Orlando International Airport Travel Guide - Beyond Borders

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Orlando International Airport Travel Guide

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Key Highlights

  • Find out where Orlando International Airport (MCO) got its name. Learn what the airport code MCO means and how it became that way.

  • It is simple to get around when you use our easy guide about the terminals, parking, and transport options at Orlando Airport.

  • Orlando Airport is a big hub. Airlines such as Sun Country Airlines and United Airlines fly from here.

  • You will find many things here. They include places to eat, stores for shopping, and nice lounges to relax at.

  • Use our good tips to help you get to and from Orlando Airport. See ways to get the best deals on parking too.

  • Check out the main services at Orlando Airport, like free Wi-Fi, ways to help people with special needs, and help for travelers.

Introduction

Welcome to your simple guide for getting around Orlando International Airport (MCO). The Orlando airport is the main way people get to Central Florida. This area is home to some of the most famous places in the world. MCO is also one of the busiest airports in the United States.

It does not matter if you come to Orlando for a family trip or need to fly in for work. Having a smooth time at the airport helps you start your visit right. This guide will share all the important details about the Orlando airport. You will learn about its past, how it is set up, how to get around, and what you can use while at the airport. With this, you can go through MCO with no stress and have a good time there.

Overview of Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport is the main hub for many travelers each year. The airport connects people to the city of Orlando and to places all over the world. Its modern look and easy layout help make your trip good from start to finish. The airport code MCO comes from its past, but now it stands for a busy place full of travel and business.

In the next sections, you will find out about the airport’s background, and get facts that will help you plan your visit to MCO.

History and Background of MCO

Have you ever thought about where Orlando International Airport got its start? It began with McCoy Air Force Base. The airport code, MCO, comes from this old base, showing a strong link to its history. This gives Orlando Airport a story that stands out among the world’s top travel spots.

In the early 1960s, there was an agreement to build a new airport for people to use right next to the military base. Delta was one of the first airlines to fly from the new terminal. In the middle of the 1970s, the Air Force base slowed down its work. The place was then turned into the big, busy airport you see in Orlando now.

The full change from a military base to a civilian orlando airport happened in September 1974. This opened the door for MCO to grow into the large hub it is today. Now, it helps millions of people each year get to the parks and other fun things in Central Florida.

Airport Codes and Essential Facts

The airport code MCO is a lasting tribute to Colonel Michael Norman Wright McCoy, a decorated pilot. While many airports are named after their city, MCO retains its historical code from its time as McCoy Air Force Base. Today, Orlando Airport is a major hub and focus city for several domestic and international carriers.

What airlines operate out of Orlando International Airport? MCO hosts a vast number of airlines connecting Orlando to the world. Major carriers include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines. International airlines like British Airways, Emirates, and Air Canada also offer regular service. This wide selection, which saw new routes added as recently as this past April, gives you plenty of choices when booking your travel.

Here are some essential facts about the airport:

Fact

Detail

Airport Name

Orlando International Airport

Airport Code

MCO

Location

Orlando, Florida, USA

Primary Role

Major public and international travel hub

Getting to and from Orlando International Airport

It is easy to get to and from Orlando International Airport. The airport, also called MCO, has many ways for you to travel. You can go to the theme parks, your hotel, or get to downtown Orlando without trouble. It is a big hub, and the roads and transit links make it simple for people to start a trip or vacation with no wait.

Keep reading to find out about the different ways you can travel to and from downtown Orlando and other main spots. There are public transit options and rideshare services for you to use.

Transportation Options from Downtown Orlando

To get to Orlando International Airport from downtown Orlando, you have a few good ways to choose from. The fastest way is by car. This trip can take 20 to 30 minutes if there is not much traffic. You can use a taxi, a car service that you book ahead of time, or a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. These will pick you up at your door and take you right to the airport.

If you want to save money, you can take the Lynx bus. This city bus can take you from downtown to the orlando airport. The bus ride takes longer than going by car. Still, the bus will help you keep more cash in your pocket if you do not mind waiting.

You can also use shuttle services. There are companies that send shuttles from hotels in downtown orlando to the airport. Shuttles are not as costly as taking a private car. They are also a bit faster and easier than the bus. This is a good pick if you are going alone or with just a few people. Make sure to book your seat before you go so you do not miss your ride. Shuttles can pick you up in downtown by your hotel or close by.

Public Transit, Shuttle, and Rideshare Services

Yes, there is a public ride option from and to Orlando International Airport. The Lynx bus is the main public bus service that connects MCO to many areas in Orlando. You will find the bus stops on the A-Side of the Main Terminal, on the Ground Transportation Level (Level 1).

