Walt Disney World Railroad

Opened: October 1, 1971.

Location:

Main Street, USA with stops in Frontierland near Splash Mountain and Storybook Circus near Barnstormer.

To catch the train on Main Street, head up the stairs to the station.

In Frontierland, the station is located up the stairs to the right of Splash Mountain.

In Fantasyland, you’ll need to walk to the back of Storybook Circus to the left of Barnstormer to board.

Extra Magic Hours: No.

FastPass+: Not offered.

Type: Public transportation.

Similar To: Unique.

Requirements: None.

Scary Factor: Zero.

What to Expect: The Walt Disney World Railroad is a scenic train ride around the perimeter of the Magic Kingdom.

You can get on at any of the three stations and ride for as long as you like around the 1.5 mile track. It’s an excellent attraction when you need a cool, seated break from the crowds and heat, but don’t want to sit in a theater.

The train travels at about 10 miles per hour and it takes about 20 minutes to make a complete circle, including stops. You’ll see some animatronics that are only visible from the train, in addition to a good look around Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Be aware that Disney rental strollers are not allowed on the train. You will need to remove your belongings, name card, and have your receipt handy to pick up a new stroller at your final destination.

When To Go: Visit whenever you need a break or want to travel to Frontierland, Storybook Circus, or Main Street USA without walking. The trains usually stop running one hour prior to the beginning of the fireworks show due to the track’s proximity to the fireworks staging area and may not resume service after.

Ride the Train to Frontierland or Elsewhere at Rope Drop? Some people briefly consider riding the train to their first destination. If you’re hurrying to a priority attraction, it’s not really a good idea as the train is used in the welcome show and there will be a delay until the first train for guests arrives and departs. Anybody walking to Big Thunder Mountain or another destination will arrive sooner.

Expect to Wait: Waits are rarely longer than it takes for the train to arrive, which is usually every seven to ten minutes, depending on the number of trains running. Consider walking where you’re going if you’re in a hurry – it will probably be quicker.

Length: 20 minutes for a full rotation, but you can stay on as long as you like or get off at any of the stops.

Rating: 9/10

Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia: The four trains that service the Walt Disney Railroad are authentic, originally built by Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia between 1916 and 1928. In 1968, The Walt Disney Company purchased the trains from the Ferrocarriles Unidos de Yucatan where they hauled freight and passengers on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.  The trains carry more than 1.5 million people per year, making this one of the busiest railways in the United States.

Commentary: The Disney World Railroad is a relaxing way to get off your feet for a while and end up in another part of the Magic Kingdom. It’s a fun chance to see parts of the Magic Kingdom that you might miss by simply walking around in a hurry.