Walt Disney World Transportation.
When planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort, transportation is a crucial factor to consider. Luckily, Disney offers a variety of transportation options to make your stay as convenient and magical as possible. From buses to monorails to boats, there are plenty of ways to get around the parks and resorts.
One of the most iconic transportation options at Disney is the monorail system. With three different lines, the monorail can take you between Magic Kingdom and select resorts, Epcot and Magic Kingdom, or around the Seven Seas Lagoon. But the monorail isn't the only option. Disney also offers bus transportation to all parks and resorts, as well as water transportation via boats and ferries. And for a unique experience, you can try the Disney Skyliner, a gondola system that connects select resorts to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, Disney makes it easy to get where you need to go. With frequent service and helpful signage, you won't have to worry about getting lost or missing your ride. And if you have any special needs or disabilities, Disney offers additional services to ensure that you can travel comfortably and safely. So sit back, relax, and let Disney take care of the transportation during your magical stay.
Key Takeaways
Disney offers a variety of transportation options, including buses, monorails, boats, and the Skyliner.
The monorail is an iconic option that can take you between Magic Kingdom and select resorts, while the Skyliner provides a unique gondola experience.
Disney provides additional services for guests with disabilities to ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience.
What transportation options are available at Walt Disney World?
The transportation options available at Walt Disney World depend on where you are and of course, where you are going. The most common transportation option is the bus system, which runs from all resorts to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs. There are several other options available at some parks and resorts, including the Monorail, the Skyliner, and boats!
Disney Monorail System
This public transit monorail system has been in operation since 1971 and is a beloved icon of the Disney experience.
The monorail system consists of three lines of service, each with its own unique route.
The Resort Monorail stops at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Resort, and the Transportation and Ticket Center
The Epcot Monorail and the Express Monorail provide express round-trip transportation to Epcot and Magic Kingdom from the Transportation and Ticket Center
One of the great things about the monorail system is that it's not just a mode of transportation – it's an attraction in its own right. Kids and adults alike will love riding the monorail and taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the resort. Plus, the monorail provides easy access to some of the most popular attractions at Walt Disney World, including Magic Kingdom park and EPCOT.
If you're staying at one of the Disney Resort hotels, you'll be happy to know that the monorail provides direct service to several of them. The monorail stops at Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, making it easy to get to and from your hotel.
Disney Bus Transportation
The Walt Disney World bus transportation is the most common form of transportation. The bus transportation runs from all of the Walt Disney World Resorts to all Disney theme parks and water parks, as well as Disney Springs.
Key to remember: Walt Disney World bus transportation does NOT run between resorts!
Disney Water Transportation
If you're looking for a unique way to travel around Walt Disney World, then you need to check out the Disney Water Transportation. This transportation option is a great way to explore the parks and resorts while taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the crowds. There are two types of boats that you can take advantage of - the Ferry Boats and the Friendship Boats.
Ferry Boats
The Ferry Boats are a great way to get from the Ticket and Transportation Center to Magic Kingdom and back. These boats are large and can hold up to 600 passengers at a time. They run on a regular schedule and are free to use for all park guests. The Ferry Boats offer a beautiful view of Magic Kingdom and the surrounding areas, making it a great option for those who want to take in some of the sights while traveling.
Friendship Boats
If you're staying at one of the Disney resorts around the Seven Seas Lagoon or Crescent Lake, then the Friendship Boats are a great way to get around. These boats are smaller than the Ferry Boats. They run on a regular schedule and are free to use for all park guests. The Friendship Boats offer a relaxing way to travel around the resorts, and you can even take them to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
When using the Disney Water Transportation, keep in mind that the boats do not run during bad weather conditions. Also, be sure to check the schedules for the boats you plan to use to ensure that you don't miss your ride.
Disney Skyliner
If you're looking for a unique and fun way to get around Walt Disney World, the Disney Skyliner is a must-try transportation option (and our family favorite). This gondola system connects four Disney Resort hotels to both EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios, making it a convenient way to travel between these locations.
The resorts with Disney Skyliner access are Disney's Pop Century, Disney's Caribbean Beach, Disney's Art of Animation, and Disney's Riviera Resort. Each gondola car is decorated with bright colors and beloved Disney characters!
Not only is the Disney Skyliner a fun way to travel, it's also a practical one. The gondolas soar above the trees, providing a unique bird's-eye view of the resort. Plus, since the gondolas are constantly in motion, there's never a long wait to board.
