Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort are two of the biggest and best theme park destinations in the world. They’re conveniently located just about 10 miles apart in Orlando, Florida. If you’re planning a trip to Disney and love thrill rides, consider adding a day or two at Universal Orlando. Home to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, is an absolute must for adventure seekers and Potter fans alike.

But what’s the best way to get from Disney World to Universal Orlando if you don’t have your own car? Let’s explore your options!

Best Ways to Travel Between Disney World and Universal Orlando

It’s becoming more and more popular for Disney World vacations to include plans to visit Universal Orlando Resort. With just a 20 to 30-minute journey between these magical worlds, it’s easier than ever to enjoy both. Here are the top transportation options to get you from Disney to Universal or vice versa:

1. Ridesharing Apps (Uber or Lyft)

  • Estimated Cost: $20-$30 one-way
  • Travel Time: 20-30 minutes

Ridesharing apps have revolutionized transportation in tourist-heavy areas like Orlando. Here’s why they’re our top choice:

Advantages:

  • Generally cheaper than traditional taxis
  • Easy to use with smartphone apps
  • Readily available in the Orlando area
  • Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations

Disadvantages:

  • Prices can surge during peak times
  • May need to wait for your ride during busy periods

To use these services:

  1. Download the Uber or Lyft app
  2. Create an account and link your credit card
  3. Enter your destination
  4. Request a ride

On our family trips, we’ve consistently used Uber for transportation between Disney and Universal. It’s been reliable, convenient, and cost-effective. The drivers are usually familiar with the theme park areas, making for smooth rides. In my opinion, it’s by far the best option for most families.

Check both Uber and Lyft for the best rates, as prices can vary between the two services. If you want to get an estimate for an Uber fare from your hotel to Universal Orlando, click HERE.

2. Taxi Service

  • Estimated Cost: $45-$60 one-way
  • Travel Time: 20-30 minutes

Traditional taxi services offer a familiar option for those who prefer not to use smartphone apps.

Advantages:

  • No need for a smartphone or app
  • Readily available outside most hotels
  • Fixed rates (not subject to surge pricing)

Disadvantages:

  • Generally more expensive than ridesharing
  • May need to wait in line during peak times

Mears Transportation Group (☎ 888-983-3346; mearstransportation.com) is the largest taxi service provider in the Orlando area. They operate several brands, including Checker Cab, Yellow Cab Company, and City Cab Company, all with identical rates. Most taxis carry four to eight passengers, depending on the vehicle.

Personal Opinion: While taxis are a reliable option, I find them to be an unnecessary expense compared to ridesharing. The higher cost doesn’t come with any significant benefits, and in my experience, the convenience factor is actually lower than with Uber or Lyft.

3. Rent a Car

  • Estimated Cost: $45+ per day (plus parking fees)
  • Travel Time: 20-30 minutes (plus time for pickup and return)

If you love the freedom to explore, renting a car might seem like a good option. However, in my opinion, it’s often more trouble than it’s worth for most visitors.

Advantages:

  • Flexibility to explore Orlando beyond the theme parks
  • No waiting for rides or dealing with surge pricing
  • Can be cost-effective for larger groups or longer stays

Disadvantages:

  • Most expensive option when factoring in rental costs, fuel, and parking fees
  • Need to navigate unfamiliar roads and Orlando traffic
  • Parking at Universal Orlando costs $27-$60 per day

Disney’s Car Care Center offers car rentals near Magic Kingdom theme park:

  • Phone: (407) 824-0976
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 7 AM-7 PM, Saturday 7 AM-4 PM, Sunday 8 AM-3 PM
  • Offers Alamo Rent-A-Car and National Car Rental services

You can schedule a complimentary shuttle from your Disney resort to the car care center by calling 407-824-3470.

Unless you’re planning extensive exploration beyond the theme parks, renting a car is often an unnecessary hassle. The costs add up quickly, and dealing with parking can eat into your valuable vacation time.

Important Note on Shuttle Services

As of 2024, there are no direct shuttle services operating between Disney World and Universal Orlando. Previous information about Mears Transportation Group or SuperShuttle offering such services is outdated.

For airport transfers:

The lack of direct shuttle services between the parks is disappointing. In my view, this makes ridesharing apps an even more attractive option for park-to-park transportation.

Tips for a Smooth Transfer

  1. Plan your travel time wisely, accounting for Orlando traffic, especially during peak hours.
  2. If using ridesharing, check the app for any surge pricing before booking
  3. For taxis, confirm the fare before starting your journey
  4. If renting a car, familiarize yourself with parking options and costs at both resorts
  5. Always allow extra time for unexpected delays, especially if you have reservations or scheduled activities

The Verdict – Take an Uber or Lyft!

We think the best option for traveling between Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort is ridesharing! Not only are Uber and Lyft the cheapest options in most cases, but they also provide you with convenience and comfort. It’s a no-brainer for most visitors!

During our last family trip, we used Uber for all our transportation needs between parks. The convenience of not having to worry about parking or navigating unfamiliar roads made our vacation much more relaxing. Plus, it gave us a chance to rest between the excitement of different parks! After trying various options over the years, I can confidently say that ridesharing has consistently been the most hassle-free and cost-effective choice for our family.

Enjoy your trip!

Need help planning and booking your Disney World or Universal Orlando vacation? Look no further than The Vacationeer. This Universal and Disney travel agency will get you the best rates and make sure every aspect of your trip is as magical as possible, all at no additional cost to you!

For more information about Universal, see our Universal Orlando Map, Best Universal Orlando Rides, Universal Crowd Calendar, Universal vs Disney World,  Disney World Map, Magic Kingdom Rides, and Epcot Rides pages.

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