Planning a Disney vacation has changed so much over the years, and so has Disney World transportation.
Just as you would research any other aspect of your trip, you should do the same for Disney transportation.
It’s important to ensure you know the ins and outs and what’s available to you on your trip.
When planning, you may ask yourself:
- “what’s the best way to get to the resort or port from the airport?”
- “what’s the best way to get around once I get to my destination?”
I’m here to help answer those very questions!
There are so many options both on and off property when traveling to, from and around the Walt Disney World Resort.
And the best part, most options are free (especially on property)!
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4 Ways to Get To and From Orlando International Airport
Once you land at Orlando International Airport, you’ve got a bunch of ways to get to the Walt Disney World Resort hotels (or any of the other parks around).
With Disney’s Magical Express gone since 2021, you’ll need to plan ahead and figure out your ride from the airport to your on-site resort.
Below I will go over a few options for you to choose from so that you can see which one works best for you!
Hipster Power Tip: A few of these transportation options might need you to book ahead of time, so keep that in mind as you read through this guide.
1. Mears Connect
Let’s first start with Mears Connect which is pretty much the closest substitute to the former Magical Express bus.
Since Mears was the main company behind the Magical Express, you’ll see a lot of familiar faces and pretty much the same buses, just with a different design on the outside.
You’ll also need to grab your own luggage at baggage claim and take it to the bus, so the days of your bags magically showing up in your hotel room are over (but hey, Mears is looking into bringing that back one day!).
How long does the Mears Connect bus run?
You’ll be happy to know that the Mears Connect bus runs 24/7 from the Orlando International Airport to the Disney Resort area with two options: Standard and Express.
You can also book any time on their website here.
How much does the Mears Connect bus cost for Disney World?
- Standard Round-trip is $33.60 for adults and $27.30 for kids: This is a shared ride on a bus or van, making a few stops along the way (just like the good old Magical Express). Typically, the ride takes about 90-120 minutes.
- Express is $250 for up to four people, with $55 for each extra passenger: This is a direct shared ride with little to no wait time. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but if you’re looking to save time, it could be worth it (might be worth it if you find a good rate).
Recommended: Top 5 Ways to Find Cheap Disney World Tickets for Your Vacation!
Another super handy option is to use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. These services are fantastic for getting you where you need to go, so make sure to download them and set up your accounts before you arrive.
The best part about rideshares is that they take you straight to your destination without any unnecessary stops, which means a quick ride to your Disney hotel.
Just a heads-up: be sure to schedule your ride in advance to avoid any waiting at the airport (and taxis are also another option for you).
On the downside, rideshares might not be the best fit for larger families, especially if you need to bring along car seats.
Also, keep in mind that prices can change depending on the season, so it could get a bit pricey.
Still, it’s a reliable choice, especially when you’re in a hurry. I’ve used it myself, and it always works out great!
3. Car Rental
Have you thought about renting a car to reach the resort area?
It’s just a short drive of about 25 to 30 minutes from the airport, although it might take a little longer if there’s traffic.
Renting a car can be really handy, especially for larger families or anyone who needs car seats.
Just a quick note: some non-Disney hotels do charge for parking each night, and the rates can differ from one hotel to another.
However, the official Disney resort hotels do not charge for parking at this time.
But no need to stress—if you’re visiting the parks, registered guests can park for free at the theme parks.
If you’re looking for a bit more convenience, there’s also preferred parking available for an extra fee, which usually runs between $45 and $50 per day, depending on the season.
To make things easier, you can park at the hotel and use Disney’s transportation options, like buses, monorails, or the Skyliner.
WATCH: 13 Beginner Tips for Going to Disney World This Year!
4. Private Limousine Services
If you’re feeling like treating yourself to something a little more upscale, considering private limousine services could be a great idea for a classy outing.
They can handle larger groups, but keep in mind that they typically come with a steeper price.
If this piques your interest, take a look at companies like Backstage Limousine or Orlando Chauffeured Services.
