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~Hop~ Aboard the Disney Skyliner Transportation System at Walt Disney World

by Leap on January 1, 2024 135 Orlando   Video

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The Disney Skyliner transportation system opened in fall 2019 at Walt Disney World Resort and has since been taking guests on the "most magical flight on earth!" It joins the many wonderful, free transportation options (buses, ferryboats and monorails) that take guests around the parks, hotels and entertainment areas. For many tadpoles, ours included, it doesn't get any better than the monorail to Magic Kingdom, but Skyliner just might be our new favorite option! Now that we're gondola pros, here is everything you need to know about the Disney Skyliner.

Guide to the Disney Skyliner — Gondolas with Towering of Terror in background

 

Note that the Disney Skyliner will be closed for regular maintenance from Jan. 16 to Jan. 21, 2024. The section from Disney's Riviera Resort and EPCOT will remain closed through Jan. 27. Buses will be available during this time.

Overview of the Disney Skyliner Transportation System

When Disney first announced this new gondola system, I imagined a rowboat coasting through the Venice canals — the type Mommy Frog would find quite romantic. Don't be fooled like me! This is a gondola lift: an enclosed cabin transported through the sky via cables, much like you see on the ski slopes. With Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort serving as the Skyliner's "hub," guests staying at this hotel (or connecting hotels) or traveling between Disney's Hollywood Studios and EPCOT will especially want to be aware of it.

The Disney Skyliner transportation system connects four Walt Disney World Resort hotels to both EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. The resorts with Disney Skyliner access are:

With Pop Century and Art of Animation being two of our preferred value resort hotels, having this extra transportation option is a major bonus. Additionally, a new way to get to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios is sure to shorten the bus line for those looking to save time. If this isn't a concern for you, the Skyliner can delight tadpoles with its towering height and views of the horizon.

Disney Skyliner Map and Stations

Disney Skyliner MapNote: Skyliner does have a stop at Disney's Riviera Resort, which is open. Disney has not released an updated map featuring this stop yet. 

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is at the center of the new transportation system's route, with a hub designed to reflect the imagery of Caribbean open-air village marketplaces. The station incorporates detailed architectural elements of the resort, especially its vibrant color scheme. Here, guests must hop off and transfer gondola routes to reach their end destination, similar to the monorail’s Transportation and Ticket Center.

The Riviera station is the only station that you do not have to get off at, unless it's your intended stop. Caribbean Beach Resort guests can also hop on at the Riviera Resort station if they’re closer to it (for example, staying at a room in Aruba) and would like to go directly to EPCOT.

If hopping to Hollywood Studios, guests can still use the Riviera station but must go to the Caribbean Beach main hub to switch routes. If guests hop on at the Caribbean Beach main hub to go to EPCOT, they do not have to get off at the Riviera station and will then have a direct trip to EPCOT's International Gateway.

The International Gateway station at EPCOT is inspired by the park’s nearby European Pavilions. This hub fits perfectly into the surrounding World Showcase, with ornamental steel structures, glass and metal canopies and hand-painted murals reminiscent of 18th century Art Nouveau style. Traveling to and from this station offers a never-before-seen aerial view of Disney’s Boardwalk and EPCOT's World Showcase, including the new France pavilion expansion featuring Remy's Ratatouille Adventure!

Disney’s Pop Century and Art of Animation Resorts are also part of the Disney Skyliner transportation system travel loop. These two value resort favorites share a "floating" station matching the colorful, whimsical atmosphere they both exemplify. The gondola travels over the resorts’ shared Hourglass Lake for a panoramic view of their colorful character displays.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the only other park stop for the Disney Skyliner transportation system. The design matches the park’s entrance with turquoise and red tones. An awesome view of the park, particularly the Tower of Terror, can be seen when traveling to and from Hollywood Studios!

Along Buena Vista Drive, gondola cabins slow down at a turn-station so guests can see the aerial and mechanical aspects of Skyliner.

Disney Skyliner Gondola Details

Disney Skyliner gondolas - Boarding

Each gondola has wooden bench-style seating that fits a maximum of 10 people (or six guests if you're riding a wheelchair-accessible gondola). There is enough room for strollers to roll on without having to fold them up. Larger strollers may also use the wheelchair queue. Both mobility aids and strollers must fit within a 30-inch by 48-inch area for access.

The gondolas don’t stop, but instead keep moving as they enter and exit the station (similar to the Haunted Mansion ride). For guests with wheelchairs or other assistive devices, there is a separate queue at each station for anyone needing extra time while getting on a gondola. These special gondolas move to the side, so it doesn't affect the other gondolas coming in and out of the station — keeping the Skyliner system operating at all times.

Disney Skyliner - Gondola Interior

The nearly 300 gondolas feature onboard audio, which is unique to every Disney Skyliner route, depending on the destination you're headed to. The gondolas are not air-conditioned, but they feature reflective panels to avoid direct sunlight and cross-ventilation windows that allow for airflow. We were concerned that it'd get too hot inside, but we're hoppy to report that it's a comfortable ride! The only time we've felt the heat was when we were stopped for nearly 10 minutes at the Riviera Resort station, waiting to take off after a short delay.

