Discover transportation options from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Universal Studios Orlando! Explore rideshare, public buses, or car rentals for your perfect journey to the enchanting world of Universal Orlando.
Planning a trip to Universal Studios Orlando and wondering how to get from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to the theme parks and hotels? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various transportation options, pricing, and the best choices based on your group size and preferences. From rideshare services to shuttle buses and renting a car, we’ve got you covered!
How far is it from the Orlando Airport to Universal Studios?
The distance between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Universal Studios Orlando spans roughly 17.3 miles.
Generally, by car, the journey takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. If opting for public transportation, such as the Lynx bus service, the travel time can extend to about an hour. Using a shuttle service can also vary in duration, potentially taking up to an hour or more, contingent on the number of stops and the shuttle’s schedule to leave the airport.
Below is the Universal from Orlando Airport map using the most direct car route.
Is there a free shuttle from Orlando Airport to Universal Studios?
No, unfortunately, there isn’t a free shuttle service available from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Universal Studios Orlando.
The cheapest choice is using public transportation via the Lynx bus, which costs $2 for a one-way trip.
Alternatively, rideshare services or taxis offer the quickest option, albeit at a bit higher cost.
There is a Universal Orlando airport shuttle, the SuperStar Shuttle, which we will talk about below, but we do not recommend it. It requires a reservation, isn’t always reliable, stops at many hotels along the way, and isn’t free.
Lyft or Uber Rideshare Services (1-6 people) from Orlando Airport to Universal
For our family of 4, rideshare is our first choice, and we typically use Lyft.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular options for solo travelers or small groups, and those planning to spend all of their time at Universal Studios Orlando. They offer the convenience of door-to-door service and flexible scheduling. The estimated cost for a one-way trip from Orlando Airport to Universal with Uber or Lyft is typically around $30-$40, depending on demand and time of day.
Note: The largest rideshare car category is the Lyft XL or UberXL. Both of these vehicles are typically large SUVs or minivans that can accommodate up to six passengers. Keep in mind that the vehicle availability and capacity may vary based on the location and demand in your specific area.
Renting a Car (1-8 people) from Orlando Airport to Universal Studios
Renting a car at the Orlando Airport gives you the freedom to explore Orlando at your own pace. It does mean additional rental and parking costs.
Universal Orlando Resort offers convenient on-site parking options for hotel guests. Parking at on-site hotels is $15-$28 plus tax per vehicle, per night (depending on the resort).
If you are staying off property and travelling to the parks each day, the parking fee at the Universal Orlando/City Walk parking deck is approximately $30 per day for regular vehicles. The parking deck does not allow overnight parking.
Note: This maybe be the best option if you are planning on visiting many other Orlando attractions.
Universal’s SuperStar Shuttle from the Orlando Airport
If you’re staying at one of the Universal Orlando Resort hotels, you can use their shuttle service, Universal’s SuperStar Shuttle, to travel from the Orlando Airport. This option saves money on parking fees, and the shuttles can run on a regular schedule.
Do note: we have heard mixed reviews on the SuperStar Shuttle Service. Some guests have experience long wait times from the Orlando airport and the price is high for families. Some guests still say it is a good solution for them.
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
- Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Universal’s Aventura Hotel
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Hard Rock Hotel
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Roundtrip Pricing:
- Adult: $39
- Child (3-9): $36
- Children 2 & Under: Free
Universal superstar shuttle booking is available here.
Private Car Services from the Orlando Airport
For a more luxurious and comfortable experience, private car services provide personalized transport to Universal Studios from the Orlando Airport. Prices for private car services vary, but they are typically more expensive than rideshare or shuttle options.
- Orlando limo tours
- Gear Fusion
- Mears black car service
- Tiffany Towncar
Taxi Services from the Orlando Airport
For travelers looking to go from the Orlando Airport to Universal Studios, Mears taxis are a convenient and reliable option. Passengers can find Mears taxi stands located just outside the baggage claim area at the Orlando Airport. The service is available 24/7, providing flexibility for travelers arriving at any time.
It’s essential to be aware that the cost of the taxi ride may vary depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and the number of passengers. Generally, the fare is based on a metered rate that includes a base fare and additional charges per mile or minute.
Mears taxis can accommodate a certain number of passengers and luggage. Standard taxis can usually accommodate up to four passengers, but larger vehicles like minivans may be available for groups with more people or excessive luggage.
For an estimate of the fare and more information on the services provided by Mears Transportation, it’s best to visit their official website or contact their customer service directly. Keep in mind that transportation services and prices may have changed since my last update, so I recommend checking for the most up-to-date information before your trip.
Public Transportation from the Orlando Airport to Universal Studios
For travelers seeking the most budget-friendly option, Lynx, the local public transportation system, offers a convenient bus route from the Orlando Airport to Universal Studios Orlando.
The Lynx fare is around $2 per person, making it easily the cheapest option. Keep in mind that this will take you longer to arrive at your destination. The journey typically takes 1 hour from the airport to the Universal hotels, and requires a transfer to arrive at CityWalk.
Check Lynx bus App for real-time bus locations, stops, routes, and schedules. Use Google maps or the Lynx App to find the optimal route from the Orlando Airport to CityWalk or your hotel, even if it requires a transfer.
Is there Orlando Airport to Universal Studios train?
No, currently there is not a train from the Orlando Airport to Universal Studios Orlando.
However, there has been news directly from NBC Universal about the addition of a SunRail extension that would link the Orlando Airport to Universal Studios via a train route. This extension will facilitate easier access between the Orlando airport and major attractions like Universal Studios in the future.
Additional Tips and Considerations when traveling to Universal Studios
- When choosing your transportation option, consider factors like group size, budget, and desired level of convenience.
- If you’re staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel and plan to spend all of your time at the resort, you can use the complimentary shuttles and water taxis to move about the resort.
- If you plan on renting a car, remember that most theme parks (Universal, Disney, Seaworld) and their hotels have parking fees.
- If you plan to visit multiple attractions in Orlando, renting a car gives you more flexibility than using rideshare services.
- If you are arriving late at night or very early, rideshare options may be limited and much more expensive.
- Parking at Universal Orlando Resort hotels is not complimentary for hotel guests, so you won’t save money by renting a car.
How do you travel from the Orlando Airport to Universal Studios?
Getting to Universal Studios from Orlando Airport (MCO) is a breeze with various transportation options available. Choose the option that best suits your needs and enjoy a seamless journey to the enchanting world of Universal Orlando Resort. Whether you prefer the convenience of rideshare services, the budget-friendly public transportation buses, or the flexibility of renting a car, there’s a perfect choice for every traveler! So, start planning your adventure, and let the magic unfold at Universal Orlando Resort!
Doesn’t seem like there’s a reason for a family to take the Universal shuttle. You’d pay so much that you’re better off using a private car/limo, if you didn’t want to mess with driving/parking. The pricing is so oddly high that it only makes sense if it’s usually discounted or offered as a package with the hotel stay.
I so agree. I could see if you had young children and didn’t want to deal with the hassle of bringing car seats for car rides. But generally the private car limo services also will provide car seats on request.