Looking for an alternative to Disney’s Magical Express?With Disney’s Magical Express no longer a thing, many future Walt Disney World vacationers are wondering how to get to and from Orlando International Airport. Of course there are rideshares and car rentals, but some people want something that is as close to Disney’s Magical Express as possible.
There are two main players in this game. This is not an endorsement and is not from experience. I live just minutes from Walt Disney World so I don’t need this type of service. I have heard good things about both companies, and this information is meant as a starting place so that you can do your own further research.
The first is Mears Connect. This is about as close to Disney’s Magical Express as you can get. Mears was the company that ran Magical Express, so things have kind of picked up where they left off, but under a new name. It could be the same bus and the same driver that you’ve had in the past!
The cost for Mears Connect is $16 each way for ten and up, and $13.50 for ages three through nine. Under nine is free with a paying adult. You can book one way or roundtrip, but there is no discount for booking both ways.
Mears Connect stops at all of the Walt Disney World resorts, as well as some that weren’t included with Magical Express such as Swan and Dolphin and the Disney Springs hotels.
You can learn more about Mears Connect here.
Sunshine Flyer is a fun new option. It’s supposed to feel like you’re riding on a locomotive, although you’re on a bus. The cost is $17 each way for ten and up, and $12.50 for the three through nine crowd. Two and under is free with a paying adult. Again, there’s no discount for booking roundtrip.
One thing to keep in mind with Sunshine Flyer, it is a brand new service, so there might be some kinks that are still being worked out. I have heard of people who have been picked up on a bus that wasn’t themed, but I have no official confirmation on that.
You can learn more about Sunshine Flyer here.
Both Mears Connect and Sunshine Flyer are wheelchair accessible. From what I can tell, you add the information when booking. Also, all costs are subject to change.
If you’ve used either service, I’d love to hear from you and learn your experience. Drop me a message on the Disney Over 50 Facebook page!