Disney Skyliner gondolas – Coco and Lio and Stitch themed gondolas

Select Skyliner cabins feature classic Disney pals such as the Fab Five, as well as newer films like “Zootopia” and “Ralph Breaks the Internet”. Both animated films and Walt Disney World attractions make appearances on the gondolas, including “Lilo and Stitch,” “Moana,” “Finding Dory,” the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean. There's even ones themed to Disney World's 50th anniversary!

Disney Skyliner Hours and Timing

Disney Skyliner hours

Disney Skyliner hours vary each day depending on park hours, the weather, the season and even the route you're taking. Some routes begin operating before the park opens, while others begin operating right at park opening; all routes will remain open for a bit after park closing.

Typically, the Skyliner will open one hour before Early Theme Park Entry. It will then close 90 minutes after EPCOT or Hollywood Studios closes. On nights with Extended Evening Hours at EPCOT, it will close one hour after park close, though only the section from Riviera to International Gateway will remain open. Our best advice is to check posted hours for travel to the parks the evening before you hop aboard, and check closing hours as you arrive to the park you'll be visiting for the day.

The Skyliner will temporarily pause for inclement weather and/or high winds. Guests staying at any of the four connected resorts will then be able to take buses to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios.

Note that the Disney Skyliner will be closed Jan. 16 to 21, 2024, for regular maintenance. The service from Riviera to EPCOT will remain closed through Jan. 27. Alternative transportation, such as buses, will be provided during that time.

How Long Does a Skyliner Ride Take?

Because the gondolas can load up to 10 guests and are always moving, the queue moves very quickly! Even when the line for EPCOT at the Caribbean Beach station looked scary long, it took less than 10 minutes to hop on. It can take a little longer during peak times, especially around park opening.

To give you an idea of how long the actual ride is, we took every route and timed it ourselves:

  • To Hollywood Studios from Caribbean Beach Resort: five minutes
  • To Pop Century & Art of Animation Resorts from Caribbean Beach Resort: five minutes
  • To Riviera Resort from Caribbean Beach Resort: three minutes
  • To EPCOT from Caribbean Beach Resort: 12 minutes

Tips for Using the Disney Skyliner System

Here's some extra tips for the Disney Skyliner:

Disney Skyliner signage

  • If you have a fear of heights or enclosed spaces, we wouldn't recommend the Skyliner as a travel option.
  • For people with severe motion sickness, the Disney Skyliner may also not be the best option. Flora can easily get carsick and seasick, and she felt some queasiness during each takeoff and when the gondola stopped and gently swayed in the air.
  • Anyone can ride the Skyliner! You do not have to present any hotel reservation information in order to get to the resorts accessible by gondolas.
  • That said, you can only park at any of the resorts if you are a registered guest, attending a convention or have a dining reservation.
  • Keep the gondola balanced if you do not want an extra rocky ride! Don't all sit on one side, and have the tadpoles sit in between the grown-up frogs.
  • Riding at night offers a toadally different experience. As we left Hollywood Studios after closing, we could see the fireworks exploding in the sky at EPCOT! If you have a character-themed gondola, it is a little harder to see out.
  • If you're staying at any of the resorts along the Skyliner routes, Skyliner is currently the only Disney transportation option available for EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Buses are only available if Skyliner is not operating.

With this new addition, more improved and fun ways to hop around Walt Disney World will allow guests to save time and create even more magical memories! Ribbit!

With all of the exciting new experiences coming to Walt Disney World — from new lands to new ways to travel — there’s no better time to book your next trip. We've got great discounts on your Orlando hotel and theme park tickets

Related: Your Complete Guide to Walt Disney World Transportation

Keep hopping!

Keep hopping, Leap!
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1–50 of 65 comments
Feb 5, 2024 at 3:54 p.m. Ana Says...

Hi. I’m staying at CBR. Can you tell me the best way to get to Magic Kingdom and Disney Spring from there?

Reply
Feb 5, 2024 at 10:56 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ana!

Disney Skyliner doesn't have a station at Magic Kingdom or Disney Springs, but you can take a bus to both locations.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 27, 2023 at 7:55 p.m. Nora Says...

We’re staying at the Shades of Green and have hopper tickets how do we get on the Skyliner

Reply
Sep 17, 2023 at 3:19 p.m. Cathy Says...

We are staying at the All Star Sports. Can I drive my car to Art of Animation and park and get on the sky liner?

Reply
Sep 18, 2023 at 12:32 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Cathy!

You typically can't park at a resort unless you have a room number or a dining reservation (note: Art of Animation does not have any table-service restaurants with reservations). If you're just interested in riding the Skyliner, then we'd recommend parking at (or taking the bus to) Hollywood Studios. Or you can make a dining reservation at one of the other Skyliner resorts, such as Disney's Riviera Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's BoardWalk Inn or Disney's Beach and Yacht Club Resorts — and then you'd be able to park at those resorts.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 27, 2023 at 2:32 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nora!

