Landing at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is exciting, but figuring out how to get from LAX to Disneyland can feel overwhelming. Below you’ll find a straightforward, step-by-step guide to every major transport option so you can start the magic sooner.
At-a-glance comparison
| Option | Travel Time* | Typical Cost (one-way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 45–75 min | $70–$120 | Families, late arrivals |
| Shuttle Van | 60–90 min | $30–$55 per adult | Solo travelers, budget-conscious |
| Private Car Service | 45–65 min | $140–$200 | Groups, extra luggage |
| Rental Car | 45–75 min | $55–$95 + parking | Exploring SoCal |
| Public Transit (FlyAway + Metrolink + ART) | 2–2.5 hrs | $16–$20 | Adventurers, lowest cost |
*Times assume typical daytime traffic. Add 15–30 min during rush hours (7–10 a.m., 3–7 p.m.).
1. Rideshare: Uber or Lyft
How it works
- Collect bags and follow the green signs to "LAX-it," the dedicated rideshare pickup lot near Terminal 1.
- Open the Uber or Lyft app, set “Disneyland Resort” or your hotel as the destination.
- Expect upfront pricing before you confirm.
Pros
- Door-to-door convenience.
- Car seats can be requested (extra fee).
- No waiting for other passengers.
Cons
- Surge pricing during peak times or holidays.
- Costlier than shuttles if you’re traveling solo.
Money-saving tip
If you’re a party of 3–4, splitting an UberXL can be cheaper per person than individual shuttle tickets.
2. Shuttle vans and minibuses
Shared shuttles like Karmel Shuttle, SuperShuttle Express, and Prime Time Shuttle pick up curbside at every terminal. Book online in advance for the best rate.
- Pickup: Look for the red "Shared Ride Vans" signs on the lower (arrivals) level.
- Schedule: Vans depart every 20–30 minutes once they’re 70 % full.
- Luggage: One suitcase and one carry-on per person are usually included; oversized items cost extra.
This is the classic budget answer to how to get from LAX to Disneyland without wrestling with multiple transfers.
3. Private car or limo service
Traveling with lots of gear, a stroller, or simply craving a stress-free ride? Reserve a sedan, SUV, or stretch limo.
- Flat-rate quotes include tolls, tax, and driver gratuity.
- Meet-and-greet at baggage claim saves time.
- Child seats are provided on request—great for families with toddlers.
Though pricier, a pre-booked car service can be the fastest way from LAX to Disneyland when traffic is nasty because professional drivers know the best HOV and surface-street detours.
4. Renting a car
When it makes sense
- You plan to visit beaches, Universal Studios, or San Diego.
- You’re staying off-property where parking is included.
Steps
- Take the rental-car shuttle outside baggage claim to your chosen agency.
- Use the I-105 E → I-605 S → CA-91 E → I-5 S route to avoid downtown traffic when possible.
- Disneyland parking is $35 per day (Toy Story lot; subject to change).
Factor daily hotel parking fees before deciding; some area hotels charge $15–$40 a night.
5. Lowest-cost public transit route
Public transit is the slowest but cheapest answer to LAX to Disneyland transportation.
- FlyAway Bus: Board at every terminal’s inner curb for Union Station ($9.75, 35–50 min).
- Metrolink or Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: From Union Station, take the Orange County-bound train to Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) ($6–$8, 40 min).
- ART Shuttle Route 15: Runs every 30 min to Disneyland Main Transportation Center ($2, 15 min).
Total: about $18 and a mini-tour of Southern California scenery!
6. Accessibility considerations
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available from all major shuttle companies and Uber’s WAV category—reserve 24 hrs ahead.
- Metrolink trains have roll-on ramps and accessible restrooms.
7. Timing your trip
- Leave LAX before 2 p.m. or after 7 p.m. to skip the worst 405-Freeway gridlock.
- Flying out of LAX? Pad your return journey with 2.5–3 hours for traffic and security lines.
8. Packing tips for a smoother transfer
- Keep MagicBands, tickets, and charger cables in a carry-on pocket.
- Bring a refillable water bottle; California tap water is safe and free.
- Download the Disneyland app over airport Wi-Fi to save cellular data.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct Disneyland shuttle operated by Disney?
No. Disney’s old "Disneyland Resort Express" bus was retired in 2020. Third-party shuttles now fill the gap.
Do I need car seats in rideshares or taxis?
California law requires children under 8 (or under 4’9") to ride in a car seat or booster. Request one from the service or bring your own travel seat.
Can I store luggage at Disneyland if my hotel room isn’t ready?
Yes. The Bell Services desks at on-site hotels will hold luggage even before check-in, and many Good Neighbor hotels offer similar courtesy.
The bottom line
Knowing how to get from LAX to Disneyland comes down to balancing cost, time, and convenience. For most families, a rideshare or pre-booked shuttle offers the best mix of price and simplicity. Whichever route you choose, plan ahead, watch traffic conditions, and you’ll be spinning on Space Mountain in no time.
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