5 days in Orlando: Mouse Ears Optional

Orlando is famous for its theme parks, but there is much more to explore beyond the iconic mouse ears. This five-day itinerary offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and unique local experiences that showcase Orlando’s diverse attractions. Whether you want to unwind by the pool, swim with dolphins, hunt for treasures at a flea market, or enjoy thrilling wildlife encounters, this guide has you covered. Here’s how to spend five memorable days in Orlando without relying on the usual theme park staples.

Day 1: Dive and Dine

Kick off your adventure with a chill and refreshing day focused on lounging by the pool and sampling local eats. Begin your day at Hash House A Go Go, a famous spot known for its "Twisted Farm Food"—massive portions of Midwest-style comfort food with a quirky, modern twist, all for the bargain price of $20 to $30. Trust us, reservations are a must, especially for weekend brunch. After breakfast, unwind by the hotel pool, a free and perfect way to chill out after your travels.

After spending the morning working on your mermaid skills, let's jump in the car for a quick 35-minute drive to the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour! Located in the charming downtown of Winter Park, FL, this tour gives you an awesome hour-long cruise where you can casually check out the local wildlife and nature, all for just $20 per adult and $10 per kid. Plus, you'll have a prime view of some stunning mansions and historic homes.

By now, your stomach is probably growling like crazy, so let's head over to Bricks and Bowls—just a quick 5-minute drive from the boat tour. This chill spot is known for its salads, sandwiches, and pizzas, including some fancy ones made with focaccia dough. It's the perfect place to grab a quick bite before you head back to the hotel to unwind.

One of the coolest shows I've checked out during my many trips to Orlando is the Medieval Times Dinner Tournament. You get to enjoy a four-course meal while cheering for one of six knights as they compete in jousting and other awesome challenges, all for just $76.95. You'll be entertained for almost two hours with jousting, sword fights, exciting hand-to-hand combat, amazing horsemanship, and falconry, all wrapped up in a thrilling story set in Medieval Spain. It's like dinner theater and a rodeo teamed up to serve you a four-course feast. Skip the usual Orlando stuff; this is where dinner and drama ride together!

Day 2: Discovery Cove

Get ready to leap out of bed with the enthusiasm of a kid on Christmas morning, because the adventures at Discovery Cove are nothing short of legendary. Just a hop, skip, and a 30-minute drive from the city, this tropical wonderland is not just a theme park—it's like Mother Nature's living room. The park keeps the guest list short and sweet each day, ensuring you can soak up the beauty without feeling like a sardine in a can.

Check-in kicks off at 8:00 AM, where a crew of cheerful staff are ready to roll out the welcome mat and help you squeeze every drop of fun from your visit. Feast like royalty with unlimited food and drinks all day long. Kick off your culinary journey with a breakfast buffet featuring fresh fruits, pastries, and enough hearty options to power a marathon. 

At 9:00 AM, the waterways open for guests to explore. Dive into aquatic escapades like drifting down the lazy river, snorkeling through the coral reef, or lounging on sun-kissed beaches. I highly recommend doing a Swim with the dolphins and visiting the bird aviary. 

This experience will make you feel refreshed and more connected with nature—perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for some fun in the sun. Prices for Discovery Cove Orlando can vary a lot depending on the season and the package you pick. They usually start around $175–$230 per person, and that includes meals, snacks, drinks, and gear. The Signature Dolphin Swim Package kicks off at about $260 per person.

Popular Upgrades:

• Private Cabanas: Starting at $200 per cabana.

• SeaVenture: Underwater walking tour starting at $59.

• Shark Snorkel: Swim with sharks starting at $79.

• Drink Packages: Premium liquor upgrades start at $45.

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Day 3: Old Town, New Finds

Kick off your morning with a tasty breakfast at Moma's Cafe, just a 15-minute drive away, with meals ranging from $15 to $25. It's famous for its cozy, dog-friendly vibe and a homemade menu featuring favorites like the Lava French Toast, Tex-Mex Chicken Scram bowl, and the Southern Hearty with biscuit and bacon gravy.

