Magical Express bus service to and from Walt Disney World Resorts ended in January 2022 now what? With the retirement of the transportation service relied on by many visiting Walt Disney World, families are now scrambling to find a new way to get to and from the Orlando airport. What are your ground transportation options (and there are many!) and what’s the best fit for your family and budget? Here is a quick overview of your transportation options in Orlando and what questions you should ask yourself for the best transportation service for your Orlando family vacation.
Public or Private Transportation Services
The best place to begin with selecting a transportation service is whether you would like public or private transportation. Here is a list of the pros and cons to taking public transportation.
Public Transportation Pros: Lowest cost; no parking fees, no hassle with directions, traffic or tolls; convenient curbside pick up at airport; and younger travelers may enjoy themed transportation.
Public Transportation Cons: Limited schedule, wait times, not direct, group travel, delayed start to your vacation, and advanced reservations required.
If you choose public transportation during your Orlando vacation, a few options are available. Sunshine Flyer, the newest commercial Orlando airport bus service, transports passengers in 1920’s=themed buses that resemble a train. Mears is another public transportation option for one way or round-trip transportation from the Orlando airport. I am proud to partner with both bus services to schedule client ground transportation when visiting Orlando.
Private transportation services on the other hand cost a little more (in some cases only $100 more than private transportation), but offer the most convenience and best experience.
Private transportation pros: conveniently meets your travel party at baggage claim and assists with luggage; direct transportation to your destination – and often times will include a free stop for anything you may need; private transport with only your travel party; personal service; a variety of vehicles to meet your style and group size; and no worries about directions, parking fees, tolls, or traffic. Let your driver worry about everything!
Private transportation cons: higher cost than public transportation – for a party of 3 about it is approximately $220 roundtrip – and requires advanced reservation – usually 5 days or more ahead of your arrival.
The comfort, ease, and convenience of private car service can put you in the right mindset to enjoy the rest of your trip. Private transportation costs range depending on your travel party size, arrival/departure location, as well as the type of vehicle you request – sedan, SUV, stretch limo, or executive limo. Private transportation can be reserved through Mears with a Walt Disney World Package. I am also proud to partner with Happy Limo car service in Orlando for private transportation.
Car rental
Car rental comes with many considerations, but a car rental may be the best option for the most flexibility. Here are the pros and cons when visiting Orlando.
Car rental pros: independence and flexibility to drive anywhere anytime, especially when visiting multiple places on your trip; extended rental for lengthy visits.
Car rental cons: cost; availability, resort parking fees, as well as directions, traffic, and tolls in the Orlando area. Rental fees vary on vehicle type and length of rental, but parking fees range between $20-40 per day. If you are staying at a theme park resort, however, you often do not have to pay to park at the theme park or can take complimentary transportation to the theme parks from the resort. Car rentals can be a hassle to pick up and return, as well as requiring advanced reservations.
Orlando also has several tolls that you should consider. The Central Florida Expressway Authority has resources to help you calculate tolls and how to pay for tolls – by cash, plate or E-Pass.
A car rental can be reserved through a Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and other Orlando theme park packages or I can reserve a rental car for clients independent of any package. If traveling with young children, be sure to bring your own child safety seat.
Ride Share
Ride share options like Uber or Lyft are also available at local airports, including Orlando International Airport. Here is a list of pros and cons for ride sharing apps.
Ride share pros: convenient, curbside pick up; cost is more than public transportation, but lower than a private car service; little advanced planning; private transportation direct to destination; a car seat can be available for children; and can request stop before destination.
Ride share cons: pricing can vary, especially during peak travel times; and you may have to wait for driver availability, especially with a large travel party.
The best airport transportation varies
Transportation options are as varied as activities to do in Orlando! Schedule a complimentary consultation today to create a personalize travel plan to Orlando, including transportation to and from the airport, as well as tickets, tours, activities, resorts, and more through my modern travel agency. Also, sign up as a Beautiful Tomorrow Travel Insider to receive occasional travel-related emails and receive a free, printable travel planner.
