Update: Walt Disney World Railroad is currently not operating as construction for the Tron attraction continues. Guests will however be able to get an up-close look at the train station and rare photo opportunities.
Walt Disney World Railroad in Magic Kingdom is a classic 20-minute, 1.5-mile scenic tour around the Magic Kingdom. There are stops on Main Street, Frontierland and Fantasyland.
There are 4 narrow-gauge trains that each pull 4 passenger trains around the railroad throughout the day at speeds up to 12 miles per hour:
- Walter E. Disney – Named after the man himself
- Lilly Belle – Named after Lillian, Walt’s wife
- Roy O. Disney – Named after Walt’s brother who oversaw the Walt Disney World project after Walt’s Death
- Roger E. Broggie – Named after an Imagineer who lead the railroad project
Trains are scheduled to arrive at each stop between 4-10 minutes. On a normal attendance day, 2 trains will be in operation. During the busier times, 3 trains will be in operation. The first train that disembarks for the day keeps the time for all the trains. The goal is for the first train to arrive at the Main Street Station at :00, :20 and :40 past the hour. When 2 trains are in operation, you can expect the train to arrive at the Main Street station every 10 minutes.
Rental strollers are not allowed on the train. Be sure to take your personal belongings as well as your name card with you on the train. There will be rental strollers available at your next destination. You must fold up personal strollers to take them on the train with you.
The Frontierland and Main Street stations are located up a flight of stairs. There are ramps available at each station for wheelchairs. You must be able to transfer to the train and fold up the wheelchair to take with you unless you are making a round trip journey on the train.
The train begins operation at 9 am. It is closed about an hour before the fireworks begin and does not operate during special events such as the holiday parties.
I suggest using the train as a way to relax during the day. It is always nice to sit and rest your legs. If you aren’t in a hurry, you can use it as transportation to get you from one area of the park to another. However, it is almost always faster to walk so I do not suggest using it in the first few hours the park is open.
Main Street Station
This station is located at the entrance to the Magic Kingdom. On the first floor of the station (near the stroller rental desk), you will find luggage left up on shelves as well as classic maps of real railroads throughout the country. Upstairs, there are penny machines (they really work!) and other classic memorabilia.
Frontierland Station
This station is located by Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain.
Between the Frontierland and Fantasyland Station, you’ll pass a Native American village, frontier structures and even animatronic animals.
Fantasyland Station
Modeled after a railroad roundhouse. Be sure to read who the luggage belongs too.
Trains remain longer at the Fantasyland stop to be refilled with water. Be sure to point out the water tower to the kids!
Your family might also enjoy Mission Space in Epcot.
Learn more about the Walt Disney World Parks including attractions, secrets, tips and more. Plus my friends at Destinations in Florida can help you plan your perfect Walt Disney World vacation.
Is there an extra cost to ride the train?