We Bet You Didn't Know This Unspoken Transportation Rule in Disney World

One of the best things about visiting Disney World is the fact that you don’t have to rely on your own vehicle to get around. Disney World transportation has got you covered!

It’s an excellent (and free) way to move to and from your resort hotel when you’re on the property, and you have plenty of options to choose from – Disney buses, the Skyliner, boats, and the Monorail! Now, as great as it is, there are always things you have to keep in mind when using Disney World transportation, and there’s this one “rule” we bet you didn’t know. Ready for it?

Let’s set the scene: You just watched the Happily Ever After fireworks show at Magic Kingdom. Your heart is full of Disney magic, and your feet? Well, they’re tired. That means it’s totally time to head back to your resort (or car).

But here’s the kicker: so is everyone else. So, cue the massive crowds swarming the monorail, ferryboat, and buses.

This is where our unspoken “rule” comes in: Wait 15-20 minutes after the fireworks (or park closing) before heading to transportation.

It’s simple but genius. Most people immediately flood the monorail, ferryboats, or buses as soon as the fireworks end. Lines stretch forever, and everyone’s crammed together like it’s a game of human Tetris. But if you take a little breather and let the crowds thin out, you’ll find a much more relaxed experience.

What do you do during those 15–20 minutes? There’s plenty to do! Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, U.S.A., snap some last-minute castle photos, or browse the shops for souvenirs.

For example, the Emporium tends to be open for a while after park closing, so you won’t be the only one hanging back. And if you’re really looking for a pro move, grab a late-night snack from one of the locations that are still serving. Trust us, your churro is going to taste so much better without the stress of a monorail queue looming over you.

Trust us, this rule can make all the difference between a stressful end to your night and a relaxed one.

Here are a few more transportation tips to keep in mind:

- If you’re driving to Magic Kingdom, remember you’ll need to park at the Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC)—about 1.5 miles from the park entrance. From there, you can take the monorail, ferryboat, or a bus. The buses are often faster and less crowded, while the monorail tends to have long lines, especially in the morning or after the fireworks. Weather permitting, the ferryboat is a fun option but can be less pleasant if the skies aren’t cooperating.
- Speaking of weather, keep an eye on the forecast if you’re planning to use the Skyliner. It won’t run during storms or high winds, which could change your plans.
- When boarding transportation, try to take up as little space as possible and listen to Cast Members. They’ll often ask you to move all the way forward to keep things moving smoothly for everyone.