07/08/2020
For many UK families embarking on that dream holiday to Florida, Windsor Hills Resort stands out as a prime choice for accommodation. Its reputation for fantastic facilities and spacious villas is well-deserved, but once you've booked your stay, the next big question often arises: how do you navigate from the airport, and crucially, how do you get to the theme parks, especially Walt Disney World? While the idea of driving on the 'other side' of the road might seem daunting, and understanding local public transport can be a puzzle, this guide aims to demystify your travel options, ensuring your Orlando adventure starts and continues smoothly, just as a seasoned UK taxi driver might advise their passengers.
Proximity to the Magic: Windsor Hills and Disney
One of Windsor Hills' most significant selling points is its enviable location. The resort is situated incredibly close to the magic, often cited as being under two miles from the Walt Disney World Resort. This proximity is a huge advantage for holidaymakers, as it significantly cuts down on travel time to the parks, meaning more time for rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets. While 'under two miles' might sound walkable on paper, it's important to remember that Orlando's climate and the sheer scale of the Disney property make walking an impractical option for most visitors. Instead, this close distance translates into very quick, affordable, and convenient journeys by car or ride-hailing service.
Being so close also means you are not far from a plethora of dining options and shopping facilities. Less than a mile away, you'll find everything from fast-food favourites to sit-down restaurants, alongside supermarkets for stocking up your villa. This ensures that even on your days away from the parks, you have easy access to amenities without needing to venture far, contributing greatly to the overall convenience of staying at Windsor Hills.
Arriving in Orlando: Getting from MCO to Windsor Hills
Your journey to Windsor Hills typically begins at Orlando International Airport (MCO). While the resort is a popular destination, understanding your transport options from the airport is crucial for a stress-free arrival.
Bus Service: A Detailed Look
For those looking for a budget-friendly option, a bus service is available from MCO to Windsor Hills. The journey, while economical, does involve transfers and can take a considerable amount of time, generally around 2 hours and 3 minutes to 2 hours and 8 minutes depending on the specific stop within Windsor Hills. You would typically take a bus from Orlando Airport (MCO) to the Lynx Kissimmee Intermodal Station. From there, another bus would take you to a stop near Windsor Hills, such as W Irlo Bronson Mem Hwy And Morgan Williams Rd. While this is a viable option for solo travellers or those with minimal luggage, families with multiple suitcases and young children might find the transfers and journey duration a bit challenging after a long flight from the UK.
Private Transfers & Traditional Taxis
While the provided information highlights ride-hailing services, traditional taxis and pre-booked private transfers are certainly available from MCO. For many UK visitors, the familiarity and peace of mind of a pre-booked transfer can be invaluable. These services offer a direct, door-to-door journey, often with larger vehicles suitable for families and luggage. While generally more expensive than a bus or even some ride-hailing options, they provide immediate comfort and remove the stress of navigating public transport or managing app-based services upon arrival. Traditional taxis can be found at the airport's designated taxi ranks, offering a metered fare directly to your resort.
The Rise of Ride-Hailing: Uber and Lyft
In Orlando, much like in the UK, ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft have become incredibly popular, offering a blend of convenience and affordability. They are readily accessible at MCO and can provide a direct journey to Windsor Hills. The cost will vary based on demand, vehicle type (e.g., standard, XL for more passengers/luggage), and time of day, but they often present a more cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis for the airport run, especially if you have an account set up and are comfortable using the app straight off the plane.
Once you’ve settled into your Windsor Hills villa, you'll need to consider how to get around for the duration of your stay. The resort's excellent location means you're close to everything, but direct access requires some form of transport.
The Case for Car Hire
The general consensus among frequent visitors and what is often recommended is that car hire (or 'rental car' as it's known in the US) is the best option for navigating the Orlando area. This is particularly true for those staying at Windsor Hills. A hire car provides unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to set your own schedule, visit multiple parks in a day, explore attractions beyond Disney (such as Universal Studios, SeaWorld, or Kennedy Space Center), and easily access the numerous shopping and dining options nearby. For UK drivers, remember that driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and automatic transmission is standard in most hire cars. Sat-navs (GPS) are highly recommended, either as part of your car hire package or via a smartphone app, to help you navigate the multi-lane highways and complex junctions.
Mastering Uber and Lyft within Windsor Hills
For those who prefer not to drive, Uber and Lyft are excellent and very reasonably priced alternatives. Many guests now prefer the convenience of these services, especially for trips to the theme parks. For example, an Uber to Epcot for four people is usually around $12 plus tip, which is incredibly good value, especially when compared to UK taxi fares for similar distances. However, using these services within a gated community like Windsor Hills requires a little more forethought due to the resort's security measures.
Security Gate Procedures: What You Need to Know
Windsor Hills is a secure, gated community with a guardhouse at its entrance. This enhances guest safety but means there are specific procedures for ride-hailing pickups and drop-offs. Drivers without a valid driver’s license will not be allowed into the community, and there's a check-in process at the guardhouse. It's crucial to understand these steps to avoid delays for both yourself and your driver.
Top Tips for a Smooth Pickup
When ordering an Uber or Lyft for pickup from your villa, townhome, or condo at Windsor Hills, follow these steps meticulously:
- Use Your Specific Address: Input the precise address of your villa, townhome, or condo into the Uber/Lyft app as your pickup location. Do not rely on the 'Pick Me Up Here' GPS option, as the guards require a physical address for entry.
- Message the Driver: Immediately after ordering, message your driver with the full resort address: 2600 N Old Lake Wilson Road, Kissimmee, 34747. This ensures they arrive at the main guard house and not an inaccessible back entrance.
