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If you’re planning a trip to Disney World Resort in Florida, you may be wondering how to get to your Disney resort now that Disney’s Magical Express service is no longer running. Luckily, there are still plenty of ways to get to the resort, whether you’re coming from the airport or from elsewhere in the state. Planning your transportation is essential to make the most of your magical vacation. Let’s explore the various transportation options available to help you navigate Walt Disney World.
Transportation Options From Orlando International Airport to Disney World
If you’re flying into Orlando International Airport, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or shuttle to get to your Disney World Resort. There are also a few different rental car companies located at the airport, so you can rent a car for your trip if you’d prefer to be in control.
Did you know there’s a hotel inside the Orlando airport? Find out more in case you want to book a stay before an early departure or after a late arrival. Also a great option for Disney Cruises!
Take a look at several transportation options from Orlando airport to Disney World.
Shuttle From Airport to Disney World Resort
There are a few shuttle companies that offer services from Orlando International Airport to Disney World Resorts and other nearby hotels. Mears Connect Drive by Sunshine is the most popular option and Mears used to operate the former Magical Express. There is a fee associated with booking this option and it varies depending on if you book the standard or express option. You can schedule your rides based on your flights in advance to take you to your resort and bring you back to the airport at the end of your vacation.
Private Car Service
If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, private car services like Tiffany Towncar, can whisk you away in style. This option usually comes with a higher price tag, but you’ll have a comfortable, private ride with a professional driver to begin your magical Disney vacation.
Ride-Sharing Service or Taxi
If you’re looking for flexibility, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are excellent choices. They are readily available at the Orlando airport and you can hop in and head to Disney World whenever you’re ready. Keep in mind that pricing can vary depending on where you’re traveling to and demand, meaning it may be pricier to use during peak times. This option gives you direct transportation to your specific location and avoids stops for other guests. Taxis will also be available outside of the airport as well if you prefer that option.
Rental Car Options
If you’d prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle during your Disney vacation, you can rent a car from one of the many rental car companies located at the Orlando International Airport. Prices will vary depending on the type of car you rent and the length of your rental. This will allow you to explore more of Orlando and the surrounding areas at your own pace if you’d like.
Deciding Which Transportation Option is Right for You
The best transportation option for you will depend on your budget, your preferences, and your travel needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a transportation option:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on transportation?
- Preferences: Do you prefer to drive or use a ride-sharing service? Do you want direct service to your resort or do you not mind making multiple stops?
- Travel needs: How many people are in your group? Do you have any special needs or requirements, like ECVs or car seats?
Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your options and choose the transportation option that is the best fit for you and your travel party.
Driving to Walt Disney World
If you are coming from somewhere in the state of Florida or another nearby state, driving to Walt Disney World can be a convenient and cost-effective option. The Disney resorts have plenty of parking spaces and they do not charge a parking fee. If you’re staying at a Disney resort and also want to drive to the theme parks, you will not have to pay the standard parking fee – they will scan your Magic Band and see your resort reservation. While driving offers flexibility in terms of schedule and luggage space, be prepared for the Orlando traffic.
Transportation Between Disney Parks
Many ask if there is free transportation between Disney parks. The answer is yes! There is free transportation available between all of the Disney World theme parks and resorts. Once you’re within the “Disney Bubble,” Disney offers a comprehensive transportation system that includes buses, monorails, boats, and the Disney Skyliner gondola system depending on your location. These modes of transportation are complimentary for resort guests and provide convenient access to all four theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs, and resort properties.
Disney Buses
Disney buses connect all of the resorts and theme parks. They typically run every 20 minutes or so, making them a reliable way to get around Disney property. You’ll be able to see the timing of the buses to your resort using the My Disney Experience app and most of the bus stops have screens showing how long until the next bus arrives. Prior to park opening, the bus lines at resorts can get long so make sure to prepare for that!
Disney Monorail
The iconic monorail system connects Magic Kingdom to a few deluxe resorts (Grand Floridian, Polynesian, and Contemporary) and the Transportation and Ticket Center. It is a fun and scenic way to travel – the highway in the sky! There is an express monorail that goes directly from the Transportation and Ticket Center to the Magic Kingdom and back as well as the resort option which stops at each resort. You can also take a third monorail line from the Transportation and Ticket Center over to Epcot.
Disney Boats
Many Disney resorts are located around bodies of water and boat transportation is available to connect these resorts to the theme parks and other destinations, like Disney Springs. Friendship Boats from the Boardwalk area can get you to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom area resorts have water taxis to the park plus a ferryboat that runs from the Transportation and Ticket Center to Magic Kingdom, and Port Orleans, Saratoga Springs, and Old Key West resorts have boats that go to Disney Springs. The boats typically run every 20 minutes or so.
Disney’s Skyliner Gondola System
The newest mode of transportation is the Skyliner gondola system. This option offers a bird’s-eye-view of the property while connecting Hollywood Studios and Epcot to Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, Riviera, and Boardwalk area resorts. Depending on your destination, you may need to get off at the Caribbean Beach Skyliner hub and change gondolas.
Minnie Van Service through Lyft
While you’re on Disney property, you can request a ride in a Minnie Van through the Lyft rideshare app. Minnie Vans are operated by Disney Cast Members and are stylish red vehicles decorated with Minnie’s signature white polka dots! Please note that this option is not complimentary and requires payment through the Lyft app.
Disney Transportation Tips
Once you’ve made it onto Disney World property, here are a few tips for using the free transportation to get around Walt Disney World:
- Be aware of the operating hours for the different transportation options. The hours vary based on the mode of transportation, park hours, and more. These times can be found on the My Disney Experience app or the Disney website.
- Allow plenty of time for travel between destinations. You may encounter lines prior to boarding your mode of transportation, so make sure you have enough time especially if you have a reservation to get to. Sometimes you will also have to make multiple stops before getting to your final destination which adds to the travel time.
- Be patient and understanding. The transportation system at Walt Disney World can get crowded, especially during peak times.
There you have it, all of the magical ways to get to Walt Disney World from the Orlando airport and some Disney transportation tips! Your journey to the most magical place on Earth can be as unique as your Disney adventure itself. Consider your budget, style, and schedule when making your choice. No matter which mode of transportation you select, one thing is certain: you’re in for an unforgettable Disney adventure. So, pack your mouse ears and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Your journey to the most magical place on earth is about to begin!
