Amtrak & Magical Express

[Tuckster]

Does it make sense to take a cab to MCO from the Amtrak station in order to take advantage of DME. We are a party of 7 & there are few choices for rental cars .... & a cab (van) would run $ 160.00 RT.

 

[LittleBear]

Tuckster, have you considered the van service that Amtrak provides to area hotels?

The Amtrak System Timetable says, "Orlando Hotels and Attractions: Coach USA provides door-to-door shuttle van service between Amtrak's Orlando station and Orlando-area hotels and attractions. Vans meet the arrivals and departures of all Amtrak trains at Orlando. Arrangements may be made in advance by calling 407-826-9999, or with a Coach USA representative at the Orlando station upon your arrival by train."

We considered this option for a trip this past December. For 2-adults and 2-children, from Orlando Amtrak station to AKL the quoted total price one-way was $35. We needed a car though, so we rented from Hertz at the Amtrak counter at the Orlando Amtrak station.

Maybe someone who has used this service can give you a first hand report. You should check the latest Amtrak timetable or talk to an Amtrak representative for any changes to this arrangement.

Good Luck,
LittleBear

 

[MdmMim]

Tuckster, have you considered the van service that Amtrak provides to area hotels?

The Amtrak System Timetable says, "Orlando Hotels and Attractions: Coach USA provides door-to-door shuttle van service between Amtrak's Orlando station and Orlando-area hotels and attractions. Vans meet the arrivals and departures of all Amtrak trains at Orlando. Arrangements may be made in advance by calling 407-826-9999, or with a Coach USA representative at the Orlando station upon your arrival by train."

We considered this option for a trip this past December. For 2-adults and 2-children, from Orlando Amtrak station to AKL the quoted total price one-way was $35. We needed a car though, so we rented from Hertz at the Amtrak counter at the Orlando Amtrak station.

Maybe someone who has used this service can give you a first hand report. You should check the latest Amtrak timetable or talk to an Amtrak representative for any changes to this arrangement.

Good Luck,
LittleBear

I have used this service several times, and plan on doing it again for my upcoming trips. I was in a van with 5 other people. The driver was courteous and safe--and he took our luggage then whisked us off to our resorts. Since I was solo, the price was $20, plus tip--much better than a cab or towncar. (The reason I tried this shuttle was because I was stood up by a towncar.)

I did not make prior arrangements--the USA rep greeted the train and offered transportation assistance.

Upon arrival at the resort, I was given a business card with a phone number to call to arrange for the return trip.

I was very pleased with the service --and the price.

 

[Tuckster]

That service has pulled out of Amtrak per USA Coach........ Currently no set 'service'. I called a cab company & they said they would try to arrange a van but no guarantees

 

[MdmMim]

I just spoke with an employee at the Orlando station and verified that, indeed, there still is shuttle service available. I don't know which company provides this, but it is still available.

 

[LittleBear]

I was sorry to hear that the "official" shuttle service has ended. Amtrak still shows that this service exists, but after checking with Coach USA/American Coach, they say that they ended their contract this month. I think the word is just beginning to filter down to the local Amtrak station.

Good Luck Tuckster on your transportation search. Let us know if you find an affordable option.
LittleBear

 

[pepe of ohio]

We always use Amtrak now but we detrain in Kissimmee, to us, less people, less congestion. We are a group of 2 but have gotten a van taxi from the cab line and it will hold seven people. Luggage is the other problem, fitting it all in. The cab ride from Kissimmee station to the Poly was only 38.00 one way. Due to hurricane Wilma, Kissimmee station closed and we had to board for home at Orlando and the cab fare from the Pop to Orlando station was 68.00. Big price jump, alot farther too. I'ld call the stations and see whats available and what will fit. I've seen more extended van taxis, private companies, than regular on last few trips and even yellow cab have vans too.