Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is a hotel located at the Walt Disney World Resort, themed after the historic French Quarter of New Orleans. This resort offers various methods of transportation to guests wishing to visit Epcot, one of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World. When staying at the French Quarter, you have access to complimentary transportation options provided by Disney, which are efficient and convenient for navigating the extensive property of the resort.
Use the bus service for direct transportation to Epcot, which operates approximately every 20 minutes. The buses are the primary mode of travel between the resort and Epcot, with the journey typically taking around 15 minutes. Buses start running 45 minutes prior to park opening and continue up to one hour after park closing, ensuring you can arrive in time for rope drop and stay until the final fireworks.
Alternatively, consider Disney’s riverboat service, which offers a scenic route to Disney Springs where you can transfer to an Epcot-bound bus. The boat launches from the dock on the Sassagoula River and provides a relaxing ride to Disney Springs. Upon arrival, follow the signs to the bus stops for the continuing trip to Epcot. While this option takes longer, usually around 60 minutes including transfer time, it provides a unique and pleasant experience traveling through the resort’s waterways.
Free Bus Service
Guests at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter enjoy complimentary bus transportation to Epcot, ensuring a seamless park experience.
Comprehensive Coverage
Your journey to EPCOT begins at one of the convenient bus stops located throughout the resort. The bus service, designed specifically for resort guests, features:
- Regular Operation: Buses run approximately every 20 minutes, starting 45 minutes prior to park opening until one hour after park closing.
- Direct Access: You will reach EPCOT without any additional transfers, providing a direct route from the resort to the park.
- Well-Marked Stops: Each guest area has a clearly marked bus stop, so finding your boarding point is straightforward and easy.
- Disability Services: Accommodations for guests with disabilities ensure that everyone can use the bus transportation effortlessly.
Remember, the free Disney bus service starts early and continues late, maximizing your time in Epcot. Enjoy this amenity as part of your resort experience!
Water Transportation Connections
When you stay at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, you have the unique opportunity to travel to EPCOT by water taxi. This relaxing mode of transportation offers a pleasant alternative to the bus system.
Unique and Popular Option
You can catch a Disney water taxi from the dock located along the Sassagoula River. The water taxi service connects Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to Disney Springs. From Disney Springs, you can transfer to a bus that will take you to Epcot.
- Board the boat at the French Quarter dock. The water taxis typically run every 20 minutes.
- Enjoy the river cruise on the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs. This trip offers serene views and a break from the park’s excitement.
- Transfer to an Epcot-bound bus at Disney Springs. Buses to Disney parks run approximately every 15 minutes.
Remember, water taxi transportation is included in your stay at the Disney resort, providing a cost-effective and enjoyable way to travel.
Monorail Connections
Disney’s Monorail is an elevated train system that provides transportation between select Disney resorts and parks. Specifically, for guests staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter desiring to visit Epcot, utilizing the Monorail involves a transfer at one of the Monorail resorts.
Fast and Efficient
When you wish to travel from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to EPCOT via the Disney Monorail, your journey includes a few steps:
- Bus Transfer: First, take a complimentary bus from Port Orleans to one of the Monorail resorts: the Contemporary Resort, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, or the Polynesian Village Resort.
- Monorail Access: Upon arrival at any of these resorts, proceed to their respective Monorail station to board the Monorail to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC).
- Epcot Line: At the TTC, transfer to the EPCOT Monorail line which will take you directly to the park’s entrance.
The Monorail system is famed for its efficiency and speed, making it a popular transportation choice for guests aiming to spend more time in the parks and less time traveling. For instance, the Monorail ride from the Transportation and Ticket Center to EPCOT typically takes about 15 minutes.
Disney Skyliner Travel
The Disney Skyliner is an aerial gondola system that provides transportation between select Disney resort hotels and theme parks.
Unique and Scenic Route
Traveling to EPCOT via the Disney Skyliner, you enjoy a unique and scenic aerial route. You board at the Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, with connecting flights to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. This journey starts by taking a bus to one of the Skyliner stations at either Caribbean Beach Resort or the Riviera Resort, as the French Quarter does not have its direct Skyliner station.
You ascend into the skies at your chosen Skyliner station with your destination offering unparalleled views. The route includes transfers at the central hub located at Caribbean Beach Resort. From here, glide over Hourglass Lake, with vistas of both the Art of Animation and Pop Century Resorts, before approaching the turn station at Disney’s BoardWalk, which does not offer boarding or disembarking.
As you approach Epcot, you will be immersed in panoramic views of the World Showcase and Spaceship Earth. Upon arrival, disembark at the International Gateway entrance of Epcot.
Walking Path Options
The Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter offers accessible walking paths to connect you to various Disney locations.
Direct and Enjoyable Routes
When staying at the Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, you have the advantage of using the walking path that leads you to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. This route not only provides a leisurely stroll but also gives you the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the Sassagoula River.
For further exploration, continue towards Disney Springs. This path is lined with lush landscapes, making your journey to the shopping and entertainment district a pleasant experience. Keep in mind, there is no direct walking path from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to Epcot. However, complimentary bus service can transport you there efficiently.