Walt Disney World Resort Transportation Options
When you arrive at Walt Disney World, getting around is super easy!
There are tons of transportation options to choose from.
Just keep in mind that not every transport method reaches every part of the property, but you’ll definitely have plenty of choices.
I’m always amazed at how Disney efficiently moves thousands of visitors around the resort.
Next time you visit, take a moment to observe the buses, monorails, ferries, and Minnie Vans all working together at one of the bus depots (Magic Kingdom is a great place to see this!).
It’s really something special!
8 Ways to Get Around Walt Disney World (and most are free!):
- Buses (Free)
- Car Rental (For a Fee)
- Ferries & Boats (No Charge)
- Minnie Vans (For a Fee)
- Monorails (No Charge)
- Skyliner (No Charge) AKA Gondolas
- Taxis/Uber/Lyft (For a Fee)
- Your Own Car
Are you planning a Disney vacation soon? Read the Disney World Vacation Planning Guide for your next dream trip!
The Best Transportation Options at Disney World
Let’s breakdown the best ways of getting around Walt Disney World Resort
Transportation Between Theme Parks and Hotels at Walt Disney World
Here’s how you can get around the parks and the hotels.
Disney Deluxe Resorts to Theme Parks
- Magic Kingdom Resorts: You can use the monorail, a boat, or walk to the Magic Kingdom. You can take a bus to the other parks or a monorail to Epcot.
- Contemporary Resort: You can take the monorail or you can walk to Magic Kingdom!
- Boardwalk Resort: You can walk to Epcot or hop on the boats to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Buses go to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.
- Disney’s Riviera: Use the Disney Skyliner to reach Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
- Other Disney Deluxe Resorts: Buses are available to all parks.
Hipster Power Tip: The bus to Epcot and Hollywood Studios only runs once an hour from these resorts. That’s why I really suggest taking the Skyliner!
Disney Moderate and Value Resorts to Theme Parks
- Moderate and Value Resorts offer buses to all parks.
- Caribbean Beach, Art of Animation, and Pop Century can also use the Disney Skyliner to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
Off-Property Resorts/Hotels
A lot of hotels close by provide shuttle services to the theme parks, so it’s a good idea to ask your hotel if they have that option.
Also, if you’re planning on using the buses, be sure to set aside at least 60-90 minutes for your trip, particularly during the busy seasons.
Transportation Between Hotels at Walt Disney World
If you’re traveling between the Disney hotels, here’s how to do it:
- A taxi/Uber or Minnie Van is the fastest way.
- Just so you know, buses don’t run directly from one hotel to another, but you can hop on a bus to a theme park and then make your way to another resort from there.
- If you’re going between Art of Animation, Disney’s Riviera Resort Pop Century, and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, the Disney Skyliner is the best option.
- For the Magic Kingdom Monorail Resorts, the monorail is the best option for the Polynesian, Contemporary, and Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Transportation Between Parks at Walt Disney World
Each of the four parks offers convenient transportation options, so you can easily move from one park to the next without any hassle.
Magic Kingdom to the Following Parks:
- Epcot: You’ll get on the Magic Kingdom monorail or ferry to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC)…once there, you’ll transfer to the Epcot monorail
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Take the bus
- Animal Kingdom: Take the bus
Epcot to the Following Parks:
- Animal Kingdom: Take the bus
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: You can take the bus, Skyliner, boat, or you take a short walk over
- Magic Kingdom: You can take the Epcot monorail to the Transportation and Ticket Center, then you’ll transfer to either the Magic Kingdom monorail (or you can take the ferry)
Hollywood Studios to the Following Parks:
- Animal Kingdom: Take the bus
- Magic Kingdom: Take the bus
- Epcot: You can take the Skyliner, the bus, a boat or you can walk
Animal Kingdom to the Following Parks:
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Take the bus
- Epcot: Take the bus
- Magic Kingdom: Take the bus
Hipster Power Tip: You can take a bus or a ride share to Disney Springs from your hotel. However, Saratoga Springs, Old Key West Resort or Port Orleans Resort can take a boat ride over to Disney Springs.
