On Jan 1, 2022, the free Disney Magical Express bus retired, so you will need to consider other modes of transportation to/from the Orlando International Airport and the Disney World resorts now.
The above picture was from our last ride on Dec 29th when we took it from Pop Century to the airport after our epic December park and cruise trip. Sad. Trip reports are coming soon. I just started the photo posts on my Instagram today so follow there first.
So what options do you have?
1. Rent a car from the airport and drive yourself. However, prices will vary based on the type of car you rent and what deals you get. Don’t forget that you will have to factor in tolls and parking fees at the resorts per night as well.
2. Hire a private car/limo type service. This will usually be the priciest option, though it depends on what deals you get on the other options and how big your group is.
3. Book an Uber/Lyft. I always check both apps but most times, Lyft is cheaper there. Just keep in mind that they’re not allowing people to sit in the front with the driver nowadays, so if you have more than 3 people in your group, you will need to book an XL or larger instead of a regular sized car so it’ll cost more. Note the little number next to the car type to see how many people it can fit. If you need a car seat, make sure to book one that says it has one. Price it out in the apps for the day/time you’d be needing them to get an idea of pricing before your trip. It fluctuates depending on time/day.
4. Mears bus. This is the bus company that ran the Disney Magical Express before, except you have to pay them directly now. In fact, it’s using the same area at the airport and some buses are still the same, and it pretty much works exactly the same. Go to the Mears website to read more specifics and make reservations. They charge per person so it will depend on the size of your group if this is more or less than the other options. They also have a private car/small shuttle service if you don’t want to take the shared large bus with others and deal with other resort stops, but of course, that will cost more.
5. Sunshine Flyer bus. This is an upcoming new bus service themed like an old fashioned rail train. It seems very similar to Mears but you get some cute theming. Go to the Sunshine Flyer website to read more specifics and make reservations. They charge per person also and are taking reservations now for trips beginning Feb 1, 2022.
Note: most of the options will take you to/from Universal and other locations in the area as well.
Safe travels and feel free to contact me if you need help planning your trip.
Update: On Jan 28, 2022, Disney announced a new private car service option. More details here.
Adventures By Anne 