Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Week of Beaches and Attractions: Orlando, Daytona Beach, Tampa, and Sarasota

Thursday, December 21: Arrival and Exploration in Orlando

Start your adventure by flying into Orlando. Check hotel and flight prices here. Once you've settled in, head to Lake Eola Park, a beautiful spot in downtown Orlando. In the morning, take a leisurely walk around the lake and admire the iconic Orlando skyline. In the afternoon, visit the Orlando Science Center, a hands-on museum with interactive exhibits for all ages. Wrap up the day with a visit to the vibrant and bohemian Thornton Park neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere and unique shops and restaurants.

  • Lake Eola Park: Free admission, estimated time: 2 hours
  • Orlando Science Center: Admission cost: $20 per adult, estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Thornton Park: Free, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Friday, December 22: Magical Day at Disney World

Get ready for a day filled with enchantment at Walt Disney World! Start early to make the most of your visit. Explore the iconic Magic Kingdom, home to Cinderella's Castle and beloved attractions such as Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. Experience the magic of Disney throughout the day, and don't miss the enchanting fireworks display in the evening.

  • Walt Disney World - Magic Kingdom: Ticket cost starts at $109 per person, estimated time: Full Day
Saturday, December 23: Daytona Beach Adventure

Leave Orlando for a day trip to Daytona Beach, known for its wide sandy beaches and lively atmosphere. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. In the afternoon, visit the Daytona Lagoon water park for some thrilling water slides and family-friendly activities. Don't forget to take a stroll on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions.

  • Daytona Beach: Free, estimated time: Full Day
  • Daytona Lagoon: Admission cost starts at $19.99 per person, estimated time: 4-6 hours
  • Daytona Beach Boardwalk: Free, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 24: Tampa's Attractions

Head to Tampa for a day exploring the city's attractions. Start your morning at the Florida Aquarium, home to a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits. In the afternoon, visit the Busch Gardens theme park, where you can enjoy thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live entertainment. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic waterfront promenade with parks, restaurants, and beautiful views of the city skyline.

  • Florida Aquarium: Admission cost starts at $28.95 per adult, estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Ticket cost starts at $89.99 per person, estimated time: Full Day
  • Tampa Riverwalk: Free, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Monday, December 25: Relaxing Day at Sarasota's Beaches

Take a break from the city and soak in the natural beauty of Sarasota's stunning beaches. Spend the morning at Siesta Key Beach, known for its soft, white sand and turquoise waters. Enjoy a picnic on the beach or take a refreshing swim. In the afternoon, explore the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, where you can learn about marine conservation and observe fascinating marine creatures. End the day with a visit to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, a tropical oasis showcasing beautiful plant collections.

  • Siesta Key Beach: Free, estimated time: Full Day
  • Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: Admission cost starts at $24.75 per adult, estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Marie Selby Botanical Gardens: Admission cost starts at $25 per adult, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Free Admission Tuesday in Orlando

On Tuesday, take advantage of the free admission offers in Orlando. Start your day at the Orlando Museum of Art, where you can explore a diverse collection of artworks. After the museum visit, head to the vibrant and bohemian Thornton Park neighborhood for lunch and some leisurely strolling. In the evening, catch a free movie at the Lake Eola Park's Walt Disney Amphitheater.

  • Orlando Museum of Art: Free admission on Tuesdays, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Thornton Park: Free, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Lake Eola Park's Walt Disney Amphitheater: Free movie screening, estimated time: Evening
Wednesday, December 27: Farewell to Orlando

Before departing, take some time to explore the free and must-visit attractions in Orlando. Start your day at Winter Park's Park Avenue, a charming shopping district lined with boutiques and cafes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and indulge in some shopping. In the afternoon, visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens, a botanical garden showcasing stunning landscapes and plant collections. End your trip by taking a scenic boat tour on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes.

  • Winter Park's Park Avenue: Free, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Harry P. Leu Gardens: Admission cost starts at $10 per adult, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Winter Park Chain of Lakes Boat Tour: Ticket cost starts at $14 per person, estimated time: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Don't miss the hidden gems and local favorites during your trip. In Orlando, explore the charming and historic neighborhood of Winter Park, known for its tree-lined streets and beautiful architecture. Visit the Morse Museum, home to the largest collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Take a scenic drive along A1A, a coastal highway that runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views. In Tampa, discover Ybor City, a historic neighborhood with vibrant nightlife, Cuban cuisine, and fascinating cigar-making history. Finally, in Sarasota, explore the Ringling Museum of Art, a cultural and artistic treasure featuring masterpieces from around the world.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version