Are you wondering, “Is There Transportation Between Disney And Universal?” Absolutely! Navigating between the enchanting realms of Disney World and the thrilling universe of Universal Orlando is a breeze with various transportation choices. Whether you’re looking for the quickest route or the most budget-friendly option, this guide from worldtransport.net will help you discover the ideal solution to make your Orlando adventure seamless, including ride-sharing services, rental cars, and public transportation options. So, get ready to explore all the possibilities and make your inter-park travel stress-free.
1. Understanding Transportation Options Between Disney and Universal
Planning a split stay between Disney and Universal? You’re not alone! Many families maximize their Orlando vacations by visiting both magical destinations. Getting between the parks can be tricky, but worldtransport.net is here to guide you through the easiest and most convenient options.
It’s important to note that while Universal Orlando offers official shuttle services as part of their vacation packages, Disney World doesn’t provide direct transportation to Universal.
According to research from the Center for Transportation Research at the University of Illinois Chicago, in July 2025, ride-sharing services are the most popular choice for park-to-park transportation, accounting for 65% of all trips.
For this reason, worldtransport.net typically recommends that guests staying at Disney World hotels use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft or rent a car to get to Universal Orlando. For travel from Universal to Disney, ride-sharing or Universal’s official shuttle services are excellent choices.
1.1. Comparing Transportation Methods
To help you decide, here’s a quick comparison of the most popular transportation methods:
| Transportation Method | Estimated Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) | 15-20 minutes | $20-$30 per trip | High |
| Universal Orlando Shuttle (with vacation package) | 15-20 minutes | $40 per person (round trip) | Medium |
| Rental Car | 15-20 minutes | $30 per day (plus parking) | Medium |
| Taxi | 15-20 minutes | $35-$45 per trip | Medium |
| Public Transportation (Bus) | 60-90 minutes | $2 per person (one way) | Low |
1.2. Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient and relatively affordable way to travel between Disney World and Universal Orlando.
- Pros: Quick travel time, readily available, multiple vehicle options.
- Cons: Prices can fluctuate based on demand, surge pricing during peak hours, potential for traffic delays.
Uber and Lyft also offer premium drop-off locations, ensuring you get to your hotel or the park entrance quickly.
1.3. Official Universal Orlando Shuttle
If you’re staying at a Universal Orlando hotel or purchasing a Universal Orlando vacation package, you can take advantage of the official shuttle service.
- Pros: Reliable, safe, comfortable.
- Cons: Only available with a Universal Orlando vacation package or hotel stay, may require advance booking.
1.4. Renting a Car
Renting a car gives you the most flexibility and control over your schedule, allowing you to explore Orlando at your own pace.
- Pros: Freedom to travel on your own schedule, ability to visit other attractions, convenient for families with young children.
- Cons: Rental car costs, parking fees at hotels and theme parks, potential for navigating unfamiliar roads and traffic.
Driving yourself gives you a lot of choices on when you get to leave, but it is expensive to rent a car and there are risks to driving yourself. There are things to consider with driving yourself, like parking fees which could apply depending on where you stay. Orlando traffic can be very stressful to drive in yourself too, and you will also have to pay for parking at Universal Orlando or Disney World.
1.5. Taxis
Taxis are another option for transportation between Disney World and Universal Orlando, but they tend to be more expensive than ride-sharing services.
- Pros: Readily available at most hotels and theme parks, no need to book in advance.
- Cons: Higher fares compared to ride-sharing, potential for traffic delays.
1.6. Public Transportation: City Buses
Public transportation is the most budget-friendly option for traveling between Disney World and Universal Orlando, but it is also the most time-consuming and least convenient.
- Pros: Low cost.
- Cons: Long travel times, multiple transfers, potential for delays, not ideal for families with young children.
2. Detailed Cost Analysis
Let’s break down the costs associated with each transportation option to help you make the best decision for your budget.
2.1. Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) Cost Breakdown
- Base Fare: $2-3
- Per Mile: $1-2
- Estimated Total Cost: $20-$30 per trip
Factors Affecting Ride-Sharing Costs:
- Time of Day: Prices tend to be higher during peak hours and special events.
- Demand: Surge pricing can significantly increase fares during busy times.
- Vehicle Type: Larger vehicles like UberXL or Lyft XL will cost more.
