Hi, Jeannie! Welcome to planDisney!
Thanks for sharing your question. At approximately 40 square miles, which is about the same size as San Francisco or Paris, Walt Disney World Resort is huge! Luckily, there are multiple modes of
complementary transportation to help you travel between the resorts, theme parks, and other resort destinations.
Transportation options will vary depending on your starting point and end destination. The easiest way to get directions, estimated travel times, and view transportation options is with the My Disney Experience mobile app. When you view a location, either on the map or with the search function, you can then select “Get Directions.” The app will prompt you to enter your starting location, and then it will display all your available routes with estimated travel times.
Let’s start with ground transportation.
Complimentary bus service will be your most common option between the theme parks, resorts, and other Walt Disney World destinations. If you need a more direct route, you can book a private
Minnie Van with the Lyft app, and a Cast Member will pick you up and drop you off.
There are also two sky-high transportation options at Walt Disney World.
The Monorail connects the Magic Kingdom with the Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village Resort, and Grand Floridian Resort. There is also a Monorail route that goes to EPCOT from the Transportation and Ticket Center. Then there is the
Disney Skyliner. These aerial gondolas connect Pop Century Resort, Art of Animation Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort, and Riviera Resort with Hollywood Studios and EPCOT.
Water taxis can be found at multiple locations around Walt Disney World. Look for water taxi docks taking you from the Magic Kingdom to the Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village Resort, Grand Floridian Resort, Wilderness Lodge, and Fort Wilderness. There are also boats running between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios that stop at BoardWalk Inn, Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, and the Swan and Dolphin Hotels.
So whether you want to travel by land, sea, or air, Walt Disney World has a way to get you there. As you map out your trip, remember that all transportation options and schedules are subject to change and availability.
I hope this information helps with your vacation planning, Jeannie. If you need directions traveling between a specific resort and theme park, don’t hesitate to send me another question or ask a friendly Cast Member when you are on-site.
Magical travels!
Matt