Getting from the airport to Walt Disney World or Shades of Green sets the tone for your whole vacation.
Whether you’re flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO) or the smaller Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), this guide covers every major transportation option—shared shuttles, ride-share, private cars/limos, and taxis—with costs, tips, grocery stop advice, and the best return-pickup timing.
The Mouse Experts – Military Disney Vacation Specialists, can add airport transfers to your vacation package and coordinate details with your flights.
Airports at a Glance
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
This is the main airport for Walt Disney World visitors. Located about 20–25 miles (30–40 minutes) from Walt Disney World, it offers the widest range of airline choices.
For terminal flow and where to go inside MCO, see our detailed guide: Your Guide to Orlando International Airport.
Quick Facts:
- Baggage Claim: Level 2
- Ground Transportation: Level 1 (for shuttles and taxis)
- Rideshare Pickup: Look for “Ride App Pickup” signs (zones are posted)
- Departures Drop-Off: Level 3 (airline ticketing/check-in)
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
SFB lies roughly 45–50 miles away (about 60–75 minutes). SFB can be a good choice if airfare is dramatically cheaper, but once transfer time and cost are factored in, MCO is almost always the better overall value for Disney and Shades of Green, as well as the Universal Orlando Resort. The airlines that fly into SFB are Allegiant, Sun Country, and Arajet. These airlines do not fly into the airport every day, only on certain days.
1) Mears Connect – Standard and Express Service
Mears Connect is the most popular shuttle from MCO to Walt Disney World Resort and Shades of Green. It replaced Disney’s Magical Express and now offers two levels of service: Standard and Express. Both are shared-ride services operated by Mears Transportation.
How It Works
- Standard Service: The budget-friendly shared-bus option. Your vehicle may make up to five or six resort stops before reaching yours.
- Express Service: A faster, premium upgrade. You’ll be the first stop after leaving MCO and the last stop when returning to the airport. Vehicles can be a bus or a van.
Pricing (current typical rates)
- Standard (one-way): Adult ~$17.60, Child (3–9) ~$14.30; under 3 free. Book one-way or round-trip.
- Express (round-trip only): ~$250 total for up to 4 people; each additional passenger ~$55.
The significant price increase for the Express service is not for a private van; it is for your party to be on the first vehicle, with little or no wait time, that has your resort as the first stop. This might be a private van, a shared van, or the bus.
Where to Find It at MCO
After getting your bags, follow the signs to Ground Transportation – Level 1 on the B Side (or the corresponding area in Terminal C). Check in at the Mears Connect counter with your QR code. Drivers place your luggage in the vehicle and return it to you on arrival; tipping $1–$2 per bag is customary. Service operates 24/7 (reduced frequency overnight).
Military Family Tips
Traveling with strollers, small kids, or multiple bags? Express may be worth it for a smoother start. For smaller parties watching their budget, Standard is an excellent value. Either option is easy for Shades of Green guests who prefer not to handle rideshare logistics.
Standard Service
- Pros: Lowest per-person cost; reliable 24/7; no surge pricing.
- Cons: Up to 5–6 stops; no grocery stop; occasional waits for bus assignment during peaks.
Express Service
- Pros: First drop-off/last pickup; shorter ride and wait; great for families with extra gear.
- Cons: Higher flat cost for small parties; still usually a shared ride; no grocery stop; similar pricing to some private cars.
Return Pick-Up
Mears typically schedules your return about 3 hours before domestic flights (longer for international). Confirm your time 24 hours in advance. Be ready at the airport bus stop at your resort.
2) Rideshare (Uber & Lyft)
Rideshares offer flexibility, privacy, and a direct route to your resort. They’re ideal for quick departures or families who prefer door-to-door service on their schedule.
- Pickup at MCO: After getting your bags, follow the signs for “Ride App Pickup.” You’ll receive a zone number in the app.
- Typical Cost: MCO → Disney area: ~$30–$60; SFB → Disney area: ~$70–$120 (traffic/surge dependent).
