Inside: Learn how to use Uber and Lyft to get to Disney World Parks. You’ll find tips and tricks, where to go for your rideshare, an FAQ, and more! Keep reading to become an Uber expert for your Disney World vacation.
Is Paying for Rideshare Worth it to Use at Disney?
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Are you in the midst of planning your Walt Disney World Resort vacation, and want to know more about if and how to get around with rideshares? I get it. It’s important, especially if you are looking to save time, not waste it when getting to and from the parks.
The good news is, there are so many ways to get around the parks, and figuring out the best way to navigate around the enormous Disney property can be a bit of a puzzle, right?
Well, guess what!?
In our ever-evolving world, the rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has been a game-changer, especially for theme park hopping.Â
No more long waits for shuttle services or fiddling with maps to find the parking lots. I’m going to walk you through how Uber and Lyft can be your magic carpets to a hassle-free Disney trip.
This is what the apps will look like on your phone…
Whether you’re at a Disney hotel, Orlando International Airport (MCO), or chilling at Disney Springs, these ride services are life savers.
What is a Rideshare?
First things first, let’s talk about what a rideshare, specifically Uber and Lyft, even are.
Most of us are familiar nowadays, but just in case, think of them as your personal fairy godmothers of transportation! Â
You literally just download the app for the designated company, put where you want to go, and in just a few taps, you can summon a ride to pick you up from your current location – be it your Disney resort, the Orlando airport, or even the front of the park after a long day.
Downloading the apps is super easy. Head to your app store, search for the ‘Uber app’ or ‘Lyft app’, and hit download. Once you’ve got them, setting up is a breeze. Just enter your email, create a password, and add a payment method like a credit or debit card. Voila, you’re set!
Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the difference between Uber and Lyft?”
Honestly, they’re like two sides of the same magical coin. Both offer a range of ride options from budget-friendly choices to more spacious rides for groups or those with car seats.
The key is to pick what works best for your Disney adventure and budget.
Why Choose an Uber over Disney’s Free Transportation?
So, why opt for Uber or Lyft when you’re heading to the Disney parks when there is free transportation?
Let me tell you, when you’re paying premium price to spend time at the parks, you’ll want to save as much time as you can. Rideshare are all about convenience and flexibility. Plus, you’ll skirt past parking fees, if you’re driving.
Hear me out…
Imagine you’ve just made a last-minute dining reservation at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. With a rideshare, you just grab your phone, set your pickup location, and boom – your ride is on its way.
No need to worry about navigating the Disney transportation system or waiting for the next bus, which by the way, can be 20 minutes sometimes.
When you compare the total cost with renting a car or other transportation options, Uber and Lyft prices aren’t that bad.
Sure, there’s something called surge pricing during peak times, but with a little planning (like avoiding park opening or closing rush), you can manage costs effectively.
And this one is a biggie… parking at Disney World, especially during peak hours, can be a hassle. By using a rideshare service, you get dropped off at designated drop-off points, close to the main building or entrance.
How Much Will an Uber or Lyft Cost at Disney?
​This question really depends on the day, time, distance, and type of rideshare you want. If I had to give you a price range, I would say anywhere from $10 to $45.
I personally recommend checking both the Uber and Lyft app before committing. You’ll be able to see how much it’ll costs prior to confirming your ride. In my experience, Lyft is typically a little bit cheaper.
I just pulled up pricing for both an Uber and Lyft for a 2:30pm pick-up at BoardWalk Inn to Magic Kingdom (approximately 4 miles). You’ll see options are slightly higher for Uber, but it seems more drivers might be available.
SAFETY TIP: Keep an eye on your app for the driver’s name and car details. Always good to double-check before hopping in. A quick, friendly chat with your driver about the best drop-off spot can be super helpful, especially if you’re headed to somewhere specific like Disney’s Hollywood Studios or the Marketplace Bus Loop.
What is the Minnie Van Service?
Disney’s Minnie Van service is such a fun and cute way to travel to and from the parks. Operated by Lyft, these vans are red and decorated in white dots to look like Minnie Mouses signature dress.
They are driven by Disney cast members and offer a little extra magical touch to your transportation experience.Â
They are a bit pricier but provide a comfortable and themed ride to your Disney destination.
I personally find Minnie Vans to be super convenient. I would suggest using a Minnie Van if you need a guaranteed car seat or are going to Magic Kingdom.Â
When taking another rideshare like a regular Lyft or Uber, you will get dropped off at the Ticket and Transportation Center. From there, you’ll take the monorail to Magic Kingdom.
But here’s the kicker!Â
Minnie Vans actually skip the Ticket and Transportation and brings you right to the park entrance.
The price for Minnie vans usually starts at around $30 per ride, but the convenience really makes it worth it.
Fun fact: Walt wanted Magic Kingdom to be a magical world that was completely removed from the rest of the world. That is why you will find the parking lot so far away.
How Long Do You Have to Wait for an Uber at Disney?
