Disney’s Skyliner gondola system has been soaring through the skies over Walt Disney World resort since September of 2019. But for many, this new transportation system is still a bit elusive. Where can you catch a ride on this fun new transportation option, and what are the benefits of doing so? What resorts are included on the skyliner line and should you consider staying at one? Let’s talk about how the Skyliner works and the top four reasons to love this new magical transport option.
The Skyliner is a gondola-style lift system (think large cable cars) which connects several Disney resorts directly to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, as well as each other. It offers a quick and convenient alternative to the standard Disney bus transport. The connected resorts span all resort tiers and include Pop Century, Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach and Riviera Resort.
Additionally, Epcot area resorts such as Boardwalk, Yacht, Beach and even Swan & Dolphin enjoy proximity to the Epcot Skyliner station due to its location behind the back of the park at the International Gateway. The Skyliner route takes a bit of getting used to. Caribbean Beach functions as the central hub. Guests from Pop and Art of Animation must travel here and switch to either an Epcot or Hollywood Studios line. Guests at Riviera resort can head directly to Epcot from their station, or also transfer via Caribbean Beach to Hollywood Studios as well.
The cabins themselves are spacious, allowing bench seating for up to 10 guests. Many travelers also enjoy that you can wheel a stroller or wheelchair directly into the gondola rather than folding, which is required on bus transport.
It should be noted that there is no air conditioning on board, so during the hottest months of the year, it can still be warm as you travel. But the cabins allow air to flow through them, creating a nice breeze and cooling off its passengers even on hot days. The skyliner will not run during inclement weather, so plan accordingly and know your backup bus route options.
So should you give it a try? Below are my top four reasons to love the Skyliner and take a ride on your next Disney vacation.
Speed and Convenience
Anyone who has ever waited for a bus at Disney World knows that their schedule cannot always be predicted. At busy times of day, such as park opening and closing, it can also take multiple buses before you have room to board. The Skyliner is constantly moving, so even at the busiest points of the day you should find that the line to board flows at a decent pace, and even a longer line will not result in a long wait.
Then, there is the distance travelled. Since you are high in the sky and not limited to roads or stop lights, the trip can be much faster as well. Most legs of the Skyliner route take 5 minutes or less. The longest (the trip from Epcot to Riviera resort), takes just 10 minutes.
Unique View
Speaking of soaring high in the sky, I have been surprised just how much I enjoy the unique birds eye view the Skyliner provides. Depending on your route, you get some great views of various Disney resorts and even some behind the scenes glances at a few of the parks as well. My kids really enjoyed “spying” on the France pavilion expansion as it was being built in Epcot’s World Showcase. Those with a fear of heights may want to be cautious about riding, but many kids find it to be their favorite “ride” outside of the parks themselves.
Resort Hopping
Disney resort hopping can be such a fun experience. You can check out other resort themes, restaurants, shopping, and maybe scope out your new favorite “home” resort for your next vacation. Depending on your resort location, however, resort hopping is not always easy to accomplish.
The coveted “monorail loop” resorts were previously the best equipped for this, but now you can add the Skyliner resorts to the list! During the hours the Skyliner operates, this is a great opportunity to connect guests of several Disney resorts to each other allowing them to dine and explore a broader area outside of their immediate hotel.
Iconic Fun
Odds are that the mere sight of Disney’s classic monorail emits a sense of wonder and excitement that you have officially arrived at Disney World. I will admit that after just a couple of short years, the Skyliner now gives me this same sense of joy when I first catch a glimpse of it as we arrive. Its bright colors, adorable character wraps and whimsical presence are just one more sign that our trip has begun and set the tone for the fun and magic we know is in store. It’s a great fit and a welcome addition to any stay at Walt Disney World.
There are a lot of reasons to love the Disney Skyliner. For the resorts it services, it offers a convenient alternative to the regular bus transportation system. In addition to being practical and efficient, it’s also simply a lot of fun. Even Disney World veterans are likely to find that trying out a Skyliner resort adds convenience and excitement to their family vacation.
Interested in trying out a Skyliner resort? Contact sara@teplanners.com to begin planning now!
Sara Kuehn is a Travel Ease Advisor and Disney enthusiast. She’s in the parks several times a year with her family. She prides herself on trying as many resorts and restaurants personally as possible while gathering the best tips and tricks to avoid waiting in line to maximize your time in the parks. I can’t wait to help you plan your own perfect (and magical) trip!