- Travel Time: ~30–40 minutes from MCO; ~60–75 minutes from SFB.
- Tipping: 15–20% is standard for good service.
- Grocery Stops: Easy to add a 15–30 minute stop—confirm with your driver.
- Car Seats: Need to ensure they are available
- Pros: Flexible timing; direct/private ride; simple grocery stop option; can pre-schedule return.
- Cons: Surge pricing can spike cost; limited luggage space in some vehicles; you manage your bags.
3) Private Car or Limo Service
If comfort and convenience are top priorities—or you’re traveling with a large group—private transfers are stress-free and efficient.
- Typical Cost: MCO → Disney area: ~$90–$140 one-way; SFB → Disney area: ~$140–$160 one-way (many offer round-trip discounts).
- Meet & Greet: Many providers meet you at your baggage claim and will assist with your bags
- Gratuities: Are typically not included in the price, 15–20% is the standard for good service, so have cash.
- Car Seats: Often available on request at no additional or small charge.
- Grocery Stops: Commonly allowed; confirm time limits and fees.
- Pros: Personalized, spacious, and quick; excellent with strollers and gear; easy to add a grocery stop.
- Cons: Highest cost.
4) Minnie Van Airport Service (Deluxe Resorts and Concierge Level Guests Only)
Minnie Van at Shades of Green
If you’re looking for the most “Disney” way to get from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to your resort, the Minnie Van Airport Service is the premium option. These red-and-white polka-dotted SUVs are driven by Disney Cast Members and include built-in car seats, Disney music, and a direct ride between MCO and select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.
Minnie Vans only serve MCO; they do not go to SFB!
Important Eligibility Note: As of now, Minnie Van airport transfers are only available to guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort hotels and Deluxe Villa resorts, or Guests staying in a Concierge Level Room. This service is not offered for Shades of Green, Value, or most Moderate resorts.
Note: Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort (a Moderate-level Resort) has concierge-level rooms.
How Minnie Van Airport Service Works
- Cost: The one-way cost is $249, which includes a $20 tip.
- Meet & Greet: Your driver will meet you at your baggage claim and will assist with your bags
- Tipping: While $20 is included in the rate for a tip, 15–20% is the standard for good service (which would be $38 to $45).
- Car Seats: Are available on request at no additional charge.
- Grocery Stops: not allowed.
- Route: Direct, private transportation between MCO and your Disney Deluxe/Deluxe Villa resort.
- Vehicle: Minnie-themed SUV, driven by a Disney Cast Member, accommodating up to 6 guests with 2–3 complimentary car seats.
- Hours: Generally available for arriving flights in the morning through evening and for departing flights from mid-morning through late night (exact windows can vary—confirm when booking).
- Booking: Airport Minnie Vans are pre-arranged (not just called on-demand in the app like on-property rides). You’ll book through Disney’s ignature Services at (407)-939-7777, who will confirm time and details for both arrival and departure.
Typical Cost
- Price: $249 each way (includes tax) between MCO and your Deluxe/Deluxe Villa resort.
- Party Size: One flat price covers up to 6 guests, which can make the cost more reasonable for a full vehicle. The larger vans for those in wheelchairs/scooters can accommodate 7 passengers.
- Gratuities: An 8.7% tip is included in the fare; Minnie Van drivers are Cast Members providing premium service, so many guests tip similarly to private car service at 15% to 20%.
Military Family Angle
For military families staying at Shades of Green, the Minnie Van airport service won’t be applicable. However, if you’re staying at a Disney resort or doing a split stay that includes a Disney Deluxe or Deluxe Villa resort—especially with young kids who need car seats—this can be a very comfortable, low-stress way to arrive or depart.
- Pros: Private, direct Disney-branded service; Cast Member driver; car seats included; no shared stops; great “welcome to Disney” experience.
- Cons: Very expensive compared to shuttles or standard rideshare; limited to Deluxe/Deluxe Villa guests; not available for Shades of Green; must be pre-booked and may have limited time windows.
5) Taxi Service
Classic taxis are available at MCO with stands on Level 2 outside baggage claim.
