Universal Orlando Resort
Your Universal Studios vacation is booked. You have a flight and hotel lined up. You've researched top Orlando destinations, created a vacation itinerary and purchased tickets. But have you considered how you'll get from the airport to your hotel? It's a question many travelers don't consider until it's too late. And there's a serious lack of simple, affordable and convenient transportation options to get you from the airport to your hotel.
The Universal Studios resort area is located 20 to 30 minutes away from the airport – in moderate traffic. Before you arrive, you want to have a transportation plan in place. We can help – check out the various transportation options below.
Transportation Options
Shared-Ride Shuttle
: Though cheap shuttles or a shared-ride shuttle may seem like the most cost-effective solution, this form of transportation may not be ideal for people who are in a hurry. With a shared-ride shuttle, you are at the mercy of other passengers, their flight itineraries and their personal schedules. You'll also have to stop along the way at multiple hotels and wait as passengers de-board and collect luggage. If you're using a shared-ride shuttle, it may take an hour or two to get to your hotel. The shuttle company also requires a return pick-up time of a minimum 2 hours and 45 minutes prior to your flight (or 3 hours and 45 minutes before international flights).
Taxi
: There are two taxi lines at the Orlando airport. The lines are typically very long, and the cost for a taxi from the Orlando airport to the Disney World, SeaWorld and Universal Area can be as much as $60 one-way (and that's not including tip). If you call a service to get a quote, that price will not include the cost of tolls that are added along the route.
Private Car Service/Limo Service
: Surprisingly, the best deals in Orlando transportation to Universal Studios can be found by booking a private car and driver — if you know where to look. Plus, it's generally the most comfortable and efficient way to travel. You'll have the entire vehicle just for your family or group, so you're not at the mercy of other customers and you can book a car that best fits you and your family's needs.
What Will My Universal Orlando Resort Vacation Cost?
Check out our handy FREE trip planning tool that will even print a copy of your budget summary.
What Are the Most Popular Hotels in the Universal Area?
Royal Pacific Resort
: Kick back and relax in a tropical paradise at the exotic Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando®. From the breathtaking beauty of the lush tropical landscaping and sparkling waterfalls to the serene tranquility of the orchid court where flowers are always in bloom, you'll be transported to the enchanted isles of the South Seas. Find a spot at the tropical lagoon-style pool, kick off your shoes and forget about the rest of the world at the Royal Pacific Resort.
Hard Rock Hotel
: The heart and soul of rock 'n' roll. That's the breathtaking Hard Rock Hotel® at Universal Orlando® Resort, the perfect mix of funk and just plain fun. From the sweeping California mission-style facades to the legendary Palm restaurant to a palm-lined swimming pool where you're immersed in sound, not just water, it's the coolest hotel on earth. This is the place to chill when you know how to rock - and may be the best bet for the "grown up" family holiday.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort
: Splash back to the 1950's and 60's for endless family fun at Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort. From the moment you arrive, you will be taken back to the iconic beach resorts of the era. Go for a swim or relax in the lazy river, grab a burger and a milk shake or take the family for a game or two at the bowling alley.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
: Celebrate la dolce vita...the sweet life...at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, located on-site at Universal Orlando® Resort. Nestled along a picturesque bay, this luxurious hotel recreates the charm and romance of the sunny seaside village of Portofino, Italy, right down to the cobblestone streets and outdoor cafés. They will rejuvenate you with VIP treatment. Guests enjoy stylish, spacious guest rooms featuring authentic Italian furnishing, plus impeccable and attentive service.
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
: Scheduled to open Summer 2016, the Caribbean-inspired Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando® Resort will whisk you away to an island state of mind. With picturesque rivers and waterfalls, you'll feel like you've landed on your own tropical oasis in the heart of an unforgettable adventure. The hotel blends tropical styling with modern touches offering 1,000 guest rooms and suites. You can dine at a scenic restaurant with breathtaking water views; relax in a resort-style pool complete with white sand beaches, a waterslide, and cabana rentals; plus enjoy exclusive theme park benefits.
You can view the complete list of Hotels Nearest Universal Orlando, which also includes nearby International Drive Hotels.
How can I get my family to the Universal Parks from our Lake Buena Vista resort?
It's easy! Go to this free quote page and enter your hotel name in the first box and Universal Studios in the box next to it. You'll get quotes from local transportation companies, including private transportation choices where you get to pick your own travel times!
Universal Orlando Theme Parks & Attractions
Universal Studios Florida & The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley
: Universal Studios Florida® is a real working motion picture and television studio that enables guests to jump right into the action of their favorite films and TV shows 'on-set' of a variety of fully dressed backlot locations. Prepare for the greatest battle you'll ever ride! The new TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D is an ultra-immersive, next generation thrill ride that blurs the line between fiction and reality! All-new thrills and magical experiences await with the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ - Diagon Alley™. Dine at the Leaky Cauldron™, shop at well-known establishments including Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, and experience the darker side of magic in Knockturn Alley.
Universal's Islands of Adventure & The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade
: Take an unforgettable journey as the world's most cutting edge rides, shows and interactive attractions bring your favorite stories, myths, cartoons, comic books and children's tales to life. Six fantastic worlds await, including Marvel Super Hero Island® and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ where you can explore the mysteries of Hogwarts™ castle, visit the shops of Hogsmeade™ and experience pulse-pounding rides and attractions that transport you into a world of magical thrills and excitement.
Wet 'n Wild Waterpark
: Just minutes away from Universal Orlando® Resort, Wet 'n Wild® gives you more rides and more multi-person slides than any other Orlando waterpark. The waterpark is overflowing with incredible thrill rides, group rides where everyone can get drenched together, family rides where you can share in the fun, and so much more. On the new Aqua Drag Racer™, guests can slide through four lanes of high-speed, head-to-head competition on the tallest and fastest ride of its kind in Florida. Blastaway Beach™ is the largest family water play area in Florida, with over 15,000 square feet, 15 slides and 160 soakers
Universal CityWalk
: Universal CityWalk® is Orlando's hottest spot for dining and entertainment. It's a 30-acre entertainment complex where you can experience the best of the best in live music, casual and fine dining, dancing, shopping, movies, and more. Offering everything from a night of family fun to a great place to hang out with friends to romantic fun for couples.
Whether you're shopping to compare prices and find the cheapest deals, or you're looking for the option that best suits your family, Orlando Shuttle Service can help you find a great solution. We do the research so you don't have to! Get a free quote today and book the best deal without paying extra fees.