Walt Disney World® Resort is a sprawling 25,000-acre property, encompassing four major theme parks, two water parks, numerous resorts, and a wide array of recreational, and dining options. Getting from the airport to your resort, and then around the expansive property, is a crucial planning step to consider. Here’s a breakdown of your transportation options for seamless travel within and around the magical world of Disney.
Airport Transfers
If you’re planning to stay within the Walt Disney World Resort property during your vacation, the only form of transportation you’ll need to consider how you’ll get from the airport to your hotel and vice versa. Here are a few options we at Like Magic Travel often share with travelers:
- Mears Connect: Previously known as the Disney Magical Express, this shared Shuttle Bus service is a convenient option. Priced at $33.60 per adult (10+) and $27.30 per child (3-9), with children under 3 traveling for free, it amounts to $195.30 round trip for a group of 5 adults and 1 child.
- Away We Go: This private van service is my top pick for larger groups of up to 11 passengers. They offer complimentary car seats upon request and also have an option to drop off at the parks and send luggage straight to the hotel for an additional fee.
- Uber/Lyft: For a more direct and potentially quicker route to your resort, Uber or Lyft are viable options. XL rides (which typically accommodate 6 passengers) can range from $50-70 each way.
In-Resort Transportation
Once you’re on property, Disney offers a variety of transportation options complimentary to guests.
- Disney Skyliner: The Disney Skyliner is an aerial gondola system that provides transportation between select Disney Resort hotels and Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and specific areas of the resort. It offers efficient travel, scenic views, and is unaffected by ground-level traffic.
- Monorail: The Walt Disney World Monorail System is an elevated train system that shuttles guests between Magic Kingdom and Epcot, the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC), and Magic Kingdom Area Resorts– Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. It provides a unique and scenic ride, direct access to major theme parks, and bypasses ground-level traffic.
- Water transportation: Turn your transportation to an attraction by catching a ferry ride!
- Magic Kingdom: Take a ferryboat to the Magic Kingdom, the Transportation and Ticket Center, and select Magic Kingdom Area Resorts– Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
- Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios: The FriendShip Boat connects Disney’s BoardWalk Villas, Disney’s Beach Club Villas, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, and the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel.
- Disney Springs: Last but not least, grab the Sassagoula River Cruise at Disney’s Old Key West Resort, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, and Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter
- Disney Bus Service: Buses arrive every 20 minutes, with the longest ride being approximately 20 minutes to Magic Kingdom. Epcot is a 15-minute ride, while Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom are around 10 minutes each. Disney Springs is a 20-minute ride from the resorts.
- Minnie Van Service: For families with young children, the Minnie Van service offers a unique experience, providing two car seats for added safety.
- Uber/Lyft: If you prefer a more direct route within the resort, Uber or Lyft can be reliable options.
What is the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC)?
The Transportation and Ticket Center, otherwise known as the TTC, is an important stop at Walt Disney World Resort. From the TTC, guests can access the following forms of resort transportation:
- Magic Kingdom parking lot: This is the closest parking lot to the Magic Kingdom.
- Monorail: All 3 Monorail lines pass through the TTC and this is a frequent stop for travelers getting to and from Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
- Ferryboat service: You can catch a ferry here every 10-20 minutes to the Magic Kingdom. Keep in mind, there is limited bench seating.
Choosing the right transportation option for your Disney adventure can significantly enhance your overall experience. If you need assistance with coordinating and booking your airport transportation, feel free to reach out to Like Magic Travel. Here’s to a magical journey at Walt Disney World!
