Planning to visit both Disney World and Universal on the same trip? Good news: they’re closer than most people think. Universal Orlando is about 10 to 15 miles from Disney World, which is usually a 20 to 30-minute drive. Add a little extra time at rush hour or on busy weekends.
The harder part is getting between them. There’s no Disney-to-Universal shuttle, and Universal is now two separate park areas: the original resort and Epic Universe. Here’s how it all works.
Can You Stay at Disney and Go to Universal?
Yes, you can absolutely stay at a Disney Resort and still visit Universal Studios Orlando. Many travelers book their stay at Disney but set aside a day or two to experience Universal’s epic rides and attractions.
So, Is Universal Studios Near Disney World?
Yes. Universal Orlando is close to Disney World, but not within walking distance. It’s a short drive, and you’ll need a ride to get there.
Distance from Disney to the main Universal Orlando Resort:
- Disney Springs: about 10–12 miles, around 15–20 minutes
- Hollywood Studios: about 11 miles
- EPCOT: about 12 miles
- Magic Kingdom: about 14–15 miles, around 20–25 minutes
- Animal Kingdom: about 18 miles, around 25–30 minutes
While they’re not next door, both parks are close enough to enjoy in the same trip, requiring a short road trip and some planning.
If you are staying at one of Universal’s premier resorts, check out our guide on transportation from Orlando Airport to Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.
What About Epic Universe?
Epic Universe opened in 2025 and sits a few miles from the original Universal parks, on its own campus. You can’t walk between them. From Disney World it’s roughly 15 to 17 miles, usually 20 to 30 minutes. From Disney Springs it’s closer, around 9 to 10 miles and about 17 to 20 minutes.
One tip that saves people trouble: when you book a rideshare, make sure you choose the right drop-off in the app. Picking the wrong campus can cost you extra time in traffic.
Universal Studios Transportation From Disney World
First, it’s important to know: there is no direct Disney-to-Universal shuttle or public transportation. Disney’s transportation system — including buses, monorail, and the Skyliner — only operates within Disney property. That means if you’re staying at a Disney hotel, your complimentary buses will only take you to Disney destinations.
To get to Universal Studios, you’ll need to choose from one of these options:
- Rental car: Flexible, but you’ll pay for parking and deal with Orlando traffic.
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Easy and available, but prices vary and can jump at busy times.
- Shared shuttle or city bus: Cheaper, but slower. LYNX city buses connect the areas, but the ride can take over an hour.
- Private car service: Fast, reliable, family-friendly, and door-to-door.
If you need transportation between the parks, our Universal Studios Transportation service offers comfortable private rides to and from Universal Orlando.
Pro Tip: Understanding your transportation choices early helps avoid last-minute stress — especially with kids, luggage, or time-sensitive plans like early park entry.
Planning to Do Both Parks Without a Rental Car?
If you’re planning to visit both Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando without a rental car, you’re not alone — many travelers skip the rental and rely on direct, hassle-free transportation to avoid parking fees, traffic, fuel costs, and added stress.
What’s the Cheapest Way to Get from Disney to Universal?
If you’re traveling solo and trying to be budget-conscious, rideshares can work—but consider the trade-offs.:
1. Uber or Lyft
You can rideshare directly from Disney Resort to Universal Studios for about $25–$40 each way, depending on time and surge pricing.
Budget Tip: A common trick is taking the free Disney bus to Disney Springs, then grabbing a rideshare from there to Universal.
While this might save a few bucks, it adds time and can get tiring — especially if you’re traveling with kids, carrying bags, or navigating unfamiliar areas on a tight schedule. And don’t forget surge pricing on rideshares. What seems cheap up front could end up costing you in time and energy.
2. Shared Shuttles
Some companies offer shared shuttle services (around $20 per person), but they tend to be slow, crowded, and don’t always run on your schedule.
Visitors planning to stay near Disney can also read our guide on transportation from Orlando Airport to Margaritaville Resort for another convenient accommodation option.
Reliable Transportation to Universal Studios Orlando from Disney World
For families, groups, or travelers looking for the most convenient, reliable, and family-friendly way to get from Disney World to Universal Studios, a private car service is hands-down the best option.
At Orlando Superior Transportation, we specialize in luxury chauffeured black car service designed for travelers who value time, comfort, and safety.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Always On Time: No waiting around, no rideshare roulette
- 24/7 Availability: Whether it’s early morning rope-drop or late-night fireworks
- Car Seats & Boosters: Included at no extra cost — Safety of your little ones is our priority
- Family-Friendly Vans & SUVs: Spacious, spotless, and comfortable fleet.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Inclusive options that work for everyone
- Complimentary Grocery Stop (15-20 Minutes): Pick up essentials on the way
- Meet & Greet with Luggage Assistance: Your driver will help you every step of the way
- One Flat Rate: You know the price before you ride, with tolls and fees included.
While you want to make the most of a once-in-a-lifetime trip, we’re here to make that journey smooth and unforgettable.
Most guests say they’d rather spend a little more for peace of mind. That’s exactly why more and more Disney travelers are skipping the shuttle stress and choosing private transportation from Disney World to Universal Studios Orlando.
Final Thoughts
So, how far is Universal Studios from Disney World? It’s close, usually a 20 to 30 minute drive. That’s near enough to enjoy both on one trip, but far enough that you need a plan for getting between them. Whether you’re heading to the main parks or Epic Universe, a ride that shows up on time makes the day a lot easier.
Ready to explore both Disney and Universal the smart way?
FAQs
How far is Universal Studios from Disney World in Orlando?
The distance between Universal Studios and Disney World in Orlando is about 9 to 15 miles. Travel time is usually 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic.
How close is Universal Studios Orlando to Disney World?
Universal Studios Orlando is quite close to Disney World. Both are in the same city, and you can easily travel between them in under 30 minutes.
What is the best way to travel between Disney World and Universal Studios?
The best way to travel between Disney World and Universal Studios is by private car, taxi, or shuttle. This is faster and more convenient than public transport.
Can you visit Disney World and Universal Studios in one day?
Yes, but it can be tiring. Since the distance between Disney World and Universal Studios is short, it is possible, but planning is important.
Is Universal Studios closer than Disney World hotels?
It depends on where you stay. Some Disney hotels are farther, but Universal Studios is still only a short drive from most Disney World locations.
Stress less, enjoy more, and let us take care of the journey while you focus on the magic.
