When planning a trip to Walt Disney World, the choice of accommodation is a crucial factor. Not only does it impact your comfort and enjoyment, but it also affects your ease of access to the various theme parks and attractions. One key aspect to consider is the type and availability of transportation services offered by the resort. In this article, we delve into the transportation options provided by the moderate Disney resorts and try to determine which among them offers the best transportation.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is arguably the best moderate Disney resort in terms of transportation. It offers access to two Disney Skyliner stations, providing a scenic gondola ride to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, in addition to regular bus transportation to other parks and areas within Walt Disney World. However, the best choice will ultimately depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as proximity to a specific park, resort amenities, and transportation type.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Arguably the best among the moderate Disney resorts in terms of transportation is Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. This resort has close proximity to two Disney Skyliner stations: the main hub and the Riviera station. The Skyliner is a gondola system that offers a scenic ride to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Click here for the Skyliner map. Additionally, Caribbean Beach Resort also offers bus transportation to other parks and areas within Walt Disney World.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Although it only offers bus transportation, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is centrally located and has a reputation for good bus service. Buses run approximately every 20 minutes at this resort, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to travel by bus.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter offers a unique transportation feature: boat transportation to Disney Springs. This leisurely cruise down the Sassagoula River is an enjoyable way to travel and offers a break from the usual bus rides. Of course, bus transportation to the theme parks is also available.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Similar to the French Quarter, Riverside also offers boat transportation to Disney Springs and bus transportation to the theme parks. The resort is larger, and hence, has multiple bus stops within its premises.
Comparing the Commute Times
The commute times from these resorts to the Disney parks can vary. However, generally, the transportation services are frequent and efficient. Buses run approximately every 20 minutes at these resorts. Additionally, boats depart from Port Orleans French Quarter to Disney Springs every 20 minutes from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and every 10 minutes from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
Cost of Resort Transportation
Guests staying at Disney-owned resorts can enjoy complimentary transportation within Disney World, including buses, boats, the Skyliner gondola system, and the monorails. However, Disney-owned resorts now charge a nightly parking fee, which can range from $8 to $30.
Operational Hours
Complimentary resort transportation begins 45 minutes prior to Disney theme park opening time and up to 1 hour after Disney theme park closing time.
Conclusion
While each resort has its unique advantages, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort seems to offer the best transportation options among the moderate Disney resorts due to its access to the Skyliner system and bus services. However, the best choice for your family will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and priorities, such as proximity to a specific park, resort amenities, and transportation type.
Remember to research thoroughly and plan ahead to make the most of your magical Disney vacation!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Disney Skyliner?
The Disney Skyliner is a gondola system that provides air transportation within the Walt Disney World Resort. It connects EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios to four resort hotels: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort.
Is the transportation within Disney World accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, all modes of Disney transportation are accessible to guests with disabilities. Wheelchair accessible buses, boats, and gondolas are available. For more specific information, guests should refer to the Disney World Disability Access Service.
Can I use Disney transportation if I am not staying at a Disney-owned resort?
Yes, Disney transportation is available to all guests visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, regardless of where they are staying. However, guests not staying at a Disney-owned resort may have less direct access to certain transportation options.
Does Disney provide transportation to and from the airport?
Yes, Disney offers a service called Disney’s Magical Express that provides complimentary round-trip transportation and luggage delivery service for guests staying at select Disney Resort hotels. However, this service will be discontinued starting January 1, 2022.
What are the other moderate Disney Resorts that are not mentioned in this article?
The other moderate Disney Resorts include Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. These resorts offer bus transportation to the parks and boat transportation to the Magic Kingdom.
