Welcome to planDisney, Julie.
I'm so glad that you stopped by with your question! It's not long now until you'll be hopping on a magic carpet ride and flying to a whole new world. There's so much to see and experience for the
50th Anniversary Celebration. On my last trip, I was particularly in awe of the
Beacons of Magic on display throughout the 4 Theme Parks. Also,
Cinderella Castle looks practically perfect in its EARidescant colors. Get the camera ready!
Whenever I travel to The Most Magical Place on Earth I try to immerse myself in the magic as much as possible. Therefore, I love the
Disney Minnie Van Service. I was so excited when I heard that this service will be returning to Walt Disney World Resort. Unfortunately, we haven't been told when the exact date of their return will be. However, I'm hoping the wait won't be much longer. Let's be wishing upon a star that an announcement will be made soon. In the meantime, keep checking the
Disney Parks Blog.
You'll be pleased to know that you still have plenty of options when it comes to getting from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World Resort. Here are my top three:
Shuttle Services
There are two different shuttle services to choose from. The first option is Mears Connect (this company used to run the now-retired Disney's Magical Express). I recently used Mears Connect on a recent trip. They were great and the drivers were very lovely people. The second shuttle service option is Sunshine Flyer. This service has a very cool 1920s passenger cars and train locomotives theme. Check out both websites, compare prices, and decide which one suits you most.
RideshareMany people choose to get to Walt Disney World Resort from the airport using a rideshare service, like Uber or Lyft. Simply download their respective apps and make a booking at a time that works best for you. The advantage of using a rideshare over a shuttle service is that you can leave when you're ready and you don't have to wait for other Guests. You'll also be taken straight to your hotel instead of possibly having to stop at multiple Disney Resorts along the way. The disadvantage of using a rideshare service is that you're more limited when it comes to the number of people you can fit into one vehicle. So it depends on the size of your party.
Rental CarThere are a number of rental car companies at Orlando International Airport. Many people choose this option so that they have more flexibility. However, just note that there is an overnight fee to park at each Disney Resorts Collection hotel. So the cost can certainly add up if you rent a car.
I hope that's helpful, Julie. I hope your vacation is practically perfect in every way.
Mike