Getting around Orlando
By Steve Campbell
The ARA Show™ 2023 kicks off Saturday, Feb. 11, in Orlando, and brings show attendees and exhibitors back to one of the show’s most popular locations. Orlando is a world-class tourist destination, which means there are many resources available to get you where you want to go.
It all begins at the airport. Whether you’re flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), options to get you to your hotel range from shuttles to taxis and rideshare options. Then, once you’ve made it to your hotel and are ready to begin your show experience, you’ll find shuttles, trains, trolleys and rideshare as there’s no shortage of options to get you where you want to go.
The ARA Show offers shuttles from official show hotels to the Orange County Convention Center North/South Building during the show, but there are other modes of transportation available in Orlando as well.
LYNX
The LYNX bus is an inexpensive transportation option throughout Central Florida. The system — which is wheelchair accessible — provides service for 79 routes daily, with buses running in 30- and 60-minute intervals. LYNX bus stops are marked with a pink bus or paw print and include route numbers. The LYNX system also operates LYMMO, a free circulator bus in downtown Orlando, which makes stops along three lines and runs every 8-20 minutes. A single rider fare is $2. LYNX all-day passes also can be purchased for $4.50.
I-Ride Trolley Orlando
The I-Ride Trolley Orlando also provides an inexpensive way to travel around and explore the International Drive area of Orlando. The trolley runs daily from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and stops every 30-45 minutes at designated stops. The system operates two routes: The Red Line Trolley route, which travels both north- and south-bound on International Drive, and the Green Line Trolley route, which travels along Universal Boulevard, then shadows the Red Line Trolley route on South International Drive. Both routes have more than 100 stops and are designated with numbered “I-Ride Trolley” location markers.
The cost for a single, adult rider is $2 per ride and $1 for children ages 3-9. For those ages 65 and older, the cost is $0.25 per ride. Exact change is required for all rides. All-day passes also can be purchased for $6. All trolley tickets can be purchased at locations throughout International Drive. Tickets are not available at trolley stops.
SunRail train
The SunRail is Central Florida’s first passenger rail system. The system spans 61.5 miles and includes 16 stations. The SunRail operates Monday-Friday every half-hour during scheduled morning and evening service and less frequently during the mid-day and later evenings. The base, one-way fare is $2, with a $1 additional travel fee when crossing county lines. Tickets can be purchased at the SunRail ticket vending machines located at each station.
Once onboard, SunRail travelers can enjoy free wireless internet, power outlets, free parking at the stations, and luggage and bicycle accommodations.
For more information on travel options to and around Orlando, including the show shuttle schedule, visit the “Travel & Transportation” page at ARAshow.org.