Disney’s monorail system is one of the most recognizable transportation options available at Walt Disney World Resort. The trains take riders on three different routes around the theme parks and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Guests staying at these resorts can directly board the monorail and travel to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT from their resort.
With the added expense of staying at a monorail resort, some may wonder whether or not it’s worth it. For some guests, the added convenience is worth the extra price.
I first stayed at the Polynesian Resort when my youngest son was 2 years old. He was still taking afternoon naps, and I knew he would need a break from long days at the parks. During that trip, we visited each park and spent two days at Magic Kingdom. Having to fold up a double stroller, board a bus, and then carry the stroller off the bus with a tired child did not sound fun, so while planning I opted for the more expensive, but more convenient resort choice. Having access to the monorail at nap time was a lifesaver. I could easily stroll my double stroller straight on the monorail on the days we visited EPCOT and Magic Kingdom. There was no disturbing my grumpy child on those days. Once we were ready to return to the parks, all we had to do was hop back on the monorail.
The most recent time I stayed at a monorail resort, I stayed at the Contemporary. My family had a 5:00 a.m. flight to Orlando. We were only at Disney for four days and were planning on visiting every park. Our stay at the Contemporary allowed us to drop off our bags and arrive at Magic Kingdom for rope drop. By staying at a monorail resort, we were able to maximize the limited amount of time we had.
My family chose to stay at monorail resorts based on the age of my child and the nature of our visit. Other families with young children may also enjoy the convenience of being easily able to return to their resort for an afternoon break.
Maximizing our time was also a priority. If you are planning on visiting Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, staying at a monorail resort might be well worth it due to the time you will save during your vacation. First, you go through security before you board the monorail. That means you get to skip the often long security lines at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Monorails run approximately every 10 minutes so there are also no long waits to board.
If theming is important to you, a monorail resort is the perfect choice. Each monorail resort offers its own unique ambiance. You’ll experience the South Pacific at the Polynesian Resort and you can even rent an over-the-water bungalow to feel like you’re in Bora Bora. The Grand Floridian boasts a Victorian theme and if something a little more modern is more your taste, the Contemporary Resort has a modern feel.
Those who love fireworks will enjoy the ability to see Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks show from the comfort of their resort. Each monorail resort has an area for public viewing of the fireworks. The music is also piped in so you can enjoy the full experience. You’ll be back in your room before most people reach the park’s entrance!
If convenience, saving time, and theming are important to you, you might want to consider a monorail resort for your next vacation. You won’t regret it!
Want to stay at a monorail resort on your next Walt Disney World vacation? Get started today by contacting a travel agent or submitting a quote request!