This resort’s walking paths ensure that your transit is not just a means to an end, but an integral part of your Disney experience.
Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer transportation from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to Epcot.
Flexible and Direct Transportation
You can book a ride through the apps of Uber or Lyft, which provide an on-demand travel experience. Booking is a straightforward process: open the app, enter your destination, and a ride will be arranged for you. These services are known for their flexibility, allowing you to choose a pick-up time that suits your schedule.
Uber and Lyft:
- Offer a range of vehicle options to accommodate different group sizes and budget considerations.
- Use a dynamic pricing model, where the fare can increase during high-demand periods.
Unlike traditional taxi services, with Uber and Lyft, you receive:
- Price estimation before confirming your ride.
- The driver’s details, including ratings and vehicle type.
- The option to share your ride status with friends or family for added safety.
Uber and Lyft rides from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to EPCOT typically take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. For your return trip, you can hail a ride from Epcot’s designated ride-share service pick-up location, situated in the EPCOT parking lot. These services operate 24/7, providing convenience for early morning or late-night transportation to and from Epcot.
Taxi Service Options
When staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, you have access to reliable taxi services for direct transportation to Epcot.
Readily Available
Taxis are a convenient option waiting right outside your hotel. To catch a taxi, head to the main entrance of Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter where a Mears Taxi, the official taxicab provider for Disney resorts, is typically stationed throughout the day. Mears Taxi offers a range of vehicles to accommodate your party size, including sedans and vans. If you need a taxi outside normal hours or prefer to schedule in advance, contact Mears Taxi directly at their phone number, which can be found through the resort’s Guest Services or in-room information. Rates to EPCOT are metered, ensuring you pay a fair price based on the actual distance traveled.
Personal Vehicle Use
When choosing to drive your personal vehicle from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to Epcot, key points involve an understanding of parking availability and resort access protocols.
Parking and Resort Access
Parking at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is available and complimentary for guests staying overnight. Should you need to leave and return, re-parking is also without any additional cost.
To access the resort’s parking, ensure to have your MagicBand or resort identification. Drive up to the gate, and cast members will provide the necessary directions. When planning to visit Epcot, being aware of parking fees is vital. Standard parking is $25 per day for a car or motorcycle. Preferred parking, closer to the main entrance, costs more.
First, obtain a parking pass at the resort if you haven’t already. Proceed to Epcot’s parking area. Display your parking pass, which will allow entry. Remember, EPCOT opens its parking lot well ahead of the park’s official opening time.
Disney resort guests get to enjoy free parking at the parks. This perk simplifies the process significantly; upon arriving at Epcot, state that you’re a guest of the resort. The parking cost will be waived.
Minnie Van Service
The Minnie Van Service is an on-demand transportation option provided by Disney that offers direct, private rides to different destinations within the Walt Disney World Resort, including Epcot.
Premium Convenient Travel
When you prefer direct and private transportation from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to Epcot, consider the Minnie Van Service as your premium choice. Operated by dedicated Cast Members, Minnie Vans are distinctively themed with the iconic polka-dot design, ensuring you travel in style.
- Schedule Your Ride: You can arrange for a Minnie Van using the Lyft app, available to guests of the Disney Resort. Select the Minnie Van service within the app to request your vehicle.
- Service Hours: Minnie Vans are typically available from early morning until late night, covering park opening and closing times. Availability might vary, so check the app for current service hours.
- Capacity: Each Minnie Van can accommodate up to six passengers. This includes two car seats for younger travelers, ensuring a family-friendly journey.
- Travel Time: The trip from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to EPCOT is swift and direct using this service. You can reach the park in comfort, bypassing regular transport queues.
- Fare: Fare for the Minnie Van Service is calculated per trip, not per person. The exact cost varies based on distance and demand but expect a premium due to the convenience and exclusivity of the service.
Incorporating Minnie Vans into your transportation options optimizes your travel time and enhances your Disney experience with its convenience and unique Disney charm.
Car Service Options
Guests at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter have access to efficient transportation options to travel in style to Epcot.
Luxury and Convenience
Car services at Disney resorts, including town cars and limousines, offer a premium experience. Arrange your luxury transportation in advance to ensure availability for your vacation travels.
- Reserve: You should book a town car or limousine through your resort’s concierge service or a reputable car service company.
- Cost: Luxury services typically charge a premium compared to standard taxi or ride-share services, so plan your budget accordingly.
- Timing: Aim to schedule your pick-up time at least 20 minutes before you wish to arrive at EPCOT to account for traffic.
- Capacity: Town cars comfortably accommodate up to 3-4 passengers, while limousines can handle larger groups, usually up to 10 individuals.
- Features: Luxury car services often come with amenities such as leather interiors, climate control, and privacy partitions.
- Experience: Choosing a luxury car service enhances your vacation with personalized attention and a higher level of comfort.
For a personalized and upscale travel experience from Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter to Epcot, select from the available town cars and limousines.
