The parking lot tram service at Walt Disney World was suspended following the COVID-19 pandemic closure in March 2020 and did not return when the parks initially reopened. After a prolonged absence, the tram services have been gradually reinstated across the Disney theme parks.
Suspension and Gradual Return of Parking Trams
When Walt Disney World Resort reopened its theme parks in phases during the summer of 2020, the iconic parking lot tram service, which transports guests from the expansive parking areas to the park entrances, remained suspended. This meant guests had to walk the entire distance from their parked cars to the main gates for an extended period, a significant change from the pre-pandemic experience.
The return of the tram service has been a phased process:
Return to Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom was the first park to see its parking lot tram service reinstated. Trams at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC), which serves Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, resumed operations in December 2021. This provided much-needed relief for guests accessing the resort's flagship park.
Return to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios
After a long three-year absence, parking lot tram service made a significant return to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios on September 20, 2023. This marked the end of an extended period where guests had to walk from these parking lots.
Return to Disney's Animal Kingdom
The final park to see its parking tram service return was Disney's Animal Kingdom, with operations resuming in November 2023, completing the full restoration of tram services across all four main theme parks.
Timeline of Tram Service Changes
Here is a summary of the tram service status at each Walt Disney World theme park:
| Park | Initial Suspension (All Parks) | Return Date | Duration of Absence (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | March 2020 | December 2021 | ~1 year, 9 months |
| EPCOT | March 2020 | September 20, 2023 | ~3 years, 6 months |
| Disney's Hollywood Studios | March 2020 | September 20, 2023 | ~3 years, 6 months |
| Disney's Animal Kingdom | March 2020 | November 2023 | ~3 years, 8 months |
The return of the trams has significantly improved the guest experience, offering convenience and reducing walking distances, especially for those visiting later in the day or with young children. More information about transportation at Walt Disney World can often be found on reputable fan sites and news sources covering park operations.