Disney Skyliner is a frogtastic transportation option! It is limited to transportation between EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and select resorts along the Skyliner routes (this includes Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, Art of Animation, Riviera Resort, BoardWalk Inn and Beach & Yacht Clubs - and is also close to Swan Reserve, Swan and Dolphin). In order to hop on Skyliner, you'll need to take a bus from Shades of Green to one of the parks (EPCOT or Hollywood Studios). There is a Skyliner station right by the park entrance at Hollywood Studios (you can't miss it!). Then, if you're hopping to EPCOT, you'll take Skyliner to Caribbean Beach, where there is a transfer station. You'll have to get off, and hop on the EPCOT line, which stops at Disney's Riviera Resort (but you don't need to get off there). It will then take you to the EPCOT station, which is right outside the International Gateway entrance, which puts you between the U.K. and France in World Showcase. If you're at EPCOT and wanting to hop over to Hollywood Studios, then you'll essentially be taking those same steps in reverse! (It's important to note here that you do not want to go to the front of the park where the bus and monorail stations are — you need to exit the park at International Gateway.) Let us know if you have any more questions.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 26, 2022 at 7:22 p.m. Cindy Says...

Is there any way to ride by starting at Disney Springs taking a bus and then getting on with no park tix?

Reply
Oct 26, 2022 at 2:36 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Cindy!

You can ride Disney transportation without park tickets, so the best way to get to Skyliner from Disney Springs is to take a bus to one of the resorts where there's a Skyliner station. This includes Disney's Pop Century Resort, Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Riviera Resort and any of the EPCOT area hotels (though Disney's Beach Club Resort would be closest to the Skyliner station near the EPCOT International Gateway entrance).

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Sep 27, 2022 at 6:18 p.m. Crystal Says...

Hi. We are staying at POP. Are there other stations/resorts we can get off at to eat? Or do the skyliners just stop at parks?

Reply
Sep 27, 2022 at 1:38 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Crystal!

Yes! You must hop off at the Caribbean Beach station to transfer lines, so you could definitely stop there. The EPCOT line also makes a stop at Disney's Riviera Resort. While you would hop off at the International Gateway entrance for EPCOT, you are also within walking distance (or a short Friendship Boat ride) to Disney's Beach and Yacht Club Resorts, Disney's BoardWalk Inn and Entertainment District and the Swan & Dolphin and the Swan Reserve.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 17, 2022 at 8:07 p.m. Deborah L Smith Says...

We are staying at All Stars Movies and have passes for 6 days in the parks (but not hoppers) can we get on at Epcot or HS and do a full ride say from Epcot back to Epcot?

Reply
Jul 18, 2022 at 12:06 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Deborah!

You're more than welcome to hop on the Disney Skyliner and make your back to your original destination. But you would still need to hop off at the Caribbean Beach loading station — just hop back on to return!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 30, 2022 at 3:03 p.m. Robyn Says...

Hi, if we are staying at Caribbean resort and we uber to the Magic Kingdom... at the end of the night (headed back to hotel) can we ride the monorail to Epcot, hop off and get on the Gondola back to Caribbean? So we don't have to pay for another uber or wait for a bus? We do not have pass hoppers.

Reply
Mar 30, 2022 at 10:24 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Robyn!

Unfrogtunately, since you do not have park hoppers, this would not be possible. The monorail station is at the front of the main entrance at EPCOT, while the Skyliner can only be accessed near the International Gateway entrance (so in order to transfer from monorail to Skyliner, you would need to walk through EPCOT).

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 29, 2022 at 2:42 p.m. Erin Says...

Hello. We are staying at Pop Century 4/9-4/14. We have a 3 day park-hopper so hitting all of the parks. We also booked a rental car since we will be driving to Universal one of the days. I wanted to know (given that this is one of the more crowded times of year to visit) if it makes sense to drive to the parks or rely on the resort transportation. We are planning on park-hopping so if we drive, we will have to drive to the next park. We are also planning to be at the parks by 8:30 to take advantage of the extra 30 minutes prior to opening for resort guests. Any feedback you can provide would be most helpful!

Reply
Mar 29, 2022 at 11:14 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Erin!

During super busy times, we usually drive ourselves rather than rely on Disney transportation.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Dec 13, 2021 at 3:31 p.m. liz walton Says...

Hi there, I'm just wanting some advice, trying to cut cost down on transport from Idrive (not driving) would you recommend getting an uber to certain parks and then using the skyliner to cut cost. First time booker, many thanks Liz

Reply
Dec 13, 2021 at 9:43 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Liz!

If you're staying off-site around International Drive, then yes, we'd recommend getting an Uber to & from the parks. Once you're on Disney property, then Skyliner is definitely a transportation option you can use to park hop, though it's limited to traveling between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. You could also use the monorail (to travel between Magic Kingdom and EPCOT), a ferryboat (to travel between Hollywood Studios and EPCOT) or a bus (Animal Kingdom). We have a whole guide about Disney transportation, plus individual guides about how to get to each of the parks while you're on Disney property (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom). Hope this helps, and let us know if you have any more questions!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Dec 15, 2021 at 3:45 p.m. liz walton Says...

Hi, Thanks for your reply. Would you recommend say for instance, getting an Uber from I-drive to Disney pop century resort to then hop on the skyliner to go to Ecpot and hollywood studios instead of paying the Uber cost to go straight to the park, (just trying to save money). thankyou for your help.

Reply
Dec 15, 2021 at 1:10 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Liz!

