Getting around Walt Disney World can seem overwhelming, but it’s a lot easier when you know what to expect.
In this guide, we’ll break down every Disney transportation option (buses, monorails, boats, Skyliner, and more) and show you the best ways to get from point A to point B without wasting time.
Need step-by-step directions between parks or resorts? We’ve got you covered there, too.
Disney World Transportation Overview
At Walt Disney World, getting around is part of the adventure, and most of it is free.
Here’s what you’ll have to work with:
- Buses: The workhorse of Disney transportation, connecting resorts, parks, and Disney Springs.
- Monorails: Iconic and scenic, running between Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and select resorts.
- Boats: Relaxing water taxis and ferries at certain resorts and parks.
- Disney Skyliner: The aerial gondola system linking two parks and four resorts.
- Minnie Vans: Disney’s premium rideshare service (not free, but super convenient).
- Uber & Lyft: Standard rideshare options if you need flexibility or speed.
The best part:
If you’re staying at a Disney resort, you’ll always have at least one (and sometimes multiple) free transportation options to get you wherever you need to go.
The one thing to remember:
Transportation between resorts isn’t direct – you’ll usually need to transfer at a park or Disney Springs. (More on that below!)
Disney Transportation Options
When it comes to getting around Disney World, you’ve got a whole fleet of free options at your fingertips.
Buses, boats, gondolas (yep, real gondolas in the sky), and of course, the famous Monorail. It’s basically a theme park inside a theme park if you know how to use it right.
And yes, it’s all completely free to use if you’re anywhere on Disney property. Even if you aren’t staying at a Disney hotel. (Minnie Vans are the exception, but we’ll get to that.)
Here’s the deal:
- If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, you’ll always have at least one free way to get where you’re going.
- Sometimes you’ll have two or even three options (and we’ll help you pick the best one).
- If you’re staying offsite, you can still hop on Disney transportation once you’re on property, like after parking at a theme park.
There are also paid options if you want something faster or more direct, like Uber, Lyft, or Minnie Vans (Disney’s own polka-dotted rideshare service that costs a little extra but can be worth it when you’re exhausted).
Bottom line:
Disney transportation is part of the experience.
It’s not always the fastest way from Point A to Point B, but it is part of the magic. (And sometimes it’s honestly just nice to sit in a gondola and float over everything with a Diet Coke in your hand).
Disney World Buses
Disney buses are everywhere, and they’re the workhorse of Disney transportation. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, there’s a 99.9% chance you’ll be hopping on a bus at some point during your trip.
Buses connect the resorts to the parks, the parks to each other (for Park Hopping), and the resorts and parks to Disney Springs. (Just a heads up though: there are no buses directly from Disney Springs to the parks. More on that later.)
Pros:
- They’re free and run all day long.
- They’re accessible for wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers (though you do have to fold the strollers).
- You’ll usually only wait about 20 minutes or less.
Cons:
- They can get crowded, especially at park open and close. Standing room only is pretty common.
- If your resort has multiple bus stops (looking at you, Caribbean Beach), it can take a while just to leave the resort.
- Buses aren’t the fastest option, especially during peak times.
Bus Schedule Basics:
- Buses typically start about 45–60 minutes before Early Entry begins at the parks.
- They keep running until about an hour after the parks close.
- During the day, you’ll see buses about every 20 minutes or so.
Pro Tip:
At your resort, you can usually see upcoming bus arrival times right in the My Disney Experience app. Sadly, you can’t check bus times when you’re at the parks, only when you’re at your resort.
Disney World Monorail
Ah, the Monorail. It’s basically Disney royalty at this point. If you’ve seen any Disney World commercial ever, you’ve probably seen it gliding past Cinderella Castle like a boss.
The Monorail connects a few key places: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and the Monorail Resorts (Contemporary, Polynesian, and Grand Floridian).
Here’s how the lines work:
- Express Monorail: Goes back and forth between the Transportation & Ticket Center (TTC) and Magic Kingdom.
- Resort Monorail: Loops between Magic Kingdom, the TTC, and the 3 Monorail Resorts (Contemporary → Polynesian → Grand Floridian → Magic Kingdom).
- EPCOT Monorail: Travels between the TTC and EPCOT.
Pros:
- It’s iconic! Riding the Monorail is a must-do at least once.
