First time using MDE - questions

[karabeunso]

We will be arriving on an 11:50 am flight (6/6). Is it reasonable to think we could get checked in and to Hollywood Studios for a 2:30 lunch ressie? At first I though it would be ok, but now I'm wondering.

Is there a set schedule as to when the MDE busses leave the airport, or just when they get one full?

 

[BlueFairy]

You should expect lines at the airport to board Magical Express (ME). The coaches continuously load, first come first served. Some coaches are shared between resorts. Worst case, expect multiple stops to other hotels before arriving at your hotel (MK resorts sometimes share one coach to 4 hotels). Then it takes a few minutes to checkin. We try to allow 1 1/2 hours minimum to get to the hotel entrance, not counting the checkin process. Then you will have a wait for transportation to a park, which may come as seldom as every 20 minutes or longer.

So, no, I don't think you should reasonably expect to be at a restaurant in HS within 2 1/2 hours. You *might* hit things just right and sail through the process, catch a bus as it's leaving and be the first stop. You could then go straight to park transportation and skip checkin (assuming you have no carryons). In that case, you *may* have enough time.

You most certainly could make it with a rental car and no stop at the hotel to drop bags.

 

[letsgoreds]

No set schedule for MDE, just leaves when it gets full....and the ride could be short or long depending on the # of stops before your hotel. Could be first or last. I would give myself a 3 hour minimum, and that is probably rushing more than I would like at a start of a vacation. Not to mention that there could be a delay with the plane, etc. Not worth the risk of deposit.

 

[siskaren]

FYI, it's DME for Disney's Magical Express. MDE is My Disney Experience.

 

[csmith041177]

That is a bit discouraging...thought it was a faster turnaround there.

 

[Ravenne]

That is a bit discouraging...thought it was a faster turnaround there.

Sadly, there's nothing fast about using Disney transportation. Convenient and free? Yes. Fast? No.

 

[disneyhousewife]

Even if you pay for group transportation like shuttles to the hotel, it still takes a long time. I would advise renting a car, the cost will save you A LOT of time, and Alamo gives great deals. But if that doesn't work, definitely allow 3 hours minimum to get from the airport to a park.