Excitement is mounting in Central Florida as Universal Orlando Resort prepares to open its most ambitious expansion to date—Epic Universe. But while the parks prepare to welcome record numbers of guests, travelers may face unexpected challenges getting there.
Orlando International Airport (MCO), the central arrival point for millions of visitors heading to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando, and other area destinations, is now under increased law enforcement monitoring. As Click Orlando reports, “Police have stepped up enforcement against illegal vehicle-for-hire operators at and near Orlando International Airport (MCO), where unregistered, unpermitted and/or uninsured drivers continue to offer unauthorized rides to unsuspecting passengers at discounted rates.”
A recent undercover operation highlighted the seriousness of the situation. A driver named Sherry McGuire was arrested after picking up what turned out to be an undercover officer. According to the report, “McGuire directed officers to the Denny’s for a pickup. McGuire admitted to News 6 that she had been previously ticketed and trespassed from MCO by police on March 20 ‘for not being registered with the city of Orlando.’”
McGuire told authorities she didn’t realize she needed both a city permit and a state license. She was ticketed, her vehicle was impounded, and she was charged with “driving with intent to pick up passengers within Orlando city limits without a city driver’s permit and without a city vehicle permit.”
For vacationers bound for Walt Disney World or Epic Universe, that means paying extra attention to choosing legal, permitted transportation services—such as official taxis, shuttles, or hire cars offered through the airport.
Meanwhile, May 22, 2025, marks the debut of Universal Epic Universe, a third gate that brings brand-new realms to life, including How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter–Ministry of Magic, and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. The addition is expected to attract record attendance and further elevate the region’s global theme park reputation.
Rather than feeling threatened by the expansion, Disney leadership has offered support. On Instagram, Jeff Vahle, President of Walt Disney World Resort, wrote: “It takes great passion and dedication to bring new projects to life. Best of luck to the Universal Orlando team with the opening of Epic Universe! Another big win for tourism in Florida.”
In fact, Josh D’Amaro, Disney Experiences Chairman, previously suggested that Epic Universe could help boost attendance at Disney’s own parks, stating that guests headed to the new park would “have to” visit Magic Kingdom as well.
Though not officially confirmed, there’s speculation that the opening of Epic Universe could be the push Disney needs to move forward on a fifth gate of its own in Florida.
With the Florida theme park scene growing more expansive and competitive than ever, making sure your journey to the parks is seamless begins with safe, permitted ground transportation. Avoiding illegal rideshare options could save time—and trouble—when your vacation begins.
Have you encountered unexpected issues on your way to Walt Disney World or Universal? Share your story with us in the comments below!
