1 Day in Orlando Itinerary: What Should I Do That’s NOT Theme Parks?

Your 1 day Orlando itinerary doesn’t need to be spent at the theme parks. It may be what the city is best known for but there is much more to uncover.

It isn’t called The City Beautiful for nothing.

It’s brimming with excitement and pleasure, unique flavors, hidden gems, and unrivaled beauty. So many miss out on the magic that lies within. 

But that’s where we come in at The Florida Hipster Blog. Follow along to find out all the things to do in Orlando to have one of the most unforgettable days where we do all the planning for you!

Let’s jump into your perfect Orlando itinerary.

Best Things To Do In Orlando For Teenagers riding Mako roller coasters at SeaWorld Orlando. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Mako roller coaster at SeaWorld Orlando

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1. Start with Breakfast @The Diner

Fuel up for an awesome 24 hours in Orlando by starting your morning off right @The Diner.  It is the most important meal of the day, so be sure to take time to enjoy it.

At the Diner Orlando Entrance and Menu. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Why not have a little fun and try out their waffle tacos! Make it a waffle breakfast street taco or a pollo loco, smothered gravy, and fried chicken all inside topped with bacon. Even my mouth is watering!

At the Diner Orlando Avocado Toast with Tomatoes on Top. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Woke up with a sweet craving, then the Sunday Funday is what you are searching for. Don’t worry you will burn all those calories off with the adventures we have planned ahead for you. 

At the Diner Orlando Dining Room

Classic favorites, favorites with a twist, create your own breakfasts, and even lighter sides. There is something for everyone on their mouth-watering menu. This is one place you MUST add to your 1 day Orlando itinerary!

ORDER NOW to secure your Walt Disney World theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.

2. Take a nice stroll in Dickson Azalea

Walk off your fabulous breakfast strolling through 3.5 acres of beauty in Dickson Azalea.   It is one of Orlando’s hidden treasures and best-kept secrets. Shhhh!

Dickson Azalea Park Orlando, Florida

Once used by cattle herders as a watering hole it has since been transformed into an urban oasis. 

Step into a world of paradise. Moss-covered trails and magical bridges explode with every color of green imaginable. 

Dickson Azalea Park Orlando, Florida Flower. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

You won’t believe your eyes! What seems like a jungle scene at one of the theme parks is actually some of Orlando’s most spectacular natural beauty.

3. Enjoy the Swan Boat Ride Downtown Orlando

Have you ever wondered what it is like to glide through the waters as one of the most majestic and beautiful-looking creatures? Well, wonder no more. 

Downtown Orlando Lake Eola Swan Ride. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Hop aboard your own larger-than-life swan as you sail across the historic Lake Eola waters. Don’t forget to bring your furbabies They are welcome on the voyage too. 

These aren’t your typical paddle boats. These are the famous pedal-powered giant swan boats of Orlando. You can’t say you have truly visited Orlando unless you have taken one of their iconic swan boat rides.

Welcome to Downtown Orlando. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Swan swooning is an ultimate must! Typically closed on Monday so check the hours ahead and best of all no reservation is needed 

Get up to 76% off of the Orlando attractions with Groupon TODAY!

4. Grab a Donut at Salty Donut

Time for a quick pick me up. A sugar fix will cure that by grabbing a donut at Salty Dog. You donut want to miss this place!

The Salty Dog Donut Shop in Orlando Florida. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

You can find Salty Donut located in Audobon Park.  From butterbeer, and key lime meringue pie to guava & cheese. You won’t know where to start.

The Salty Dog Donut Shop in Orlando Florida Affogato Sweet Potato Pie and Pineapple Upside Down Cake Donuts. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

But donut stop at just one. There’s strawberry milk cake, brown butter and salt, and even a vegan cinnamon roll donut.

This is one place you MUST add to your 1 day Orlando itinerary!

ORDER NOW to secure your Universal Studios theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.

5. Enjoy a Cup of Coffee and Walk Through the Shops of Downtown Baldwin Park

Check out the quaint streets of scenic downtown Baldwin Park with a cup of java in hand. 

Baldwin Park Neighborhood in Orlando, Florida next to Seito Sushi. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Escape into several blocks of window shopping of all the cute little stores, charming cafes, and fantastic restaurants. It is hard to believe that this now enchanting area was once a former US Naval Base. 

