Ride or Drive: Getting Around Orlando

One of the most commonly asked questions we get is “Should I rent a vehicle?” When deciding whether or not to rent a car in Orlando, it’s important to consider all the costs. Renting a vehicle means the cost of renting + gas + cost of additional mileage + parking fees. With gas prices well over $2.50 USD per gallon, that can add up quickly. Plus, the cost of parking at theme parks is above $20 per day (this doesn’t consider larger vehicles like mini buses or trailers).

Another factor to consider is where you’re going. Driving in an unfamiliar place can be terrifying, especially if that place is a different country than your own. Traffic laws, regulations on who is permitted to drive with a foreign license, and lack of general knowledge of how to get around all play into whether or not to rent your own vehicle.
In short, unless you plan to drive out to explore beyond the greater Orlando area, you may want to forego renting a vehicle and consider these options instead.

Book Excursions

Our hotels are partnered with Florida Dolphin Tours. They provide our guests with tickets and transportation to destinations that are not here in the Universal or Disney resort areas. You can book day trips to beaches and springs, sightseeing here in Orlando, unique animal encounters in the Everglades, and trips out to the Kennedy Space Center. If you’re interested in more details on the packages offered, you can visit their website at www.floridadolphintours.com.

I-Ride Trolley

If you’re looking for ways to travel the 11 mile stretch of entertainment and shopping that is International Drive, you’ll want to get yourself a ticket for the I-Ride Trolley. There are 2 options (the red line and the green line) and they hit all the major destinations on International Drive including attractions, shopping malls, and entertainment complexes. Tickets are available online or right here in our lobby. You can purchase single trips or day/multi-day passes. Give your feet a break and enjoy this convenient transportation option.

Hotel Shuttles

Our property is happy to provide guests FREE transportation to and from Universal Studios, Aquatica, and SeaWorld. Book your seats the day before and arrive 20 minutes early to take advantage of this guest perk. Shuttles to Walt Disney World are also available for an additional cost.

Other Transportation Services

Some attractions such as Busch Gardens and Legoland have pick up and drop off set up at various locations. You can inquire about transportation, locations and times on their respective websites.
Town car and taxi services are available from our hotel as well as easy access to the public bus system, Lynx. If you have questions about your options, our Destination Universal desk agents will be happy to assist you.

We’ve done all we can to make sure that every guest receives the best deals and gets the most out of their visit to Orlando. So what are you waiting for? Call or book online with us today.