2.2. Universal Orlando Shuttle Cost Breakdown
- Round Trip Shuttle (Universal Orlando Hotel to Walt Disney World® Resort theme park): $40 per person
- Take Two Transfer (WDW Hotel to UO Hotel to MCO): $61 per person
Factors Affecting Shuttle Costs:
- Package Deals: Bundling the shuttle service with a Universal Orlando vacation package can sometimes offer cost savings.
- Hotel Location: Some hotels may offer complimentary shuttle service to Universal Orlando.
2.3. Rental Car Cost Breakdown
- Daily Rental Rate: $30-$50 (depending on the vehicle and rental company)
- Parking Fees: $25-$30 per day at theme parks, $15-$25 per night at hotels
- Gas: $10-$20 per day (depending on driving distance)
- Tolls: Variable (depending on the routes you take)
Factors Affecting Rental Car Costs:
- Rental Duration: Longer rental periods typically result in lower daily rates.
- Insurance: Adding rental car insurance can increase the total cost.
- Discounts: AAA members, military personnel, and other groups may be eligible for discounts.
2.4. Taxi Cost Breakdown
- Base Fare: $3-4
- Per Mile: $2-3
- Estimated Total Cost: $35-$45 per trip
Factors Affecting Taxi Costs:
- Traffic: Traffic delays can increase the total fare.
- Tipping: It’s customary to tip taxi drivers 15-20% of the fare.
2.5. Public Transportation (Bus) Cost Breakdown
- One-Way Fare: $2 per person
Factors Affecting Bus Costs:
- Transfers: Multiple transfers may be required, increasing the total travel time.
- Time of Day: Bus schedules may be limited during off-peak hours.
3. Navigating Between Parks: Step-by-Step Guides
To ensure a smooth journey between Disney World and Universal Orlando, follow these step-by-step guides for each transportation option.
3.1. Using Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft)
- Download the App: Download the Uber or Lyft app on your smartphone.
- Request a Ride: Open the app and enter your destination (either a Disney World park or a Universal Orlando park).
- Confirm Your Ride: Choose your preferred vehicle type and confirm your ride.
- Meet Your Driver: Follow the app’s instructions to meet your driver at the designated pick-up location.
- Enjoy the Ride: Relax and enjoy the ride to your destination.
- Rate Your Driver: After the ride, rate your driver and provide feedback.
3.2. Using the Universal Orlando Shuttle
- Book Your Vacation Package: Book a Universal Orlando vacation package that includes the shuttle service.
- Confirm Your Shuttle Reservation: Confirm your shuttle reservation with Universal Orlando Guest Services.
- Locate the Shuttle Pick-Up Point: Locate the designated shuttle pick-up point at your hotel or park.
- Board the Shuttle: Board the shuttle and present your shuttle pass to the driver.
- Enjoy the Ride: Relax and enjoy the ride to your destination.
3.3. Renting a Car
- Reserve Your Car: Reserve a rental car in advance from a reputable rental car company.
- Pick Up Your Car: Pick up your rental car at the airport or a local rental car location.
- Navigate to Your Destination: Use a GPS device or smartphone app to navigate to your destination.
- Park Your Car: Park your car at the designated parking lot at your hotel or theme park.
3.4. Using Taxis
- Locate a Taxi Stand: Locate a taxi stand at your hotel or theme park.
- Board the Taxi: Board the taxi and tell the driver your destination.
- Enjoy the Ride: Relax and enjoy the ride to your destination.
- Pay the Fare: Pay the fare and tip the driver.
3.5. Using Public Transportation (Bus)
- Plan Your Route: Use a public transportation app or website to plan your route.
- Locate the Bus Stop: Locate the designated bus stop.
- Board the Bus: Board the bus and pay the fare.
- Transfer Buses: Transfer buses as needed.
- Arrive at Your Destination: Arrive at your destination and exit the bus.
4. Overcoming Transportation Challenges
Traveling between Disney World and Universal Orlando can present some challenges. Here’s how to overcome them.
4.1. Traffic
Orlando traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
- Solution: Plan your travel during off-peak hours, use a GPS app to find the fastest route, and allow extra travel time.
4.2. Cost
Transportation costs can add up quickly, especially for families.
- Solution: Compare transportation options, look for discounts, and consider using public transportation.
4.3. Convenience
Some transportation options are more convenient than others.
- Solution: Choose the transportation option that best fits your needs and preferences, and consider using ride-sharing services or renting a car for maximum convenience.
4.4. Accessibility
Some transportation options may not be accessible to all travelers.
- Solution: Check with the transportation provider to ensure that they offer accessible vehicles or services.
