How GPS-friendly is WDW?

[Lynne M]

I usually don't leave WDW property during a stay, but this time I'm going with a friend who wants to visit other friends in the Orlando area, and do some other off-property stuff.

We'll have a rental car with GPS navigation system. I know that for a long time, it was tough finding WDW destinations on Mapquest and sites like that, because the on-property roads didn't always show up. I'm wondering if the same applies to navigation systems.

Will the GPS be a waste of money? If I'm starting at the WL and plug in an Orlando or Kissimmee address, will it get me there?

 

[FamilyGuy]

I have used a Garmin portable GPS system in Orlando several times, and found it very handy. The accuracy and effectiveness of the system depends on how recently updated software maps are. Rental car company systems should be fairly current I would guess. And only the newest changes to the roads are missed in any case.

The coolest thing about Nav is all the points of interest. You can see where the nearest Perkins or Ponderosa or Macaroni Grill (or whatever you are craving) is located. You can even browse by category, ie Italian, or Pizza, or Chinese, etc...

 

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi,

We were in Disney a few weeks ago. I brought my GPS down, never thinking I would use it or need it.

Leaving the Princess Pirate Party at 1:00 am DD12 & I got lost. I plugged in my hotel address, & it took me home without problems.

We also used it, when we left Typhoon Logon water park. DD programed our address, & the navigation system took us door to door.

You will not regret it.

Have a great trip

Patricia

 

[ExPirateShopGirl]

Our new car has navigation and I just love it. Never would have opted for it had I been given the choice, but the dealer only had the model with the navigation or the basic model on the lot otherwise I'd have had to wait another month to get the car.

It's been VERY helpful to get around here.. I can only imagine how helpful it would be in an unfamiliar area, like Orlando. I may have to get navigation next time we visit WDW.

 

[Lynne M]

That's excellent news, thanks so much!!

 

[cranbiz]

I bought my Magellan prior to moving to FL. Having experience with other GPS units, I don't leave home without it. Now as others have said, It really depends on the version of mapping software in the unit. Mine is about a year old, and has all of the WDW streets in it except Western Way. It is soo handy when I need to get to some of the backstage areas as I haven't worked for Disney that long.

I also work in Downtown Orlando and travel throughout Orange County for work. There are not many places that I can't get to with my GPS.

IMHO, It's worth every penny I paid for it!

 

[eddieras]

for those of you with a portable gps you may want to check out stonemaps.com. they have detailed maps of each of the wdw parks - i just bought it and have been playing with it -looks pretty cool. i'll really get to use it in may!