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Orlando Airport (MCO) Parking Guide
Quick Questions about Parking at MCO
- What is the main problem with parking at MCO? The lack of availability. The main garages (A, B, and C) constantly fill up without warning, forcing drivers to divert to distant economy lots.
- How much extra time should I allow just for parking? The advice from travelers is unanimous: add at least an extra hour to your planning just for the ordeal of finding parking and taking the shuttle.
- Are online parking reservations reliable? Not always. There are reports of travelers with prepaid reservations who couldn't access the reserved area because the scanning system failed, forcing them to pay again.
- What happens if the main garages are full? You will be diverted to the economy lots (Park Place), which are often described as chaotic, with long waits for shuttles and even parking on grass.
The parking experience at MCO is one of the most criticized by travelers, marked by unpredictable availability and poor communication. Below, we summarize the key points that define this experience:
Parking at MCO: Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths (The Good)
- Variety of Options: There is a wide range of parking, from economy lots to terminal-side garages and valet service.
- Free Waiting Lots: The "Cell Phone Lots" are an excellent free option for waiting for arriving passengers.
- Integration with E-PASS/SunPass: The system allows for faster payment upon entry and exit, if it works correctly.
- Weaknesses (The Bad)
- Critical Availability Issues: This is the biggest problem. The garages are constantly full, making finding a spot a stressful experience.
- Lack of Communication: There are no clear, advance warnings that the garages are full, which causes chaos and wasted time.
- Chaotic Economy Lots: Waits for shuttles are very long and the system is disorganized, especially during peak hours.
- Risk of Missing Flights: The combination of the above problems has caused several travelers to miss their flights.
Finding parking at Orlando Airport has become one of the biggest headaches for travelers. Although in theory there are many options, the reality is that the main garages are often full, signage is confusing, and a lack of communication creates chaos that has even caused passengers to miss their flights. Below, we break down each option, its rates, and most importantly, the real experience you can expect.
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*Rates updated as of July 15, 2025. Subject to change at any time. Confirm the rate with the managing entity before booking.
Free Cell Phone Lots
Rate*: NO CHARGE
These lots are the ideal option if you are just waiting to pick up a passenger who has just arrived. They are free, but it is essential to remember that you cannot leave your vehicle unattended.
North Cell Phone Waiting Area
Location: 8730 Jeff Fuqua Blvd N. Exit right on Jeff Fuqua Blvd. towards Cargo Road and then right again towards the north exit ramp.
User Experience: It is a very convenient option, but it fills up quickly during peak flight times. The signage to return to the terminal can be somewhat confusing, so it is recommended to have your GPS ready for when the passenger calls you.
South Cell Phone Waiting Area
Location: 10546 Jeff Fuqua Blvd S, across from the train station and Garage C.
User Experience: Similar to the north lot, it is an excellent free alternative. Its proximity to Terminal C is an advantage. Enforcement is strict, so do not try to leave your car unattended.
Economy Lots (North & South Park Place)
Rate*: USD 14.00 per day (90-day maximum).
These lots are the alternative you will be forced to use when the main garages are full. Although they are cheaper for long stays, the experience can be chaotic.
Locations:
- North Park Place: 5501 Cargo Road. (Shuttle to Terminal A).
- South Park Place: 10536 S. Jeff Fuqua Blvd. (Shuttle to Terminals B and C).
- West Park Place: 8202 Tradeport Drive. (Shuttle to Terminals A and C).
User Experience: This is one of the worst-rated areas. Travelers report total disorganization, with waits for shuttles exceeding 30 minutes in the sun. During high demand, they have even had to park in grass fields. The frequency of the buses is insufficient, creating large crowds and a "free-for-all" situation to board them.
Main Garages (A, B, and C) and Terminal Top
Rate*: USD 24.00 per day (45-day maximum).
These garages are the most convenient option due to their proximity to the terminals, but also the most frustrating due to their constant lack of space.
Locations:
- Garage A and B: Adjacent to terminals A and B. Most spaces are covered and within walking distance.
- Garage C: Connected to Terminal C. It connects to terminals A and B via the "Terminal Link" train (a 4-minute ride).
- Terminal Top Parking: Located above the North Terminal, with all spaces covered and within walking distance of terminals A and B.
User Experience: The problem is the zero availability and poor communication. Drivers complain about circling for over an hour only to find that all levels are full, with no sign warning them at the airport entrance. This causes enormous stress and has led many passengers to miss their flights. If you manage to find a spot, the convenience is undeniable.
Surface Lots (Atlantis / Discovery / Endeavour)
Rate*: USD 20.00 per day (45-day maximum).
These surface lots (uncovered) are a mid-priced option and are located a short distance from Terminal C and the train station.
User Experience: They are a functional alternative when the garages are full, especially if you are flying from Terminal C. However, like in other areas, the signage to find them and to navigate within them can be confusing. It is crucial that you write down or take a photo of your exact parking spot.
Accessible Parking
MCO offers accessible parking spaces in all its garages and lots, usually located near the elevators or shuttle stops.
The airport provides free parking for vehicles that meet certain requirements, such as having specialized equipment (ramps, lifts), displaying a Florida toll exemption permit, or having a disabled veteran license plate.
Valet Parking
Rate*: USD 35.00 per day (45-day maximum).
This is the most expensive but also the most convenient service, ideal for those who do not want to deal with the search for parking.
Location: Accessed from the departure curb of all three terminals.
Hours: 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.
User Experience: The service is fast and efficient, but the main complaint is that it is often "always full," thus losing its purpose as a guaranteed alternative when other garages are at capacity.
🏨 Parking for Hyatt Hotel Guests
If you are staying at the Hyatt Regency at the airport, you have dedicated parking options, although they are not without problems.
Rates*:
- Self-parking: USD 19.00 per night.
- Valet Parking: USD 28.00 per night.
User Experience: The "Park, Stay and Go" packages are a good option. However, guests report that the designated areas for hotel parking are also often full, forcing them to park far away and walk to the hotel, which negates some of the convenience.
*Rates updated as of July 10, 2025. Subject to change at any time. Confirm the rate with the managing entity before booking.
Using E-PASS/SunPass to Pay
You can use your E-PASS or SunPass device to pay for parking, which can speed up your exit.
- Enter the parking lots using the lanes marked with the E-PASS/SunPass logo. You do not need to take a ticket.
- When leaving, use the marked lanes again. The fee will be automatically deducted from your account.
User Experience: Although convenient, some travelers have reported problems with the system, stating that it sometimes does not work correctly and they have been charged twice, having to claim a refund later.
Additional Tips from Expert Travelers
- The Golden Rule: Arrive with plenty of extra time. Most parking problems are mitigated if you are not under pressure to miss your flight.
- Consider Alternatives: If you are traveling during peak season, seriously consider using an Uber, a shuttle service, or having someone drop you off at the airport. It is often less stressful and can even be cheaper than paying for parking.
- Take Photos: When you park, especially in the large and confusing lots, take a photo of your space number or a nearby landmark. It will save you from a frustrating search upon your return.