Itinerary for one week - advice please

Question

Me and my wife (both 50) are coming end of April for our 25th wedding anniversary. Originally we were going to fly into Miami but would be 14 hours including a connection or 8 hours direct to Orlando. Plus we wanted to see Kennedy Space Centre if possible. Plus saves us £400 so we’ve decided on Orlando flight. Thinking of this as a rough plan. Any thoughts before I start booking accommodation and things to do?? Thanks in advance

Weds arrive Orlando at 15:15 stay one night

Thurs drive to Kennedy Space Centre then onto Miami

Thurs to Sun stay in Miami for 4 nights including a day in the Everglades

Mon & Tues drive down to the Keys for 2 nights. Day of anniversary is Tues so will be looking for nice hotel

Weds drive back to Orlando staying one night somewhere on the way

Fly home on Thurs at 17:45

Answer

Congratulations on your 25th anniversary! Your itinerary is ambitious but doable, and it balances both Orlando/space interests and the Miami/Keys experience nicely. Here’s a detailed perspective and some suggestions to help you refine your plans.

Wednesday – Arrival in Orlando:

Arriving at 15:15 gives you time to check into a hotel and relax after your flight. Consider staying close to the airport for convenience or near I-Drive if you want a quick taste of Orlando’s attractions.
If you have energy, a casual dinner near your hotel is a good idea; otherwise, just rest up for the next day.

Thursday – Kennedy Space Center then drive to Miami:

Plan an early start to visit the Kennedy Space Center (KSC). The visitor complex opens around 9 am. Expect to spend 3–5 hours exploring exhibits, Space Shuttle Atlantis, and the Rocket Garden.
After your visit, the drive to Miami is roughly 3.5–4 hours. Factor in traffic and a meal stop.
Consider booking a Miami hotel near South Beach or Brickell depending on whether you prefer beach proximity or a downtown vibe.

Thursday–Sunday – Miami stay including Everglades:

Miami offers a lot of options for day trips, dining, and beach time. Consider scheduling the Everglades visit on one of the first days to avoid backtracking later. Airboat tours are popular, but check for morning slots to avoid heat and crowds.
Explore South Beach for iconic architecture, Ocean Drive, and casual cafes. Brickell and Wynwood are great for art, restaurants, and nightlife.
Consider one full beach day (or two half-days) so you can relax and enjoy the water without feeling rushed.

Monday–Tuesday – Florida Keys:

The drive from Miami to Key West is roughly 3.5–4 hours. You might stop at Key Largo or Islamorada for a scenic break or lunch.
Tuesday is your anniversary — consider splurging on a boutique hotel or resort in Key West with ocean views. Booking early is essential for this day.
Explore Duval Street, Mallory Square, or just enjoy a sunset sail or private beach experience to celebrate.

Wednesday – Return to Orlando:

Driving back from Key West to Orlando is a long day (about 6–7 hours), so consider stopping overnight midway, possibly around Fort Pierce or West Palm Beach to break up the drive.
Plan for a comfortable hotel to rest before your flight the next day.

Thursday – Fly home:

With a 17:45 flight, leaving Orlando by mid-afternoon should give you enough time for rental car return, security, and a relaxed departure.

Additional Tips:

Book accommodations early, especially in Key West for your anniversary.
Consider park and museum tickets online in advance to save time.
Pack light for the Keys and Miami; casual, beach-friendly clothing works best, but also have a nicer outfit for your anniversary dinner.
Check Florida traffic conditions, especially near Miami and Keys, to avoid delays.
If you want a slightly less rushed schedule, you could skip one Miami day and dedicate it to a more leisurely Keys drive or sightseeing.

Overall, your plan looks very doable and balances attractions, travel, and downtime nicely. Just ensure hotels and key activities (like your anniversary celebration) are reserved in advance.

Itinerary for one week - advice please

More Miami Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions