Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are Orlando’s most popular theme parks. So many who go to one park, often visit the other, as they are both very much worth checking out. But how easy is it to visit both in one trip? How far away is Universal Studios from Disney World? What are your traveling options if you want to visit both on your vacation?
When looking to be near both world-class theme parks, our luxury Orlando vacation rentals set the scene for the ultimate stay. Our most luxurious resort villas and mansions invite you to soak up epic in-house amenities including private pools, sports bars, themed games rooms and kids’ bedrooms to state-of-the-art home theaters and in-home spas – for an opulent vacation base that places you on the doorstep of first-class resort amenities and the theme parks of Disney World and Universal Studios.
How far is Universal Studios Florida from Disney World?
Despite both being absolutely huge theme parks, you may be surprised to know that they are actually located quite close to each other. In fact, Disney World is only about 9 miles away from Universal Studios, which means, if you are driving the most direct route in good traffic, the journey time is only approximately 15 minutes.
Universal Studios is located closest to Orlando, found towards the Southwest of the city. Disney World is just a little bit further out, located more to the South of Orlando. Both are very close to the main Orlando Airport, so you won’t have far to go to either of them when you first arrive for your vacation.
How do I get to Universal Studios from Disney World?
The easiest way to get between the two theme parks is by car. However, you have a couple of options when it comes to choosing your car journey.
Rent a car
If you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, hiring a car is your best option. Not only can you leave when you want, you can also bring as much luggage as you like! Costs for car hire can vary, but if you book your accommodation through a local provider like Top Villas, they’ll help you find a great deal. If you’re not keen on driving yourself, they even offer a chauffeur service!
When you choose to rent a car, you can simply make the journey yourself between the two parks, or from your accommodation, enjoying the flexibility that comes with selecting your own leaving times and not having to wait for a booked car to arrive. The route is really simple too. You just need to take the I-4 East to exit 75A. Once you’ve exited, just follow the signs to Universal Orlando’s main parking garage!
This journey will take you along the famous I4, which runs alongside International Drive. If you want to stop off en-route, International Drive is home to a number of attractions, amenities and restaurants – another great thing about using your own private car, is that you have complete freedom to decide whether you want to visit any attractions or restaurants ahead of your arrival at the theme parks. However, if you do decide to drive, don’t forget to factor in the parking costs at both theme parks. During peak season, all day parking at Disney will set you back around $50, whilst Universal’s fees start at $28 per vehicle.
Take a taxi or Uber/Lyft
If you’d rather leave the driving to someone else, travelling by taxi is one of the quickest ways to travel between Universal and Disney. There are multiple taxi services available in Orlando, but it is important to book with a reputable firm, like Mears. Depending on your provider, a one-way journey should cost around $45.
Handy apps such as Uber and Lyft are one of the most convenient ways to travel in Orlando. They tend to be much cheaper than taking a traditional taxi, and these travel apps are super easy to use. If you’ve got a smartphone, just download the app before you leave for the day. Once you’ve set up an account and linked your payment card, you will be able to arrange transport any time, any place.
Using your phone’s location, the app can detect exactly where you are. When you’re ready to go, just confirm your pick-up address and enter your final destination. The app will generate prices for your journey, and alert the closest driver to your location. Not only is this service much quicker than organising a standard taxi pickup, it’s around 30% cheaper! You also won’t need to factor in the cost of parking charges using this method of transport.
Is there a shuttle service between Universal Studios and Disney World?
Some of the large resorts, such as Reunion and Encore, run a free shuttle service between your accommodation and Disney World. However, there are no official services running between Universal Studios and Disney World. If you are staying at the resorts, you may find it difficult to get to Universal Studios, and if you are already at Disney World, you will have to take a car if you would then like to visit Universal.
Shuttle services also come included with villas that have resort membership, so if you are browsing properties for Disney World, check the villa listing to ensure it is included before booking.
Is there public transport between Universal and Disney World?
There are buses available, however, we don’t recommend this as a method of transport between the parks. There is no direct bus route, which means you will have to change at least once, wherever you are staying. Although it is likely to be the cheapest option of travel, the journey could take an hour and a half, compared to 15 minutes in your own transport – vacation time that could be much better spent at the parks.
Is it worth visiting both Universal Studios and Disney World?
Absolutely! It’s no surprise that both Universal Studios and Disney World are famous around the world – they are both jam-packed with breath-taking rides, incredible experiences, and delicious dining. A trip to either is guaranteed to give you and your family memories to last a lifetime. With both the parks being as close as they are to each other, it’s definitely worth making the most of your time in Orlando, and try and visit both.
Where can I park at Disney World and Universal Studios?
At Disney World, each park has its own main car park. You can decide which park you want to start exploring in the morning, and follow Google Maps to find it. Some car parks are so large that there may be a tram service on offer, to help transport you to the park gates.
At Universal Studios, there is one main Parking garage as you can reach everything from one central location. You simply need to enter ‘Universal Studios Car Park’ into your Google maps, and it will show you where the central car park is located.
Planning a stay near Disney World or Universal Studios?
If you’re planning a vacation, Top Villas offer a huge range of vacation rentals in Orlando. Situated in only the best resorts, our homes offer an abundance of luxury living space and a range of 5* amenities. All located just a short distance from Disney World and Universal Studios, our homes are perfect if you’re hoping to visit the theme parks during your stay.
To book, just follow our simple online process and you can secure your vacation home straight away. It’s easy to check availability, get a quote and book instantly online. If you’d prefer to talk to one of our villa experts, just give us a call!
