Hey there, Andy!
Welcome to planDisney. We're delighted you've dropped by with an excellent
Walt Disney World Resort vacation planning question! The countdown to your arrival at The Most Magical Place on Earth is almost over... Are you ready to be immersed in a world filled with magic and wonder!? As you wrap up those final plans before your departure, let's discuss your transportation options to your Disney Resort hotel.
Andy, in just a couple of short days, you'll be checking in at my family's favorite Moderate Resort hotel:
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside. This serene, lush property exudes Disney magic and storytelling and is just a short
boat ride away from Disney Springs! When you arrive at Orlando International Airport (MCO), you'll have a few different options to whisk you away onto Walt Disney World Resort property. Although Disney no longer operates a complimentary resort shuttle service, a comparable paid option operated by a third party (Mears Connect) offers that same convenience. My family has relied on Mears Connect for many airport transfers in the past, and if this is something you'd be interested in utilizing, I recommend booking your transfer as soon as possible to ensure availability. You'll find Mears Connect located on the Level 1 (Ground Transportation) at the airport.
Alternatively, I've used third-party rideshare services (like Lyft or Uber) to transfer from Orlando International Airport to my Disney Resort hotel, Andy. While these options are generally a little pricier than Mears Connect, they offer a private, direct transfer with no additional stops. If your goal is to get to the Walt Disney World Resort
theme parks as quickly and efficiently as possible, this might be a valuable option for you!
During your stay at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside, be sure to wander along the Sassagoula River to your hotel's sister property,
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter. The walk is calming and peaceful, and you'll find fresh, warm beignets at Scat Cat's Club - Café at the other Resort hotel! While Riverside has a backcountry, rustic Louisiana vibe, visiting French Quarter feels like you're stepping into the heart of New Orleans.
Andy, I hope you've found these suggestions to be helpful as you finalize your last-minute vacation plans. If you have any additional questions before or during your trip, you're always welcome to revisit us here at
planDisney! We're here to help you make magical memories at the Walt Disney World Resort.
See ya real soon,
Lauren