Katie,
Thanks for asking your question to planDisney!
Even though Disney's Magical Express service expired at the end of 2021, there are still a lot of choices for getting from the airport to your home in the magic at
Disney's Old Key West Resort.
Options for you include shuttles, ride share services, cabs, rental cars, and even car services. There are choices to meet every need and budget.
Shuttle Services: Several Magical Express-like services have appeared in recent months. For many Disney veterans, the Mears Connect service most closely matches the old Magical Express service, though of course it is not free. I recently used this service, and it was very similar to Magical Express, though it did not have the fun video that gets you excited for your vacation! It is likely the most affordable of all the options listed here. My wait times were about the same as with the Magical Express service, and they also have an expedited version, so look at both options.
Ride Share / Taxis: Ride share services like Uber & Lyft, as well as taxis are obvious choices. They will be more expensive than the larger shuttle services, but more direct, and you are not typically riding with other travelers.
Rental Car: Of course, you can rent a car. But the cost can be high, especially if you are not really using it much during your stay. For many guests, after they arrive, they rely on the
Disney Transportation services to get from resort to park. In their case, a rental might just be sitting idle in a parking lot at the resort. Consider how often you will use it when weighing this option. Also check what the daily parking charge is at Old Key West and factor that in as well.
Car Service: One option that is often overlooked is a car service. When you book round trip the cost may not be as high as you would think, and it will shorten travel times, since you are the first and only stop. Many, like Quicksilver, also offer a 30-minute stop on your arrival leg at no charge.
BOTTOM LINE
My suggestion is to check out the costs of each of these different options, and then decide. We enjoy riding the
monorail, the
boats, and the
Disney Skyliner, so don't really find a use for a rental car, and opt either for the shuttle service, or a car service. Since you are staying at a Disney Vacation Club resort, there is a chance that you are getting a room that has some kitchen facilities. If so, the car service option could be an ideal choice, as you can swing by a grocery store on the way for some in-room provisions.
Write me back if you need any other suggestions!
Have a Magical Vacation!
Doug