Ride share services, like Uber and Lyft, have become a huge part of Disney World vacations for many guests, but there are a few things you should know before opening the app.
Rideshare sign at EPCOT
You might be heading to the parks at rope drop, bouncing between resorts, or trying to make a dining reservation on time, and ride shares can feel like the fastest and most convenient option on property. But navigating Disney World by car isn’t always as straightforward as it seems, and your Uber driver probably knows a few things that could make your trip smoother, but they might be too polite to say them out loud. Here are four things your Disney World Uber driver wants you to know and why keeping them in mind can save you time, money, and a little stress.
1. There Are Several Pick-Ups
At Disney Springs, there isn’t just one universal ride share pickup location; there are several. Some are incredibly easy for drivers to access, while others require navigating tight turns, heavy traffic, or long waits just to get in and out. A pickup spot that seems closest on the map might actually be the slowest option. In some cases, it’s worth walking a little farther to a less congested area if it means your driver can reach you faster and leave more easily. And then there’s the surface parking lot near Cirque du Soleil, which many drivers think is the best option. It works, but it can be slower, harder to access, and less ideal during peak times. Choosing the right pickup spot can make a surprising difference in how long you wait and how smooth your ride is.
Ride Share at Disney Springs
2. You’re Not Being Dropped Off At Magic Kingdom
This one catches a lot of guests off guard. If you take an Uber or Lyft to Magic Kingdom, you are not being dropped off at the park entrance. Instead, you’ll be dropped off at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC), which means there’s still another step or two between you and the gates. From the TTC, you’ll need to choose how to get to Magic Kingdom itself, either by monorail or ferryboat. Your driver is aware of this, but they may not want to break the news, so it’s best to plan ahead and factor in the extra travel time into your day.
TTC Ride Share
3. Tipping Really Matters
While tipping is always optional, it’s worth knowing that tips make up a significant portion of many ride share drivers’ income. Over the years, the base pay drivers receive from Uber and Lyft has steadily decreased, even as gas prices, insurance, and vehicle maintenance costs have increased. A tip, even a modest one, can go a long way, especially for drivers navigating Disney World traffic, dealing with confusing pickup points, and helping guests get where they need to go on time. If your driver was friendly, helpful, or patient, a tip is a simple way to show appreciation.
Ride Share at EPCOT
4. No, They Can’t Drop You Off at Resorts Without a Reservation
While you might have seen this “hack” floating around on the internet, ride shares likely cannot drop you off at a Disney hotel without a reservation. They still will have to go through the hotel security, who will likely ask you why you are there at the resort. It is likely your drive will be unable to drop you off here without you having a dining reservation. So before you book that Uber to Disney’s Contemporary Resort to walk over to Magic Kingdom to beat the crowds at the TTC, think again. While there might be a few cases where it works, is it really worth trying just to be turned away and waste even more time?
Rideshare Sign
For more Disney World tips, transportation hacks, and planning advice, be sure to keep coming back to DFB. We’re always here to help you have the best trip possible, from rope drop to fireworks and everything in between.
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We took an Uber to Pop recently from an offsite hotel and got in with no problem. We went to Mickey’s Christmas Party that night. Afterwards, we took the resort monorail to the Contemporary and called our Uber from there.