If you're traveling with a stroller or wheelchair, no problem – the gondolas are accessible and can accommodate both.
Disney Minnie Van Service
Minnie Vans are a service by Disney in partnership with Lyft, and it allows you to request a ride in a van or SUV that's themed after Minnie Mouse herself.
The Minnie Vans are easy to spot, thanks to their red and white polka-dot design, and they're driven by friendly Cast Members who know the ins and outs of the resort. You can use the Lyft app on your smartphone to request a ride, and the app will tell you how much your ride will cost before you confirm your request.
One of the great things about the Minnie Van Service is that it's available to all guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort, not just those staying at Disney-owned hotels. You can use the service to get to and from the theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs, as well as other destinations around the resort.
The Minnie Van Service is also a great option if you're traveling with young children or if you have mobility issues. The vehicles are equipped with car seats and can accommodate up to six passengers, so you can travel comfortably with your whole family.
Keep in mind that the Minnie Van Service is not included in your vacation package, so you'll need to pay for each ride separately. Further, they aside from the airport, they do not leave the Walt Disney World bubble (meaning you can’t take them to Universal Studios!).
Disney Parking and Tram Services
When visiting Walt Disney World, parking is a necessary part of the experience. Disney offers parking at each of its theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. Standard parking costs $25 per day, while preferred parking costs $45 per day. If you are staying at a Disney resort hotel, parking is complimentary.
Once you have parked your car, you may need to take a tram to the park entrance. Trams are coming back slowly at the theme parks and are currently available at EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
If you are traveling with a stroller, it's important to know that strollers are not allowed on the trams.
Airport Shuttle Services
When arriving at Orlando International Airport (MCO), there are several transportation options to get to your Walt Disney World Resort hotel, including a Mears Shuttle Bus, Uber, Lyft, Private Transportation (such as Happy Limo) and others.
Transportation for Guests with Disabilities
If you have a mobility disability, you can still enjoy the Disney transportation system. Most of the transportation systems at the Walt Disney World Resort are accessible to Guests with disabilities. Bus routes are serviced by buses equipped to accommodate various types of wheelchairs and ECVs/scooters within the following guidelines:
The mobility device must fit the lift without being forced.
Guests must be able to transfer from their mobility device to an available seat on the bus.
Guests must be able to secure their mobility device to the bus using the provided restraints.
The complimentary Walt Disney World Resort bus transportation system does accommodate wheelchairs. If you are using a wheelchair, you can stay in your wheelchair and use the bus lift to board and exit the bus.
If you have a visual disability, the buses have an automated stop announcement system that announces the stops along the route.
If you need further assistance, you can contact Disability Services at Walt Disney World Resort. They offer a variety of services for Guests with disabilities, including transportation assistance.
In addition to the buses, the Monorail and Skyliner are also accessible. The Monorail has wheelchair accessible cars and the Skyliner has accessible cabins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Disney transportation work between parks?
Disney transportation between parks is available through complimentary buses, monorails, and boats. These modes of transportation operate from 30-60 minutes before a theme park's opening time until one hour after a theme park's closing time. You can easily transfer between parks by using the transportation options available.
What are the different forms of transportation available at Disney?
Disney offers several forms of transportation, including buses, monorails, boats, and the Disney Skyliner. Buses are the most common mode of transportation and are available to take you to and from Disney Resort hotels, theme parks, and other attractions. Monorails are available at select resorts and theme parks, and boats are available to take you to and from Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney Springs. The Disney Skyliner is a gondola system that connects select Disney Resort hotels and theme parks.
Can you use Disney transportation to get to Disney Springs?
Yes, you can use Disney transportation to get to Disney Springs. Buses are available from Disney Resort hotels, theme parks, and other attractions to take you to and from Disney Springs. Additionally, boats are available from select Disney Resort hotels to take you to and from Disney Springs.
Is there a fee to use Disney transportation?
No, there is no fee to use Disney transportation. All transportation options are complimentary to guests of Disney Resort hotels and theme parks.
What is the schedule for Disney buses?
Disney buses generally operate from 45 minutes before a theme park's opening time until one hour after a theme park's closing time. However, it is recommended to check the My Disney Experience app or ask a Cast Member for the most up-to-date schedule.
Are there any new transportation options at Disney?
Yes, the Disney Skyliner is the latest transportation option that connects select Disney Resort hotels and theme parks. It offers guests a unique and scenic view of the Walt Disney World Resort.