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft also work at this airport. You just need to call for your ride on the app, and then go to the pickup spot on the Arrivals Level (Level 2). This is a good way to get a more private ride to where you want to go.

You will also see a lot of hotel and private shuttle choices running from the airport. Most hotels close to MCO give free hotel shuttle rides for their guests. Many other shuttles offer rides to well-known spots. Main options at the terminal include:

  • Lynx Bus: A low-cost public bus service to downtown and other spots in Orlando.

  • Rideshare: You can use Uber and Lyft when you need a ride.

  • Hotel Shuttles: Many local hotels give free rides for guests.

Parking at Orlando International Airport

Parking at Orlando International Airport is easy to use, with many spaces ready for travelers. Orlando, or MCO, has spots if you just need to park for a couple hours or many weeks. The airport has garages, surface lots, and economy lots. So, you can find the one that works best for your time and your budget.

Knowing about the parking choices at Orlando can help you save both time and money. Below, we talk about short-term and long-term parking at MCO. There are also some tips on how you can get the best deals.

Short-Term and Long-Term Parking Choices

Orlando International Airport (MCO) has different parking options for your needs. If you need to park for a short time, maybe to drop off or pick up someone, you can use Terminal Top Parking or Parking Garages A and B. These parking spots are right next to the terminals, so you can get in and out fast.

For travelers who will be away for a longer trip, it is better to use long-term parking. You have a few good choices. Parking Garages A and B work for people who want to be close to the terminal. If you want something cheaper, you can go for the North and South Park Place Economy Lots or the West Park Place Economy Lot. These economy parking places have shuttles to take you to and from the terminals at the orlando airport.

Here is a quick list of the main parking choices at orlando airport, so you can pick what fits you best:

  • Terminal Garages (A, B, and C): Good for short or long parking. You get direct access to the terminals.

  • Economy Lots: These cost less for long-term stays and give you a free ride to the terminal with a shuttle.

  • Valet Parking: This is the easiest way to park. Just pull up to the terminal curb and have someone park your car for you.

Tips for Finding the Best Parking Deals

Finding a cheap spot to park at Orlando International Airport can be simple. You can save money if you book your parking ahead of time. The MCO website lets you book online, and you often get a lower rate, mostly for long trips. This can help you keep more of your money and makes sure you get a spot.

You can also use the economy lots. These lots are farther from the terminal, but free shuttles will get you there fast. For long stays, this is a smart way to spend less and you still get to the main parts of MCO with no trouble. You keep more cash for your trip.

You may want to look at parking lots owned by other companies near the airport. Many of them will give good prices, and will shuttle you to the terminal at Orlando airport. Check the prices online and you might find a deal that saves you even more.

  • Book Online: Pre-book your parking on the MCO website for potential discounts.

  • Use Economy Lots: Opt for the North, South, or West Park Place lots for lower daily rates.

  • Compare Off-Site Options: Check third-party parking providers for competitive deals.

Terminals and Facilities at Orlando International Airport

Getting around a big airport hub like Orlando International Airport may look hard, but it is set up well, so you can handle it. The airport has a main terminal building, and this is split into A and B sides. There is also a new Terminal C. An Automated People Mover, or APM, runs from the main terminal to all the airside gates. This helps people get quick and easy rides where they need to go.

To have a good travel day at MCO, it helps to know how each terminal layout works. Here’s what you need to know about every terminal and how you can move around the airport.

Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C Overview

The main building at Orlando Airport has both Terminal A and Terminal B. These two terminals are next to each other but sit on different sides of the building. Terminal A is on the north side, and Terminal B is on the south side. You can get to ticketing, baggage claim, and ground transportation from both. Then, people use the APM, a short train ride, to get from this building to their gates. These gates are spread out in four groups called airside concourses.

Terminal C is the latest part added to MCO, also known as Orlando International Airport. It has new technology and is bright and open. This terminal is for both international and domestic flights. It comes with its own parking, ticket counters, and security. Terminal C sits south of the other main building. You can get there using a nearby road or the airport’s terminal link shuttle.

Do you want the latest news and updates about Orlando, MCO, orlando airport, and terminal info? The best place for up-to-date details, like flights and changes, is the official MCO website or the airport’s mobile app. You can also follow Orlando airport on social media. This way, you’ll know about important tips and get travel news right away.

Intermodal Terminal and On-Site Hotel Options

Orlando International Airport makes it easy for you to get around with its big Intermodal Terminal Facility (ITF). This hub is next to Terminal C. It was made to connect ground transportation for everyone. Right now, you can use it for parking. Soon, the Brightline train will come here too, so you can travel from MCO to South Florida and other main stops. Moving from a flight to the next part of your trip is easy.

