Best route driving from MCO to Universal?

[MassMom94]

We will be picking up a rental car at MCO. I have two very different sets of directions, one from google map and the other from AAA. AAA has you going only a brief time on SR-528, then getting off and driving over 5 miles west on Sand Lake Road. Would this be a start and stop traffic nightmare? The trip distance is 13.7 miles. Google says to take SR-528 to the Turnpike, then drive on the turnpike for about 5 miles, go on I-4 for another 1.5 miles or so, then exit onto S. Kirkman. That's 16.3 miles.

Which way do you go? Any other suggestions? Thanks!

 

[Metro West]

We will be picking up a rental car at MCO. I have two very different sets of directions, one from google map and the other from AAA. AAA has you going only a brief time on SR-528, then getting off and driving over 5 miles west on Sand Lake Road. Would this be a start and stop traffic nightmare? The trip distance is 13.7 miles. Google says to take SR-528 to the Turnpike, then drive on the turnpike for about 5 miles, go on I-4 for another 1.5 miles or so, then exit onto S. Kirkman. That's 16.3 miles.

Which way do you go? Any other suggestions? Thanks!

It really all depends upon what time you're getting into town. The AAA route is the most direct but Sand Lake Road is a NIGHTMARE if you're driving in the afternoons.
If you are arriving in the afternoon, I would say 528 (Beachline) to I-4 and then get off on the Universal exit. It's not the most direct but it may be quicker.

Tell us what time you're arriving and we can go from there.

 

[MassMom94]

Flight is scheduled to arrive at 1:25 PM, but this is on a Sunday (if that makes any difference).

 

[damo]

528 (Beachline) to I-4 and then get off on the Universal exit.

We always go that way.

 

[phamton]

I second Metrowest and Damo's recommendation.

 

[DOOM1001]

I also agree,ignore Google map and ignore AAA,take 528 to I-4 eastbound and get off at the Universal exit!!

 

[bg4]

This is what garmin tells me

I put myself at MCO and put in HRH as destination with no restrictions
beechline to I-4 = 20 minutes and 14.6 miles

then change to no toll roads
North Frontage to Sand Lake - 23 minutes and 15.1 miles

Being able to stop at Super Wal-Mart en route (S John Young & Sand Lake)- priceless.

Don't see where 3 minutes and 1/2 mile makes a difference either way and Sand Lake route is actually more enjoyable. Gas stations and food and shopping along the way make it better. You do what you wish.