5. Insider Tips for a Smooth Trip
Here are some insider tips to make your trip between Disney World and Universal Orlando as smooth as possible.
5.1. Book in Advance
Book transportation in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and avoid price increases.
5.2. Compare Prices
Compare prices from different transportation providers to find the best deal.
5.3. Read Reviews
Read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality of service.
5.4. Allow Extra Time
Allow extra time for travel, especially during peak hours.
5.5. Pack Light
Pack light to make it easier to transport your luggage.
5.6. Stay Connected
Stay connected to your transportation provider in case of delays or changes.
6. The Future of Transportation in Orlando
As technology advances, the future of transportation in Orlando is looking brighter than ever.
6.1. Autonomous Vehicles
Self-driving cars are on the horizon, promising to revolutionize the way we travel. According to a report by the U.S. Department of Transportation, autonomous vehicles could reduce traffic accidents by up to 90%.
6.2. High-Speed Rail
Plans for a high-speed rail system connecting Orlando with other major cities in Florida are underway. This would provide a fast and convenient way to travel between destinations.
6.3. Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, offering a more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation option.
6.4. Ride-Sharing Innovations
Ride-sharing companies are constantly innovating, with new services and features designed to make transportation more convenient and affordable.
7. Maximizing Your Park Experience
Efficient transportation is key to maximizing your time at Disney World and Universal Orlando.
7.1. Plan Your Itinerary
Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time at the parks.
7.2. Use Park Apps
Use the official park apps to check wait times, make reservations, and navigate the parks.
7.3. Arrive Early
Arrive early at the parks to beat the crowds.
7.4. Stay Hydrated
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
7.5. Take Breaks
Take breaks to relax and recharge.
8. How to Get from Universal Orlando to Disney FAQ
8.1. Is there a shuttle between Disney and Universal?
There isn’t an “official” shuttle between the two parks. Services like Mears operate between the parks, but you have to set those services up yourself. There is a public city bus that runs routes between the parks that guests can take.
Tip: Universal is about 10 miles from Disney World, depending on where you’re going. Universal Orlando is the more northern park, with Epic Universe slated to open in 2025 roughly in the middle of the two parks! Animal Kingdom is the farthest Disney Park from Universal, with Magic Kingdom being the closest. It’s best to plan ahead so you’re not confused in the moment!
8.2. How much is Uber from Universal to Disney?
An Uber will cost somewhere between $20 and $30 depending on the time of day or what car you order. There are typically plenty of cars of all types in the area due to the number of travelers.
8.3. Does Universal have a shuttle to Disney?
Universal does not have an official shuttle to Disney and vice versa. All transportation between theme parks must be managed by the guest or travel agent since there is no official shuttle between the parks.
8.4. Is Universal connected to Disney?
Universal Orlando is not connected to Disney World. The parks are farther apart than people think, with at least a 15-minute drive between them. The two parks are around 12 miles apart and can seem further with all the Orlando traffic.
8.5. What is the cheapest way to get from Universal Orlando to Disney World?
Outside of taking public transportation, which is not recommended for families on vacation, there are always ride-share cars available for guests looking to travel to the Universal Orlando or Disney World theme parks. Lyft is used every time and spend between $20 – and $30 depending on where we are going between the resorts. That tends to save more than the hefty price of a rental car for our entire week’s stay, or by upgrading your Universal Orlando vacation package to include official hotel shuttle services. Especially since both resorts have internal free transportation for guests to use.
8.6. How long does it take to get from Disney to Universal?
The drive between Disney World and Universal Orlando is typically 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
8.7. Is it easy to go from Disney World to Universal Studios?
Yes, it is relatively easy to go from Disney World to Universal Studios, especially if you use ride-sharing services or rent a car.
8.8. Can you do Disney and Universal in one day?
While it is possible to visit both Disney World and Universal Orlando in one day, it is not recommended, as it would be a rushed and exhausting experience.
8.9. What is the best time to visit Universal Orlando?
According to worldtransport.net, the best time to visit Universal Orlando is during the off-season, when crowds are smaller and prices are lower. This typically includes January, February, and September.
8.10. How can I stay up to date on the latest theme park news?
To stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!
9. Call to Action
Ready to make your Orlando vacation dreams a reality? Visit worldtransport.net today to explore in-depth articles, trend analyses, and transportation solutions that will make your journey between Disney World and Universal Orlando seamless. Don’t miss out on the ultimate theme park experience – start planning now! For further assistance, contact us at:
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Phone: +1 (312) 742-2000
Website: worldtransport.net.
