Transportation Options from Orlando International Airport

Let’s keep this as easy as possible, because there are a few options to get you from the Orlando International Airport (MCO) to the various resorts within the Orlando area. Our goal is to provide you with the options and then you’re able to decide based on a number of factors, including cost, ease of booking and convenience.

Here are the Transportation Options from Orlando International Airport

We’ll break this down into two sections

  • Staying at a Disney Resort
  • Staying Off-Property

STAYING AT A DISNEY RESORT?

Mears Connect (Formerly Disney’s Magical Express)

Mears Connect at Orlando International Airport (Image: Dustin Fuhs / StepstoMagic)

The new Mears Connect is a service that we haven’t tried first hand yet, but it’s the replacement for the FREE Disney service with a catch – it’s not free!

Cost: $$$

Ease of Booking: We’ve had a number of friends try the service, with a mix of results. The booking is typical ‘Mears’ booking, which means that it’s bound to have a level of frustration involved.

Convenience: The big convenience factor for Mears Connect is that it can drop you off directly at your resort. You know what else can drop you off at your resort?

An UBER / LYFT.

NOT STAYING AT A DISNEY RESORT?

UBER

Uber / Lyft at Disney World
Uber / Lyft at Disney World – Photo by Steps To Magic

Cost: Per carYou’ll have to do the math on this one, but depending on how many people you’re travelling with, it’ll probably be cheaper than paying individually for a shuttle.

Ease of Booking: Everything is done on the Uber app, which is incredibly simple and straightforward. They also have a customer service line in case you need assistance.

Convenience: Uber is as convenient as it gets, as it’s a single car driving you and your party to your hotel. Not having to worry about dropping other guests off at their hotels first, this is probably the easiest way to get to Walt Disney World.

Uber from Orlando International Airport Link


MEARS SHUTTLE

Cost: Paid per person, with Adult and Child pricing

Ease of Booking: This is by far their downfall, as we’ve never had a good experience with their booking process. Ever. Lots of phone calls, very outdated website and little or no support when you actually need it.

Convenience: Mears positions themselves as an alternative, however the cons far outweigh the pros. They don’t separate customers into common-sense routes and the drivers aren’t as efficient, unless they are asking for tips, which they are great at. Budget 60-90 minutes to get from the airport to your resort, where the driving time is only 20-30 minutes.


Article Continues Below

TAXIS

Cost: $55-65 one way (plus gratuity) and an extra $10 for hotels in the Magic Kingdom Area.

Ease of Booking: You get your luggage and meet the sea of taxi drivers waiting to drive you to your resort.

Convenience:  Yes, it’s convenient, however the taxi industry within the Orlando area is very similar to any other big city. The cars aren’t clean, the drivers are very pushy and sometimes downright rude and there are a lot of scams that are reported from taxi drivers who are preying on tourists to milk extra money out of them because they don’t know better.

Honestly, I’ve always suggested, and will continue to, use anything besides a taxi


RENTAL CARS

Another option as you can add a rental car to your initial reservation and then pick it up and drop it off at MCO. Hertz, National, Alamo, Dollar, Budget and L&M are all available at the airport.


There are a few options for you to consider, but when you look at it…the experience that you can get from UBER / LYFT is consistent and will allow you the piece of mind to know that you’re going to get where you need to go without having to learn a new system.

The old Magical Express was a great option, but when Disney ended the contract and turned into a ‘fee-based system’ – the value proposition has changed and made the consumer decide on the outcome with little upside to staying with a previously unreliable service.

Dustin Fuhshttp://www.stepstomagic.com
I’m Dustin Fuhs, a theme park fanatic that has created this platform to showcase my passion, tools and opinions to create a fun and interactive experience for everyone who visits. My goal is to help you and your family have the most magical experience at Walt Disney World. In reading my articles and ideas, I hope that you can find some fantastic ways to bring your dreams into reality!

Related articles

The Rip-offs of Disney World

As the 'Vacation Kingdom' continues to shift from a place for everyone to catering to a select few, there is still a discussion to be had around getting to experience Walt Disney World without being subjected to being priced-out.

Walt Disney World Golf: A Comprehensive Overview

Explore Walt Disney World Resort Golf's four championship courses, renowned amenities, and storied hosting legacy.

Introduction to Disney Funko Pop! Vinyl

If you're like me, a Disney fan and collector of obscure stuff that looks great on your office bookshelf, this is the post for you. Let's look at the magical world of Disney Funko Pop! Vinyls.

Underrated Attractions at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal has some amazing attractions that folks may undervalue, underestimate and flat out sell short...so let's take a look at them!

Magic Kingdom Attractions That Never Change

When you're visiting Walt Disney World, the to-do list of activities and experiences that you have to accomplish during a trip could be overwhelming.

Best Disney World Planning Websites

If you're reading this article, you're looking for advice on where to look for additional information on planning...

5 Attractions to Skip in the Magic Kingdom

Save time and prioritize your favorites by avoiding these less popular rides.

Top 10 Last Minute Dining Reservations

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is one of my favourite hobbies, but there are folks out there who are under the impression that you don't have to plan.

Top Ten Disney Advance Dining Reservations to get ASAP

Discover the essential Disney advance dining reservations for an awesome Walt Disney World experience.

Top 10 Hilarious Jungle Cruise Puns

Embark on a pun-filled adventure! Discover the top 10 Jungle Cruise puns that will make you laugh, groan, and fall in love with Disney humor.

10 Things We Will Never Do Again at Disney World

Learn from our mistakes! Uncover the 10 things we vow never to do again at Disney World for a smoother, happier vacation experience.

Where To Get Free Stuff On Your Birthday In Orlando

Celebrating your birthday in Orlando is better when you can get free stuff.
242 Shares
Pin242
Share
Reddit