- Typical Cost: MCO → Disney area: ~$70–$100 one-way; SFB → Disney area: ~$110–$160.
- Travel Time: Similar to rideshare—~35–45 minutes from MCO.
- Payment: Credit cards typically accepted; tip 15–20%.
- Pros: Walk-up simplicity; predictable fares; no app/login required.
- Cons: Usually pricier than rideshare; limited vehicle variety; grocery stops rarely allowed without pre-arrangement.
Grocery Stops for Shades of Green Guests
Staying several days? A quick grocery stop saves money on water, snacks, and breakfast items.
- Best Way: Add a 15–30 minute stop to a rideshare or private car.
- Nearby Options: Target (Rolling Oaks Blvd) or Publix (International Drive) work well depending on your route.
- Note: Shuttles and most taxis do not permit grocery stops.
Scheduling Your Return to the Airport
Leaving for home is always bittersweet, but a smart pickup time reduces stress:
- Mears (Standard): Typically schedules pickup about 3 hours before domestic departures (longer for international).
- Rideshare/Private: Plan 2.5–3 hours before domestic flights; 3.5–4 hours for international or at peak times.
- Location: Be ready at the Shades of Green front drive or the Airport Shuttle Area at your Disney resort’s main entrance.
- Pro Tip: Keep your provider’s contact info handy in case of delays or confusion.
Is Sanford (SFB) Worth It?
SFB can make sense for a great airfare deal, but it’s farther from Disney, has limited service days, and has fewer transfer options. Unless you’re renting a car, MCO is usually the better choice for Shades of Green and Disney resorts.
- Pros: Smaller airport; fast security/baggage.
- Cons: 50-mile distance; limited services; higher transfer cost and time.
Quick Comparison Table
| Option | Best For | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Grocery Stop | Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mears Connect (Standard) | Families on a budget | ~$17/adult | No | 45–75 min | Reliable; luggage help; no surge pricing | Multiple stops; no grocery stop; potential wait |
| Mears Connect (Express) | Convenience, first stop | ~$250 (4 RT)* | No | 35–50 min | Shorter ride; handled bags | High flat rate; still shared; private car may compare |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | Flexible, small groups | $30–$60 | Yes | 30–40 min | Direct/private; pre-schedule return | Surge pricing; luggage space varies |
| Private Car/Limo | Large groups, comfort | $90–$140 | Yes | 35–45 min | Premium service; meet & greet | Highest cost; needs pre-booking |
| Minnie Van (Airport Service) | Deluxe Resort guests wanting premium Disney service | $249 each way | No | 30–40 min | Private, direct, car seats included, Disney Cast Member driver | High cost; Deluxe-only; not available for Shades of Green |
| Taxi | Walk-up simplicity | $70–$100 | Unlikely | 35–45 min | Always available; predictable fares | Pricier than rideshare; limited vehicle variety |
| Sanford Airport (SFB) | Low fares | $70–$160 | Yes (private) | 60–75 min | Smaller airport; quick security | Farther; fewer dedicated services |
* Express price shown is a typical current round-trip flat rate for up to 4 people; verify latest pricing on the provider’s site.
Military Travel Notes
Shades of Green does not operate an airport shuttle. Guests should book one of the options above. Many military families prefer rideshare (for flexibility) or Mears Standard (for value).
For expert planning and to bundle transfers with your reservation, contact The Mouse Experts – Military Disney Vacation Specialists.
Final Thoughts
Airport transfers to Walt Disney World and Shades of Green are straightforward once you know your options. Shared shuttles like Mears Connect balance convenience and cost, rideshares and private cars maximize flexibility, and taxis offer walk-up simplicity. For most travelers—especially military families staying at Shades of Green—Using MCO plus a pre-booked transfer is the winning combination. Sanford can work for special cases, but travel time and cost usually offset airfare savings.
|
This MDT Post By: Steve Bell Steve is the Military Disney Tips Founder. He is a retired U.S. Military Member who's been touring the Disney Parks since 1971! He has been writing about Disney for the US Military Community here for 18 years. Steve's mission is to help military families with their Disney vacations in every way possible. See Steve and His Family's Content |
Planning a Disney Trip? Want to get the best military discounts that are available? Feeling a little confused? See Our Great Disney Discount and Planning Info:
- Back to Basics Posts - A great place to start, offering basic topics!
