How to get to Universal Orlando from Downtown by car?

Woman driving car on road trip with friend smiling in passenger seat.

Drive route

Route: Via I-4 W
Travel time: 15 minutes

Start in Downtown Orlando, from the city center. Turn right onto N Garland Avenue and follow the signs to Interstate 4 West (I-4 W). Merge with I-4 W and continue driving for about 7 miles, and take exit 75B-A towards S Kirkman Road. Merge onto S Kirkman Road, follow the signs, and turn right onto Universal Blvd. Follow resort signs for parking garages.

Available parking facilities

Parking Garage: 6000 Universal Boulevard; Orlando, FL 32819 | Find on Maps

Designated accessible parking spaces are available upon presentation of a valid disability placard or license plate, which must be displayed at all times.

How to get to Universal Orlando from the airport?

Couple sitting in the back seat of a car

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Route: From MCO to Universal Orlando via FL-528 W
Travel time: ~25 minutes
Cost: $35–55, depending on time of day and vehicle type
Drop-off point: Universal CityWalk rideshare zone (near the parking garages)

Taxi

Route: From MCO to Universal Orlando via FL-528 W
Travel time: 25–30 minutes
Cost: ~$45–60 flat rate (standard sedan)
Drop-off point: CityWalk taxi stand, near guest drop-off and pick-up area

Group of passengers smiling and chatting on a travel bus.

Airport shuttle or private transfer

Route: Pre-booked service from MCO to Universal Orlando
Travel time: 30–40 minutes (depending on number of stops if shared)
Cost: ~$20 per person (shared shuttle) or $80–120 (private vehicle)
Drop-off point: Closest drop-off point varies by service — typically CityWalk or hotel entrance if staying onsite

Book Universal Studios Orlando Tickets

Universal Studios Orlando 1-Day Tickets

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Universal Studios Orlando 2-Day Tickets (Multiple Parks)

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Universal Studios Orlando 1-Day Express Pass (One Time Per Ride)

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Universal Studios Orlando 1-Day Tickets: Epic Universe

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Universal Studios Orlando 1-Day Tickets: Islands of Adventure

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Universal Studios Orlando 1-Day Tickets + Express Pass (One Time per Ride)

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Universal Studios Orlando 2-Day Tickets (Single Park Per Day)

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Universal Studios Orlando 1-Day Express Pass (Unlimited Rides)

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Universal Studios Orlando Tickets + 1-Day Express Pass (Unlimited Rides)

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Universal Studios Orlando 2-Day Tickets: Epic Universe

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Compare your transport options

Transport mode	From	Total cost	Travel time	Distance to resort	Flexibility	Best for
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)	Airport / Downtown	$35–55 (airport) / $20–35 (downtown)	20–30 minutes	10–16 miles	On-demand	Most travelers – fast, easy, door-to-door
Taxi	Airport / Downtown	$45–60 (airport) / $30–40 (downtown)	20–30 minutes	10–16 miles	Waiting may apply	Visitors without app access or who prefer official taxis
LYNX Bus (Public Transport)	Airport / Downtown	$2 per person	60–75 minutes	10–16 miles	Fixed route/schedule	Budget-conscious travelers, those comfortable with transfers
Private transfer	Airport / Downtown	$80–120 per vehicle	25–35 minutes	10–16 miles	Pre-booked	Families and groups
Rental car	Airport / Downtown	$70–100/day (incl. $30 parking)	Varies	10–16 miles	Full control	Travelers planning to explore beyond Universal
Hotel Shuttle (if offered)	Airport / Downtown	Included with the stay	15–30 minutes	1–6 miles	Fixed schedule	Guests of Universal Partner Hotels

Good to know:

Public transport (LYNX) may require transfers and is not ideal late at night (during events such as Halloween Horror Nights).
Parking fee at Universal is currently $30/day and applies to rental cars also.

Getting around the resort

Staying at a Universal Orlando hotel? Moving between your hotel and the theme parks is quick and easy thanks to these complimentary transportation options:

Water taxis

Available for guests staying at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort.

Direct drop-off near Universal CityWalk (short walk to both parks).
Runs daily, typically from 7am until 2am.

Guests smiling inside an air-conditioned bus during transfers.

Shuttle buses

Provided for all Universal hotels, including Value and Prime Value options.

Frequent service to CityWalk, Volcano Bay, and other theme parks.
Great for families with strollers or large groups.

Garden walk patj

A scenic pedestrian walkway from select hotels (like Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Sapphire Falls).

Open 24/7, well-lit, and ideal for early birds or evening strolls.

Frequently asked questions about Universal Studios Orlando transport options

Does Universal Orlando offer free airport shuttles?

No, Universal Orlando does not provide complimentary shuttle service from Orlando International Airport (MCO). You can arrange private transfers, take a taxi, or rideshare.

What’s the best way to get to Universal Orlando if I am travelling with heavy luggage?

A taxi or rideshare like Uber or Lyft is your best bet if you're carrying multiple bags. They offer direct drop-off at your hotel and avoid the hassle of navigating transfers with luggage.

How much is Uber from MCO to Universal?

Prices vary by time of day, but expect to pay $35–50 for UberX and more for larger or premium vehicles. Always check the app for real-time pricing.

What’s the easiest way to reach Universal Orlando from the airport?

For convenience, rideshare or a pre-booked private transfer is easiest. You avoid stops and get dropped right at your hotel. If you prefer budget-friendly options, a shared shuttle is a reliable choice.

Is shuttle service available between the parks?

Yes, free shuttle buses and water taxis connect Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and all official on-site hotels.

Is the shuttle service within the park free for all?

Yes. If you’re staying at a Universal Orlando hotel, all resort shuttles, water taxis, and walking paths are complimentary and included with your stay.