THE ULTIMATE ORLANDO FAMILY VACATION GUIDE
You’ve finally booked your family vacation to Orlando.
The kids are already talking about their favorite Disney characters. Someone is researching roller coasters. And everyone has a different opinion about which park should come first.
Then comes the big question:
How do you fit everything into seven days without coming home more exhausted than when you left?
The answer is not to do everything. It’s to create a vacation that balances exciting adventures with enough time to actually enjoy being together.
This seven-day Orlando family itinerary combines Disney World, Universal Orlando, shopping, sightseeing, and time to relax.
It’s designed for families who want unforgettable experiences without unnecessary stress.
And because Orlando offers so much beyond the theme parks, we’ve also included practical tips to help you organize meals, transportation, rest days, and your vacation accommodation.
YOUR WEEK AT A GLANCE
Seven Days. Endless Possibilities.
Here’s our suggested itinerary for a balanced Orlando family vacation.
Good to know: This itinerary includes four theme park days, one rest day, and arrival and departure days. You can switch the order depending on weather, park hours, ticket availability, and your family’s energy levels.
Welcome to Orlando! Start Your Vacation the Right Way.
ARRIVAL / CHECK-IN / GROCERY SHOPPING
After a long journey, the last thing your family needs is a complicated schedule.
Today is about settling in, getting comfortable, and preparing for the exciting days ahead.
If you’re staying in a vacation home in Kissimmee or Davenport, use the first afternoon to unpack, organize your belongings, and become familiar with the property.
Your Day 1 Plan
- Arrival: Pick up your rental car if needed and travel to your accommodation.
- Check-in: Locate the bedrooms, bathrooms, parking areas, and essential household equipment.
- Grocery shopping: Visit a nearby supermarket for breakfast essentials, drinks, snacks, and simple meals.
- Evening: Enjoy a comfortable family dinner and get a good night’s sleep.
Prepare your grocery list before arriving in Orlando. Breakfast supplies, bottled water, fruit, snacks, and easy meals can save time during busy park days. Check what your vacation rental already provides.
Remember that many vacation rentals have designated check-in times. If your flight arrives early, ask about luggage arrangements or early check-in availability before making plans.
Magic Kingdom: Let the Disney Adventure Begin.
MAGIC KINGDOM / FAMILY ATTRACTIONS
Today is the day everyone has been waiting for.
The first glimpse of Cinderella Castle. The excitement of choosing a favorite ride. The family photo you’ll probably keep for years.
Magic Kingdom is an excellent choice for families visiting Disney World for the first time.
Your Day 2 Plan
- Morning: Arrive around the scheduled park opening time.
- First attractions: Explore family favorites such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant, “it’s a small world,” or Pirates of the Caribbean.
- Lunch: Take a proper break at a convenient restaurant.
- Afternoon: Enjoy more attractions, character experiences, and indoor activities.
- Evening: Consider the scheduled nighttime entertainment, or head home if everyone needs rest.
Download the My Disney Experience app. It helps you check attraction wait times, dining options, and available Lightning Lane services. Always verify current rules and eligibility before purchasing.
Family tip: Check height requirements before your visit, especially when traveling with younger children.
Animal Kingdom: Explore the Wild Side of Disney.
ANIMAL KINGDOM / DISNEY SPRINGS
After yesterday’s fairytale adventure, today brings a completely different Disney experience.
Animal Kingdom combines wildlife, immersive environments, live entertainment, and memorable attractions.
Your Day 3 Plan
- Morning: Consider Kilimanjaro Safaris early in the day.
- Late morning: Explore Pandora and other themed areas.
- Lunch: Take a relaxing meal break.
- Afternoon: Enjoy available shows and family attractions.
- Optional evening: Visit Disney Springs for dining and shopping.
Why Visit Disney Springs?
Disney Springs is a shopping, dining, and entertainment destination where families can spend time without purchasing a Disney theme park admission ticket.
Standard self-parking is complimentary, although restaurants, stores, and entertainment experiences have their own costs.
Disney Springs is optional. If everyone is exhausted, returning home for dinner may be the better decision. Save your energy for the next day.
The Day You Don’t Rush: Pool Time, Shopping & Family.
RELAX / ENJOY YOUR VACATION HOME / SHOPPING
Here’s something many families discover after their first Orlando vacation:
Sometimes the best vacation day is the one without a park ticket.
After two exciting days, everyone deserves a chance to recharge.
Sleep in. Prepare breakfast. Enjoy your coffee without checking attraction wait times.
If your vacation home includes a private pool, today is the day to enjoy it.
Your Day 4 Plan
- Morning: Sleep in and enjoy breakfast together.
- Late morning: Relax by the pool or enjoy the property’s amenities.
- Afternoon: Consider visiting Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets.
- Evening: Enjoy a casual family dinner.
Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets
This outdoor shopping center offers a selection of outlet stores and international brands.
Address:
8200 Vineland Avenue
Orlando, FL 32821
Check Stores and Opening Hours →
Important: Shopping is optional. Spending the entire day relaxing can be just as rewarding.
Universal Orlando: A New Day of Adventure.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS / ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE / EPIC UNIVERSE
Your energy is back. Everyone is ready for another adventure.
Today we’re heading to Universal Orlando.
Before buying tickets, choose the park that best matches your family’s interests.
Option 1: Universal Studios Florida
A strong choice for families who enjoy movie-inspired attractions, themed experiences, and entertainment.
Option 2: Islands of Adventure
Consider this park if your group enjoys thrilling rides and immersive themed environments.
Option 3: Universal Epic Universe
Epic Universe introduces an exciting collection of immersive themed worlds, including SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, Dark Universe, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
Fans of Mario and Nintendo may especially enjoy exploring SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
Your Day 5 Plan
- Before your visit: Choose your Universal park and purchase the correct ticket.