Next up, swing by the Main Gate Flea Market—just a quick 30-minute drive away and a delightful place to grab some quirky souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts without spending a dime on entry. With more than 400 booths, it's like a pirate's treasure chest packed with cool discoveries and everyday goodies. You'll stumble upon Disney trinkets, Florida-themed fashion, gadgets, toys, bling, and home décor, all at prices that'll make your wallet do a happy dance. You can score deals with savings of up to 50-75% compared to those fancy mall prices and enjoy the thrill of bargain hunting like a pro.

If your tummy starts rumbling like a pirate's parrot after plundering the flea market, fear not! You can snag some grub from Food Truck Heaven just around the corner, where the eats are as delicious as they are reasonably priced at $15 to $25. Once you've stuffed yourself silly, head back to the hotel pool for some well-deserved chillaxing.

Later on, take a quick 20-minute drive to check out Old Town, where you'll find a cool mix of shops, places to eat, rides, and fun stuff for the whole family. Old Town is like stepping back into a classic Florida town with its historic buildings and unique storefronts. It's a blast from the past when life was simpler, the pace was chill, and the memories were just as awesome. 

Whether you’re craving American classics, artisan pizzas, or just want a sweet treat while you wander through the shops, Old Town's restaurants got something to hit the spot. Spend the rest of your evening soaking up the lively, retro vibe. Old Town is a fun alternative to the usual theme park nights.

Day 4: Wekiwa Springs

Just a quick 30 to 40-minute drive from Orlando, you'll discover the breathtaking Wekiwa Springs State Park, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts! The parking fee is just $6, and to make the most of your visit, timing is everything. On weekends and during the summer, aim to arrive by 9:30 AM to beat the crowds. If you're visiting on a weekday, you've got until 11:00 AM, but arriving earlier is still a smart move. The park opens at 8:00 AM, so the sooner you get there, the better your parking spot will be, giving you more time to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and dive into all the thrilling activities the park offers.

Get ready for an adventure with a variety of kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards available for just $47-$57 a day. But it's a race to grab them—first come, first float! So, set those alarms and head out early. Here's where the real excitement begins: paddle your way upstream to the enchanting rock spring junction, then relax and let the current guide you back. The route is like stepping into a jungle movie, with trees arching overhead. Keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife extravaganza—playful otters, chattering birds, sunbathing turtles, and if you're really lucky, a manatee or two. And don't worry about the occasional alligator; they're just there for the vibe and couldn't care less about your paddling skills.

After an exhilarating float with the wildlife upstream, it's time to cool off in the spring. Grab your floaties and dive into the springhead! The water stays a refreshing 72 degrees all year round. Between November and March, there's a solid 70% chance you'll spot some manatees joining the fun. From April to October, they're a bit more elusive, with just a 30% chance of seeing them. But don't worry, even if the manatees are playing hard to get, you'll still have a blast with fish, turtles, and the bragging rights of swimming in Central Florida's top spot! Jump in, the water’s great—and full of surprises!

If you're looking for a quick bite before heading back into Orlando, stop by Red Brick Deli. It's a classic "mom and pop" spot run by a husband-and-wife duo who have been in the food business for decades. People say it's a quiet, clean, and chill place to eat.

Feel free to chill for the rest of the afternoon or take your time heading back to Orlando—it's totally up to you. When you're ready for dinner, head about 20 minutes down the road to the Hard Rock Cafe. You can dig into some classic American dishes there, priced between $20 and $40. This place is not just any Hard Rock Cafe; it's the biggest one in the world! With its grand pillars, it looks like a Roman Coliseum and has more music memorabilia than anywhere else. Besides the huge, multi-level cafe, there's also Hard Rock Live Orlando, a venue that can hold up to 3,000 people for concerts and parties. 