This really all depends on when and where you are trying to order an Uber. For instance, if it’s at park close, it might take a little longer.Â
There are a ton of Uber and Lyft drivers around the Disney World properties, so getting one isn’t usually a problem. The longest I’ve waited for one is 15 minutes, but usually it’s more like 5 minutes.
You’ll see below how many Uber’s are circling the area just by BoardWalk alone!
Drop-off and Pick-up Points at Disney World
Navigating the drop-off and pick-up game at Disney World is like finding the best spot for the parade – timing and location are everything.
Where to Get Dropped Off and Picked Up
First let’s go over where you’ll get picked up and dropped off. Each park has designated rideshare locations. I’ll share below all four parks, plus Disney Springs and resorts!
Magic Kingdom Rideshare Location
Like I said earlier, you can’t get dropped off at the front of the park. Instead, you’ll go to Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC) and get on the monorail from there.Â
- Pickup and Drop-off area: next to the buses at TTC
Hollywood Studios Rideshare Location
- Pickup and Drop-off area: The very last row at the bus station
EPCOT Rideshare Location
- Pickup and Drop-off area: Second lane of the Journey Parking lot. Look for the electric vehicle charging stations, and it’s right next to that area.
Animal Kingdom Rideshare Location
- Pickup and Drop-off area: The northern side of the parking lot near guest drop-off.
Disney Springs Rideshare Locations
At Disney Springs, there are two different rideshare pick up/drop off areas you can utilize depending on if you’re on the east or west side.
- East Rideshare – Marketplace Bus Loop: Located in the marketplace area right past Disneys’ Days of Christmas store.
- West Rideshare – Watermelon Parking Lot: Located right past the Cirque du Soleil theater.
Resort Rideshare Locations
Resorts are super easy. Your driver will pick you up and drop you off at the front of the main lobby entrance of your resort.Â
Finding Your Ride in the Crowd: Post-fireworks or after a long day at Animal Kingdom? The pick-up areas can get busy. Keep your app handy to track your ride and maybe step to the side to avoid the hustle. Look for landmarks like ‘Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort’ sign or ‘Disney Bus Stop’ to orient yourself.
How to Chose Your Ride
Okay, now when you open your app, there are a lot of options that you’ll be given. You’ll see there are many different styles rides you can choose, form luxury to Pet to more affordable options.
Uber options:
Lfyt options:
Tips for Using Uber and Lyft in Disney World
Here are some pro tips to make your rides as smooth as Cinderella’s carriage ride to the ball!
Time your ride accordingly!Â
Aim for non-peak times to book your Uber or Lyft. Early mornings or late afternoons are usually the sweet spots to avoid the rush of park opening or closing. Plus, you dodge that surge pricing bullet! If you do have to book during peak times, make sure you factor in that it might take longer than usual.
Large groups and special needs accommodations
Rolling with a big crew or need accessibility options? No worries! Both Uber and Lyft have options for larger vehicles and those equipped for accessibility needs. Just make sure to select the right option in the app, and you’ll be all set.
Plan ahead!Â
If you know you need to be somewhere at a specific time, you can actually schedule a ride. We do this at when we depart by booking our Uber to come get us and bring us to the airport. It’s one less thing to worry about when leaving!Â
FAQ
Q: Can I use Uber or Lyft to get to all Disney World theme parks?
A: Absolutely! Whether you’re heading to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, or any of the other Disney parks, Uber and Lyft are ready to take you there. Just set your destination in the app, and you’re good to go.
Q: Is it easy to find a rideshare pick-up point at Disney World?
A: Yep, it’s pretty straightforward. Each park has designated pick-up areas. Just follow the signs or ask a friendly cast member if you’re unsure. Remember, the pickup area is usually separate from the bus and shuttle service spots.
Q: Are there car seats available for little ones?
A: Many Uber and Lyft drivers offer car seats, but it’s not guaranteed. The only time it is, is when you book Lyft’s Minnie Van or Uber’s Car Seat option.
Q: How do I pay for my Uber or Lyft ride?
A: It’s all done through the app. Link your credit or debit card when you set up your account, and the fare will be charged automatically after your ride. Super easy, no cash needed!
Additional Resources
Uber and Lyft Websites/Apps
- Uber:Â Uber’s Official Website
- Lyft:Â Lyft’s Official Website
Disney World Transportation Guide
- For all the ins and outs of getting around Disney World, including Minnie Van Service, check out Disney World’s Transportation Guide.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it — we’ve covered the magical carpet ride that is Uber and Lyft at Disney World. So, can you uber to Disney World… absolutely!
An Uber service can be so convenient while at Disney, especially if you are trying to make the most of your time.
These ride-sharing services are a fantastic way to add ease and a bit of adventure to your trip. So, I strongly suggest factoring in some Uber rides into your Disney budget for your next trip!Â
Plan ahead, choose the right pick-up and drop-off locations, and enjoy the ease of rideshares!
I hope you found this helpful, but if you still have questions, comment below! I would love to hear from you, and hopefully be able to help you out!
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