Transfer from Tampa Airport to Disney
Hello!
We are flying into Tampa Airport in August (land just before 5pm) and need to get to Disney’s All Star Movies Resort.
2 adults and a child (11yrs).
Are there any transfer companies we could use or has anyone just used an Uber?
Trying get an idea of cost and if it’s easy just to do once there or best to pre-book.
And if anyone has done this before, roughly how long should we anticipate from landing to arriving in Disney?
Thank you!
Traveling from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to Disney’s All Star Movies Resort is a fairly common route, and you have several options depending on convenience, cost, and comfort. The drive is roughly 1 hour 15 minutes without heavy traffic, but since you’re landing just before 5pm in August, you may hit late afternoon traffic on I-4 toward Orlando, so allow 1.5 to 2 hours door-to-door.
Transfer Options:
- Uber/Lyft: These rideshare services are the simplest and most flexible option. You can request a vehicle upon landing or as soon as you have your luggage. Pricing varies based on demand and vehicle type, but for a standard ride to Disney’s All Star Movies Resort, expect roughly $90–$120 for 2 adults and a child. Larger vehicles (XL) may cost more but can accommodate luggage comfortably.
- Private Shuttle/Transfer Services: Several companies offer pre-booked private transfers from Tampa to Disney resorts. Examples include Mears Transportation, Go Airport Shuttle, or smaller private limo/shuttle services. Costs typically range from $120–$200 for a one-way trip for a 3-person party. Advantages include a confirmed pickup at the airport, assistance with luggage, and sometimes amenities like Wi-Fi or bottled water.
- Car Rental: Renting a car gives you full flexibility for travel between Tampa and Orlando, and is convenient if you plan to explore other areas outside Disney. Tampa airport has several rental car companies on-site. Factor in the cost of rental, fuel, and parking at Disney, which is roughly $30 per night at value resorts if not using Disney transportation.
Timing Tips:
- August afternoons in Florida are prone to thunderstorms and traffic congestion on I-4, so allow 1.5–2 hours for the trip.
- Pre-booking a private transfer is generally more reassuring, especially with luggage and a child, as you don’t need to navigate rideshare availability after landing.
- If you choose Uber/Lyft, the wait is usually short at Tampa Airport, but during peak afternoon arrival times there may be a small queue for rideshare pickup.
Summary Recommendation:
For ease and minimal stress after a late afternoon flight, a pre-booked private shuttle or Mears Transport is the most predictable. Uber/Lyft works well if you prefer flexibility and lower cost, but prices may surge during peak arrival times. Expect roughly 1.5–2 hours travel time from landing to Disney All Star Movies Resort, depending on baggage collection and traffic conditions.
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