Jazmin Li
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a busy airport with many travellers passing through its terminals each day. With a range of facilities and amenities, MCO offers a convenient location for layovers and stopovers. However, for those with long layovers or delayed flights, the question arises: is it possible to sleep at MCO Airport? Travellers have shared their experiences and tips for sleeping at the airport, from finding comfortable spots in terminals to utilizing nearby hotels and alternative options. With varying opinions on safety, comfort, and cost, travellers must weigh their priorities when deciding where to rest during their time at MCO Airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Sources suggest that while MCO is generally a safe airport, sleeping alone in an airport is not the safest option. |
| Comfort | Travellers report that it is challenging to find a comfortable place to sleep due to rigid chairs and benches, constant noise, bright lighting, and cold temperatures. |
| Food | Food concessions close around 10:00 PM, and there are no 24-hour food options. |
| Lounges | Pay-per-use lounges with showers and designated rest zones are available, such as The Club at MCO and American Airlines Admirals Club. |
| Hotels | Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is located inside the airport, and other nearby hotels offer shuttle services. |
| Sleep Pods | Sleep pods are available at MCO for a comfortable resting option during layovers. |
| Charging Stations | Free charging stations with outlets and USB ports are available airside. |
| WiFi | Free unlimited WiFi is accessible by connecting to the "MCO Internet" network. |
| Luggage Storage | Hold My Luggage provides luggage storage and pickup/return services. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping in the airport vs. a hotel
Sleeping in an airport might be a good option if you have an early flight, a long layover, or are trying to save money. However, it can be uncomfortable, and you may feel unsafe, especially if you are alone. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is generally considered a safe airport, but sleeping alone in any airport may not be the safest option. In addition, the constant noise, bright lights, rigid chairs and benches, and lack of food options in the airport may make it difficult to rest.
MCO has a Hyatt Regency hotel located between Terminals A and B, which offers easy access to restaurants and amenities such as a gym and swimming pool. The hotel is located before the security area, so both travellers and non-travellers can access the facilities. The Hyatt MCO is a business hotel, so it can be expensive, but it may offer discounts to people holding meetings or through discount travel sites. Rooms at the Hyatt Regency can be found for around $50 on Priceline and Hotwire.
There are also other hotels near the airport, many of which offer free shuttle services. These hotels can often be booked for $40-45 through Priceline and Hotwire. If you are looking for a cheaper option, you may be able to find a room for $20-$30, but this may be difficult.
If you decide to sleep in the airport, there are some things you should keep in mind. There are designated rest zones in the airport, and travellers have reported that the quieter areas are usually near less busy gates. However, security and cleanliness in these areas may vary. There are also sleep pods available in the airport, which can be booked through an app called "dayuse". It is also important to note that the terminals are cleared out at 1 am by security, and nobody is allowed airside until around 5 am. There are no 24-hour food options in the airport, so you will need to stock up on food and drinks before the concessions close for the night at around 10 pm. There are free water bottle refill stations, charging stations, and shower facilities available in the airport.
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Safety and comfort considerations
Sleeping in any airport is not the most comfortable or safest option. While MCO is generally considered a safe airport, sleeping alone in any airport is not advisable. If you are travelling with expensive belongings, it is best to book a hotel room to ensure your safety and that of your belongings.
If you are set on sleeping at the airport, there are a few things you should consider. Firstly, the airport is cleared out at 1 am by security, and nobody is allowed airside between 1 am and 5 am. Therefore, if you are sleeping airside, you will need to ensure you are in the airport before 1 am.
The airport can be noisy and bright, with rigid chairs and benches, making it difficult to rest. Quieter areas can be found near less busy gates, but security and cleanliness may vary in these areas. If you are sensitive to noise, consider bringing earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones. It can also be cold, so bring an extra layer to stay warm.
If you are looking for a more comfortable option, you can book a sleep pod at the airport. These pods provide a clean, comfortable, and affordable place to rest. Alternatively, there are lounges that can be accessed by purchasing a pass, which provides access to free snacks, good WiFi, and comfy chairs.
If you are looking for a more traditional hotel experience, there are several hotels located near the airport, some of which offer free shuttle services. These hotels can often be booked for around $40-50, providing a more comfortable and safer option than sleeping in the airport.
Overall, while it is possible to sleep at MCO airport, it is important to consider your safety and comfort. Weigh your options and make a decision based on your priorities and budget.