- Morning: Arrive according to the published opening hours.
- Late morning: Focus on your family’s priority attractions.
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal and take a proper break.
- Afternoon: Continue exploring, allowing time for rest.
- Evening: Return home for dinner and a comfortable night’s sleep.
Universal offers different ticket options and park combinations. Do not assume every ticket includes Epic Universe. Check the included parks, restrictions, and dates before making a purchase.
Your Final Disney Adventure: EPCOT or Hollywood Studios?
EPCOT / HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS / FAMILY FAVORITES
By now, everyone has a favorite memory from the trip.
Perhaps it’s the first ride on a roller coaster. Maybe it’s a family picture in front of Cinderella Castle.
Today you get to choose one more Disney adventure.
Option A: EPCOT
EPCOT is an excellent option for families interested in international cultures, food, technology, and imaginative attractions.
Depending on availability and your group’s interests, consider exploring:
- Spaceship Earth
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends
- Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
- World Showcase
Option B: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
If your family enjoys movies, Star Wars, and Toy Story, Hollywood Studios may be the ideal choice.
Explore experiences such as:
- Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- Toy Story Land
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
- Available live shows and entertainment
Your Day 6 Plan
- Morning: Arrive at your chosen park and visit priority attractions.
- Lunch: Choose a convenient dining option.
- Afternoon: Enjoy rides, shows, or shopping.
- Evening: Return home for a final family dinner and begin packing.
Choose the park that best matches your family’s preferences. Trying to visit too many attractions on your last full day may leave everyone exhausted.
One Last Breakfast. A Thousand Great Memories.
FAMILY BREAKFAST / CHECKOUT / DEPARTURE
The suitcases are almost packed. Everyone has a favorite souvenir. Someone is already talking about coming back.
Today is about ending your vacation the same way it began: comfortably and without rushing.
Your Day 7 Plan
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast together if your departure schedule allows.
- Before checkout: Follow the property’s departure instructions.
- Optional stop: Enjoy one last meal or souvenir shopping.
- Departure: Allow enough time for traffic, airport procedures, and rental car return.
The best part of a family vacation isn’t how many attractions you managed to visit.
It’s the experiences you shared.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
Your Orlando Vacation Map
Orlando’s attractions are spread across a large area. Understanding their locations can help you organize transportation, reduce unnecessary driving, and plan your days more efficiently.
Use this interactive map to explore the general area. Select a destination below for its exact location and directions.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Map shows the general Orlando attractions area, not a live driving route.
Your actual travel times will depend on your vacation home’s location, traffic, park entrances, and the time of day. Always compare routes from the property’s specific address.
SMART FAMILY TRAVEL
8 Things to Do Before Your Orlando Vacation
- Buy park tickets in advance. Compare official admission options and verify which parks are included.
- Download the park apps. Check wait times, schedules, and dining information.
- Plan your transportation. Compare rental cars, rideshare options, parking fees, and tolls.
- Check park hours. Opening times and entertainment schedules can change.
- Pack for Florida weather. Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and lightweight rain gear.
- Plan some meals at home. Preparing breakfast or dinner can save time and help manage food expenses.
- Keep your rest day flexible. Leave room for unexpected activities or simply relaxing.
- Choose your accommodation carefully. Consider location, bedrooms, bathrooms, amenities, parking, and total costs.
MAKE YOUR VACATION FEEL LIKE HOME
Why Your Vacation Home Is Part of the Experience
Imagine returning from a long day at Disney.
The kids are tired. Everyone wants something different for dinner. Some family members want to watch a movie, while others are ready for bed.
This is where having the right accommodation can make a difference.
A vacation rental with multiple bedrooms, comfortable living areas, and a kitchen gives families more flexibility during their stay.
Floridian Vacation Rentals offers furnished vacation homes in Kissimmee and Davenport.
Depending on the property, amenities may include private pools, game rooms, spacious kitchens, and comfortable areas for families and groups.
The goal is simple: enjoy the attractions and have a comfortable place to return to at the end of the day.
Always review the actual property’s photographs, bedroom configuration, maximum occupancy, amenities, guest rules, and total booking price.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Orlando Vacation Planning FAQ
Is Seven Days Enough for Orlando?
Seven days can be enough for a memorable family vacation if you focus on your priority attractions and allow time for rest and transportation.
Should We Visit Disney and Universal in One Trip?
Visiting both is possible. Families with limited time should select the parks that best match their interests rather than trying to visit everything.
Do We Need a Rental Car in Orlando?
A rental car can be convenient when staying in Kissimmee or Davenport, especially if you plan to visit several parks, restaurants, and supermarkets. Rideshare services may also be an alternative.
Is a Vacation Rental a Good Choice for Families?
Vacation rentals can offer multiple bedrooms, kitchens, shared living areas, and additional privacy. Compare location, amenities, and total costs before choosing.
Where Should Families Stay Near Disney World?
Kissimmee and Davenport offer vacation rental options for families and groups. The best location depends on your itinerary, transportation needs, accommodation preferences, and budget.
FLORIDIAN VACATION RENTALS
The Best Orlando Memories Start with the Right Place to Stay.
Your Orlando vacation is about more than visiting theme parks.
It’s about spending time together, discovering new experiences, and having a comfortable place to relax between adventures.
Explore Floridian Vacation Rentals’ collection of vacation homes in Kissimmee and Davenport.
Compare available properties, review amenities, and choose the home that fits your family.
Explore Vacation Homes & Book Direct →Book directly at FloridianVR.com. Availability, rates, amenities, and property policies may vary.
