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Walt Disney World is a sprawling resort with four incredible theme parks, two water parks, Disney Springs, and numerous Disney resort hotels. Navigating all these magical places can feel daunting, but don’t worry! Disney World transportation has you covered. With a variety of complimentary transportation options, getting around the resort is convenient and often an exciting adventure in itself.
This guide will break down everything you need to know about Disney World transportation, from the different types of vehicles to tips and tricks for making the most of your travel time.
Overview of Disney World Transportation Options
Disney World offers several complimentary transportation options to whisk you around the resort. Here’s a closer look at each available mode of transport:
- Disney Buses: The most extensive mode of transportation, Disney buses run regularly between all Disney resorts, theme parks, Disney Springs, and the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). Buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and easily identifiable with their bright colors and Disney character designs.
- Disney Monorail: Experience the magic of gliding above the parks on the iconic Disney Monorail system. The monorail offers scenic views and connects Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort directly to Magic Kingdom Park. There’s also a separate monorail route, accessible from the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center, that can take you to EPCOT.
- Disney Boat Transportation: Set sail on scenic waterways with Disney World boat transportation. Enjoy a relaxing ride between Magic Kingdom Park and several Disney resort hotels, including Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Additionally, Epcot offers boat transportation to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the Disney BoardWalk area.
- Disney Skyliner: Embark on a gondola ride with sky high views aboard the Disney Skyliner. This innovative transportation system connects a few Disney resorts to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme parks. Soar above the treetops and enjoy unique aerial views of the resort.
- Minnie Vans: For a touch of luxury, consider renting a Minnie Van. These charming, themed vans offer private transportation throughout Walt Disney World, perfect for families or those seeking a more personalized experience. While not complimentary like other Disney World transportation options, Minnie Vans provide a convenient and stylish way to get around. They are accessible in the Lyft rideshare app for a fee.
About the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center
The Disney Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) is the hub of all transportation activities in the park, connecting visitors to all the parks, resorts, and key locations around the parks. In this guide, we’ll explore each transportation option available at the TTC – from buses to monorails to ferries and more – to help you choose the best mode of transport for your trip to Disney World.
Disney Bus Transportation
One of the most commonly used forms of Disney World transportation is the bus system. Disney buses operate from early in the morning until late at night, ensuring guests can travel between parks, resorts, and Disney Springs at almost any time of day. The buses are clearly marked with their destinations, and there are designated bus stops at each resort and park.
While the buses offer a convenient and reliable option for visitors, they can be crowded during certain times and may require additional time for transfers.
Disney Monorail Transportation
The monorail is an iconic part of Disney World transportation, offering a fast and scenic way to travel. There are three Disney resorts with monorail access: Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. These resorts are all located on the Monorail loop, providing direct access to Magic Kingdom and a transfer at the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center for EPCOT.
Staying at one of these Disney resorts with monorail access can save you a significant amount of time, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time at Magic Kingdom or EPCOT. The monorail runs frequently, and the views from the ride can be a delightful part of your Disney experience.
Disney Boat Transportation
Disney World boat transportation offers a relaxing and scenic way to travel across the resort. There are several routes, each providing unique views.
- Magic Kingdom Area Boats: These boats connect Magic Kingdom to several nearby resorts, including Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
- EPCOT and Hollywood Studios Boats: Known as Friendship Boats, these vessels travel between EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the resorts in the EPCOT Resort Area, such as Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and Disney’s Beach Club Resort.
- Disney Springs Boats: These boats connect Disney Springs to Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts, Disney’s Old Key West Resort, and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.
There is also the option to take one of the large ferryboats from the Transportation and Ticket Center over to the Magic Kingdom. If the Monorail line looks especially long, this might be a better option.
Disney Skyliner Transportation
The Disney Skyliner is the newest addition to the Disney World transportation system. These colorful gondolas offer a bird’s-eye view of the resort and connect several key locations. The Disney Skyliner routes connect Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT to four resorts: Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort.
The Skyliner is not only a fun and unique way to travel but also provides quick and efficient transportation. The gondolas are constantly in motion, reducing wait times and offering a continuous flow of transportation.
The Disney Skyliner has three distinct routes. The main hub is located at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. From there, you can soar towards Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a quick 5-6 minute ride. Alternatively, you can head towards EPCOT with a stop at Disney’s Riviera Resort, taking approximately 15 minutes in total. The third route connects Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort directly to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort in under 6 minutes, making it a convenient option for guests staying at these locations.
