1st time using Disney transportation - what to expect?

[Tink n Poohbear]

Hi there!

I just booked ASMu for Dec 15-20 - yahoo!!!! We've used the monorail before, but never the buses. We usually get a rental car and drive. But, this time we're going to take advantage of Magical Express and the buses.

What kinds of waits should I expect? Do we need to get in line like an hour before we want to go? How frequently do buses run? Is there a schedule posted?

My 4yr old DS is SOOOOOO excited about taking the bus!

 

[seashoreCM]

Magical Express to the resort runs about every half hour, more often if needed. Buses between parks and most resorts including 'Music run about every 20 minutes, more often if needed. There is no schedule or timetable.

It is possible that early in the morning you might not be able to get on the first bus that arrives. If you leave right at park closing you will likely have to wait in line for awhile. This is not too much different than the wait for the monorail when you drove to the Magic Kingdom.

SOmetimes it gets confusing and also annoying when only one family member stands out in the sun waiting in line for the bus and the rest of the family joins him as the bus pulls in.

Going home you are assigned to a Magical Express bus and you are told what time its door closes and it moves on out. Being back at the resort an hour before is not a bad idea considering it may take time for the bellhop to fetch your carry-ons.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm

 

[goofy4tink]

I think you'll find the WDW buses to work out just fine. As previously posted, the buses tend to run every 20 minutes. Let's say, for instance, that you want to go to MK. The park opens at 9:00. So, if you want to be there, for park opening, then you should be out front at the bus stop at about 7:30-7:45. This should get you to MK at about 8:30ish. The buses can be crowded at park opening times....park opens at 9, so the resort bus stops get cranking at about 7:30.
Even if you don't get on the bus because it's too full or you just miss it, another will be there most likely in about 15 mins. I will tell you....even if it looks like a huge crowd is waiting for the same bus you are, it can be decieving. They can put a huge number of people on a bus!!! You may have to stand, but they will cram you in.

There are no posted schedules. But, I would imagine that within one day of using the buses, you'll feel like an expert at it!!! Have a terrific time..you are going to love WDW at Christmastime!!

 

[CPT Tripss]

snip
It is possible that early in the morning you might not be able to get on the first bus that arrives. If you leave right at park closing you will likely have to wait in line for awhile. This is not too much different than the wait for the monorail when you drove to the Magic Kingdom.

snip

No doubt about it. If you leave at park closing on a night when there is any crowd, you will wait for a bus. On the other hand, our experience is that at opening and closing they do a good job with frequent buses.

 

[Chip 'n Dale Express]

A few notes...

During peak times, expect crowds. Always remember that you're not the only one with the idea to go somewhere.

Wait times will always feel twice as long than they actually are. Longer, if you're tired, or it's hot out.

When in doubt... read the signs and/or ask a bus driver for help.