How to Get to Animal Kingdom from Disney's Riviera Resort: A Quick Guide
Getting from Disney's Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom is easy! You have several choices to make your trip smooth and stress-free. The fastest and only practical way is by Disney Bus, taking about 15-20 minutes to drive the 5.3 miles between the two locations.
For a unique experience, try using the Disney Skyliner for part of your journey. While it doesn't go directly to Animal Kingdom, it's a cool way to start your adventure and see the parks from above.
Key Takeaways
You can reach Animal Kingdom from Riviera Resort by car, bus, or a mix of Skyliner and bus
The trip takes 15-45 minutes depending on your chosen transport method
Disney's transportation options are included in your stay, making them a budget-friendly choice
Getting to Animal Kingdom by Bus
Taking the bus from Disney's Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom is easy and convenient. Disney provides free bus service between the resort and the park. Here's what you need to know about using the buses.
Bus Stop Locations at Riviera Resort
You'll find the bus stop right outside the main lobby of Disney's Riviera Resort. It's clearly marked and easy to spot. There's a covered waiting area with benches where you can sit while you wait for the bus. Digital screens display upcoming bus times, so you'll know when the next Animal Kingdom bus is coming.
The bus stop area is wheelchair accessible. If you need help, cast members are usually nearby to assist you.
Bus Service Hours and Frequency
Buses to Animal Kingdom start running about an hour before the park opens. They keep going until about an hour after the park closes. This gives you plenty of time to get there early or stay late.
Buses usually come every 20 minutes. During busy times, they might run more often. In slower periods, you might wait a bit longer. It's a good idea to allow extra time, just in case.
Here's a quick breakdown of bus times:
First bus: About 1 hour before park opening
Last bus: About 1 hour after park closing
Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes on average
Travel Time and Direct Routes
The trip from Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom takes about 15-20 minutes. This can change based on traffic. The route is direct, so you won't need to transfer buses.
Your bus will drop you off right at the entrance to Animal Kingdom. This makes it easy to start your day at the park. On the way back, you'll board the bus at the same spot where you were dropped off.
Remember, buses can get crowded during peak times.
Using the Disney Skyliner
The Disney Skyliner is a fun way to get around, but it doesn't go straight to Animal Kingdom. You'll need to take a quick ride and then switch to a bus.
Boarding at Riviera Resort
You can catch the Skyliner right at Riviera Resort. Look for the station near the main building. The gondolas come often, so you won't wait long. Hop in and enjoy the views as you float above the trees.
The ride is smooth and quiet. You'll see other resorts and parts of Disney World below. It's a great chance to snap some photos.
Transferring Lines for Animal Kingdom
Your Skyliner will take you to Caribbean Beach Resort. This is where you'll get off. Follow the signs to the bus stop for Animal Kingdom.
Buses come about every 20 minutes. While you wait, you can grab a snack or use the restroom at Caribbean Beach. The bus ride to Animal Kingdom takes about 15-20 minutes.
Remember, there's no direct Skyliner to Animal Kingdom. But this combo of Skyliner and bus is still quick and easy.
Alternative Transportation Methods
Getting to Animal Kingdom from Disney's Riviera Resort doesn't have to mean taking the bus. You have other options that might better fit your needs and schedule.
Rideshare Services and Taxis
Uber and Lyft are popular choices for quick trips to Animal Kingdom. These services can pick you up right at the Riviera Resort. The drive to Animal Kingdom is about 5.3 miles and usually takes less than 15 minutes.
Rideshares are often faster than buses. They're great if you're in a hurry or traveling with small kids. Most drivers can provide car seats if you need them.
Minnie Vans, Disney's own rideshare service, are another fun option. They're decked out in Minnie Mouse's signature polka dots. Drivers are Disney cast members who know the parks well.
Regular taxis are also available. Mears Taxi is a trusted local company that serves Disney resorts.
Driving Yourself and Parking
If you have your own car or a rental, driving to Animal Kingdom is easy. The route is well-marked and takes about 15 minutes with normal traffic.
Parking at Animal Kingdom costs extra, but it's convenient. The lots are big and well-organized. Trams run from the parking areas to the park entrance to save you walking time.
Driving yourself gives you the most freedom. You can come and go as you please without waiting for rides. It's handy if you plan to park-hop or leave Disney property during your stay.
Remember to factor in time to park and get from your car to the entrance. It can take 15-20 minutes during busy times.
Accessibility and Additional Considerations
Disney's Riviera Resort and Animal Kingdom offer many options for guests with different needs. Here are some key things to know about accessibility, family visits, and making the most of your trip.
Assistance for Guests with Disabilities
Disney provides help for guests who need extra support. You can use wheelchairs and scooters on most transportation options. The Skyliner has a special line for guests with mobility aids.
Buses have lifts and spaces for wheelchairs. Cast Members are always ready to assist you. If you need any help, just ask them.
At Animal Kingdom, you can rent wheelchairs and ECVs. The park has accessible restrooms and attractions. You can get a Disability Access Service card if you have trouble waiting in long lines.
Tips for Families and Early Morning Visits
Getting to Animal Kingdom early can help you avoid crowds. The park often opens before the posted time. Try to arrive 30-45 minutes before opening.
If you're staying at a Disney Resort Hotel or are a Disney Vacation Club member, you can use Extra Magic Hours. This lets you enter the park before other guests on certain days.
Bring snacks and water for the trip. The bus ride can take up to 47 minutes. Having food on hand keeps kids happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting from Disney's Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom can be done in a few ways. Here are some common questions about traveling between these two Disney World locations.
What transportation options are available from Disney's Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom?
You can take the Disney bus service from Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom. This is the main option provided by Disney. You can also use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft if you prefer.
How long is the travel time between Disney's Riviera Resort and Animal Kingdom using Disney transportation?
The bus ride from Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom takes about 20-30 minutes. This doesn't include waiting time for the bus. The total trip may take 30-50 minutes with wait time.
Can you take the Disney Skyliner from Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom?
No, you can't take the Skyliner directly to Animal Kingdom. The Skyliner connects Riviera Resort to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, but not to Animal Kingdom.
What is the schedule for bus transportation from Disney's Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom?
Buses start running 45 minutes before Animal Kingdom opens. They keep going until 1 hour after the park closes. Buses usually come every 20 minutes.
Are there direct shuttles from Disney's Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom?
There are no special shuttles. The Disney bus service is the direct transportation option provided by Disney World for this route.
Is there a monorail service that connects Disney's Riviera Resort to Animal Kingdom?
No, there's no monorail service between Riviera Resort and Animal Kingdom. The monorail doesn't go to Animal Kingdom or Riviera Resort.