Disney resorts with access to the Disney Skyliner do not provide bus transportation to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, except during inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances.
It’s important to note that the lines for the Skyliner can be long leaving the parks at the end of the night.
Minnie Vans
Minnie Van is an exclusive transportation option at Disney World, managed by Lyft. This transport option works best for guests who are looking for a private or premium form of transportation at Disney.
The Minnie Vans offer door-to-door service within Disney World, taking guests directly to their destination. On the downside, this form of transportation does have a fee, making it less accessible for some visitors.
Walking Options from Disney Resorts to Disney Parks
For guests who prefer a more leisurely pace or wish to avoid waiting for transportation, walking paths offer a convenient alternative. Several Disney resorts are within walking distance of certain Disney parks, providing guests with a direct route to the magic.
Guests at Disney’s Contemporary Resort can enjoy a short, scenic walk to Magic Kingdom, allowing them to bypass the monorail or bus. There is also a walking path from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to Magic Kingdom, although it is a bit longer than the walk from the Contemporary.
Similarly, those staying at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and Disney’s Beach Club Resort can take a leisurely stroll to EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance. These resorts also offer walking paths to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, making it easy to move between the theme parks without waiting for transportation.
Walking not only saves time during peak transportation hours but also allows guests to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds and picturesque views that Disney resorts and parks have to offer.
Tips for Navigating Disney World Transportation
- Plan Ahead: Check the operating hours for each mode of transportation and plan your route in advance. Disney World transportation schedules can vary, so it’s best to be prepared ahead of time.
- Allow Extra Time: Transportation can be affected by weather, high traffic periods, and other delays. Always allow extra time to ensure you reach your destination on time.
- Know Your Transfers: Some destinations may require you to transfer from one type of transport to another. For example, traveling from a Magic Kingdom area resort to EPCOT via the monorail requires a transfer at the TTC.
- Use the My Disney Experience App: This app provides real-time updates on bus transportation schedules for your Disney World resort, helping you make informed decisions and reduce wait times.
- Consider Walking: For short distances or between certain parks and resorts, walking might be quicker and more enjoyable. Paths between parks and resorts are well-marked and provide a pleasant way to explore the area.
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Disney World transportation can get crowded, especially during peak seasons and holidays. Expect wait times for buses and boats, and factor this into your travel schedule.
- Utilize All Modes of Transportation: Don’t limit yourself to just buses! Consider taking the monorail, boat, or Skyliner for a scenic change and a fun way to explore the Walt Disney World resort area.
- Know Your Bus Stops: If you’re staying at a resort with multiple bus stops, familiarize yourself with the locations and consider which stop is closest to your room for shorter wait times.
Here are some options to help you get to your Disney World resort from the Orlando Airport.
List of Disney World Resorts and Their Transportation Options
Understanding which transportation options are available at each resort can help you plan your stay more effectively. Here’s a breakdown of transportation options at various Disney resorts:
Magic Kingdom Area Resorts
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower
- Monorail (Magic Kingdom and EPCOT via TTC)
- Bus (EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Magic Kingdom)
- Walking Path (Magic Kingdom)
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
- Monorail (Magic Kingdom and EPCOT via TTC)
- Bus (EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Magic Kingdom)
- Walking Path (Magic Kingdom)
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Monorail (Magic Kingdom and EPCOT via TTC)
- Bus (EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Magic Kingdom)
- Walking Path (Magic Kingdom)
- Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Boulder Ridge, and Copper Creek
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Magic Kingdom)
- Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Magic Kingdom)
EPCOT and Hollywood Studios Area Resorts
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Disney Skyliner (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Walking Path (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Disney Skyliner (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Walking Path (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Disney Skyliner (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Walking Path (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Hotels
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Disney Skyliner (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Walking Path (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
Disney Skyliner Resorts
- Disney’s Pop Century Resort
- Disney Skyliner (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
- Disney Skyliner (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Disney Skyliner (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Disney’s Riviera Resort
- Disney Skyliner (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
Disney Springs Area Resorts
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Disney Springs)
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Disney Springs)
- Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Disney Springs)
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Disney water parks)
- Boat (Disney Springs)
Animal Kingdom Area Resorts
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
- Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
- Bus (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney water parks)
By understanding the different Disney World transportation options and following these tips, you can navigate the resorts and theme parks seamlessly and maximize your magical vacation time. I hope this in-depth guide has provided you with all the necessary information to choose the best Disney World transportation options for your next magical adventure.
