Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the main airport serving the Orlando area, with millions of visitors arriving each year to visit the famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort. If you’re visiting Walt Disney World Resort, you’ll want to make sure you have a plan for transportation from the airport to your Disney hotel. In this article, we’ll discuss various transportation options and provide tips for a stress-free experience.
If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, Florida, chances are you’ll be visiting Walt Disney World Resort. While planning your trip, one important aspect to consider is transportation. If you’re flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO) and need to get to your Disney hotel, you have a few options to choose from. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to get from Orlando airport to Disney hotel and compare them in terms of cost, convenience, and overall experience.
Benefits of Staying at a Disney Hotel
Before we dive into transportation options, let’s talk about the benefits of staying at a Disney hotel. Firstly, staying on-site means you’re closer to the parks, which can save you time and money on transportation. Secondly, you’ll have access to Extra Magic Hours, allowing you to enter the parks before or after regular hours, giving you more time to enjoy the attractions. Thirdly, you’ll have access to complimentary transportation to and from the parks and other Disney destinations, such as Disney Springs. Finally, staying at a Disney hotel means you can take advantage of Disney’s Magical Express transportation service.
Transportation Options from Orlando Airport to Disney Hotel
When it comes to transportation options from Orlando airport to Disney hotels, there are several choices to consider. One of the most popular options is Disney’s Magical Express, a complimentary service available exclusively to Disney hotel guests. This shuttle bus service runs from Orlando International Airport to Disney hotels, with luggage delivery included. However, it’s important to note that reservations must be made in advance, and the service is only available for arrivals at Orlando International Airport. For those who prefer more flexibility, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available at the airport and can be a convenient and affordable option. Taxis and private cars are also available, though they can be more expensive than ride-sharing services. Another option to consider is renting a car, which provides the freedom to explore the Orlando area at your own pace. Finally, public transportation is the least expensive option, but may not be the most convenient or comfortable choice for travelers with a lot of luggage.
Disney’s Magical Express
Disney’s Magical Express is a complimentary transportation service for guests staying at select Disney hotels. The service provides round-trip transportation between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and your Disney hotel. Disney’s Magical Express is available to guests staying at any of the following Disney hotels:
- Disney’s All-Star Resorts
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
- Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
- Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
- Disney’s Pop Century Resort
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Disney’s Magical Express must be reserved in advance, and the service is only available for arrivals at Orlando International Airport. The service includes luggage delivery, meaning your bags will be picked up from the baggage claim and delivered to your room at your Disney hotel. The service also includes an onboard video that provides an introduction to Walt Disney World Resort and offers tips on how to make the most of your vacation.
Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are widely available in Orlando and provide a convenient and affordable option for transportation from the airport to your Disney hotel. When you arrive at the airport, you can request a ride from the app, and a driver will pick you up at the designated pick-up area. Ride-sharing services are typically less expensive than a taxi or private car, and the ride can be paid for through the app, eliminating the need for cash.
Taxi or Private Car
If you prefer a more traditional form of transportation, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to take you from the airport to your Disney hotel. Taxis are available at the designated taxi stands outside of the baggage claim area, and private car services can be pre-arranged through various companies. While taxis and private cars can be more expensive than ride-sharing services, they offer a more personal and direct form of transportation.
Car Rental
If you plan on doing a lot of driving during your vacation, or if you want the freedom to explore the Orlando area at your own pace, renting a car may be a good option. Most major car rental companies have locations at the airport, making it easy to pick up and drop off your rental car. Keep in mind, however, that parking can be expensive at Disney hotels and theme parks.
Public Transportation
Finally, if you’re on a tight budget, you can take public transportation from the airport to your Disney hotel. Lynx is the public transportation system in Orlando, and there are several routes that serve the airport. You can take the Lynx bus from the airport to the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center, where you can transfer to a Disney bus to take you to your hotel. While public transportation is the least expensive option, it can be time-consuming and may not be the most convenient for travelers with a lot of luggage.
How to Use Disney’s Magical Express
If you’re staying at a Disney hotel that offers Disney’s Magical Express, here’s how to use the service:
Making Reservations
Disney’s Magical Express must be reserved in advance. You can make your reservation online or by phone. When you make your reservation, you’ll need to provide your flight information and the names of everyone in your party. You’ll also need to choose a pick-up time for your return trip to the airport.
Boarding the Bus
When you arrive at the airport, follow the signs to the Magical Express pick-up area. You’ll need to present your MagicBand or reservation information to board the bus. The bus will take you directly to your Disney hotel.
Luggage Service
One of the benefits of using Disney’s Magical Express is the luggage service. When you check your bags at your departing airport, you can tag them with special luggage tags provided by Disney. Your bags will then be picked up from the baggage claim and delivered directly to your room at your Disney hotel. When you’re ready to leave, you can leave your bags in your room, and they’ll be taken care of until it’s time to board the bus back to the airport.
Pros and Cons of Each Transportation Option
When deciding how to get from Orlando airport to your Disney hotel, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each transportation option. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Disney’s Magical Express
Pros:
- Free for Disney hotel guests
- Includes luggage delivery
- Provides an introduction to Walt Disney World Resort
Cons:
- Must be reserved in advance
- Only available for arrivals at Orlando International Airport
- Can be crowded and may require waiting for the next bus
Ride-Sharing Services
Pros:
- Convenient and affordable
- Can be paid for through the app
- No need for cash
Cons:
- Surge pricing can increase costs during busy times
- May not be available during peak travel times
- Drivers may not be familiar with Disney hotel drop-off locations
Taxi or Private Car
Pros:
- Personal and direct form of transportation
- No need to wait for a bus or driver
Cons:
- More expensive than ride-sharing services
- Can be subject to traffic delays
- Parking can be expensive at Disney hotels and theme parks
Car Rental
Pros:
- Freedom to explore the Orlando area at your own pace
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off at the airport
Cons:
- Can be expensive, especially with parking fees
- Not necessary if you only plan on visiting Disney parks
- May require additional fees for drivers under 25 or for adding an additional driver
Public Transportation
Pros:
- Least expensive option
- Provides access to Disney Transportation and Ticket Center
Cons:
- Can be time-consuming and inconvenient
- May not be the most comfortable or direct form of transportation
- May not be practical for travelers with a lot of luggage
Conclusion
Getting from Orlando airport to your Disney hotel can be a stressful experience, but with several transportation options available, you’re sure to find a method that works best for you. Whether you choose to take advantage of Disney’s Magical Express, use a ride-sharing service, take a taxi or private car, rent a car, or use public transportation, each option has its own pros and cons to consider. By planning ahead and weighing the factors that are most important to you, you can start your Disney vacation off on the right foot.
FAQs
Is Disney’s Magical Express still operating?
No, Disney’s Magical Express ceased operations on January 1, 2022.
Can I use ride-sharing services at Orlando International Airport?
Yes, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available at the airport.
How much does a taxi or private car cost from Orlando airport to Disney hotels?
The cost can vary depending on distance and time of day but expect to pay around $50-70 for a taxi or $100-150 for a private car.
Is it necessary to rent a car for a Disney vacation?
It’s not necessary, but it can be a good option if you plan on doing a lot of driving or want the freedom to explore the Orlando area at your own pace.
Can I take public transportation directly to my Disney hotel?
No, you’ll need to transfer to a Disney bus at the Transportation and Ticket Center.