2024 - Uber Disney World to Universal: A Seamless Journey

Looking to visit both Universal and Disney theme parks in one trip? With Uber, you can easily navigate from Universal’s thrills to Disney’s enchanting fairytales. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping roller coasters or magical encounters with beloved characters, this article will guide you on how to make the most of your journey.

Uber is one of the most convenient “inventions” in a while.

Let’s go through everything you need to know about Uber PLUS how to use it to get from Disney World to Universal.

Table of Contents

The Convenience of Uber for Theme Park Transportation

When it comes to theme park transportation, convenience is key. Uber offers a hassle-free solution that allows you to focus on the fun rather than the logistics. Gone are the days of searching for parking spots or waiting for crowded shuttle buses. With Uber, all you need is your smartphone and a destination in mind.

Uber provides a seamless experience from the moment you request a ride. The app allows you to see the estimated time of arrival, track your driver’s location, and even pay for your ride in advance. This means you can spend more time enjoying the attractions and less time worrying about transportation logistics.

Another major advantage of using Uber at theme parks is the availability of different vehicle options to suit your needs.

If you’re traveling with a large group, Uber XL or Uber SUV can accommodate everyone comfortably. For families with young children, Uber offers car seat options to ensure their safety and convenience. With Uber, there’s no need to split up or worry about coordinating transportation for everyone in your party. Everyone can stay together and make the most of their time at the parks.

So, whether you’re a thrill-seeker heading to Universal or a fairytale lover venturing into Disney, Uber has got you covered. Sit back, relax, and let Uber take care of the transportation while you create magical memories with your loved ones.

Uber Basics

Uber is an inexpensive, safe, and convenient taxi service. It’s on-demand private drivers for a low price. This is a great option for people who aren’t staying on property and therefore don’t have access to Disney’s transportation system. Uber can get you to all the same places, so don’t worry about that.

Uber is a mobile app that has turned getting a taxi into e-hailing. The best thing about Uber is that it’s almost always cheaper than a taxi. As a note: Disney now has a partnership with Lyft, which is their Minnie Vans. Despite being a Lyft service, these vans are fully integrated now with Disney’s transportation system, and that generally means that the Minnie Vans will cost a lot more than Uber.

You can use Uber by signing up for an Uber account, downloading the app, and pressing a few buttons to request a driver.

There are Four Different Levels to Uber

UberX – The least expensive Uber option. Usually, a sedan (like a Toyota Corolla), will seat up to 4 passengers.

UberXL – The bigger version of UberX, XL, seats up to 6 passengers and is an SUV or Minivan.

UberSelect – Luxury services, AKA luxury vehicles like BMW or Mercedes. Sits up to 4 passengers.

UberFamily – Either UberX or UberXL plus a car seat.

Uber Uber Disney World to Universal Best Practices

The entire Uber experience is via a mobile app.
On average, Uber is 30% the cost of the Mears Taxi service at WDW.
Uber runs background checks on their drivers. Furthermore, any overall rankings under 4.6 out of 5 stars are investigated.
Tipping is a new part of Uber. It’s not expected that you tip your driver, but if you’ve had a smooth, enjoyable ride with a nice driver, it’s very appreciated if you tip them a couple of extra bucks. Along with that, if you have a really great driver, make sure to give them a good ranking.
If you’re new to Uber, use promo codeVIRGINIAS515UE for a free ride up to $15.
Payment is automatic from the app via the card you used to set up your account.
Surge pricing is when Uber increases pricing due to the time of day, the weather, or demand. Uber is very transparent about their pricing, so you will see if there is surge pricing when you open the app.

Over the years, Uber has expanded its offerings and continues to test out new services. They now have Uber Comfort, which means the vehicle will have more head and legroom, and Uber Black, which is a step up from Uber Select.

They also have a special service for travelers with pets. You can specifically select Uber Pet if you are traveling with an animal (If you have a service animal, you may use the regular service). This isn’t normally offered to and from the airport but is available throughout Orlando. Note: the pricing above is for a trip from MCO to a Walt Disney World resort.

Signing Up for Uber

The easiest way to sign up for Uber is:

-Go to www.uber.com. (You can also sign up directly on the app, but doing it on the computer is definitely easier.)

-At the top right corner, click Sign Up

-Uber will need your name, mobile number, email, language, and billing information.

-The billing information you give here is what will be charged when using the service. Read the terms and agreements, make sure you are OK with them, and hit sign up.