• Parking: Use the main Universal Orlando Parking Garage. Note that it is a 15–20 minute walk from the garage to the cafe. Self-parking is typically free after 6:00 PM, except during special events

Day 5: Explore Epcot Without the Mouse Ears

To squeeze every last drop of fun out of your final day, chow down on breakfast—whether it's the hotel's freebie feast or their fancy main dining option (just $10 to $20, a real steal!). Then buckle up for a speedy 20 to 30 minute drive to the magical land of Epcot. Sure, tickets are $110 to $130, but hey, it's not just about the rides—it's a one-of-a-kind extravaganza!

Must Experience Rides

EPCOT's headliner Spaceship Earth is the park's ultimate star. Embark on a thrilling journey through time and dive into the fascinating saga of human communication, from the Stone Age to the computer age—it's the ultimate long-distance call!

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind features Disney's groundbreaking reverse-launch coaster! This coaster spins 360 degrees, so you'll be twirling like a record, baby, right round, round, round!

Mission: Space invites you to launch into an exhilarating simulated NASA-style mission to Mars—or relax with a serene orbit around Earth on a stunning space journey. Houston, we're having a blast!

Test Track offers an unforgettable joyride! Experience the thrill of the open road fused with cutting-edge innovation. Buckle up, speed enthusiast!

Soarin’ Around the World is a hang-gliding simulator that uses wind and scents to sweep you over global landmarks. It's a refreshing breeze!

For the Kiddos

Don't miss out on:

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure provides a 4D trackless dark ride where guests "shrink" to the size of a rat and dash through a Parisian kitchen. Bon appétit, tiny explorer!

Frozen Ever After takes you on a boat ride through Arendelle featuring characters from Frozen. It recently upgraded its animatronics in early 2026. Let it go, but hold on tight!

World Showcase:

In the afternoon, take a whirl around the World Showcase, a 1.2-mile expedition through 11 themed pavilions that give you a taste of nations from four continents. It's like a world tour without the jet lag! Each pavilion is a deep dive into the country's architecture, cuisine, and culture, so get ready to feast your eyes and your stomach. You can chow down on authentic dishes, enjoy various attractions, and chat with cultural reps who actually hail from these places, giving you a global experience without the passport stamp.

This is absolutely perfect timing, especially if your stomach is starting to growl! Many guests dive into the excitement of "Dining Around the World," savoring delicious small plates and snacks from different countries, like the delightful school bread in Norway or the classic fish and chips in the UK.

Mexico: Dive into the enchanting twilight of a Mayan temple, and explore the incredible tequila selection at La Cava del Tequila! Pair it with mouthwatering Tacos de Barbacoa or delicious Empanadas con Queso at La Cantina de San Angel.

Norway: Experience the magic of the Frozen Ever After attraction and savor the delightful "School Bread" at the Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe.

China: Immerse yourself in a stunning 360-degree film, stroll through beautiful gardens, and refresh with a drink from the Joy of Tea kiosk.

Germany: Step into a charming Bavarian village featuring a year-round Christmas shop and enjoy a feast at the Biergarten Restaurant.

Italy: Relish authentic pizza at Via Napoli and indulge in exquisite Italian wines in a captivating Venetian-inspired atmosphere.

America: Discover the heart of the loop with a majestic colonial-style building and savor BBQ Brisket at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse.

Japan: Explore the vast Mitsukoshi Department Store, relax by a serene pagoda, and uncover a hidden sake bar.

Morocco: Get lost in its intricate tile work and winding bazaar-like paths. Don't miss the Hummus Trio with Moroccan Bread.

France: Live a Parisian dream with Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and indulge in the famous Grand Marnier Orange Slush.

United Kingdom: Wander through English high streets and enjoy classic fish and chips at the iconic Rose & Crown pub.

Canada: Be captivated by a 360-degree film of this northern nation and treat yourself to a meal at the top-rated Le Cellier Steakhouse.

End your day on a high note with a spectacular fireworks display! Every evening, the Luminous: The Symphony of Us show lights up the lagoon with dazzling fireworks, mesmerizing fountains, and captivating music.