If you're getting dropped off by an Uber or Lyft, then you don't have to pay for parking — the cast members will direct the drivers to the appropriate pick-up/drop-off spots. While there could be slight differences in price (and since pricing varies due to demand, we can't help with exact numbers), we don't think there would be significant savings if you get dropped off at Pop Century vs. straight to the parks. It'd be best to compare prices on the day of to find out which would be cheaper, though we'd recommend being dropped off at the parks mainly for convenience. Also keep in mind that if you do get dropped off at a hotel, then 1) you need to allot extra travel time (especially during busy peak times) and 2) there could be a possibility that security at the hotels would not let you through if you don't have a room or dining reservation.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Nov 17, 2021 at 4:31 a.m. Christina Says...

Staying at the Coronado springs resort in Dec and wanted to enjoy the skyline for an evening tour, how would u recommend to get on and off? Thanks!

Reply
Nov 17, 2021 at 9:18 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Christina!

From Coronado Springs, we'd recommend taking a bus to Hollywood Studios (the bus station is close to the Skyliner station). Then you could take Skyliner over to Caribbean Beach to explore that resort or transfer to the Pop Century/Art of Animation line or the EPCOT line (which stops at Disney's Riviera Resort and near the EPCOT International Gateway entrance). The simplest way to return to Coronado Springs would be hopping on the bus from either EPCOT or Hollywood Studios. (Note: You would have to walk through EPCOT to get to the bus station there — so if you are not planning to visit EPCOT that day and don't have the ability to park hop, then you would need to return to Hollywood Studios to catch the bus there.)

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Nov 19, 2021 at 2:36 a.m. Christina Says...

Thanks very much for your reply, looking forward to it! About how much time would you allow for taking bus from Coronado springs, to taking gondola from Hollywood studios through Epcot and to return?

Reply
Nov 19, 2021 at 8:27 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Christina!

We're hoppy to help! If you go during the day when there are hardly any lines for Skyliner, then we'd estimate it would take about an hour at the very minimum.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 9, 2021 at 8:34 p.m. Megan R Says...

Hi my family will be traveling in Dec and we are staying at the Swans Reserve. Would we be able to park at another location that offers the Skyliner?

Reply
Oct 11, 2021 at 11:28 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Megan!

If you're staying at the Swan Reserve, then you could walk (or take a Friendship Boat) over to the Skyliner station at EPCOT's International Gateway entrance and hop on there! That would be the easiest way to access Skyliner without having to park anywhere else. You wouldn't be able to park at any of the resorts with Skyliner stations, unless you have a dining reservation. The last option is to park at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Sep 27, 2021 at 4:05 p.m. Rachel Says...

Hello! My family will be there in early December. We are staying off site and plan on driving ourselves to the parks. My mom really wants to ride the Skyliner into Epcot. Can we park at Hollywood Studios and ride the Skyliner to Epcot? That way we will be paying for Park parking, but we won't be spending the day at HS.

Reply
Sep 28, 2021 at 2:14 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Rachel!

Yes, we think you should be fine! Sometimes the cast members at the parking toll booths ask if you have a theme park reservation, so you can say yes since you have one for EPCOT. Also, confirm the park hours, as Disney's Hollywood Studios usually closes before EPCOT so you'll want to make sure you have a way to get back to your car.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Sep 1, 2021 at 6:55 a.m. Ellen Curry Says...

I will be staying at Pop Century from dec 28 2022 thru jan 4 2023. I always rope drop and this seems essential for the first half of the trip on super crowded days. I am paying for preferred room and hope to be equidistant btwn skyliner and buses. I did not realize that we ALWAYS have to transfer at Carib. Feels like it will be impossible to get to park for rope drop. Also feels like skyliner will add to stress rather than reduce. Wondering if I should pay to upgrade and stay at CARIB. But seems like this isn't great solution bc the huses to MK and AK have bad reputation. How to balance the pros and cons? Thx!

Reply
Sep 1, 2021 at 5:21 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ellen!

That is a tough one, but especially with that timeframe in mind, taking an Uber, if possible, will likely be the fastest and most reliable option for rope dropping. Later, you can take whatever mode you want to return to the hotel.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 29, 2021 at 5:38 p.m. Renee Says...

I'm coming to Orlando in August and I'm wanting to ride the Disney skylier. Do I have to go to one of the parks or can I just ride, and where can I park to get on it?

Reply
Jun 1, 2021 at 8:42 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Renee,

You don't need to go to one of the parks in order to ride it. However, you may need to take some extra steps to get to a Disney Skyliner station, if you're not parking at one of the theme parks or if you're not staying at a Disney Resort hotel. We'd suggest parking at Disney Springs, and taking a bus to either Disney's Riviera Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Pop Century Resort or Disney's Art of Animation Resort. Then, you can hop on any of the Skyliner stations located at those resorts. (You cannot park at any of the resorts, unless you're staying at one of them.) Once you're done, you'd need to take a bus back to Disney Springs.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 22, 2021 at 2:56 p.m. John Urton Says...

They will not let you ride skylines from Hollywood to epcot or any resorts in the morning unless you have a reservation at one of them. Wanted to go from hollywood to epcot stop to explore boardwalk area and told not allowed without reservation. Not sure if same would apply after 2pm when park hopping is allowed.

Reply
May 6, 2021 at 3:18 p.m. Tim Says...

We are staying at Art of Animation in June and have Droid depot reservations at HS 10 min before the park opens. Should we use the skyliner, bus, or uber to get us to the park on time?