- You don’t have to fold strollers to board (hallelujah).
- The views are seriously top tier, especially when you glide through the Contemporary Resort.
Cons:
- The Monorail does have a habit of breaking down (sometimes mid-loop…good times).
- Lines can get long during rope drop and park close.
- It doesn’t go everywhere, it’s on for Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and nearby resorts.
Monorail Schedule Basics:
- Resort Monorail usually kicks off around 7:00 a.m. perfect for early breakfast reservations.
- Express Monorail starts about 30–60 minutes before Early Entry at Magic Kingdom.
- EPCOT Monorail usually starts 30–60 minutes before Early Entry at EPCOT.
Once they’re rolling, you can usually expect a new Monorail train every 10 minutes or so, give or take.
Pro Tip:
Want a fun no-park day? Hop on the Resort Monorail and do a little Monorail Bar Crawl, hitting up lounges at the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary. It’s a classic Disney adult move.
Disney Skyliner
If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring through the sky to your next Disney adventure, the Skyliner is the way to do it. This gondola system connects two parks and four resorts, and honestly? We think it’s pretty perfect.
The Skyliner connects:
- EPCOT (International Gateway entrance)
- Hollywood Studios
- Caribbean Beach Resort (the main hub)
- Riviera Resort
- Pop Century Resort
- Art of Animation Resort
Heads up:
Caribbean Beach is the big transfer station, so depending on where you start, you might have to hop off and switch lines.
Pros:
- The views. THE VIEWS. Seriously, even if you’re afraid of heights, it’s worth it.
- It moves almost constantly, so lines usually move fast, even if they look long.
- If it isn’t busy, your party gets a gondola all to yourselves.
- No folding strollers required if they fit (which most do).
Cons:
- It’s weather dependent. Strong winds, lightning, or heavy rain = closed Skyliner.
- If you’re not into heights or swinging cabins, it might not be your jam.
- Morning and evening rush hours can lead to long wait times (especially for EPCOT).
Skyliner Schedule Basics:
- The Skyliner typically starts running about an hour before park opening and goes until an hour after park close.
- If the weather’s sketchy, expect closures or delays, and be ready to pivot to a bus or other option.
Pro Tip:
If you’re staying at Pop Century or Art of Animation, the Skyliner can seriously upgrade your trip, especially when it comes to getting to EPCOT festivals or Hollywood Studios early entry. It’s fast, scenic, and way more fun than a bus.
Disney Boats and Water Transportation
If you love the idea of a scenic, low-stress ride (and you’re not in a massive hurry), Disney’s boat transportation can be one of the best ways to get around.
There are three main types of boat rides at Walt Disney World:
- Friendship Boats (in the EPCOT area)
- Resort Launch Boats (Magic Kingdom area resorts)
- Sassagoula River Cruise (Disney Springs resorts)
And even though they don’t get as much hype as the Monorail or Skyliner, they’re such a vibe.
Where You’ll Find Boats at Disney World:
- Friendship Boats: Connect EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and the EPCOT-area resorts (BoardWalk, Beach Club, Yacht Club, Swan, and Dolphin).
- Resort Launch Boats: Connect Magic Kingdom to the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, and Fort Wilderness.
- Sassagoula River Cruise: Connects Disney Springs to Port Orleans Riverside, Port Orleans French Quarter, Saratoga Springs, and Old Key West.
Bonus: Some of these rides have views you won’t see any other way (hello, gliding past the front of Magic Kingdom at sunset).
Pros:
- Super scenic: Great views, especially around Magic Kingdom and the EPCOT resorts.
- Relaxing: Less chaotic than buses and a much chiller vibe overall.
- Direct routes: Some boat rides (like from Magic Kingdom to Wilderness Lodge) are straight shots.
Cons:
- Weather-dependent: Rain, lightning, and even heavy winds can shut boats down with little notice.
- Not the fastest option: Boats are more about the journey than speed.
- Limited hours: Most boat service doesn’t start until later in the morning and usually stops shortly after the parks close.
Disney Boat Schedule Tips
- Friendship Boats usually start running about an hour before EPCOT and Hollywood Studios open, and continue until after the parks close.
- Resort Launch Boats around Magic Kingdom start up around 30-45 minutes before park open.
- Sassagoula River Cruise to and from Disney Springs typically runs from mid-morning until around 11:00 PM.
