

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