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Guide to Hotel Shuttles and Vans at Orlando International Airport (MCO)
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Quick Questions
- What’s the main downside of these services? Without a doubt, the waiting times. Especially with Mears Connect, travelers report waiting 30 to 60 minutes at the airport before departure, as the shuttle waits for more passengers.
- Is the ride direct to my hotel? No. These are shared services, meaning the shuttle makes multiple stops at various hotels, which can significantly extend your travel time.
- Are the drivers friendly? Generally, yes. Most reviews highlight the kindness and professionalism of Mears and hotel shuttle drivers, who often assist with luggage and provide helpful directions.
- How do I find my hotel shuttle? There are designated pickup areas, but your best strategy is to confirm directly with your hotel the exact pickup time and location before you arrive.
Shared shuttle and van services—whether provided by hotels or companies like Mears—are a popular alternative for travelers seeking a budget-friendly option compared to taxis or rental cars. However, comfort comes at the cost of time. User experiences show that long waits are a common issue. This guide will help you understand how these services work and whether they fit your itinerary.
Hotel Shuttle Services
Many Orlando-area hotels offer complimentary shuttle service as a value-added amenity. Large resorts like Universal also operate their own dedicated shuttle systems.
The SuperStar Shuttle from Universal picks up on Level 1 of Terminal A, at spaces A30-A33, connecting the airport to Universal Orlando resorts.
There are also local hotels that offer free airport transportation, departing from the following points:
Terminal A: spaces A1-A4 and A42-A45
Terminal B: spaces B1-B4 and B40
Terminal C: spaces C270 and C271
Train Station: spaces C7 and C8
User experience: Overall, the experience is positive. Travelers appreciate the convenience—especially when hotels provide clear instructions on shuttle times and pickup points. The friendliness and luggage assistance from drivers are frequently praised. The main complaint, when it arises, is about delays or lack of punctuality.
Tips for making the most of this service:
- Confirm everything with your hotel: Call the day before your arrival to confirm shuttle schedules and pickup location. Don’t rely solely on generic information.
- Keep your reservation handy: Bring a copy of your hotel reservation. It may be required to verify you’re a guest and entitled to use the shuttle.
Van Transfers (Mears Destination Services)
Mears Destination Services (Tel +1 855 463 2776) is the main shared shuttle provider for reaching Disney resorts and other tourist areas. It’s an economical choice, but patience is required.
Pickup points:
Terminal A: Level 1, spaces A19-A21
Terminal B: Level 1, spaces B27-B29
Terminal C: Level 1, spaces C282-C283
Estimated fares per person (one-way/round trip)
- Downtown Orlando: USD 20.00 / USD 32.00
- International Drive: USD 21.00 / USD 33.00
- Disney Resorts: USD 23.00 / USD 37.00
- Winter Park / Maitland: USD 29.00 / USD 49.00
User experience: Mears offers a mixed experience. The biggest downside—mentioned again and again—is the long waiting time. Expect to wait at the airport 30 to 60 minutes before departure. The ride can also be lengthy due to multiple hotel stops. On the positive side, most travelers agree that the drivers are professional, friendly, and helpful, and the vehicles are generally clean and in good condition.
Recommendations for a smooth journey:
- Book in advance: Essential to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
- Don’t be in a rush: Avoid this service if your schedule is tight. The whole process—from pickup to hotel—can take up to 2 hours.
- Ask about the stops: Ask the driver about the drop-off order to get an idea of how long your trip will be.
Final Thoughts
Shuttle and shared van services are an excellent option if your main priority is cost and you’re not in a hurry. Both hotel shuttles and Mears provide a reliable and safe way to reach your destination. However, if you’re tired after a long flight or prefer to avoid additional delays, you may want to consider alternatives such as a reputable taxi company or app-based ride service, even if the price is higher. The key is to align your choice with your travel priorities: savings versus time.