Reply
May 7, 2021 at 9:45 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tim,

We'd suggest taking the bus or an Uber, as they go directly to Hollywood Studios. With Skyliner, you'd have to wait in line at both the Art of Animation station and the Caribbean Beach station.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 1, 2021 at 7:05 p.m. Yasminn Gomez Says...

If I'm staying at AoA can I ride the Skyliner to get to my reservation at the Riviera? And then from the Riviera to HS or Epcot?

Reply
May 2, 2021 at 9:23 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Yasminn,

Yes, that's toadally possible! When traveling to any of those destinations, you'll need to hop off at the Caribbean Beach station to transfer. To get to Disney's Riviera Resort, hop on the EPCOT line and you'll have the opportunity to hop off at the resort.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 18, 2021 at 2 a.m. Marta Says...

Hello,

If staying at POP, can you make it to HS or Epcot before rope drop on skyliner or is that not realistic with the lines?

Also, I’m confused on what forms of disney transportation off-sit guests can use in 2021 if they park at one of the parks or disney springs? Is resort hopping on a off- park day still an option?

Also,

Reply
Apr 2, 2021 at 1:10 a.m. Jackie Says...

I don’t know if I need tickets to the Disney skyliner to get to the Disney Epcot park and if so I don’t know how to do it?

Reply
Mar 18, 2021 at 4:15 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Marta,

If staying at Pop Century, keep in mind that you'll need to wait until the Skyliner station starts operating from Pop Century to Caribbean Beach. There you'll need to hop off at the Caribbean Beach station and transfer to the line that takes you from Caribbean Beach to either Hollywood Studios or EPCOT. Skyliner operating hours vary, but usually it starts operating about an hour before the parks open — so it may take some time, especially during peak traveling times in the middle of a busy season. If you're trying to get to the parks before rope drop, we'd advise lining up early to be one of first to ride Skyliner, or take alternative transportation.

Off-site guests are welcome to use any mode of Disney transportation if they park at one of the parks (however, there isn't direct service between the parks and Disney Springs). You may resort hop if you're an off-site guest, but you'll need to use Disney transportation (you won't be able to park at the resort, unless you have a dining reservation).

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 7, 2021 at 11 a.m. Karin Says...

Can you get dropped off at a resort just to take the skyliner to a park if you are not a resort guest? How do you get through the resort gate at the entrance if the driver isn't an Uber or Lyft driver but is just dropping you off?

Reply
Mar 9, 2021 at 9:34 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Karin!

Without a dining reservation at the resort, it's been hit or miss whether or not guests have been permitted to be dropped off at resorts that they aren't staying at. However, you don't have to head to a resort to ride Skyliner! You can do so at both Disney's Hollywood Studios and EPCOT.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 1, 2021 at 9:31 p.m. Jim Says...

Is it possible to walk from Coronado Springs to a Skyliner stop?

Reply
Mar 2, 2021 at 10:13 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jim!

It is not, unfortunately.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Dec 23, 2020 at 12:32 p.m. Jim Says...

Our family wants to ride the Skyliner and we want to visit the Boardwalk. Where should we park and where can I access the Skyliner from the Boardwalk?

Reply
Dec 23, 2020 at 8:29 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jim!

You sure can! You'll access Skyliner at International Gateway near EPCOT from the BoardWalk (just past Beach Club — you can't miss it!). Parking at a resort you aren't staying at has been hit or miss right now; if you can snag a dining reservation at a BoardWalk area restaurant or at Boardwalk Inn, Yacht or Beach Club, or Swan Dolphin, you'll be able to park at the resort, no questions asked. If you don't have a dining reservation, we'd recommend taking a bus to any of the resorts we just mentioned, then walking to Skyliner to be sure you don't get turned away at parking. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Dec 20, 2020 at 4:09 a.m. Elizabeth E Says...

My BFF and I are staying at pop century this January, will we be allowed to go across the way to visit art of animation and as well as using the skyliner to go visit the rivera and Caribbean resorts?

Reply
Jan 3, 2021 at 7:44 p.m. Amanda Says...

Yes. You can walk to AOA from POP. You can also disembark at any of the resort stops if you want to look around, check out dining, etc. -A

Reply
Dec 11, 2020 at 11:37 a.m. Michele Says...

I’m staying at art of animation in September, but thinking about switching hotels for the easier skyliner access. Is it really an extra hassle traveling to hollywood studios from art of animation (having to reboard the skyliner, extra line to wait on, etc)?

Reply
Dec 14, 2020 at 10:08 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Michele!

We'll let others from the Frog Pond weigh in as well, but we would say it only really could be a hassle during peak periods, specifically in the morning when you’re joining other lines with Caribbean Beach guests during the transfer (at night, this wouldn’t be as bad since you’d only be transferring with other Art of Animation/Pop guests for your final destination). During non-peak times, usually there are hardly any lines (or there may be a short wait, even when transferring). Also, now that the Rise of the Resistance virtual queue opens at 7 a.m., the rush to get over to Hollywood Studios isn’t as crazy, so that may help alleviate wait times too.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 27, 2020 at 4:16 p.m. Jen Says...

What precautions are they taking during Covid. Can just my family of 4 ride in a sky liner car by ourselves or will we be in with others? How often do they clean the cars.

Reply
Oct 27, 2020 at 3:40 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jen!

