• On Feb 2, 2022
    Michael from MO Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    we have a reservation starting May 26. Do you provide ground transportation from the airport in Orlando? If not, can you suggest alternatives? Also, ground transport from the Tampa airport?

    Michael,

    Disney no longer provides any standard transportation services from the Orlando or Tampa area airports to their resort hotels. Many used to enjoy the complimentary Disney Magical Express service for Disney resort hotel guests arriving via the Orlando International Airport, but the program ended in 2021. But don't worry, there are a lot of great choices for how to get from the Orlando airport to your Walt Disney World resort. With cabs, ride share services, shuttles, rental cars and even car services, there are choices to meet every need and budget. Let's review these choices, then we can discuss the best Tampa-specific options.

    Ride Share/Taxis: Ride share services like Uber & Lyft, as well as taxis are obvious choices. They will typically be more expensive than the larger shuttle services, but they are more direct, since you are going straight to your resort from the airport. 

    Shuttle Services: Several bus shuttles like the Mears Connect service closely match the old Magical Express service, though of course they are not free. These services will be more affordable, but your ride may have a few stops at other resorts before you make it to your hotel. If time is a concern, you may want to look at other options. Mears used to be the provider behind the Disney Magical Express service, so as you can imagine this service is very reliable and convenient. 

    Rental Car: Renting a car can be expensive, and you may not use it much after getting to your hotel if you plan to rely on the Disney Transportation services to get from resort to park. Consider how often you will actually use it when weighing this option. Also check what the daily parking charge is at your resort and factor that in as well.

    Car Service: One option that is often overlooked is a car service. When you book a car service for the round trip to the airport the cost may not be as comparatively high as you would think. It will shorten travel times, and many, like Quicksilver, also offer a 30-minute stop of your choice on your arrival leg at no charge. This lets you, for example, stop at a local grocery store to stock up on some treats for the room. This option will likely be more expensive than others, but there are perks that may still make it your best choice.

    But what about getting to Walt Disney World from the Tampa Airport? Because the distance is greater, the costs and options certainly change. There are shuttles, which are likely your best bet, and your most affordable option. You should also re-visit the idea of a rental car in this case since it might work out better when returning to the Tampa airport for your return flight on your own schedule.  

    BONUS TIP
    In pretty much every case, you will want to go online to the respective service vendor and make reservations before your arrival, so that they have a vehicle and space ready for you. With all these choices, you should find one that matches your travel group, budget, and overall needs. 

    Have a Magical Vacation!

    Doug

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Meet the Panelist: Doug, Indiana

I am one of the Dads on the planDisney Panel, and I love to help parents plan their vacation, with a focus on showing them how it can be fun for them too. I am also here to help Dads plan some nice surprises for the Moms in their life (they deserve it!). Learn More About Doug

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