Baldwin Park Neighborhood in Orlando, Florida Tea and Coffee Shop Frosty Fox. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Dog-friendly streets and picturesque views at Lake Baldwin are overlooked by Harbor Park, it’s a breath of fresh air!

6. Visit Icon Park and Have Lunch at Uncle Julio’s or The Hampton Social

The energy is buzzing in Icon Park with live music and an electric atmosphere. Free parking and free admission. Need I say more??

Uncle Julio’s serves up authentic Mexican food to satisfy any Tex-Mex craving. If you show up on a Tuesday then you are in for a feast- it’s Taco Bar Tuesday. 

Cool off with one of their margaritas of the month, you can’t go wrong. The awesome made-from-scratch menu is available all week long.

Oh, and did I mention their chocolate piñatas? Now I did!

The Hampton Social Entrance. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Coastal vibes and rose all day sounds like your vibe, then your lunch is waiting for you at The Hampton Social.

The Hampton Social Hot Chicken Sandwich. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
The Hampton Social Chicken Sandwich

Spend over $25 then be sure to get your parking validated as a bonus. 

7. Walk Your Lunch off at SEALife Aquarium Orlando, and Madame Tussaud’s Museum

Time to walk that lunch off, re-energize and be a kid again! It’s fun for all ages.

Walk under the sea and stay dry? Yep, that’s possible at SeaLife Aquarium Orlando. 

SeaLife Aquarium in Orlando Florida. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Get a fish eye’s perspective or even a shark’s, turtles, and eels. They are all surrounding you in the mesmerizing 360-degree ocean tunnel.

This is one place you MUST add to your 1 day Orlando itinerary!

Best Things To Do In Orlando For Teenagers Sealife Aquarium. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

The coastal rockpool gets you up close and personal with starfish. So personal you can even pet the starfish if you are feeling daring. You only live once, right?!

Things to Do in Orlando for Teens SeaLife Aquarium

Always wanted to brush arms with a celebrity. Well, welcome to Madame Tussaud’s Museum. The place where dreams come true!

Have your eyes gaze upon Aquaman, dine with Audrey Hepburn and go head-to-head with Jackie Chan. Charge up your phone because your photo-ops will be endless. 

Make it a double or triple play. It’s well worth it if you plan on seeing more than one attraction, saving 37 % to 48%. We love finding a deal here at The Florida Hipster Blog!

Save over 45% on admission with the ICON Play Pass TODAY!

8. Grab a Sweet Treat at the Sugar Factory

Don’t store away that inner child just yet, you are in Icon Park after all. 

The Sugar Factory is calling your name with all your childhood sweet tooth favorites. The groovy and fun atmosphere screams happiness and good times. 

Sugar Factory exterior shot with Orlando ICON Best Kid Restaurants in Orlando. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

The colorful candies pop and so do the memories. So, grab yourself a sweet treat and indulge. We all deserve it and you are on holiday remember!

Get over 30% off on your Orlando CityPass here!

9. Get a Quick Game in at the Escape Game Orlando, TopGolf Orlando, or Andretti Indoor Karting and Games Orlando

Keep the energy alive and flowing still on International Drive at Escape Game Orlando.

Escape Game with NikkyJ. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Carry on feeling like a kid, “The Playground” is calling your name. Or a bit devious and “The Heist” or “Prison Break” is more up your alley. There are 7 different escape rooms to choose from so book the one you want online or give them a call. 

Good news, parking is free so pull into the lot behind the building!

Go-Karts and Golfing!

Golf more your afternoon style? TopGolf Orlando has your tee time. It’s more than just your everyday driving range. 

Top-Golf-with-Adults-Playing-and-Enjoying-Food-and-Drinks
Photo Courtesy of Topgolf

Complimentary clubs are provided if you don’t have your own, televisions in every bay, and climate control so you don’t break a sweat. So get out there and have a swing of a good time!

Active police, fire, military, or EMS personnel? Then Andretti Indoor Karting and Games Orlando want to thank you for your service and protection with a 20% discount. 

Best Things To Do In Orlando For Teenagers on Go Kart. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Still, feeling the sugar rush from your sweet treats?  A little adrenaline and energy to burn off?  Hit the racetrack at Andretti Indoor Karting and Games Orlando.

Experience the rushes of excitement going through the track up to 35 miles/hour. 