Parties are kept separately in each car, so it'll be your family alone in a gondola. There's also social distancing measures in place in the queue, in addition to sanitization stations at the entrance and exit.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 27, 2020 at 3:37 p.m. Kindra Says...

Very timely article for us as we're staying at Pop Century for the first time in less than a month and really looking forward to riding the Skyliner! Thank you for listing how long each section takes to ride, we've been looking for that information but hadn't had any luck finding it until your article, so thank you!

Reply
Oct 21, 2020 at 11:40 a.m. Jessica Says...

We are staying off property and plan to take an Uber or Lyft......can these ride share services drop you off at a Skyliner station? If so, which station do you recommend getting dropped off at for a day at Hollywood Studios? Keep in mind we want to get to Hollywood Studios before it opens to try for the Rise of Resistance boarding group.

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Oct 22, 2020 at 8:29 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jessica!

From what we've heard, only guests with a dining reservation (or staying on-site) are able to hop over to a resort they aren't staying at, as well as some new security protocols in place, so we wouldn't count on being able to be dropped off at a Skyliner station. Others in the frog pond, what have you heard? If this were a possibility, the Caribbean Beach hub would be best! Otherwise, we'd suggest having Uber or Lyft drop you off directly at the park.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Sep 5, 2020 at noon Rachelle Says...

Are non skyway resort guests still able to use the skyway? With no park hopping, and no access to resorts unless you’re staying there or have a dining reservation, I’m wondering if we would even be allowed on the skyway just to try it out for a round trip journey on our trip next month in the middle of our HS day or Epcot day Or so I need to try to make a last minute dining res at one of the skyway adjacent resorts?

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Sep 9, 2020 at 1:53 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Rachelle!

You are toadally allowed to hop on and off of the Skyliner, even to the resorts - no reservation needed if you won't be around the resort property, only transferring at the Skyliner hub!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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May 6, 2020 at 4:54 a.m. Lyn Says...

Have cancelled our trip for this year but are replanning for Oct/Nov 21. I have noticed that a lot of the Disney hotels have remodelled and only have 1 real bed a a Murphy. Are there any cheap/moderates with 2 real beds and is staying of property cheaper?

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May 6, 2020 at 8:20 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Lyn!

There are several moderates that offer two queens in a room: Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter, Disney's Port Orleans Riverside and Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. If you'd like to look into off-site hotels, our search function also allows you to filter hotels by price range. If you aren't driving yourself, be sure to factor transportation costs to and from the park in mind for off-site hotels :) Hope this helps! Let us know if we can help with any additional questions!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Mar 4, 2020 at 6 p.m. Jade Says...

Where does the Skylinner take you from Art of Animation and Pop?

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Oct 6, 2020 at 1:51 p.m. Ron Says...

Just for other’s information when we went this July we stayed at Pop. We left the room early to make sure we got to Hollywood early enough to have a chance to secure a ride on arise. We had a long line on the Skyway at Pop but we expected and accounted for it to be long. The problem happened when we switched at The Caribbean resort, all the Pop guests had to walk all the way down into the resort to get to the back of their line. They really should blend those lines. Has anybody been more recently and seen a change?

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Mar 4, 2020 at 5:19 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jade!

From Art of Animation and Pop Century, Skyliner takes you to either EPCOT or Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 15, 2020 at 6 p.m. Melanie Staudt Says...

We have a park hopper this coming Friday, January 17. We are hopping between Hollywood studios and Epcot. I think it will be a fairly crowded day how long should we allow to take the skyline or from Hollywood studios to Epcot? It appears that it would make going from Hollywood to Epcot and back to Hollywood did he without losing too much time?

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Jan 16, 2020 at 3:07 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Melanie,

If you were to hop on without any lines, it takes about 20 minutes to get from Disney's Hollywood Studios to Epcot via Skyliner. So we'd suggest allowing for about 40-45 minutes since it may be a bit busier with the Epcot Festival of the Arts going on. In our experience, the lines for Skyliner haven't been too long (even if it looks long). Because the gondolas continuously move, the loading process is pretty quick!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 13, 2020 at 8:03 p.m. Ron Hunt Says...

Howdy, can you recommend a good and free place to park if we just want to visit and experience the Skyliner? Is there any way you can park at Disneysprings and travel to one of the Skyliner stations? Cheers.

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Jan 14, 2020 at 4:17 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ron!

You sure can! Parking at Disney Springs is free. From there, you can hop on a bus to any of the Skyliner-line resorts, such as Disney's Caribbean Beach or Disney's Riviera Resort, and can hop on there before taking a bus back to Disney Springs. If you happen to have a dining reservation at a resort on the line or on the BoardWalk, you'd be able to access free parking and take Skyliner from there.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 8, 2020 at 1:21 a.m. Meghan Says...

I am completely scared of heights and kind of against this whole Skyliner thing.. but.. it’s a bucket list thing for my family. Would getting on at Riviera Resort if going to Epcot be the shortest ride? Is there an estimate of how long it will take?

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Jan 10, 2020 at 8:58 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Meghan!

