Hi there Robert, it's great to have you here at planDisney!
If there's anything that I spent a considerable amount of time doing at Walt Disney World Resort, it's researching
the various transportation options across property and observing the ways that guests experience these offerings and how Cast Members operate them. Accessing
EPCOT via the International Gateway entrance is definitely one of the best ways to do it in my opinion, and I've got a few personal insights and strategies that may be helpful to note:
- In recent years policies have become increasingly more strict for many guests attempting to make their way over to Disney's BoardWalk for a visit, perhaps in a way to dissuade them from attempting to park there in order to take advantage of the International Gateway access to EPCOT. To this end, some Parking and Security Cast Members have even requested that guests show valid proof of a hotel room or dining reservation in order to be permitted access beyond the gate - even when just being dropped off by a ride share service.
- Instead, guests can currently be dropped off at the Walt Disney World Swan or Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotels without needing to do so for a bit of a more welcoming experience in contrast. The additional distance is only a matter of a few extra minutes, though it's a good idea to be prepared for the weather as it is largely uncovered. Though taking the pathway and heading along the Disney's BoardWalk itself has often been much quicker than the FriendShip boats that calmly glide along Crescent Lake, this could be a better option in case of rain.
I've also observed that guests who like to take advantage of
Minnie Van Service via the Lyft app tend to have greater luck in being dropped off directly at
Disney Resort Hotel destinations and avoiding any disappointment or the chance of being turned away - though this can never be guaranteed and may be at the discretion of the Cast Member simply following the instructions of their leadership on the day. Here's hoping that your plan goes off without a hitch, and that you'll be on your way to EPCOT without any delay; be sure to come back to planDisney again soon for any other tips or strategies ahead of your stay!
Here's to efficient ways to get around the Most Magical Place on Earth!
Prince