Not quite ready for the track then check out the games. Pro racing simulators might be just what you are looking for to fulfill your race car driver dreams. 

The little ones are not left out if you bring them along! Mini Mario Karts are available if you have young ones on your trip for 4-7 years old. 

This is one place you MUST add to your 1 day Orlando itinerary!

10. Have Dinner at Jinya Ramen Bar

Time to take a breath and unwind. Just don’t be scared if you walk in the door and everyone shouts out at you.

Jinya Ramen Asian Restaurant in Orlando Bang Bang Shrimp. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

It’s all in good humor. Irasshai means welcome, so come on in and be seated.

Jinya Ramen Asian Restaurant in Orlando Fried Chicken next to Noodle Bowl. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Wonton Chicken Ramen can’t be beaten. But the Shrimp Wonton Ramen does hold its own though. Choose for yourself ramen, small plates, rice bowls, and currys.

They also serve up gluten-free ramen and a Flying Vegan harvest. Just check out their vegetarian and gluten-free menus for more. 

This is another place you MUST add to your 1 day Orlando itinerary!

11. End the Night with an Orlando Magic Basketball Game or Show at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Discover the essence of Orlando ending the night with an energetic Orlando Magic basketball game. It’s the true way to feel the spirit of O-Town and end the most brilliant day on a high note. 

NikkyJ at Orlando Magic Game Amway Arena. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

A show at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando could possibly rival this. It’s a showdown. 

This is one place you MUST add to your 1 day Orlando itinerary!

Dr Phillips Downtown Orlando

Whether it be theater, orchestra, ballet, comedy, music, or dance. The stage comes alive with only the best. So, choose the tickets that bring the feeling of Orlando home to you. 

Get more Orlando travel planning tips right here!

More Things to Do in Orlando on Your 1-Day Itinerary

Now that you have your perfect Orlando itinerary together, let’s go through some of the BEST things to do here in this beautiful Florida city!

Best Kid Restaurants in Orlando

  1. Rainforest Cafe
  2. T-Rex Cafe
  3. Toothsome’s Chocolate Emporium
  4. Sugar Factory
  5. Planet Hollywood
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Outside Shot Universal Orlando Resort. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

Recommended: 10 BEST Kid Restaurants in Orlando that YOU Can’t Miss!

Top Farms in Orlando

  1. Beck Brothers Citrus
  2. Wildflower Farm
  3. Freshfields Farm
  4. Lake Meadow Naturals
  5. Legend Acres Farm Petting Zoo
Orlando Farms Featured Image. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Recommended: Top 10 Farms in Orlando You MUST Visit

Best Place to Pick Oranges in Orlando

  1. Showcase of Citrus
  2. Bekemeyer Family Farm
  3. Red Hill Groves
  4. Vo-LaSalle Farms
  5. Pappy’s Patch U-Pick Strawberries
Pappy’s Patch U - Pick Strawberries and Oranges

Recommended: Orange Picking in Orlando: 5 Best Orange Groves You MUST Visit

Best Places to Get Dessert in Orlando

  1. Mr. Puffs
  2. The Salty Donut
  3. Smallcakes Cupcakery & Creamery
  4. Insomnia Cookies
  5. VooDoo Doughnuts
Small Cakes Cupcakes. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Recommended: BEST Dessert in Orlando: 19 Places You Won’t Regret Visiting!

Best Brunch in Winter Park

  1. Briarpatch Restaurant
  2. The Parkview
  3. Hamilton’s Kitchen
  4. Boca Winter Park
  5. Sixty Vines
CFS Coffee in Orlando Winter Park Florida Area with NikkyJ. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Recommended: What’s the Best Brunch Spot in Winter Park? Here are 10 Locations to Help You Decide

Best Places to Get Wings in Orlando

  1. Chi-Kin
  2. Island Wing Company Grill and Bar
  3. Jerkman BBQ
  4. Josie’s Pizza and Wings
  5. Mad Crab Seafood and Wings
Island Wing Company Naked Wings. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Recommended: Top 10 Places to Get the BEST Wings in Orlando, Florida

Top Places to Get Ice Cream in Orlando

  1. Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
  2. Twistee Treat
  3. Allen’s Creamery & CoffeeHouse
  4. Beaches & Cream Soda Shop
  5. Smallcakes Cupcakery & Creamery
Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney Beach Club Banana Split Ice Cream. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Recommended: 10 Places to Get the BEST Ice Cream in Orlando