If you want the best ease, the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is right inside the main terminal. It is between the A and B sides of the airport. This hotel is perfect when you need to catch a flight early, wait through a long layover, or arrive very late. You can walk straight from your room to security checkpoints. That means no worries about getting there in time.

Choosing to stay at a hotel in or near Orlando airport makes things better for you at MCO. With the Intermodal Terminal giving more ways to travel and the Hyatt Regency so close, this hub really puts you first. From start to end, the Orlando airport is made to help travelers.

Airport Services and Amenities

Orlando International Airport offers much more than a spot to board your flight. It is a place where you can find many things to do and enjoy. MCO has great food spots and a lot of shops, along with nice lounges where you can relax. The airport wants your time in Orlando to be good, even if you are just waiting. It does not matter if you fly with delta air lines, delta, or any other airline — there is something for everyone here.

In this guide, you will see what you can find at MCO. This includes so many food choices, stores to shop in, different lounges, and important things you may need like free Wi-Fi or help with getting around the airport.

Dining, Shopping, and Lounges

Orlando International Airport, or MCO, offers a lot for people who travel. You will find many places to eat, from quick meals at popular fast-food spots to nice sit-down restaurants. You will also see many shopping options. The stores have everything—luxury brands, must-have travel items, and special souvenirs from well-known Orlando places.

If you want a quiet spot to relax, there are a few lounges at the Orlando airport. The Delta Sky Club is there for passengers of Delta Air Lines. You will also find The Club MCO, which anyone from many airlines can enter or get into with a day pass. Both lounges at the terminal offer soft seats, free snacks and drinks, and a calm space so you can get away from the busy crowd. Southwest Airlines is also big at Orlando, but they do not have a lounge there.

Here are the top things you will enjoy at MCO:

  • Diverse Dining: There are many choices with restaurants, cafes, and bars found in each terminal.

  • Extensive Shopping: Find retail stores, including duty-free items, clothes, electronics, and keepsakes.

  • Airport Lounges: Try exclusive or paid-access lounges where you can rest or get some work done.

Free Wi-Fi, Accessibility, and Traveler Assistance

Yes, Orlando International Airport gives you free Wi-Fi. It is easy to stay online at MCO because the airport has fast, free Wi-Fi in all terminals and public spaces. To log in, just connect your device to the “MCO-Free-WiFi” network. You can the check your email, use the web, or even stream videos while you wait for your flight.

Orlando airport works to make sure everyone can use the airport with no trouble. The airport has ramps, elevators, easy-to-use restrooms, and parking spots for people who need them. If you need a wheelchair, you can ask your airline for help before you get there. They will make sure someone helps you from your car all the way to your gate.

If you want help or have questions while you are in the airport, you can find someone to talk to. There are help desks in all the terminals, and agents are ready to answer your questions or give you directions. You can also stop an Airport Ambassador who walks around to help people.

  • Free Wi-Fi: You can use the internet anywhere in the airport for no cost.

  • Accessibility Services: People with limited mobility or disabilities can get all the help they need.

  • Traveler Assistance: There are help desks and Airport Ambassadors to answer questions and give directions.

Learn more about Orlando International Airport here.

Conclusion

To sum it up, getting around Orlando International Airport (MCO) can be easy and even fun if you know what to do. When you understand how the airport is set up, learn about your options for getting around, and know where to park, your time there will be better. Make sure to find out what services and places are available before you go. These tips help everyone, no matter if you travel for work or for fun. Plan ahead, keep up with airport rules, and use the many services MCO has for travelers. Have a good trip! If you have any questions or want help that’s just for you, you can ask for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive at Orlando International Airport before my flight?

If you are taking a domestic flight from Orlando International Airport, try to get there at least two hours before the flight. If you are flying to another country, you should be at MCO three hours early. This gives you enough time to check in, drop your bags, and get through security, which is helpful because it can get crowded at the airport, especially during busy travel times.

What are the current security guidelines at Orlando International Airport?

Orlando International Airport follows all TSA rules. You need to take out all electronics bigger than your cell phone from your bag. You also have to follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids. For the latest rules, visit the TSA website before you go to your terminal at Orlando MCO.

Can I rent a car directly at Orlando International Airport?

Yes, you can rent a car at Orlando International Airport without any trouble. The rental car desks are on the Ground Transportation Level (Level 1) in both Terminal A and Terminal B. You will find them right after you pick up your bags. There is no need to take a shuttle to get to another place, so you can get your car quickly and go where you want.