- Disney Veteran & Military Discount Eligibility Guide
- The Military Family’s Walt Disney World Comprehensive Vacation Planning and Preparation Guide
- Military Disney Tips Disney Packing Checklist
- Disney Military Tickets – Your Start-to-Finish Guide
- Resorts/Hotel Overview Page
- Dining Overview Page
- Transportation Overview Page
- Technology Overview Page
- Shades of Green, WDW’s Military-Only Resort
 The Mouse Experts is a travel booking company specializing in Disney vacations. Military family owned and operated! They know all the ins and outs of Disney military discounts!
|
Airport Transportation FAQs for Walt Disney World & Shades of Green
Does Shades of Green offer airport transportation?
No. Shades of Green does not run an airport shuttle. Guests should book a service such as Mears (shared or express), rideshare (Uber/Lyft), a private car/limo, or a taxi.
Where do I meet my shuttle or driver at MCO?
Follow airport signs to Baggage Claim, then to Ground Transportation on Level 1 of the Main Terminal. Look for the shuttle check-in area (Mears Connect) or the rideshare/taxi zones indicated in the app or airport signage. If you arrive at Terminal C, follow the posted directions to Ground Transportation and your booked pickup point.
How much does transportation cost from MCO to Disney/SoG?
Expect shared shuttle pricing per person, rideshare pricing that varies by time and vehicle size, and higher flat or hourly rates for private car/limo. Taxis are typically metered or zone-based. Check your provider for current rates and any airport/resort fees.
What’s customary tipping for airport transfers?
For rideshare, taxi, and private car/limo, 15–20% is standard for good service. For shared shuttles, $1–2 per person (or $2–3 per bag if handled by a porter/driver) is typical.
Can I make a grocery stop on the way to my resort?
Usually yes with rideshare or private car/limo (often a 15–30 minute stop). Most shared shuttles don’t include grocery stops. Confirm timing, any added fee, and the store location when booking.
Where will I be dropped off/picked up at my resort?
Generally, at the resort’s front drive or designated shuttle zone. At Shades of Green, use the main front entrance drive unless your provider instructs otherwise.
When should I schedule my return pickup for my flight home?
For domestic flights from MCO: plan pickup about 2.5–3 hours before departure (add buffer for traffic, mobility needs, or rental car return). For international flights: 3–4 hours is safer. Shared shuttles may assign a pickup time; private rides give you flexibility.
Is Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) a good option?
It can be if the airfare is compelling and you’re comfortable with a longer ride and fewer dedicated services to Disney-area resorts. Most travelers to Shades of Green find MCO more convenient and often cheaper overall once transfers are included.
How to Choose & Book the Right Airport Transfer (Step-by-Step)
- Pick your airport. MCO is usually the easiest for Disney & Shades of Green; SFB is farther with fewer dedicated services.
- Match transport to your party.• Best value per person: Shared shuttle.• Flexibility & fast: Rideshare (Uber/Lyft).• Lots of luggage, car seats, or late arrival: Private car/limo.• Straightforward, walk-up: Taxi.
- Book in advance. Provide flight numbers, arrival time, resort name (“Shades of Green” or Disney resort), party size, luggage, and car-seat needs.
- Arrival day navigation. Get bags, follow signs to Ground Transportation or the rideshare/taxi zones, and meet your provider at the exact location they specify.
- Optional grocery stop. If desired, confirm store name, time limit (often 15–30 min), and any fee with your driver.
- Set your return pickup. Schedule 2.5–3 hours before domestic departures (3–4 hours for international) from your resort’s front drive or designated pickup area.
- Confirm details. The day before travel, reconfirm pickup time and location; keep confirmation numbers handy.
Leave a Reply