Best Hibachi in Orlando

  1. Kobe Japanese Steakhouse
  2. Maki Hibachi
  3. Hibachi Express
  4. Sake Bar II (Kissimmee)
  5. Island Flamed Luck Hibachi

Recommended: What’s the BEST Hibachi in Orlando? These Are the Top 10 Places YOU MUST VISIT

Best Things for Couples to Do in Orlando

  1. An EPCOT Festival
  2. Bonnet Creek Epicurious, A Curated Progressive Dinner
  3. One of Orlando’s Best Lounges
  4. Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Festival
  5. Sangria University at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Visit Epcot Flower and Garden Festival in the Spring
Visit Epcot Flower and Garden Festival in the Spring.

Recommended: 27 Unique and FUN Things to Do in Orlando for Couples

Best Steakhouse in Orlando

  1. Shula’s Steakhouse
  2. Yachtsman Steakhouse
  3. Bull and Bear
  4. STK
  5. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse

Recommended: Looking for the Best Steakhouse in Orlando? These are the Top 10 Places YOU MUST TRY

Best Sushi in Orlando

  1. Kadence
  2. Kabooki
  3. Morimoto Asia
  4. Seito Sushi
  5. Soseki Modern Cuisine
Seito Sushi Orlando Sushi roll with tuna and caviar. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Seito Sushi Orlando Sushi roll with tuna and caviar

Recommended: 10 BEST Sushi Spots You Have to Try in Orlando, Florida

Best Things to Do in Orlando with Babies and Toddlers

  1. An Orlando Farm
  2. Orlando Science Center
  3. Crayola Experience
  4. My Little Town
  5. SEALife Orlando Aquarium
My Little Town in Orlando Florida Market and Fire Department. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
My Little Town

Recommended: 19 Fun Things to Do in Orlando with Toddlers and Babies that’s NOT Disney

Top Places to Get Breakfast in Orlando

  1. Hash House A Go Go
  2. @The Diner
  3. FK Your Diet
  4. Maple Street Biscuit Company
  5. KeKe’s Breakfast Cafe
FK Your Diet Orlando Southern Fried Chicken Benny and Chicken and Waffles
FK Your Diet Orlando

Recommended: 10 Best Breakfast Spots in Orlando You CAN’T MISS 

Best Places to Get Brunch in Orlando

  1. Formosa Gardens
  2. Wine Bar George
  3. House of Blues
  4. FK Your Diet
  5. Bar 5 Lounge and Grill
Island Grove Winery at Formosa Gardens Orlando Brunch with NikkyJ holding wine. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Island Grove Winery at Formosa Gardens

Recommended: 15 Amazing Places to Get the BEST Brunch in Orlando

Best Burgers in Orlando

  1. The Whiskey
  2. Portillo’s
  3. Mooyah
  4. Shake Shack
  5. Freddie’s
The Whiskey Burger Orlando mushroom burger with fries
The Whiskey

Recommended: What’s the Best Burger in Orlando? These are 15 Spots You Can’t MISS!

Best Gardens in Orlando, Florida

  1. Harry P Leu Gardens
  2. Mead Botanical Garden
  3. Kraft Azalea Garden 
  4. Central Park Rose Garden in Winter Park, Florida
  5. Dickson Azalea Park
Island Grove Winery at Formosa Gardens Orlando Brunch Garden Area. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

Recommended: 8 Magical Gardens in Orlando You Have to Visit 

Top Breakfast Buffet in Orlando

  1. The Boheme Jazz Brunch Buffet
  2. Cape May Cafe
  3. BOMA-Flavors of Africa
  4. Whispering Canyon
  5. Harvest Bistro

Recommended: What’s the BEST Breakfast Buffet in Orlando? These Are 11 Places You Can’t Miss!

Best Oysters in Orlando

  1. The BOATHOUSE
  2. Wine 4 Oysters
  3. The Osprey Seafood and Spirits
  4. Atlantic Beer & Oyster
  5. Clermont Oyster Bar
Best Oysters in Orlando Boathouse with French 75 Martini
The BOATHOUSE

Recommended: Top 10 Places to Get the BEST Oysters in Orlando TODAY!

