Traveling from hotel to attractions

Question

Trying to find cheapest way to travel around 4 adults & 1 child by shuttle,Mini cab Hopper or Hire car,have 2 adults in party that have disablement, finding hire car very expensive hotels charging to park on site

Answer

Traveling around Orlando with 4 adults and 1 child, including 2 adults with disabilities, requires balancing convenience, accessibility, and cost. Orlando is very spread out, and parking at major attractions or resort hotels can be expensive, so careful planning is key to minimizing expenses and maximizing comfort.

One of the most cost-effective and stress-free ways for groups with mobility needs is to use shuttle services provided by hotels or third-party operators. Many hotels offer daily shuttle services to Disney, Universal, and other popular attractions. These shuttles are usually wheelchair-accessible and can save you parking fees at theme parks. However, shuttle schedules may be limited, so planning your day around shuttle times is important.

Mini cab or private ride services (like UberXL or Lyft XL) offer flexibility, especially for a group of 5. These services can accommodate wheelchairs with prior notice, and you only pay for the ride without worrying about parking fees. Costs vary by distance and surge pricing, but for a group your size, it can sometimes be cheaper than paying for daily parking plus rental car expenses.

Hiring a car is convenient for complete freedom and is ideal if you plan to visit multiple attractions in one day. However, rental rates for larger vehicles or vans can be high, and many hotels charge extra for parking. Accessibility may also be a concern if you need vehicles equipped for disabled passengers.

Hotel Shuttles – Most convenient for theme parks, often free or included in your stay, wheelchair accessible, but may have limited departure times.
Mini cab / UberXL / Lyft XL – Flexible on timing, suitable for groups with disabilities, no parking worries, can be cost-effective if you split fares.
Rental Car / Van – Maximum freedom to visit multiple attractions on your own schedule, may require larger accessible vehicle, parking fees apply.

Additional tips to reduce costs and improve convenience:

Park at off-site lots – Some attractions have off-site parking with shuttle service at a lower cost than on-site parking.
Accessibility options – Confirm that the shuttle, cab, or rental vehicle can accommodate mobility needs, such as wheelchair lifts or extra legroom.
Combination approach – Consider using a rental car for a single day if visiting multiple distant attractions, and rely on shuttles or rideshares for other days to save money.

Overall, for your group, hotel shuttles or UberXL/Lyft XL are likely the cheapest and most convenient options given the parking fees, accessibility needs, and the number of people. A rental car could be used strategically for longer excursions or trips to attractions not served by shuttles.