Minnie Vans At Walt Disney World Resort
Minnie Vans are such a fun way to get around Walt Disney World, especially during those busy times!
This charming private ride service is managed by Walt Disney World, and you can easily book a ride using the Lyft app.
The best part? All the drivers are actually Disney Cast Members!
You can download the Lyft app on either your iPhone or Android device. Just a little tip: to catch a ride in a Minnie Van, you’ll need to request it through the app.
How much does the Minnie Van cost at Disney World?
As for the fare, it varies depending on your destination, but you can generally expect to pay between $20 and $40 for each trip.
The vans are up and running from 6:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m, but I’ve heard from a few drivers that they might stay available a bit later if there are still guests needing rides. So, you might get lucky!
When you create your Lyft account, don’t forget to link a credit card since that’s how you’ll handle payments. No need for cash, as everything—including tips—is taken care of right through the app.
Each Minnie Van can comfortably fit about 6-8 people and even has up to 2 car seats available. They also cater to wheelchairs and EVCs, which is super convenient!
3 Quick Tips for Using Minnie Vans at Disney World
- Have Your Account Up and Ready to Go: Make sure to get your Lyft account ready before your trip, so you’ll be all set to request a Minnie Van whenever you need it.
- Request a Ride When It’s Needed: I suggest you request a Minnie Van when you’re set to head out because they tend to arrive quickly. There could be a driver close by, so stay ready!
- Tipping the Driver: You don’t need to tip your Minnie Van driver since they’re part of the Disney Cast, but I often like to slip them a few bucks if they do a great job. It’s really your call, and the app makes tipping super simple when you settle up.
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Renting A Car At Walt Disney World Resort
If you’re thinking about venturing beyond the parks and want to rent a car, Walt Disney World has got your back!
You can easily snag a rental from Enterprise, Alamo, or National right at the Car Care Center on-site.
Just give them a ring or hop online to book through the Walt Disney World Car Care Center website.
I’ve used this service myself, and it’s really straightforward and convenient. I totally recommend it if you need some wheels!
How to Rent a Car at Disney World?
If you’re staying at a Disney resort, you can call 407-824-3470 to get a free shuttle to the Car Care Center, or just check with your resort’s Concierge for help.
However, I’d suggest allowing around 30 to 45 minutes for the trip.
Car Care Center Hours and Address:
- 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., daily
- 1000 West Car Care Drive Bay Lake, Florida 32830
Recommended: 5 Best Disney World Deluxe Resorts to Stay at Right Now
Planning a Disney Cruise soon and curious about how to travel from Orlando to the port? You’re in the right place!
Let’s explore some great options to ensure your journey to the cruise is smooth and hassle-free.
Port Canaveral is quite popular, coming in as the second-busiest cruise terminal globally, right after Miami.
Because of this, you’ll find plenty of shuttle services ready to take you from Orlando to the port.
Most of these shuttles are shared rides, typically costing around $30 and up for a round trip per person. However, if you’re traveling with a larger group, you might snag a better deal!
You might want to check out the official cruise shuttles or hotel shuttle services for some extra choices.
Just like when you’re traveling from Walt Disney World Resort to Orlando International Airport, you can easily grab a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to get to and from the port.
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My Final Thoughts on Transportation at Disney World
I understand that getting around Walt Disney World may feel overwhelming at first. That is why I hope this guide helps you navigate your trip well.
What’s your favorite transportation option at Disney? Let us know in the comments section below.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Hi there! I’m Marnie from Write by the Magic, a creative Disney writer and blogger with 35+ years of travel and park experience.
I have a fierce and contagious passion for all things Disney.
I specialize in simplifying the complexities of planning a Disney vacation by sharing travel tips, park strategies, the latest park news, unbiased reviews, and advice to make the most of your Walt Disney World experience.
Follow all my adventures @writebythemagic on Instagram and Facebook.