We'd suggest the Disney's Hollywood Studios to/from Caribbean Beach line (if you're staying at the Riviera, you could walk to the Caribbean Hub). Caribbean to Riviera is actually the shortest ride of them all (3 minutes)! Another option could be to take Skyliner from DHS to Caribbean Beach Resort (5 minutes). If you find that it's just not do-able for you, you could hop off and walk to Riviera ... Or, if you find you can handle it, you could hop on for another 3 minute ride back to the Riviera. Hope this helps!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 1, 2020 at 12:19 a.m. E.B. Says...

Hi!

I'm staying at POP and going to MK.

What's the best way to travel? Can we take the skyliner to HS and transfer to the monorail, or is the resort bus the best option?

Thanks!

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Jan 2, 2020 at 3:59 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi E.B.!

If you don't have a Park Hopper (or aren't a pass holder), we wouldn't recommend Skyliner because you'd need to g through Epcot to get to the monorail at the main entrance. We think in this case, it'd be faster to just hop on the bus :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Dec 3, 2019 at 8:14 p.m. Alyson Says...

My friend and I are wanting to hotel hop to check out app of the Christmas decor. And we also want to check p it the Skyliner. Where is the best place to get on?

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Dec 6, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Alyson!

We'd suggest hopping on Skyliner at Disney's Hollywood Studios and riding it to Epcot. That'll put you right next to Beach Club, Yacht Club and Boardwalk Inn! You can then either take the Skyliner or a Friendship Boat back to Hollywood Studios (or a bus to Magic Kingdom to hit the Magic Kingdom monorail loop).

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Nov 23, 2019 at 12:54 a.m. Ella Says...

I'm staying at Pop Century and my daughter and family will be at riviera on our upcoming trip. Can I get off at Riviera station? Also, I've maybe using a cane part of this trip. Does the gondola continue to move to get on or off?

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Nov 26, 2019 at 7:52 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ella,

You can hop off at the Riviera station! (Also keep in mind that from Pop Century, you'll have to transfer to the Epcot line at the Caribbean Beach hub.) The gondolas continue to move slowly through the platform as you get on or off. However, if you need any extra time, there is a separate accessible line if you'd prefer loading onto a stationary gondola.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Nov 7, 2019 at 5:05 p.m. christina Says...

Hi there, I'm wanting to ride the entire route of skyliner. I'm staying at riverside. Should I take a bus to hollywood to get on skyliner there or bus to hollywood and get on boat to epcot and get on skyliner there? I'm avoiding going into EPCOT to get to international gateway. What is the best place to start the ride! Also, will you add where I need to hop off to get back on etc.

thanks!

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Nov 8, 2019 at 12:15 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Christina!

We'd recommend that you take a bus to Hollywood Studios to hop on Disney Skyliner from there. Then, you can take it to the Caribbean Beach hub where you'll need to get off to change lines. At the Caribbean Beach hub, you have two line options. You can take the Pop Century/Art of Animation line there and back (it's about a 5-minute ride in one direction & you'll need to hop off and get back on). The second line goes to Epcot and goes through the Riviera Resort station (but you don't have to hop off here!). If you're not going into Epcot once you arrive, you'll need to take either the boat or Skyliner back to Hollywood Studios. Hope this helps!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 29, 2019 at 5:49 p.m. Patrick Says...

We have breakfast ADRs at 8 (before park opening at Epcot). Can we use the skyliner to get us there on time? The operating hours noted are the same as the buses, but the buses do run earlier to accommodate early ADRs...wasn’t sure if same is true for the Skyliner system

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Oct 29, 2019 at 1:34 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Patrick!

Skyliner hours are currently 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., so you'll need to take a bus to your ADR. Have fun!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 16, 2019 at 9:42 p.m. Misty Says...

Haven't been to Disney is 6 years and have a trip planned for Oct. 2020. We're staying at Carribean Beach. I've read the bus service is terrible from that particular resort, being that is has 7 stops within the resort. My question is, would it be faster to ride the skyliner to Epcot and then catch the monorail to Magic Kingdom? If this wouldn't be a good option, is there a particular place we would need to board the bus to prevent it passing us by because of it being full?

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Oct 17, 2019 at 2:53 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Misty!

It really depends on where you stay at Caribbean Beach. It's definitely a big resort, but if you're close to the beginning of the bus route, it shouldn't be a problem (when we stayed there last time, we stayed in Martinique and were one of the first stops). Keep in mind that with Skyliner, you'd need to get off at International Gateway and go through Epcot to get to the monorail to Magic Kingdom, so it may not save a lot of time, unfortunately. Since the bus route is subject to change, we'd suggest checking with cast members upon arrival to see what insight they may have about the bus routes at that time. While it's not free, if you have a morning where you need to make a reservation or a time-sensitive engagement, it may also be worth it to keep Minnie Van in mind. Have a wonderful trip!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 8, 2019 at 4:59 p.m. Vanessa Says...

Hey there! Thank you for this helpful article! I can't seem to find any information anywhere about what time in the morning the gondolas start up. Is the timeframe the same as the buses - ~45 min. before the parks open?

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Oct 8, 2019 at 1:48 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Vanessa!

The Skyliner is currently closed until further notice, but when operational, they run from 45 minutes prior to park opening and an hour after park closing, just like you guessed! :)

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 6, 2019 at 11:01 p.m. Andrew Says...

