Parking Overview
Short-Term Parking at Orlando International Airport (MCO) generally means parking in the terminal-area facilities (Terminal Top Parking and Parking Garages A, B, and C). These are the closest on-airport options—designed for quick access when you’re picking up or dropping off passengers, meeting someone inside, or making a short visit.
This option is best for quick pickup/drop-off, short trips, and travelers prioritizing convenience over price. For week-long trips or budget travel, it’s usually expensive compared with economy lots and off-airport parking. Expect a straightforward experience: well-signed garages close to the terminals, typically busy during weekends and holidays.
Pricing
- Hourly pricing (typical terminal garage structure): first 20 minutes are often free for quick pickup/drop-off; then about $2 for 21–30 minutes, followed by $1 per additional 15 minutes (rates can vary by facility/time).
- Daily maximum (terminal-area garages/Terminal Top): commonly $24/day (some sources cite $24–$28 depending on facility and updates).
- Estimated weekly cost: about $168/week at $24/day (before taxes/fees, if any).
How it compares: MCO economy lots (North/South/West Park Place) typically run about $14–$20/day with a shuttle ride, while many off-airport lots can be significantly cheaper (often $3.75–$18/day with reservations and coupons). If you want the same convenience with less circling, Valet is about $35/day.
Discounts: On-airport terminal garages are usually drive-up pricing with limited discounts. Savings are more common off-airport via online booking, coupon codes, and loyalty programs. Reserved on-airport surface lots may be bookable in advance (often priced higher than economy).
Payment: Expect standard airport payment methods (major cards, mobile pay at many airports). If you need a receipt for business travel, keep your ticket and finalize at staffed or automated pay points.
Getting to Your Terminal
The main advantage of short-term/terminal parking is no shuttle needed. You’ll typically walk 0–5 minutes to the terminal via garages adjacent to or directly across from the terminal areas. This is the fastest choice when traveling with kids, car seats, or heavy luggage.
Because these are garages, you’ll have more weather protection than surface lots, though you may still have brief outdoor exposure depending on where you park and your terminal entry point. Plan a few extra minutes during peak times to find a spot and reach the elevator/escalator cores.
Features & Security
- Covered parking: Terminal Top and Garages A/B/C are covered, helping protect from sun and rain.
- Security: Expect strong lighting and regular airport patrols typical of on-airport facilities, though standard precautions still apply (lock doors, don’t leave valuables visible).
- EV charging: Per official data, Garages A, B, and C have EV charging; Terminal Top Parking does not.
- Accessibility: Garages generally include accessible spaces near elevators and pedestrian routes to terminals.
- Extra services: Car wash/detailing is not consistently advertised for these garages—consider off-airport providers if that’s important.
Booking Tips
- No general reservations for garages: Terminal garages are typically first-come, first-served. Arrive early during holidays, spring break, and weekends.
- Use free waiting when picking up: If you’re early for arrivals, use the Cell Phone Waiting Lot (free, limited wait time) instead of paying garage rates.
- If full: Shift to economy lots (North/South/West Park Place with frequent shuttles) or off-airport reserved parking for guaranteed space and lower costs.
- For savings: Reserve off-airport parking in advance (SpotHero or provider sites) and compare covered vs. uncovered rates.