So, you’re planning a fun weekend with your friends and you’re heading to Orlando! It’s a great choice, one that millions of people make every single year, and it’s not difficult to see why.
Orlando gets great sunshine and has good vibes all year round, has a fantastic food scene that’s diverse and flavorful, is a hub of entertainment and nightlife hotspots, has great shopping and cultural attractions (not just the roller coasters) and if you’re an outdoorsy group of friends then you have nature trails, lakeside picnics, paddleboarding, surfing and more all at your fingertips.
Believe it or not, you don’t have to have an extensive budget or incredibly deep pockets to enjoy Orlando with your friends. Beyond the theme parks, there’s a huge amount of activities, sights to see and things to experience, ranging from the totally free up to the more expensive end, which just goes to show how inclusive Orlando is as a destination for friends who want to have fun and spend time together. Read on for some ideas on how to have a fun weekend in Orlando with your friends, no matter what your budget might be.
Getting Around
No matter what you choose to do or how you want to spend your time, you’re going to need to get from A to B with ease. Your time in Orlando is limited, so it’s important you’re not wasting time walking everywhere or cutting the fun short so you don’t miss the last bus back to your hotel. This is where cheap car rental at Orlando Airport comes in handy.
Clubbing together to cover the cost of a car rental means everyone can enjoy an efficient yet practical way to get around. For instance, if you’re heading to the beach for the day with beach bags, coolers, and accessories, then you’re not going to want to lug those heavy bags on public transport. Driving means a more laid-back approach — you could even take turns driving, so everyone gets a chance to be chauffeured around!
Where to Stay: Group-Friendly Options
Where you stay with your friends when on vacation (however short) can often make or break your trip! It may just be somewhere to rest at the end of a busy day, but no one wants to spend hard-earned money on accommodation that isn’t up to scratch! Luckily, Orlando has plenty of great group accommodation options that suit every budget! Here are a few you might want to consider:
Modest Budget
Hostels: Options such as the Florida Hostel Orlando or HI Orlando International Drive offer bunk-style accommodations with shared common areas.
Budget Hotels: Check out La Quinta, Motel 6, or Rodeway Inn near International Drive or Kissimmee for clean, simple rooms at low prices.
Airbnb homes or condos: Ideal for splitting the cost. Look for multi-bedroom rentals with full kitchens, living areas, and free parking!
Mid-Range:
Boutique hotels: Aloft Orlando Downtown or Hotel Hightower offer trendy interiors, shared lounge spaces, and central locations.
Mid-tier resorts: Avanti International Resort or Rosen Centre Hotel often feature large pools, on-site restaurants, and bars perfect for pre-drinks or downtime
Luxury Getaways:
Resort-style villas: Margaritaville Resort Orlando offers multi-bedroom cottages, private hot tubs, and resort access.
Private luxury rentals: Platforms like Airbnb give you exclusive access to large homes with game rooms, home cinemas, and pools.
Upscale resort stays: For a full-service experience with amenities like pools, spas, and on-site dining, check out their Orlando area resorts from Westgate. With multiple locations across the city, they offer convenience, comfort, and a range of room types perfect for group getaways.
Outdoor Fun
Orlando is famous for its themeparks and its weather but did you know that it’s home to multiple parks, lakes and other outdoor activities that are perfect for groups? Regardless of your budget, there are plenty of ways you and your friends can make the most of those sun-drenched days and make some memories in the great outdoors. Here are our top recommendations for outdoor fun for your weekend getaway.
Budget Options:
Explore Lake Eola Park – pack a picnic, rent swan boats, and wander around the farmers market (Sundays) and sample some amazing home-baked goods, sample local produce and pick a souvenir or two.
Take a stroll or bike ride on the West Orange Trail or around Baldwin Park. Just remember to take plenty of water and sun protection with you!
Spend an afternoon at Mead Botanical Garden – peaceful, beautiful, and free to enter. Admire the flowers and arrangements and take plenty of photos!
Mid Range Options:
Want to get out on the water? Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Wekiva Island – it’s a fun, social spot with outdoor bars and lounge areas. A great place to spend an afternoon.
Visit Leu Gardens for a calm group experience among nature and local blooms. Ideal for those who want an outdoor adventure but without the high energy.
Want to try something new? Try horseback riding or a small group airboat tour through Florida wetlands — watch out for those gators!
Luxury Experiences:
Hoping for some truly Insta-worthy pics? Try booking a guided sunset sailing tour just outside Orlando for something truly memorable. Don’t forget to charge your phone!
Go glamping at nearby locations like Lake Louisa State Park and enjoy nature with a touch of luxury.
Charter a pontoon for a private lake day with drinks, food, and floating fun. You could hire one with your own crew or without!
Top Tips for a Smooth Weekend Away with Friends in Orlando
Sometimes, even the closest of friends can have trouble making decisions or ensuring everyone is enjoying themselves, especially when excitement is high! Here are our top tips for a smooth weekend away to Orlando.
Set a budget: One of the most common issues facing friends on a weekend break is money. Not everyone will have the same budget, so be upfront about what everyone’s comfortable spending so no one feels left out or pressured.
Pack Smart: Florida weather is usually hot and humid and evenings can sometimes be cool. So, ensure everyone has adequate sun protection, including hats, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. Look after each other and check in on how everyone is managing in the heat. The last thing you want is one of your friends to become ill.
Balance Group and Solo Time: Not everyone will want to spend time together at every moment. Make sure there’s downtime planned where people can go and do their own thing if they wish. Whether it’s watching a movie in the accommodation, heading to a museum, or sunbathing by the pool. It’s important for everyone to have time to themselves.
Final Thoughts…
Planning a trip away with your friends is a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime. Make sure you take plenty of pictures and enjoy every single second!
The post A Fun Weekend in Orlando With Friends: Ideas for Every Budget appeared first on Moss and Fog.