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Food and drink availability
Firstly, according to a 2023 traveller, there are no 24-hour food options available at MCO Airport. Most food concessions operate with varying schedules and tend to close around 10:00 PM. Therefore, it is recommended to stock up on food and drinks before they close for the night. This can be particularly challenging for travellers with early morning flights, as food courts typically don't open until around 6:00 AM.
If you are looking for a quick bite or a beverage, there are free water bottle refill stations located airside, near most restrooms. Additionally, there are lounges that offer free snacks and comfortable seating. These lounges can be accessed by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass, or through a lounge membership program. The Club at MCO, located in Terminal A, is available to all travellers and offers showers and a designated rest zone.
For a more comprehensive dining experience, there are restaurants located within the airport hotels. The Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, located between Terminals A and B, provides easy access to restaurants such as McCoy's Bar & Grill and Hemisphere. These hotel restaurants are located before the security area, so they are accessible to both travellers and non-travellers.
In summary, while MCO Airport does offer food and drink options, the availability is limited, especially during late-night and early morning hours. It is advisable to plan ahead and stock up on food and drinks before the concessions close for the night, or consider the options available at airport lounges and hotel restaurants.
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Sleep pods and lounges
MCO Orlando International Airport has a Hyatt Regency hotel located between Terminals A and B, which offers a range of amenities such as a gym, swimming pool, restaurants, and spacious rooms. The hotel is conveniently located within the airport, making it an attractive option for travellers seeking a comfortable sleep.
Additionally, MCO airport features sleep pods designed for resting during layovers. These sleep pods are advertised as clean, comfortable, and affordable, providing a convenient solution for travellers seeking a quick nap or an extended rest.
For those seeking a more economical option, the airport also offers various lounges with different access methods. The Club at MCO, located in Terminal A, is accessible to all travellers regardless of their class of service or airline. It offers showers and a designated rest zone. This lounge can be accessed by paying at the door, purchasing a prepaid lounge pass, or through a lounge membership program. Similarly, the American Airlines Admirals Club in Terminal B and the Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal C can be accessed by paying at the door or through lounge membership programs. These lounges typically offer free snacks, good WiFi, and comfortable seating, making them suitable for travellers seeking a place to relax and unwind before their flight.
The airport itself also has designated rest zones where travellers can relax and unwind before their flight. These areas are located landside in the check-in areas and near less busy gates. However, it is important to note that the airport's chairs and benches may not be comfortable for sleeping, and the constant noise and bright lighting can make it challenging to rest.
Travellers are advised to consider their budget, the duration of their layover, and their preference for comfort when deciding between sleep pods and lounges at MCO airport.
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Transport to and from the airport
Transport to and from MCO Airport
There are various transport options for getting to and from MCO Airport.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the airport, with taxi ranks on levels 1 and 2 in both terminals. Taxis are required to charge the metered rate, and flat rates are not allowed.
Mears Transportation
Mears Transportation is the airport's preferred transportation service provider, offering shuttle services to and from the airport. They provide a standard shared ride shuttle service, as well as an express direct service with minimal wait times. They also offer a luxury black car service with professional chauffeurs.
Universal Shuttle
The Universal Shuttle service is available for transportation between MCO Airport and Universal Resort. The cost is around $40 round trip. However, some travellers have reported long wait times for this service.
Ride-sharing Apps
Ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are also popular options for transportation to and from the airport. These can be more affordable than the shuttle services, but you may need to consider factors such as flight delays and traffic.
Train
The SunRail commuter train services the Orlando metropolitan area and is connected to the airport by the Lynx bus line. The Brightline 'Highspeed' train connects Orlando to South Florida locations.
Bus
There are bus services available from the airport, including the Orlando, Florida bus charters, which are ideal for large groups and various events.
Car Rental
Car rental services are available at the airport, although this option may be more expensive and less convenient than other transportation methods.
When planning your transportation, it is recommended to consider factors such as cost, convenience, and potential wait times. Additionally, for long layovers, some travellers choose to explore the area by bus or train rather than staying at the airport.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to sleep at MCO airport. The airport is open 24 hours a day, meaning you can spend the night inside if you have an early morning flight or if your flight is cancelled. There are free resting zones and sleep pods available, but some travellers have reported that the airport can be uncomfortable, noisy, and cold.
Yes, there is a Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport Hotel located between Terminals A and B in the North Terminal Complex. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a gym, swimming pool, and easy access to restaurants.
Yes, there are several other hotels located near the airport, including the Hyatt House Orlando Airport, Marriott Orlando Airport Lakeside, and Ramada by Wyndham Suites Orlando Airport. Many of these hotels offer complimentary shuttle services.