- Notify Security: It’s advisable to call the guard house on 407-397-1464 to advise them that you have ordered an Uber or Lyft. If no one answers, leave a message. This pre-notification can help expedite the driver's entry.
- Allow Extra Time: Build in an extra 15 minutes for pickup. This accounts for the check-in process at the guardhouse and the chance of long lines, especially during peak times.
- Inform the Driver: Advise your Uber/Lyft driver that their driver’s license will be checked at the guard house. This prepares them for the necessary security checks and helps prevent any issues at the gate.
By following these instructions, you can ensure a smooth and efficient pickup, making your journeys to and from the parks hassle-free.
Comparing Your Travel Choices: A Quick Guide
Choosing the best transport method depends on your priorities: cost, convenience, and flexibility. Here's a brief comparison to help you decide:
| Transport Method | Pros | Cons | Typical Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (MCO to Windsor Hills) | Very economical | Long travel time (2h+), multiple transfers, less convenient with luggage | £5-£10 (per person) |
| Traditional Taxi (MCO to Windsor Hills) | Direct, door-to-door, readily available at airport | More expensive than ride-hailing, metered fares can fluctuate | £50-£70+ (one-way) |
| Pre-booked Private Transfer (MCO to Windsor Hills) | Direct, reliable, comfortable, fixed price, no waiting | Generally the most expensive option | £70-£100+ (one-way) |
| Uber/Lyft (MCO to Windsor Hills) | Convenient, generally cheaper than traditional taxis, app-based | Can have surge pricing, need working app/phone, specific pickup instructions for Windsor Hills | £30-£60 (one-way, standard vehicle) |
| Car Hire (for duration of stay) | Ultimate flexibility, freedom to explore, good for large families/luggage | Cost of hire, fuel, parking fees, driving on opposite side of road | Varies greatly by vehicle/duration, plus fuel/parking |
| Uber/Lyft (Windsor Hills to Disney) | Highly convenient, very affordable for short park trips, no parking worries | Specific pickup instructions for Windsor Hills, potential for surge pricing at park closing | £10-£15 (one-way to Epcot for 4 people) |
Beyond Disney: Exploring the Wider Orlando Area
While Disney is often the main draw, Orlando offers so much more. Having a car provides the freedom to explore Universal Studios, home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or SeaWorld. You might also want to venture further afield to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for an out-of-this-world experience. For shopping enthusiasts, Orlando boasts numerous outlet malls offering designer brands at discounted prices. Public transport beyond the immediate Disney/Kissimmee area is less comprehensive, making a car or strategic use of ride-hailing services essential for these broader explorations. For UK visitors, remember that US tipping culture applies to taxi drivers and ride-hailing drivers, typically 15-20% of the fare, which should be factored into your budget and planning.
Essential Tips for UK Travellers
Beyond the specific transport details, here are a few general tips for UK visitors to ensure a smooth travel experience in Orlando:
- Driving on the Right: If you opt for car hire, familiarise yourself with driving on the right-hand side of the road. American cars are typically automatic, which can take some getting used to if you usually drive a manual.
- Fuel: Petrol (gas) stations are plentiful. You'll need to pay at the pump, often by inserting your credit card or pre-paying inside.
- Tipping: As mentioned, tipping is customary for service industries in the US, including taxi and ride-hailing drivers.
- Child Car Seats: If travelling with young children, ensure your chosen transport method (hire car, private transfer, or specific ride-hailing service) can accommodate appropriate child car seats, as these are legally required.
- Tolls: Some roads around Orlando have tolls. Hire cars often come with a transponder, or you can pay with cash (though exact change might be needed on older toll roads).
- Mobile Data: A good mobile data plan or local SIM card is invaluable for using navigation apps and ride-hailing services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Windsor Hills walkable to Disney?
While Windsor Hills is very close to Disney (under 2 miles), it is not practically walkable due to the scale of the Disney property, lack of pedestrian pathways for the entire route, and Orlando's hot climate. Driving or using a ride-hailing service is highly recommended.
How much is an Uber from Windsor Hills to Disney?
An Uber to Epcot for 4 people is usually around $12 plus tip. Prices can vary based on demand, time of day, and the specific Disney park entrance.
Is it easy to get taxis in Windsor Hills?
While traditional taxis can be called, Uber and Lyft are far more prevalent and generally preferred by guests at Windsor Hills due to their accessibility and often more competitive pricing. They are easy to arrange via their respective apps, provided you follow the resort's specific pickup instructions.
Do I need a car at Windsor Hills?
While not strictly essential due to the availability of Uber/Lyft, a hire car is highly recommended for the ultimate flexibility and convenience, especially if you plan to explore beyond Disney or prefer to avoid waiting for ride-hailing services.
What are the bus options from Orlando Airport (MCO) to Windsor Hills?
You can take a bus from MCO to the Lynx Kissimmee Intermodal Station, and then transfer to another bus service that will take you to a stop near Windsor Hills, such as W Irlo Bronson Mem Hwy And Morgan Williams Rd. The total journey typically takes over 2 hours.
Conclusion
Navigating your way around Orlando from Windsor Hills Resort, whether it's from the airport or to the magical gates of Disney, is straightforward with a little prior knowledge. While public bus transport offers an economical route, the flexibility and speed of car hire or ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft often prove to be the most appealing options for UK visitors. By understanding the specific procedures for pickups within Windsor Hills and remembering key US travel nuances, you can ensure your transport seamlessly contributes to a truly enchanting and unforgettable Florida holiday. Happy travels!
If you want to read more articles similar to Getting Around Windsor Hills: A UK Visitor's Guide, you can visit the Travel category.