Courtesy of Jimmy DeFlippo/Jimmy DeFlippo
1-day Itinerary in Orlando-Walt Disney World
Explore the best things to do in Orlando-Walt Disney World in 1 day based on recommendations from local experts.
Day 1
- 1#1
View all Photos#1 in Orlando-Walt Disney WorldAmusement Parks, Cafes, Entertainment and Nightlife, ShoppingTYPEMore than Full DayTIME TO SPENDAmusement Parks, Cafes, Entertainment and Nightlife, ShoppingTYPEMore than Full DayTIME TO SPENDExcessive, exhausting and expensive, Walt Disney World Resort is above all else enchanting. Composed of four theme parks (the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom), two water parks (Disney's Typhoon Lagoon and Disney's Blizzard Beach), more than two dozen hotels and the Disney Springs shopping, dining and entertainment complex, this sprawling property features iconic sights and rides like Cinderella Castle, "it's a small world," Spaceship Earth, Toy Story Land and Pandora – The World of Avatar. Even Anaheim's Disneyland can't compete, according to some.
Of course, there is one major drawback. Walt Disney World park tickets are expensive, regardless of whether you're visiting for just a day (single-day tickets for kids and adults ages 10 and older start at $109). Meanwhile, one-day water park tickets start at $64 for adults 10 and older. Most suggest you visit this expansive property over the course of several days to justify the high entrance fees. If you have limited time, consider skipping the parks in favor of exploring Disney Springs, which is free to visit.
10-15 minutes by car - 2#3
View all PhotosfreeI-Drive#3 in Orlando-Walt Disney WorldEntertainment and Nightlife, Recreation, Shopping, Free, Neighborhood/AreaTYPE2 hours to Half DayTIME TO SPENDEntertainment and Nightlife, Recreation, Shopping, Free, Neighborhood/AreaTYPE2 hours to Half DayTIME TO SPENDThe International Drive Resort Area is one of Orlando's most diverse regions to visit. Situated less than 10 miles southwest of downtown Orlando, this area features a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment venues, including WonderWorks, two outlet malls, Ripley's Believe It or Not! and Pirate's Cove Adventure miniature golf course. Eateries here offer all sorts of cuisines, or travelers can enjoy a meal while watching a themed show. For night owls, I-Drive boasts a B.B. King-affiliated blues club, a Howl at the Moon dueling pianos venue, a Señor Frog's restaurant and bar, the world's largest permanent ice bar and more.
Though several former visitors caution that I-Drive tends to get clogged with cars, many said everything one could need is located along this road. Plus, prices here aren't as high as those found in the adjacent theme parks.
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