Boat schedules can really vary based on weather, so always check the signs at the docks or ask a Cast Member if you’re unsure.
Pro Tip:
If you’re staying at an EPCOT resort and don’t feel like walking, grab a Friendship Boat to Hollywood Studios. It’s slower than walking but way more relaxing (and sometimes your feet just deserve a break).
Ferryboats
If you’re heading to Magic Kingdom from the Transportation and Ticket Center, you’ll have two choices: monorail or ferryboat.
The ferryboats, Admiral Joe Fowler, General Joe Potter, and Richard F. Irvine, are massive, double-decker boats that can carry hundreds of guests at a time. They’re a beautiful (and surprisingly fast) way to get that first magical view of Cinderella Castle across the water.
Pros:
- Relaxing and scenic: Especially pretty around sunset.
- Direct routes: No crazy transfers (looking at you, buses).
- Stroller-friendly: You usually don’t have to fold your stroller to board.
- Bonus castle views: The ferryboats offer an iconic first glimpse of Magic Kingdom.
Cons:
- Weather dependent: If it’s storming (or super windy), boat service might shut down.
- Long waits: Especially at park opening or closing.
- Slow when you’re rushed: Not the best option if you’re racing to a Lightning Lane time.
Ferryboat Schedule
- Ferryboats (TTC to Magic Kingdom): Start around 45 minutes before park opening for Early Entry, and keep going until crowds clear out after closing.
Disney Minnie Vans
If regular rideshares like Uber and Lyft had a Disney-fied baby, it would be the Minnie Van. These bright red, polka-dotted vehicles are driven by Disney Cast Members and can take you almost anywhere on Disney property, and sometimes places regular rideshares can’t.
They’re not cheap, but if you want comfort, convenience, and a Cast Member behind the wheel, Minnie Vans are a really solid option.
How Minnie Vans Work
- You’ll order them through the Lyft app (they’re a special option you’ll see once you’re on Disney property).
- They’re driven by trained Disney Cast Members, and they know all the shortcuts and secret drop-off spots.
- They’re available to anyone onsite (you don’t have to be staying at a Disney resort).
They can pick you up or drop you off closer to the parks than Uber or Lyft can, especially at Magic Kingdom, where regular rideshares drop you at the Transportation and Ticket Center, but Minnie Vans take you straight to the bus drop off location right outside the park entrance.
Pros:
- Drop-off advantage: Especially huge at Magic Kingdom.
- Friendly Cast Member drivers: They’ll often have great tips and extra Disney magic.
- Car seats available: If you’re traveling with little ones, this can be a huge win.
- ADA accessible vehicles: Available if you need them (you can request in the Lyft app).
Cons:
- Expensive: Minnie Vans cost way more than Uber or Lyft — sometimes 3 to 4x the price.
- Availability can fluctuate: During super busy times (like park close), they can be tough to snag.
Minnie Van Schedule
- Typically runs from 6:30 AM until 12:30 AM (sometimes later during heavy crowds or party nights).
- Hours can vary slightly, so double-check the Lyft app if you’re relying on one for early or late travel.
Pro Tip:
If you’re trying to get a Minnie Van for an early morning character breakfast, book it as soon as you’re up and ready. They can get snatched up fast, especially around big rope drop times.
Uber and Lyft
Sometimes, Disney transportation just doesn’t cut it. Maybe you’re hot, tired, or you just don’t want to wait 30 minutes for a bus that’s standing room only. Enter: Uber and Lyft.
Rideshare services are everywhere at Disney World, and they’re honestly one of our favorite “get out of jail free” cards when the bus line looks a little too miserable.
You’ll find rideshare pick-up and drop-off points at every Disney park, Disney Springs, and all the resorts. (Pro tip: at Magic Kingdom, rideshares drop off at the Transportation and Ticket Center, not right at the park entrance.)
Pros:
- Fast and flexible: Call a car whenever you want, no waiting for the next bus.
- Usually cheap: We can usually get almost anywhere onsite for $10–$20.
- Air conditioning: Sweet, glorious air conditioning.
- Direct to your destination: No random stops along the way.
Cons:
- Costs extra: Still way cheaper than a rental car, but it’s not free like Disney transportation.
- TTC drop-off for Magic Kingdom: Annoying, but unavoidable. (Unless you spring for a Minnie Van.)