Just ride it the other day at around 330 in the afternoon on a warm at Sunny day. If sitting in the row that’s facing backwards to the direction of travel you don’t feel a breeze. If you sitting in the row that facing forward you feel a breeze but it’s still as warm as outside. 12 minutes from Epcot to Caribbean Club was not fun and neither was ride back. Going to really suck in the summer heat and or when it gets stuck . The spent a lot of money on this how much more would A/c cost 0r at least fans

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Oct 6, 2019 at 9:38 p.m. Amy Says...

I know I'm clueless.... however, if we are spending the day at Epcot can we enter the park at the stop at international gateway? Or do we have to use the main gate?

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Oct 7, 2019 at 11:46 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Amy!

Not clueless at all - great question! As long as you have valid park admission, you can use either gate (and both will open at the same time). The lines are generally a little shorter at the International Gateway entrance, but keep in mind that you'll be a little further from Future World.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 2, 2019 at 2:40 a.m. Robbie Gambrell Says...

Is it possible to take the skyline from hollywood studios to disneys beach club resort since it goes to Epcot? looks like the station is on the backside of the park?

Reply
Oct 2, 2019 at 10:47 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Robbie,

Yes, it is toadally possible to ride Skyliner from Hollywood Studios to Disney's Beach Club Resort, using the Epcot line. You're exactly right — the Epcot station is by the International Gateway entrance. You would just have to hop off and transfer at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort to get on the Epcot line. The ride should take about 17 minutes total, not including transfer time.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Sep 1, 2019 at 10:47 p.m. Kay Says...

Do we know yet estimated travel time between stops? For example, pop to epcot?

Reply
Sep 3, 2019 at 8:51 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kay!

We don't know just yet, but as soon as we do, we'll be sure to update!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 16, 2019 at 6:02 p.m. wanda Says...

can you just get on at Epcot and ride to Hollywood Studios to do the park and ride back to epcot where you are parked at

Reply
Aug 19, 2019 at 8:08 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Wanda!

Yep, this shouldn't be a problem!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 7, 2019 at 2:51 p.m. Mark Says...

So I’m kind of confused if I’m at Pop and want to go to Epcot or DHS, will I have to get off at Caribbean and then get in line for one of the parks’ gondola routes? Thanks!

Reply
Aug 9, 2019 at 10:24 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Mark!

This part is a little unclear right now (even when we spoke with Cast Members), but we'll update this as soon as we know more about the process and direct routes! Our guess for now is that you'd be able to go straight to Hollywood Studios, but not Epcot from Pop.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jul 26, 2019 at 6:40 p.m. Mike Says...

Will there be a way to connect from the Epcot station on this to the Epcot monorail? It looks like this will unfortunately drop off on the back side of Epoct so you would have to enter the park to get to the monorail station unless they are going to provide some sort of other connection? At that point taking the bus directly from AoA/POP to MK is probably always going to be faster and this won't be a real alternative (especially without park hopper). Seems like it wouldn't have taken that much to have this a bit more integrated, and the kiddos would never have wanted to take the bus again then :-) We love AoA and at least this should make getting to two of the parks easier.

Reply
Jul 29, 2019 at 1:23 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Mike!

As of right now, it looks like the International Gateway stop will be the Epcot stop, so you're correct that you'd either need to enter the park to get to the monorail or opt for a bus or boat from there.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 26, 2019 at 5:20 a.m. Samantha Says...

Will the Disney Skyliner be free or do you have to have a valid theme park ticket to ride?

Reply
Jul 26, 2019 at 8:55 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Samantha!

Using the Skyliner will be free, although you'll need valid park admission if you plan to enter the park (the stations drop you off just outside of the park entrances).

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jul 22, 2019 at 3:23 a.m. IVAN Says...

Hey! I'm gonna stay at Comfort Inn Maingate Kissimmee (A disney good neighbour hotel), and I would take the bus to the parks... I want to know if I can take the bus from my hotel to Disney's Art of Animation Resort to take the skyliner to epcot or other park? Or is it just exclusive for disney resorts? (even when I will be at a disney good neighbour hotel)

Thank you (greetings from "the end of the world", Chile!)

Reply
Jul 22, 2019 at 9:25 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ivan,

We don't know exact details yet, but we expect that Disney Skyliner will operate like the other free transportation options, such as the buses, monorails and ferry boats, which are open to all Disney World guests regardless of where they're staying.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 18, 2019 at 3:23 p.m. Ty Says...

I don't believe this line is correct "The gondolas don’t stop, but instead keep moving as they enter and exit the station (similar to the Haunted Mansion ride)." I believe the gondolas disconnect from the cable in the station and stopped where the guest are let off. Then the gondola is pushed to the other side where new guest are let on and then the gondola is reconnected to the wire.

Reply
Aug 31, 2019 at 7:09 p.m. ajaynejr Says...

Normally the gondolas will slow down almost to a stop when entering a station. There are separate lanes for handicapped guests where gondolas can be stopped, or at Riviera Station gondolas can be stopped on the main track if needed.

Reply
Apr 29, 2019 at 8:06 p.m. Rodrigo Says...

Crossing my fingers this opens in early september.

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Apr 27, 2019 at 8:47 a.m. Inka Says...

Why do they call this "Disney's innovative design"? Hong Kong's Ocean park had this gondolla system (to transport between the lower and upper park) for years. I dont remember whether they have airconditioning built in, as their weather conditions are very similar to those of Orlando - very hot and very humid.

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