• On Jun 28, 2021
    Jessyca from MS Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi! How early do the buses and monorail start running? I’ve read 45 mins before park opening, but I’ve also read to get to the parks an hour before opening. I’m confused. I’m just trying to figure out how to get to MK and HS as early and as possible!

    Hi there, Jessyca! 

    Welcome to planDisney, and thanks for stopping by with your question!

    I bet you’re so very excited about your magical vacation! It’s right around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve spent some time figuring out all the Mickey-shaped treats you’ll be having! 

    Jessyca, you ask an excellent question! I like to get to the parks bright and early to experience the more popular rides at that time. You’ll find the weather in the mornings is a lot cooler than midday, and it’s not as crowded. Depending on the Cast Members, the parks can open up a bit earlier than the posted time. This varies and is always subject to change, but I have gotten into the parks about 20 minutes before opening before. 

    The Walt Disney World Monorail Transportation usually runs about 45 minutes before park opening. During my recent stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, I was told the monorail to Magic Kingdom Park wouldn’t start running until 45 minutes before park opening, so I chose to walk to the park instead. They had Guests wait a bit before being allowed in, but it felt great being among the first to enter the magic! If you have the option of walking to Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios from your Disney Resorts Collection hotel, that might be your best bet to getting there as early as you can. 

    The Walt Disney World Bus Service runs about every 20 minutes between the Disney Resorts Collection hotels and theme parks and about 45 minutes before park opening. However, during the busier season, I have found the buses begin running a bit earlier than that. So the safe bet would be to be ready early enough that you can check the Bus Times feature on your My Disney Experience Mobile app under your Resort hotel information or head on over to check the posted time for the next bus. 

    Another great way to know about the current schedule is to ask a friendly Cast Member at the front desk of your Disney Resorts Collection hotel!

    We can’t wait to welcome you to the magic, Jessyca! Have an enchanting time.

    Aena 
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Meet the Panelist: Aena, Texas

Hi friends! Consider me your own Fairy Godmother, full of helpful tips to make your Walt Disney World Resort vacation magical. I'm Aena, wife to my Prince Charming, mom to future Imagineers, and forever a kid at heart. I call Walt Disney World...I mean, Texas home, and spend my time singing Disney tunes. One of my favorite things to do is to stay on property and explore everything the resorts have to offer. I'd love to help you find the best Instagram-worthy spots for your Walt Disney World Resort vacation! Learn More About Aena

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