Disney announced this week that their popular Minnie Van transportation service at the Walt Disney World Resort is celebrating a major milestone. They have officially transported 1 million guests. Also announced this week was the news that Lyft will now be the official rideshare of Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort with new enhancements that will be added to the Walt Disney World Resort service as early as this fall. One of those enhancements will be the app experience at Walt Disney World Resort. This update will make it easier to request a Minnie Van ride, find the most convenient pickup location, and even select a wheelchair accessible vehicle. So what’s the difference between requesting a Minnie Van or Lyft service?
The Minnie Vans are polka dotted vehicles that provide point-to-point transfers just like the popular ride sharing services like Lyft and Uber. Instead of having private individuals picking you up, the Minnie Vans are driven by Disney Cast Members. This means you can expect excellent customer service that all Disney cast members are known to provide. You will always know that your driver is trained and an expert at navigating Disney properties. Plus this is your chance to hear about life as a Cast Member during your travels. You will also hear Disney music during your drive and some drivers even play music from your destination property adding that extra magical touch.
Just like other ride sharing services the cost varies depending on your destination but all trips start with a flat rate of $15. The Minnie Van service is significantly more expensive and will cost you $30 or more depending on your travel distance. You will always be able to see the estimate of your trip cost prior to requesting the Minnie van before you select it in the Lyft app. Minnie Vans can only be requested in the Lyft app. Make sure you download the app prior to arriving. Once the app is downloaded you’ll need to activate it in order to access a van via a pop-up notification you receive in My Disney Experience or by stopping at the Concierge Desk at your resort. For those needing car seats, the Minnie Vans are always equipped with two seats.
Lyft drivers are regular car owners who drive their own vehicles. Most keep their vehicles very clean and their rides are comfortable. Lyft services run 24 hours and are available to take you off property. Their cost is also significantly lower with more options available. You can select from a standard vehicle that travels 4 people. LyftXL for larger parties and luxury vehicle options.
Payment for both is done right through the app from your credit card or Apple Pay. The difference with Minnie Van service is that it only travels within Disney property. That includes the four theme parks, all Disney-owned resorts, Disney’s 2 water parks, Disney Springs and now Orlando International Airport and Port Canaveral. Their drop off locations is also closer to the parks or properties than Lyft or Uber are allowed to drop off or pick up.
Most of the time the major difference you will find between the two is the difference in price. Lyft will be a lot cheaper unless you have a larger party or need a car seat. While some may love the idea of a cast member driving them in a car that looks like Minnie Mouse others prefer the more price friendly option of Lyft. I always try to do a couple of Minnie Van rides during my stay just for the experience and use Lyft for all other transportation. Which do you prefer?
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