- Surge pricing: Prices can spike during peak times like park closing.
How to Use It:
- Download the Uber and/or Lyft app.
- Put in your pickup spot and destination.
- Compare prices (they can vary a lot).
- Confirm your ride.
- Tip your driver if they save you from melting into the pavement.
Pro Tip:
Always double-check the driver’s license plate and name before getting in the car, especially at busy locations like Disney Springs.
Getting Around Walt Disney World
Alright, so you know all the ways you could get around Disney World. Now comes the real question: how do you actually get where you’re trying to go without looking like you’re lost on your first day of kindergarten?
Here’s the deal:
- Park to Park: Disney’s got you covered with buses, Monorail, Skyliner, and even boats depending on where you’re headed. (No, you can’t just hitch a ride on the Jungle Cruise. We asked.)
- Resort to Park: Staying at a Disney resort? Congrats! You’ll always have a free ride to the parks and Disney Springs. It might not always be the fastest ride, but it’ll get you there.
- Resort to Resort: This is where Disney kind of expects you to figure it out like it’s a scavenger hunt. No direct buses here. You’ll usually have to transfer at a park or Disney Springs to get to your fancy dinner, bar crawl, or wherever else you’re headed. Running late because your Monorail broke down or the Skyliner stopped? Here’s what happens if you’re late to your Disney dining reservation — and what to do about it.
Not sure the best way to get to a park? We’ve got step-by-step guides that cover every option, depending on where you’re starting from:
- How to Get to EPCOT
- How to Get to Magic Kingdom (coming soon!)
- How to Get to Hollywood Studios
- How to Get to Animal Kingdom (coming soon!)
Each guide covers:
- Disney transportation options (bus, Skyliner, ferry, monorail)
- Walking paths (where available)
- Rideshare options (Uber, Lyft, Minnie Vans)
- Our favorite way to get there (because not all options are created equal)
Pro Tip:
Disney transportation is free for everyone, no ticket required to ride. But not all transportation is equally fast (or equally fun). Our guides will help you pick the best one for your plans.
How to Get From One Park to Another
Want to hop between parks? We’ve got you covered there, too.
(And no, you don’t always have to get on a bus.)
Check out these guides for step-by-step directions:
- How to Get from Magic Kingdom to EPCOT
- How to Get from EPCOT to Magic Kingdom
- How to Get from Hollywood Studios to EPCOT
- How to Get from EPCOT to Hollywood Studios
- How to Get from Animal Kingdom to Magic Kingdom
- How to Get from Magic Kingdom to Animal Kingdom
- How to Get from Animal Kingdom to EPCOT
- How to Get from EPCOT to Animal Kingdom
- How to Get from Animal Kingdom to Hollywood Studio
- How to Get from Hollywood Studios to Animal Kingdom
- How to Get from Hollywood Studios to Magic Kingdom
- How to Get from Magic Kingdom to Hollywood Studios
Disney Transportation FAQs
Is there direct transportation between the parks?
Yes! Disney offers direct buses between parks, starting around 10:00 a.m.
The Disney Skyliner also connects EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, and the Disney Monorail connects EPCOT and Magic Kingdom.
How can I get from one resort to another?
There’s no direct resort-to-resort transportation.
You’ll usually need to transfer at a park or Disney Springs.
(Example: To get from Pop Century to the Polynesian, take a bus to Magic Kingdom, then hop the Monorail.)
How do I get from Disney Springs to Magic Kingdom (or any theme park)?
There’s no direct bus from Disney Springs to the parks.
First, take a bus to a Disney resort, then transfer to park transportation from there.
Are there any transportation options for special events?
Yes!
Disney always provides transportation for special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Jollywood Nights, and After Hours events.
If something like the Skyliner has shut down for the night, buses will be available instead.
How early does Disney transportation start running?
Usually about 45–60 minutes before the parks open, and it keeps running until about an hour after they close.
Can I use Disney transportation if I’m not staying at a Disney resort?
Yes!
All Disney transportation is free and available to everyone on property, not just Disney Resort guests.
Tell us what you think
That’s a wrap on all things Disney transportation!
Did we miss anything? Have a favorite shortcut or tip you swear by?
Drop your thoughts (or questions) in the comments — we seriously love hearing from you.
Plus, your tips might just save someone else from hopping on the wrong bus at midnight.