Walt Disney World Railroad

Walt Disney was an avid train lover. He even built a miniature train set (Carolwood Pacific Railroad) in his backyard. So it’s no surprise that a vintage train would grace the park with his name.

One of the first sights that greet guests of Magic Kingdom is the train station of the Walt Disney World Railroad. If you ever saw the opening ceremony you know the place and the drill. The train arrives with various characters and  everyone sings and dances to open the Magic Kingdom.

There’s a 20 minute narrated tour encircling the whole Kingdom. The train makes stops in Main Street, Frontierland and Fantasyland. Animatronic animals and frontier scenes grace the area between the Main Street and Frontierland stops. So if you really want to see something different, it’s best to board at Main Street. Otherwise you are seeing the back of attractions and lands.

The Low Down:

Opened: October 1, 1971

Location: Main Street, USA

Type: Train Ride

Length: 20 minutes (for entire 1.5 mile trip). It’s usually a 4 to 10 minute wait to board the next available train.

FastPass / FastPass+: No

Kid Factor: High, especially loading and unloading on the Fantasyland Station

Highlights: The train is a quick way to beat some of the crowds and head to your favorite land. But word of caution, in peak crowds it’s actually better to walk. The Main Street station also makes a great viewing platform for nightly fireworks.

Overall: The WDWRR is a great way to see all of the lands in MK (minus Adventureland). It also adds a touch of Disney nostalgia. Like Pirates and the Tiki Room, it’s another classic can’t miss attraction.

Final Verdict: 4.5 out of 5 Stars