How to Get to Universal Orlando: Best Complete Guide 2025-2026
Traveling to Universal Orlando in 2025? We'll explain step-by-step how to get there from Miami, Orlando Airport, or by car, with practical tips for travelers.
If you're planning a magical vacation in Orlando, one of the destinations you can't miss on your itinerary is Universal Orlando Resort. This entertainment complex, which includes theme parks like Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the new Epic Universe (opening in 2025), attracts millions of visitors each year. But one of the most frequently asked questions among travelers is: how to get to Universal Orlando quickly, affordably, and comfortably?
Whether you're arriving from another city like Miami, landing at Orlando Airport, or staying nearby, there are various transportation options to suit all budgets and needs. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you choose the best way to get to this unmissable destination, considering factors such as distance, travel time, costs, and accessibility.
Here we detail all the transportation options to Universal Orlando in 2025 , including helpful tips for Spanish-speakers visiting the United States. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, this information will help you optimize your time and make the most of your adventure at the parks. We'll also give you tips on getting around the resort, how to save money, and what shuttle services are offered by nearby hotels.
How to get to Universal Orlando from Orlando Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest airport to the resort and one of the most frequently used access routes for tourists. From there, Universal Orlando is approximately 15 miles away, which is approximately a 20-25 minute drive, depending on traffic.
There are several options for making this journey:
- Car Rental: Ideal if you plan to visit other attractions in Orlando. There are multiple rental agencies at the airport.
- Rideshare services (Uber or Lyft): These are widely used by tourists and the price varies between $30 and $50 USD depending on demand and schedule.
- Private transfers or shuttles: Some hotels and agencies offer direct transportation. This is a good option if you're traveling in a group.
- Taxi: Although it's more expensive than Uber or Lyft, it can be useful if you don't want to wait.
Once you arrive at Universal Orlando, parking is clearly marked and offers options for both rental cars and ride-share options. Free internal transportation is also available between the resort's hotels and the parks.
How to get to Universal Orlando from Miami
If your trip begins in Miami , getting to Universal Orlando involves traveling approximately 380 kilometers , which can take between 3.5 and 5 hours , depending on the means of transportation you choose.
The most common options are:
- Private car or rental car: This is the most flexible option. The trip takes about 4 hours via I-95 or the Florida Turnpike. It's ideal for those who want to stop along the way, for example, in West Palm Beach or Fort Lauderdale.
- Intercity buses (such as Greyhound or RedCoach): They have daily routes between Miami and Orlando, with stops at central locations. The trip can take 5 to 7 hours and the prices are affordable.
- Brightline Train: This is one of the big new arrivals for 2025. Brightline offers a fast-track train service from Miami to Orlando, with greater comfort and fewer delays. The journey takes about 3.5 hours and drops you off at a station near the Orlando airport, from where you can take an Uber, taxi, or shuttle to Universal Studios Florida.
- Domestic flights: While it's faster (a one-hour flight), keep in mind the time lost at the airport. It's not always the most practical or economical option.
Each option has advantages and disadvantages. If you're traveling with children or a lot of luggage, a car may be the best choice. If you're looking to save money, the bus or train are ideal.
Getting to Universal Orlando by Car: What You Need to Know
Getting around by private or rented car is one of the most convenient ways to get to Universal Studios, especially if you're traveling with family or planning to visit other attractions in and around Orlando. From almost any point in the city or Florida, access is well signposted, and routes are easy to follow with GPS or Google Maps.
Parking at Universal Orlando has a daily fee (around $30 USD), but many area hotels offer free shuttles to the parks, which can help you save. Some helpful tips if you're arriving by car:
- Arrive early: skip the lines and make the most of your day at the park.
- Use “Preferred Parking” if you want to be closer to the entrance.
- If you're staying at a resort hotel, many offer valet parking or free self-parking.
Universal is located near Interstate 4 (I-4) , one of the busiest routes in the region. Please keep this in mind during rush hour.
Public transportation and shuttles from Orlando
Although Orlando doesn't have a public transportation system as developed as other cities , there are some local bus options (Lynx) that connect specific areas to Universal. However, they aren't always the most efficient for tourists unfamiliar with the routes or who have limited time.
A better option is to use hotel or resort shuttle services , which are usually included in the rate or can be booked separately. There are also services like the I-Ride Trolley, which runs along International Drive and stops near the resort.
