You’ve booked your flights to Orlando International Airport (MCO), secured your reservations at a Walt Disney World Resort, and now the next big question arises: How do you get from the airport to your magical Disney vacation?
In the past, Disney made this decision easy by offering the complimentary Magical Express service, a bus that transported guests from the airport to their resort. However, since its discontinuation on January 1, 2022, travelers now need to decide which transportation method works best for their needs. Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you covered!
Here’s a detailed guide to the best options for getting to your Walt Disney World Resort, along with the pros, cons, and helpful tips for making the right choice.
1. Ride Share: Convenient and Quick
For adults or families looking for speed and convenience, ride-share services like Lyft, Uber, and taxis are a top choice. Ride shares are often the fastest option, and you can simply request a ride once you have your luggage. Within minutes, you’ll be whisked away to your resort to start your magical vacation.
Pros:
- Quick: Ride shares are readily available at the airport, so no need to wait for a bus.
- Affordable: In many cases, ride shares are one of the cheaper options for small groups.
- Convenient: Just a few taps on your phone, and your transportation is sorted.
Cons:
- Surge Pricing: Rideshare prices fluctuate, and if you arrive during a busy time, you might encounter higher rates.
- No Pre-booking: While you can request a ride at the airport, you can’t book these services in advance.
Car Seat Information:
- Both Uber and Lyft offer services that include car seats for young children, but make sure to select UberX or Lyft XL to ensure the availability of car seats.
Best Fit For:
- Adults or families with older children who don’t require car seats.
- Travelers looking for a quick, affordable, and flexible option.
Pricing:
- Generally ranges from $35 to $140, depending on the vehicle size and timing.
Tipping:
- Recommended to tip 15-20% of the fare.
Transportation Time:
- Direct service, so travel time is limited to the distance between the airport and your resort, typically around 30-45 minutes.
2. Private Car Service: Stress-Free Comfort for Families
Private car services are an excellent option for those traveling with larger groups or young children who require car seats. Companies like Quicksilver Tours, Happy Limo, and Away We Go offer pre-scheduled rides directly from the airport to your resort. Many services even allow for a grocery stop on the way, making it easy to pick up bottled water or snacks for your stay.
Pros:
- Car Seats: Private car services often provide car seats upon request, which is a huge perk for families with small children.
- Pre-booked: No need to worry about surge pricing or availability—you can book these services in advance.
- Grocery Stops: Some services offer a stop at a grocery store, allowing you to stock up on essentials before arriving at your resort.
Cons:
- Cost: While convenient, private car services tend to be more expensive than ride-share options.
Car Seat Information:
- Car seats are usually provided by the company at no additional charge, but check ahead of time.
Best Fit For:
- Larger groups or families who need car seats and want a direct, stress-free trip to the resort.
Pricing:
- Pricing varies by company but typically ranges from $150 to $300 for round-trip service, depending on the size of your party.
Tipping:
- A 15-20% tip is standard for private car services.
Transportation Time:
- As this is a direct service, expect your trip to take 30-45 minutes once you leave the airport.
3. Motor Coach: A Classic Disney Option
While Disney’s Magical Express is no longer available, two companies have stepped in to fill the gap: Mears Connect and The Sunshine Flyer. Both provide shared and private motor coach transportation from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World Resorts.
Mears Connect:
Mears Connect, the same company that operated Magical Express, now offers a similar service. Guests can choose between a shared motor coach experience or a private van, with transportation to multiple Disney Resorts.
The Sunshine Flyer:
This train-themed motor coach service is especially fun for kids. The Sunshine Flyer provides both shared and direct services to Disney Resorts, complete with themed buses that add a bit of extra magic to your trip.
Pros:
- Affordable: Shared motor coach services are one of the cheaper transportation options.
- Themed Experience: The Sunshine Flyer offers a fun, train-themed ride that kids will love.
- No Car Seats Needed: Since you’re traveling on a bus, car seats aren’t required.
Cons:
- Multiple Stops: With shared services, you may have to stop at other resorts before reaching your destination.
- Longer Wait Times: Depending on your arrival time, you may need to wait for your bus to depart.
Car Seat Information:
- Car seats are not required on motor coaches, though you can request them for private transfers.
Best Fit For:
- Families on a budget or those who don’t need car seats.
- Guests who don’t mind a little extra travel time in exchange for a cheaper option.
Pricing:
- Mears Connect: Shared service costs around $27 to $32 per person for a round trip. Private options can cost around $250 for a group of four.
- The Sunshine Flyer: Prices range from $24 to $39 per person for shared service. Private service costs between $240 to $320.
Tipping:
- A tip of $1-$2 per bag is appreciated.
Transportation Time:
- Expect to spend 2-3 hours from landing to your resort, as buses make multiple stops at different resorts.
4. Car Rental: Freedom to Explore
If you prefer being in control of your own transportation or plan to explore other parts of Orlando, renting a car may be the best option. MCO has several rental car companies on-site, and you can pre-book your vehicle before arriving to avoid long lines at the airport.
Pros:
- Flexibility: You control your schedule and can explore beyond Disney World if desired.
- No Waiting: No need to wait for a bus or car service—you can head straight to your resort or other destinations.
Cons:
- Cost: Renting a car can be one of the more expensive options, especially with the added cost of parking at Disney Resorts.
- Parking Fees: Many Disney Resorts charge for overnight parking, so factor this into your budget.
Car Seat Information:
- Car seats can be rented for an additional fee, typically around $7-$10 per day.
Best Fit For:
- Guests who want more control over their transportation or plan to visit other Orlando attractions.
Pricing:
- Car rental prices vary but typically start around $70+ per day.
Tipping:
- Not required, but tipping the parking attendants or bell services who help with luggage is customary.
Transportation Time:
- As this is a direct service, you can drive to your resort at your own pace. The drive is typically around 30-45 minutes.
Final Thoughts:
While the complimentary Magical Express days are behind us, there are plenty of transportation options to choose from when traveling from Orlando International Airport to your Walt Disney World Resort. Whether you prioritize speed, cost, or comfort, there’s a perfect solution for every family and budget.
From the convenience of ride shares and private car services to the budget-friendly motor coach options, each choice has its own pros and cons. Consider your party size, whether you need car seats, and how much flexibility you want during your trip, and you’ll be on your way to a magical Disney vacation.
By planning your transportation ahead of time, you can start your vacation stress-free and focus on what truly matters: the magic waiting for you at Walt Disney World!