Yay! You decided that you want to experience everything Orlando has to offer! Now the next question is: How do I get around the city? Do I need a rental car? Well that depends on how far you want to go outside Orlando and if it is cheaper than other modes of transportation. I do not know about you, but when I travel, I like to save on transportation and place money into other fun experiences. I have experienced most of the public transportation around Orlando and here are my recommendations.
Orlando is not known for exceptional public transportation. We do have our city bus system called “Lynx.” Lynx buses typically run on the hour, and the bus stops are not shaded. The buses often run late due to traffic delays. Every month, it seems Orlando gets more congested with city traffic. Although Lynx is a cheap way to get around Orlando and the surrounding cities, I do not recommend it if you are on a tight schedule. The buses will take you to the theme parks and other major attractions, and connect you to other forms of transport, such as the Sun Rail. The bus cost is on average $2.00 or you can buy an all-day pass for $4.50.
Lynx Bus System
Lynx is a great way to connect to the theme parks, as it goes to every single one. You can get on the Lynx bus to Disney Springs, then connect to a resort from Disney Springs, then take a resort bus to any Disney Park. In total, you will spend an hour to an hour and a half getting to a theme park this way, but if you do not mind the journey, it will save you money.
SunRail
The Sun Rail is a train that will connect you from Orlando, Sanford, Kissimmee & Poinciana, to name a few places. The train is a great way to see Florida and go to neighboring cities. I have ridden the Sun Rail to Sanford, and it was a great time. The trains are clean, and the staff is friendly. https://sunrail.com/ The fare is $3.75 per person, round trip.
I-Ride Trolley
The I-Ride Trolley is my next favorite way to get around Orlando. Seniors can ride as little as 0.25 cents, and if you are staying in Orlando for a week, you can get a multiday pass for around $8.00 a person! These buses are designed to look like old streetcar trolleys! Typically, they play classic rock music, and the drivers are very friendly. I have yet to get on a trolley that is dirty. They do a great job maintaining cleanliness all the time. They are also never packed. The I-Drive Trolley only goes up and down I-Drive and a few streets next to it. The only theme park it connects directly with is SeaWorld. Here is a video on how it works!
Ride-share apps like Lyft and Uber are the most convenient ways to get around Orlando and the surrounding areas. If you plan on taking a cruise or you want to go to Kennedy Space Center, you can get picked up for around $65. The ride-share apps are easy to use. Just download Lyft and Uber, type in your info, and then you can select where you want to go.
When is it best to rent a car? Renting a car is best if you want the convenience of not having to wait on anyone. Please include resort and hotel parking fees in your car transportation costs. Those can quickly add up. If you plan on going out to St. Augustine and other areas that are further away, renting a car will be the best option for you.
Preparing how you want to get around Orlando is essential for your vacation here, so you save time and enjoy sharing all the exciting experiences with your family. How do you plan on traveling around Central Florida when you visit?
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