Should You Stay on the Disney Skyliner?

Disney’s Skyliner is a free gondola system connecting several resorts and two of the Disney theme parks, Epcot and Hollywood Studios, and we love staying at a Skyliner Resort for many reasons. There are pros and cons, of course. Let's check them out!

Starting off at Disney’s Riviera, this resort features a station with direct access to the World Showcase entrance of Epcot as well as the Boardwalk area and the Yacht & Beach Club Resorts. In the other direction, passing through the hub next door at Caribbean Beach Resort allows for access to the front entrance of Hollywood Studios in minutes. Other resorts with Skyliner stations include Art of Animation and Pop Century, which in my opinion raises the value of these Value Resorts above the All Stars. The ability to get to so many resort areas for dining is a bonus too.


The continuous cycle of Skyliner gondolas means the line moves almost continuously as well. The gondolas are also designed with popular Disney characters and attraction themeing which makes guessing which one you'll get a fun little bonus. 

Pros:

  • Since the 11 mile-per-hour pace of the Skyliner Gondolas is quick, you'll save a lot of time waiting for and riding buses.
  • The Skyliner station in Epcot takes you to the back of the park if you want a direct route to the World Showcase.
  • They are stroller-friendly (no folding or removing babies needed) and great for ECVs and guests with mobility issues.
Cons:
  • Stops for lightning or high winds, which are common in Florida. 
  • Gondolas are breezy but not air-conditioned, which can be warm in summer.
  • The rain often drips into the Skyliner, which can cause you to occasionally get wet or feel the wind. 
  • There could be long lines to board first thing in the morning before early entry, and after fireworks at Epcot

While I love the proximity to the Magic Kingdom that the monorail resorts offer, you can’t overlook the convenience and fun of being on the Skyliner route. Many of the WDW resorts only offer bus transportation. The Skyliner is definitely a great amenity. Plus, if your budget doesn’t allow for Monorail Resort accommodations, now worries- every resort price category is covered here, meaning there is something for everyone on the Skyliner. 

Tips: Typically, they put one family per gondola, but at the end of the night at Epcot and Hollywood Studios, there may be a wait to board, and they will put multiple parties in one. There is an emergency kit under the seat if needed. The gondolas without characters on them give a clearer view of the WDW property. No open food or drinks will be allowed on, and they will ask you to throw them away before boarding. 

You can view a map of the Disney Skyliner route here.

If you're interested in staying on the Skyliner for your next Walt Disney World Vacation, mention it to your Kingdom Konsultant Agent or reach out today to begin the planning process. We can price all of the Skyliner resorts for you! 


Summer Squires is a Mom of 4 who loves helping other parents plan memorable and stress-free family Disney vacations! You can email Summer at summer@kingdomkonsultant.com.

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