How to Get from Orlando Airport (MCO) to Walt Disney World in 2025
- Brenda
- Aug 13, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 12
Updated on August 12, 2025: ✨Minnie Van airport service is now available to all guests staying at Deluxe Resorts and Deluxe Villas, not just Club Level! Scroll down to the Minnie Van section for full details, pricing, and booking tips.
With the retirement of Disney’s Magical Express at the end of 2021, complimentary transportation between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Walt Disney World is officially a thing of the past. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with all the updated options to help you start your Disney trip off right!
Between the three of us, we’ve made this trip to Disney more times than we can count—so we’ve pulled together everything you need to know about getting from MCO to the Most Magical Place on Earth.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Traveling solo? Mears Connect is often the most affordable option for one person. But if you're a party of two or more, Uber or Lyft usually comes out cheaper—and gets you to your resort faster!
Need help planning the rest of your trip? We can help!
✨ Mears Connect Driven by Sunshine (Shuttle Bus)
Mears Connect, now merged with Sunshine Flyer and branded as Mears Connect Driven by Sunshine, is the closest thing to the old Magical Express. It’s a shared shuttle bus that operates 24/7 between MCO and Disney Resort hotels.
🚌 You’ll even check in on the same lower level of Terminal B where Magical Express used to be located.
💰 2025 Pricing (Standard Service)
Adults (10+): ~$17.60 one-way | ~$33.60 round trip
Children (3–9): ~$14.30 one-way | ~$27.30 round trip
Children under 3: Ride free
Express Service: ~$250 round trip (private, up to 4 guests)
Reservations are strongly recommended and must be prepaid in full. Walk-ups are allowed, but availability may be limited.
You can register online here. Payment in full is due at the time of reservation
Mears Connect by Sunshine Flyers runs 24/7 so they are able to get you to your WDW hotel no matter how late or early your flight is.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Standard service will most likely include multiple resort stops—budget extra time before your first Lightning Lane or Table Service reservation!
🚘 Rideshare (Uber & Lyft)
This is our family’s go-to option when we want a faster, more direct trip to the resort—especially after a long flight!
💰 Typical Pricing (One-Way)
Standard Uber/Lyft: $35–$55
XL or larger vehicle: $60–$85
Surge pricing: Can increase fares during peak travel times
You can book right when you land or schedule your ride in advance for a locked-in price.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Compare both apps before booking—prices fluctuate based on demand and time of day, and one is often cheaper than the other!
Trying to figure out what to bring? We can help!
🚗 Rental Cars
If you're planning to explore beyond the Disney bubble, renting a car might make sense.
Average cost: ~$30–$60 per day or ~$350+ per week
Airport vendors: Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, and more
Parking at Disney resorts: Still free for registered guests in 2025!
That said, we rarely rent a car anymore - even when doing a split stay with Universal. Between Uber and shuttle options, we’ve found it’s cheaper and far less stressful.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Don’t forget to factor in tolls and gas. And check with your authorized Disney Vacation Planner (like Bren) for potential rental car discounts!
🚌 Public Transportation (LYNX)
If you're traveling ultra-light and on a tight budget, it is possible to use Orlando’s public bus system.
Suggested Route:
Board LYNX Link 311 at MCO Terminal A (Spaces 38–41) – $2 one‑way
Ride to the Disney Springs Transfer Center (~55–60 min)
From there, either:
• Walk (~7–10 min) to Saratoga Springs Resort, or
• Take a quick Uber/Lyft or Disney transportation to your resort
Fair warning—we’ve never personally attempted the public bus route from MCO to Walt Disney World. But we know it’s an option that some adventurous (and extremely budget-conscious) travelers have made work.
Trying to keep costs down across the whole trip? We can help!
🚐 Private Car, Limo, or Luxury Van Services
If you want to travel in style—or are traveling with a larger party—private transportation might be the best blend of comfort and convenience.
Recommended Providers:
Black Diamond Luxury Transportation Book online here or call 407-516-9595
Other Top-Rated Options: See this curated Yelp list of Orlando airport car services here
💰 Typical Pricing (Round Trip)
Sedan (1–3 passengers): $140–$200
SUV or Van (up to 6–10 passengers): $220–$300+
You’ll be met at baggage claim, helped with luggage, and whisked away in comfort—no stops, no stress.
🎀 Minnie Van Airport Service — Deluxe & Club Level Guests
As of August 13, 2025, Minnie Vans aren’t just for Club Level guests anymore! Guests staying at a Deluxe Resort, Deluxe Villa, or Club Level at any Walt Disney World resort hotel can now book a Minnie Van to whisk you to or from Orlando International Airport (MCO) in full polka-dot style.
Cost: $199 each way ($398 round-trip)
Capacity: Seats up to six guests and includes two complimentary car seats. Accessible vans seat five and can accommodate two mobility devices.
Booking: Reserve through the Lyft app or by calling Disney, starting 60 days before your trip and up to two days prior to arrival.
Club Level guests can also book through Disney Signature Services at (407) 939-7777 or by email.
Flight eligibility:
Arrivals: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Departures: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Minnie Vans are driven by friendly Disney Cast Members, decked out in red-and-white polka dots, and include pick-up right at your resort with drop-off at your airline gate.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: This is a fun splurge for larger families, or for anyone who wants to start their Disney magic the moment they leave the airport. You’ll skip the luggage juggling and enjoy the comfort of a private ride—plus, your driver may have a few insider tips for your resort stay.
Still choosing where to stay? We can help!
🎯 Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Way to Get from MCO to Disney?
After dozens of trips (and more super early flights home than we can count), here’s our take on the best airport transportation options for different types of travelers:
👨👩👧👦 Best for families with young kids or solo travelers: Mears Connect Standard – budget-friendly and reliable, especially if you're traveling light.
🚗 Fastest + easiest: Uber or Lyft – direct, flexible, and often cheaper than a shuttle for groups of 2 or more.
👯♂️ Most luxurious + best for large groups: Private van or limo – perfect for parties who want door-to-door comfort with no waiting, no luggage juggling, and plenty of space to stretch out.
🚍 Public transportation: Only if you're a super-savvy, light-packing solo traveler who’s up for an adventure 😅
If someone in your party has mobility needs...we can help!
Pixie Dust Hugs,
Bren, Lyn, and Kim
P.S. Planning your own magical getaway?
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