David,
Thanks for asking your question to planDisney!
You are going to love your stay at
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa! It is my family's favorite, for the pool, the lagoon views, and the understated elegance!
There are several different ways for you to get from the Orlando International Airport (Airport Code: MCO) to the Grand Floridian. For almost all you can, and should, book your round-trip transportation before you arrive in Orlando. Let me review some of those options, and you can pick which is right for you.
Shuttle Services: This is the easiest, and most affordable option. There are several shuttle companies available. I have used Mears Connect several times now, and it has always been easy, and efficient. The buses were clean and comfortable. My wait times at the airport were reasonable and it is clearly the most affordable of all the options listed here. You will want to reserve your ride ahead of time online at their website.
Ride Share Services and 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 are more direct, and you are not typically riding with other travelers. If you use Uber or Lyft, consider making a reservation ahead of time, as the supply of drivers can vary at different times of the day.
Rental Car: Of course, there is the option to rent a car. But do you really need it once you get to your resort? With
Disney Resort Transportation services to get you to and from the parks, you may just be paying a resort parking fee for a car you won't be using.
Car Service: Another option that is a definite upgrade on your trip is to reserve a car service. When you book round trip the cost may not be as comparatively 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 grocery store stop on your arrival leg at no charge. A good friend of mine recently had a great experience with Black Diamond Luxury Transportation as well. At first these can seem notably more expensive than a shuttle, but with larger parties it can start to work out better on your budget.
BOTTOM LINEIf cost is the leading issue, then the standard shuttle services are likely your best bet. If you want to plus up your trip, and can afford it, a car service will really make an impression. When reviewing your options, do price them out. As parties get larger, sometimes the car services can become a more cost-efficient solution than the shuttles. But not always, so do a bit of price research, and book your ride before you get to Orlando, so that you can just enjoy your trek to the magic!
Please feel free to
write me back directly with any follow-up questions that may come up.
Have a Magical Vacation!Doug