If you want to use my referral code to get a free ride, make sure to hit add a promo code under the payment information and enter VIRGINIAS515UE. (If you use this referral code, we will both get a free ride, just a heads up)

-Go to your App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for Uber

-Download the app

-Log In

You are now ready for your Disney Trip!

Using Uber Within Walt Disney World

While there are plenty of variations of the service, UberX is the cheapest ride option and can fit up to 4 passengers. Ubers within Walt Disney World will normally cost $8-$20, but if you are traveling during a busy time of year, or say when everyone’s leaving the park after a fireworks show, the price can go way up.

When using Uber, make sure to align the black drop pin with the blue dot. It’s always good to double-check your position on the map because the GPS can mess up from time to time. Wait times for an Uber are short, usually 5-10 minutes, and rides around Disney World are the same. The longest ride you’ll have in Disney World will be 25-30 minutes unless there’s extra traffic or construction.

Disney World Uber Pick-Up Locations

Uber pick-up at Magic Kingdom

Pick-up and drop-off for Uber at Magic Kingdom is found at the Ticket and Transportation Center, which is a monorail or ferry boat ride away from the park.

Uber pick-up at Epcot

At the front of the park near the buses, where all the Taxis are.

Uber pick-up at Hollywood Studios

At the front of the park, the main parking lot is right next to the Taxi queue.

Uber pick-up at Animal Kingdom

At the front of that park near the taxi queue. Walk towards the left as you’re exiting the park, towards handicap parking.

Uber pick-up at Disney World resorts

All drop-off and pick-ups through Uber at the Walt Disney World resorts take place at the front entrance of the hotel.

Uber Universal to Disney World

The average cost of Uber from Universal Studios to Disney World is generally between $15-$35 each way, depending on the time, day, and season. It’s helpful to check the app throughout the day, and plan your travel for a less busy time of day. If you are planning to travel during rush hour, know that the price could be higher than normal.

Universal recently changed their Uber pick-up and drop-off location, giving ride-share services their own area on the fifth floor of the Jurassic Park section in the North parking garage of Universal CityWalk. Along with that, they instituted a $4 fee for Uber pick-ups at their theme parks.

At this time, the fee does not apply at their resorts. Universal said that the extra fees were going towards a lounge for riders to wait for their pick-up and better signage. This extra fee might not seem like a lot, but it can add up during your vacation, so keep that in mind.

Uber at Orlando’s International Airport (MCO)

Uber has a huge presence at the Orlando Airport, alongside regular taxis and other services like Lyft. Right now, if you are taking an Uber from the airport to Universal, or a hotel in the area, prices start on the low end around $25-$35 but can rise to be over $100, depending on the type of car you are requesting.

There is a designated area on Level 2 of MCO for ride-share services, and the airport has great signage for navigation. If you can’t find it, ask someone working there.

They’re easy to spot and super helpful! When you are getting dropped off at the airport by Uber, you will have to input your terminal, and they will drop you off on the departure level.

Safety Considerations When Using Uber at Theme Parks

While Uber offers a convenient and reliable transportation option, it’s important to prioritize safety, especially when traveling with your loved ones. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind when using Uber Disney World to Universal.

Firstly, always ensure that the vehicle and driver match the information provided in the app. Before getting into the car, check the license plate, driver’s name, and photo to ensure a safe and secure ride. If anything seems amiss, do not hesitate to cancel the ride and report the issue to Uber.

Secondly, if you’re traveling with young children, consider using Uber’s car seat options. These ensure that your little ones are safely secured during the ride. When requesting a ride, select the appropriate car seat option and confirm that the driver has the necessary equipment.

Lastly, it’s advisable to share your trip details with a trusted friend or family member. Uber allows you to share your trip status and location, providing an extra layer of security. Additionally, trust your instincts, and if you ever feel uncomfortable during the ride, don’t hesitate to speak up or end the trip.

By following these safety considerations, you can have peace of mind while enjoying the convenience and benefits of using Uber at theme parks.

In conclusion, Uber is a valuable ally when it comes to navigating the magical realms of Universal and Disney parks. From eliminating transportation worries to providing seamless experiences, Uber enhances your theme park adventure and allows you to focus on creating unforgettable memories.

So, the next time you plan a trip to Universal or Disney, let Uber be your trusted companion. Buckle up and prepare for an enchanting journey from thrills to fairytales with Uber by your side.