Who says you have to go far to truly get away?
With the right mindset (and the right planning), a staycation can feel every bit as rewarding as cafe hopping across a cosmopolitan metropolis and refreshing as a private island retreat.
The best part? You get to enjoy the comforts of home without the stress of travel: no airport layovers, no packing lists, just pure relaxation and boundless fun right in your own backyard.
At Lake Nona, we believe you deserve a staycation that actually feels like a vacation.
That’s why we’ve done the planning for you.
We’ve put together a 48-hour itinerary designed to help you actually experience Lake Nona like a seasoned traveler. But with no traveling, packing lists or layovers required.
Before you dive in, here are a few simple ground rules to make the most of it:
- Set a start and end date: Pick a weekend and commit to it just like you would for an actual getaway.
- Plan ahead: Consider that part taken care of, use this blog as a guide.
- Break the routine: Unplug from daily habits to find that true staycation state of mind.
- Try to leave the car behind: Make it a walkable adventure or grab an e-bike or scooter.
Let’s begin!
DAY 1
Check in at the Wave Hotel
Start your weekend at Lake Nona’s signature hotel. Iconic, design-forward and known for its striking aesthetic, art-gallery-like vibe and state-of-the-art technological touches. Check in, pull back the window curtains and let the smart-room amenities transport you the moment you arrive.
Explore the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden
Before you even unpack, wander through this stunning outdoor gallery where the art is matched only by the lush and immersive backdrop.
Stroll through Town Center
Take your time wandering past shops, public art installations and gathering spots you might usually rush by. Stop in that boutique you’ve always meant to check out or take a selfie in front of our mesmerizing garage artscape, nicknamed the DNA garage.
Impromptu Happy Hour at Chroma
As the afternoon winds down, head to Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen for small plates and signature cocktails. It’s a convivial way to kick off the evening. If your staycation runs into a weekday, enjoy Happy Hour officially with a special menu, Monday – Friday, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Dinner at Nami
There’s a special kind of culinary artistry happening in the kitchen at Nami. Grab a seat at the Chef’s Counter for a special 18-bite tasting menu as Executive Chef Jason Beliveau and Culinary Director Chef Freddy Money guide you through each course with precision and creativity. Click here to secure your seat today.
Discover something new at Boxi Park
If Chroma kicked off your evening, Boxi Park is the perfect bookend. Be sure to check out new containers like Before It’s Gone, Ice N Easy, and The Shed. With new events happening every weekend, you can truly arrive without a plan and let the night unfold in the best possible way. Friendly reminder: Boxi Park is cashless, but you can exchange cash for a gift card at the entrance.
DAY 2
Start your day with a fitness class at Lake Nona Performance Club
Some routines, like a restorative morning workout, deserve to be a part of your staycation. Wake up and join a group class at LNPC. Afterwards, treat yourself to a moment of self-care at the serene spa inside the club.
Explore by e-bike
Hop on, ride, and discover Lake Nona in a whole new way! Cruise along the Lake Nona Art Trail and take in large-scale installations like “The Beacon” and “Glass House.” Or choose a neighborhood trail to discover hidden art and nature. Fun fact: there are over 10 public art spaces throughout Lake Nona.
Lunch at Park Pizza & Brewing Co.
Time to refuel. Grab a slice and a pint of local craft beer. New taps are always in rotation and seriously refreshing after a morning on the move.
Epic fun at Nona Adventure Park
Add a shot of adrenaline to your afternoon. Get a grip on some wakeboarding or release your inner American Ninja warrior on the floating obstacle course. Craving something a bit less intense? Kick back in a lakeside cabana and take in the action from a safe, dry distance.
Dinner at Bacán
If you want to add a memorable occasion to your staycation, a meal at Bacán is just that. Don something chic and stylish for a MICHELIN-recommended dining experience featuring Latin American-inspired flavors and beautifully crafted dishes. It’s a truly show-stopping experience that will elevate your palate and alter your perception
Finish the night at The Nectar Room
Grab a cocktail, catch some live music and stay out just a little later than planned. It’s your itinerary to keep — or to waver from.
After a weekend like this, you’ll swear you traveled farther than just a few miles from home when Monday rolls around.
That’s the beauty of a real staycation: finding wanderlust in the familiar, trying things you always meant to and coming back home feeling genuinely recharged.
So go ahead, pick your weekend and assemble your itinerary.
How will your staycation top ours?
