Airport Transfers: Disney's Free Ride To The Magic

If you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World, you may be wondering about the best way to get from Orlando International Airport to your Disney hotel. While Disney previously offered a free Magical Express service, this is no longer available. Now, there are several options for airport transfers, each with its own pros and cons. In this article, we will explore the different choices available, including shuttle services, town car or limo services, ride-share options, and rental cars, to help you decide which one suits your needs and budget.

Shuttle services

For a more exclusive experience, Mears also offers an Express Service that provides transportation for your party in a dedicated vehicle. The round-trip price for this service is $250 for up to four passengers, with an additional $55 charge for each extra passenger. This option is ideal for those who prefer a private ride or have a larger group.

Both the standard and express shuttle services offered by Mears Connect accommodate handicapped guests. When planning your trip to Walt Disney World, shuttle services provide a reliable and affordable transportation option from the airport to your Disney hotel.

In addition to Mears Connect, there are other shuttle services available from the airport. Rental car companies such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise offer off-site rental cars accessible via a shuttle service from the airport. These options may be worth considering if you plan to explore other areas during your trip or have specific vehicle requirements.

Express services

If you're looking for a quicker, more private transfer from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, you can opt for the Express Service offered by Mears Connect, the company that operates the shuttle services for Disney.

The Express Service provides a dedicated vehicle for you and your party, with just you and the driver on board. This direct transfer service is ideal if you want to avoid waiting or making multiple stops at other hotels. The round-trip price for this service is $250 for up to four passengers, and additional passengers are charged at $55 each for the round trip.

This service can be a good option if you're travelling with a larger group, as it offers a flat rate for up to four passengers and a fixed additional charge for each extra passenger. It also provides a more exclusive and personalised experience, with the convenience of a dedicated vehicle.

Both the standard and express services offered by Mears Connect accommodate handicapped guests, ensuring that everyone can travel comfortably and safely.

When planning your trip to Walt Disney World, it's worth considering the benefits of the Express Service for a faster, more private, and personalised transfer experience.

Rental car options

Enterprise Rent-A-Car is the official transportation provider for Walt Disney World in Florida and the Disneyland Resort in California. Enterprise has locations near both Disney resorts, as well as at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). They offer a range of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans, which can be rented for a day or for your entire vacation.

If you're travelling to Disneyland Resort in California, you can rent a car directly from the resort with Enterprise. They offer great rates and a variety of locations, so you can easily pick up a car and explore Southern California on your own terms. All vehicles come with a Complete Clean Pledge, ensuring that they are cleaned and sanitized with careful attention to 20+ high-touch areas.

Enterprise has vehicles to suit a range of needs. For larger families or groups, they offer minivans, passenger vans, and cargo vans, equipped with features like cruise control, AM/FM Stereo, and air conditioning. You can also add on optional extras such as Sirius XM®, GPS, and child safety seats.

If you're looking for a comfortable ride, Enterprise recommends an SUV, offering flexible seating and luggage space. For a more luxurious experience, you can rent a luxury SUV, which includes leather seats and a sunroof.

With Enterprise, you can easily pair a trip to Disney with a beach vacation or a road trip around California. Their locations throughout Los Angeles and the United States make it convenient for you to pick up and drop off your rental car wherever your travels take you.

Town car or limo services

Ultimate Town Car

Ultimate Town Car provides luxury airport transfer services from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to various destinations, including Disney resorts. They offer a range of vehicles, such as premium sedans, SUVs, and limousines, ensuring a comfortable and stylish ride.

One of the advantages of using a town car service is the convenience of direct, door-to-door transportation. You won't have to worry about strict schedules, multiple stops, or being packed in with strangers. Ultimate Town Car also provides a professional chauffeur who will assist with your luggage, ensuring a swift and comfortable journey.

The company has a strong focus on safety and reliability, with experienced chauffeurs and extensive insurance coverage for high-end clients. Their reputation is backed by thousands of five-star reviews, guaranteeing a punctual and satisfactory service.

Happy Limo

Happy Limo is another recommended option for town car and limo services. They offer a range of vehicles, including luxury sedans, SUVs, minivans, and stretch limos, accommodating different group sizes.

Happy Limo stands out for its responsive customer service, with a live chat, email, text, and online booking options. They also provide trip insurance for an additional fee, giving you peace of mind for your journey.

Benefits of Town Car or Limo Services

When travelling to Disney resorts, town car or limo services offer several advantages over other transportation methods:

• Comfort and convenience: These services provide spacious and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a comfortable journey.
• Stress-free experience: You won't have to worry about hailing a cab or waiting for a ride. The chauffeur will be waiting for you at the airport and assist with your luggage.
• Reliability: Town car and limo services are known for their reliability, ensuring you arrive at your destination on time.
• Personalized service: These companies offer tailored services, catering to your specific needs, such as providing car seats for children or accommodating special occasions.

Ride-share services

Lyft is the preferred ride-share service for Disney World, but Uber also works. You can download the app and compare prices and availability between the two. It is worth noting that ride-share use is second nature to some, but if you want to guarantee that you’ll have wheelchair accommodation or car seats, a shuttle service (Mears Connect) or a reserved limo may give you more peace of mind.

Lyft or Uber can be used to get to/from the airport to your hotel, and many guests also use these services to travel from their hotel to the theme parks or to other resorts. Disney’s transportation system of buses, boats, monorails, and the Skyliner serves these routes at no charge. However, Disney’s free options may not always be the fastest.

If you’re staying Club Level at Disney World, you have the option to arrange a Minnie Van in advance. The price is $199 one-way, and you’ll need to work with Signature Services to book. Minnie Vans are more expensive than a regular Lyft, but many who choose to use them like that they are a Disney product. You know the drivers are vetted by Disney, and you know they’ll show up with car seats.

Frequently asked questions