International Drive and Orlando airport free shuttle

Question

Hi all,

Is there any cheap hotel in the International Drive area that would offer free shuttle from/to MCO? Many thanks for your help.

Answer

Finding a budget-friendly hotel on International Drive with a free shuttle to Orlando International Airport (MCO) can be a little tricky, as most free shuttle services are offered by mid-range or higher-end hotels. However, there are some options and workarounds to consider if you are trying to save money while staying close to I-Drive.

First, it’s important to clarify that most hotels offering complimentary airport shuttles require advance reservation and often operate during set hours rather than 24/7. Additionally, the shuttle is usually shared with other guests, so flexibility may be limited.

Here are some affordable options near International Drive to consider:

Rosen Inn International: Located directly on International Drive, they sometimes offer complimentary shuttle to/from MCO for guests, but it’s essential to confirm at booking. They are budget-friendly, and the property has pools and on-site dining.
Quality Inn & Suites International Drive: A budget-friendly hotel with some packages that include shuttle service to the airport. Shuttle times may be limited to morning/early evening departures.
Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando: Slightly more modern than the main Rosen Inn, they are on I-Drive and occasionally offer airport shuttle with reservation. Free parking and pools are included.

If none of the above have guaranteed free shuttle options, another approach is:

Use budget hotels on International Drive for affordability and convenience, and take a low-cost ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to/from MCO. The airport is about 20–25 minutes from I-Drive, so the cost is usually $25–35 one way depending on traffic.
Look for “airport packages” on hotel booking sites — some include discounted shuttle or private transportation options for a small fee.

Lastly, always confirm directly with the hotel before booking to ensure the shuttle is available during your arrival/departure times. Policies can change, and hotels sometimes limit shuttle service to certain room categories or booking channels.

In summary, budget-friendly options on I-Drive with free MCO shuttle exist but are limited, and confirmation is key. If a guaranteed shuttle isn’t available, factoring in a small Uber/Lyft cost is a practical alternative.