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Disney’s Magical Express, the free airport bus with the luggage tags, ended January 1, 2022. It isn’t coming back. So how do you actually get from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to your Disney resort now? Here are the six options I walk my families through, cheapest first.
1. Mears Connect Standard (the shared shuttle)
This is the closest thing to Magical Express, run by the same company that operated those buses. It’s a shared motorcoach: you board at Terminal B, Level 1, and it makes several resort stops before yours.
- Around $17.60 per adult one-way (about $33.60 round trip); $14.30 per child ages 3–9; under 3 rides free.
- Budget 60–90 minutes door-to-door, the trade-off for the low price is waiting for the bus to fill and stopping at other resorts.
- Best for: solo travelers, couples, and budget-focused families who don’t mind the ride taking a while.
2. Mears Connect Express (the direct shuttle)
Same company, no shared stops. It’s a direct round trip for up to 4 guests at $250 round trip (plus $55 per additional guest). If your party is four people, compare this against a private car, the price is often close, and a private car runs on your schedule.
3. Rideshare: Uber or Lyft
Request when you land, 25–40 minutes to most resorts, typically $35–$65 one-way, but surge pricing is real at peak arrival times. Standard cars fit 4 passengers. Car seats are not guaranteed, so if you’re traveling with little ones, this one needs a backup plan.
4. Minnie Van airport service (Deluxe resort guests only)
This is Disney’s own option, the polka-dot vans, driven by Cast Members, and it’s the closest thing to a premium Magical Express replacement. But it’s selective: only guests staying at Deluxe resorts, Deluxe Villas, or Club Level can book it.
- Around $199–$249 one-way, and it includes two complimentary car seats.
- Book by phone at (407) 828-3500, from 60 days out up to 2 days before.
- Best for: Deluxe families with small kids and lots of luggage who want a direct, Disney-handled ride.
5. Private car or town car service
A private sedan or SUV with a driver who meets you at baggage claim: typically $150–$225 per vehicle one-way, car seats available on request, no surge pricing. For parties of 5 or more, the per-person math often beats every option above — and nobody’s installing a rideshare app at midnight with tired kids.
6. Rental car
Around $50–$110 per day plus taxes and fees, and remember Disney resorts charge nightly parking fees, so add that to the math. Worth it if you’re park-hopping across property, adding Universal days, or heading to the coast. Overkill if you’re staying in the Disney bubble the whole trip.
What I’d recommend for your family
There’s no single right answer, it depends on your party size, your resort, your arrival time, and how much you value predictability over flexibility. A couple landing at noon has a different best option than a family of six landing at 11pm.
Want me to sort the transportation with the rest of your trip? Tell me your dates, party size, and resort, and I’ll price the options that actually fit.
lindseypierce.com/quote
I handle all the planning for you.
