Disney Airport Transportation: Shuttles and Other Options
Mears Connect shuttle to the Orlando Airport
If you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World, you'll need to think about transportation. One of the best aspects of staying within the Disney bubble is that you don’t need car seats or a rental car, as Disney has ample transportation for your family. But you still need to make your way TO the bubble!
One convenient option is the airport shuttle which can take you directly from Orlando International Airport to your Disney resort hotel. This service is available through Mears Connect and offers both standard shared and express shared shuttle options.
Disney airport shuttle services are a great option for families and groups who want to avoid the hassle of renting a car or navigating private transportation. With the standard shared service, you'll make a limited number of stops before arriving at your hotel, while the express shared service provides direct round-trip service to all Disney resorts with lower wait times. Plus, both options come with luggage handling included, so you won't have to worry about hauling your bags around.
In addition the the Mears Connect Shuttle, there are private methods of transportation, typically Uber, Lyft or a private transportation service like Happy Limo. Private transportation services have a special lane to park under the airport and the driver will typically assist you with your luggage to a large SUV or van. They will also (sometimes for a small fee) stop at the grocery or other stores on the way to your resort.
Key Takeaways
The Disney airport shuttle is a convenient transportation option for travelers heading to Walt Disney World.
Mears Connect offers both standard shared and express shared shuttle services with luggage handling included.
The shuttle services provide a safe and convenient way to travel between the airport and your Disney resort hotel.
Disney Airport Shuttle: An Overview
When it comes to getting to and from the airport and your Disney resort, there previously were multiple options, including Disney’s Magical Express (operated by Mears Connect) and the Sunshine Flyer. Disney stopped service of Magical Express and Mears Connect has continued to operate independently. As of August 1, 2023, the Sunshine Flyer and Mears Connect merged, leaving one shuttle bus service remaining, Mears Connect Driven by Sunshine.
Mears Connect Driven by Sunshine Options and Cost
Mears Connect offers both standard and express options, depending on your needs.
The standard service is a shared shuttle bus transportation that picks up and drops off passengers at multiple locations. This service is $16 per adult each way and $13 per child each way. You can also buy a round trip for $32 per adult and $26 per child. Note, children of all ages require a reservations for the shuttle service.
If you're looking for a more direct service, Mears Connect also offers an express option. The set schedule and convenience of this service come at a higher price, with a cost of $250 for a group of up to four adults. Each additional adult is an extra $52.38.
Safety and Convenience
When it comes to airport transportation, safety and convenience are two of the most important factors to consider. The good news is that with Mears Connect Shuttle, you can enjoy both.
First of all, all drivers of Disney airport shuttles are trusted professionals who are trained to prioritize the safety of their passengers. They undergo extensive background checks and are required to maintain a clean driving record.
In addition, Disney airport shuttles are wheelchair accessible, making them a convenient option for passengers with mobility issues. Whether you're traveling with kids or elderly relatives, you can rest assured that everyone will be able to board and disembark the shuttle safely and comfortably.
Disney airport shuttles are also reliable, with millions of passengers trusting them each year. This is because they operate on a set schedule, ensuring that you arrive at your destination on time. Plus, if you book in advance, you can enjoy the convenience of having a driver waiting for you when you arrive at the airport.
Alternative Transportation Options
If you're looking for transportation options to get from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, there are several alternatives to the Shuttle. Here are some of the most popular options you might consider:
Private Shuttle Services
One of our favorite options is ordering a private shuttle service for our traveling party through Happy Limo or a similar service provider. It’s cost-effective, including our recent trip with 8 people and 10 bags, the total cost was $150 each way for the entire group. The driver was at the airport when our flight landed and the driver was waiting promptly at our resort at our designated return time to head back to the airport at the end of our trip.
A private shuttle service can avoid the need for car seats and provides a direct route to your resort, as you aren’t sharing the service with other families.
Rideshare Services
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Orlando and can be a convenient way to get to your destination. Both services offer a range of vehicle options, from standard sedans to larger SUVs, so you can choose the size of the vehicle that best suits your needs. You can also use the app to get an estimate of the fare before you book your ride.
The biggest concern with rideshare services for families is car seat availability. If you use rideshare services there may be limited options with the car seats you need for your children or you may need to travel with your own.
If you use Lyft, you can reserve a Minnie Van, which conveniently for families always has two car seats available.
When traveling with kids, we order a private vehicle or take the shuttle so as to avoid bringing our own car seats.
Taxi
Taxis are a reliable and convenient option for those who prefer a more traditional mode of transportation. You can find taxis waiting outside the airport terminal, and the fare is typically calculated based on the distance traveled.
Personally, we do not use any taxi services. When traveling without kids, we use Uber or Lyft.
Car Rental Services
If your family will need a vehicle to explore the area around Walt Disney World or to visit other area attractions like Universal Studios, renting a car might be a good option for you. Several car rental companies, including Alamo, offer services at Orlando International Airport.
You can book your rental in advance or on the spot, depending on your needs. We always recommend booking in advance, particularly if you have a specific type of vehicle that you need for your family.
Remember to research and compare prices and services before making a decision. It's also important to keep in mind that some services may have age restrictions or require additional fees for certain services or equipment.
Special Considerations
When planning your Disney vacation and airport transportation, there are a few special considerations to keep in mind.
Reservations
It's always a good idea to make a reservation for your airport transportation in advance. This ensures that you have a spot reserved and can avoid any potential wait times or delays. Many airport transportation services, such as Mears Transportation and Happy Limo, allow you to make reservations online or over the phone.
Demand
During peak travel times, such as spring break and Christmas, demand for airport transportation can be high. It's important to plan ahead and make your reservations early to ensure availability. Additionally, be prepared for potential wait times for rideshare services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some shuttle options for getting to Disney from the airport?
There are several shuttle options for getting to Disney from the airport. Some of the most popular options include Mears Connect, Happy Limo, and Uber/Lyft. Each option has its own pros and cons, so it's important to do your research and choose the option that best fits your needs.
Is there a free shuttle service from Orlando airport to Disney World?
Disney's Magical Express used to be a free shuttle service from Orlando airport to Disney World for guests staying at select Disney resorts. However this service has been discontinued. Guests now need to make other transportation arrangements.
What is the Disney Magical Express and how does it work?
Disney's Magical Express was a shuttle service offered by Disney to transport guests from Orlando airport to select Disney resorts and has since been discontinued.
What is Mears Connect and how does it compare to other shuttle services?
Mears Connect is a shuttle service that offers transportation from Orlando airport to Disney World and other destinations in the Orlando area. It is a paid service and offers both shared and private shuttle options. Mears Connect is a popular option.
How do people typically get to Disney from the airport?
People typically get to Disney from the airport by using a shuttle service, taxi, Uber/Lyft, or by renting a car. The most popular option is Mears Connect.
Is the Disney airport shuttle still operating in 2024?
No, the Disney airport shuttle service, also known as Disney's Magical Express, has been discontinued.