Best Lunch in Orlando

  1. Boba Queen
  2. Jam Hot Chicken
  3. Kura Sushi
  4. Mamak Asia Street Food
  5. Chick’n’Cone
Island Wing Company Loaded Tuna Nachos
Island Wing Company Loaded Tuna Nachos

Top Places to Get Breakfast in Orlando on International Drive

  1. Hash House A Go Go
  2. @The Diner
  3. The Hampton Social 
  4. First Watch
  5. Moma’s Cafe
Hash House a Go Go Gigantic Chicken Biscuit with Pineapple Drink. Best breakfast on International Drive Orlando. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Hash House a Go Go

Recommended: Top 10 Places to Get the Best Breakfast in Orlando on International Drive 

Best Crab Legs in Orlando

  1. J Crab House
  2. Hot N Juicy Crawfish
  3. Mad Crab Seafood and Wings
  4. EZ Crab Shack
  5. King Cajun Crawfish
EZ Crab Shack Best Crab Legs in Orlando

Recommended: Top 10 Places to Get the Best Crab Legs in Orlando

Best Breakfast in Kissimmee

  1. Maple Street Biscuit Company
  2. Metro Diner
  3. Keke’s Breakfast Cafe
  4. Loading Gastrobrunch
  5. Island Grove Wine Company at Formosa Gardens for Brunch
Island Grove Winery at Formosa Gardens Orlando Brunch French Toast
Island Grove Winery at Formosa Gardens

Best Restaurant in Orlando, Florida

  1. La Luce 
  2. Bull and Bear
  3. Victoria and Albert’s 
  4. Kadence 
  5. Seito Sushi

15 Free Things to Do in Orlando

  1. Hangout in Disney Springs
  2. Relax in a Beautiful Orlando Garden
  3. Explore the Boardwalk at Disney World
  4. Hangout in ICON Park
  5. Party it Up in CityWalk
  6. Explore Old Town Kissimmee
  7. Visit an Orlando Farm
  8. Take a Break in Lake Eola and Watch the Swans
  9. Explore Downtown Winter Park
  10. Take a Hike on the Tibet-Butler Preserve
  11. Go on a Free Wine Tour Tasting the Best that Florida has to offer at Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards
  12. Discover One of the Majestic Springs of Florida like Rock Springs
  13. Have Fun at the Winter Garden Farmer’s Market
  14. Walk Around the Mall at Millenia
  15. Resort Hop at Walt Disney World

Top Romantic Getaways in Orlando

  1. Spa Day
  2. Wine Tasting at Orlando ICON
  3. Luxury Stay at an Orlando Hotel
  4. Weekend Cruise
  5. Go on a Relaxing Boat Tour in Orlando
Disney Grand Floridian Resort and Spa NikkyJ drinking coffee. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Disney Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Recommended: 19 Romantic Getaways In Orlando You’ll Fall In Love With

Where to Stay in Orlando

  1. Swan and Dolphin Resort
  2. Signia
  3. Encore Resort
  4. Disney’s Riviera Resort
  5. Universal Orlando Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort Hotel in Orlando, Florida Cabana. Keep reading to get the best 1 day Orlando itinerary and the best things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort Hotel in Orlando, Florida

Recommended: Where to Stay in Orlando: Top 10 Hotels and Resorts for ALL Budgets

What’s the Best Time to Travel to Orlando?

You’ll find the best weather from March through May. Any month during this timeframe will be the best time to travel to Orlando.

Plus the temperatures to be warm and pleasant during the day. Plus, there’s the bonus of cheaper airfare and hotels.

The best part is that fewer people go to the theme parks in spring, so you won’t have to battle your way through as many crowds if you visit during this time.

Get your Weekend Hotel Deals from as low as $45/night TODAY!

More Fun Things to Do in Orlando From Our Sister Site

Wrapping Up Your 1-Day Orlando Itinerary

Well, there you have it! Your epic 1-day in Orlando itinerary exploring some of the best sights and activities that this wonderful Floridian city has to offer. 

Cinderella Castle at Disney Magic Kingdom Castles in Florida

At The Florida Hipster Blog, we want to make sure everyone gets a chance to discover the secret treasures of Orlando. What are you waiting for, get out there and have some fun!

Things to Do in Orlando, Florida. Your complete Orlando Travel guide
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What’s the one thing you must have on your Orlando itinerary? Let us know in the comments section below!

UP NEXT: Day Trips from Orlando: 34 Incredible Places to Visit Less than 3 Hours Away!

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