Magic Kingdom Entrances: Find Your Quickest Way to Fun

With many different ways to get in, knowing which Magic Kingdom entrance to use can get tricky. Options range from scenic ferry rides to quick monorail trips; each offers a unique experience that sets the tone for your day. Understanding the various entrances can help you plan a smooth and magical start to your visit.

Main Entrances to Magic Kingdom

When visiting Magic Kingdom, there are several ways to access the park, each offering a unique experience.

Ferryboat Entrance

The ferryboat offers a scenic and relaxing transportation option from the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) to the Magic Kingdom. This large ferry carries hundreds of guests at once, providing breathtaking views of Seven Seas Lagoon. The ferry ride typically takes around 10 minutes, offering a smooth journey that builds anticipation as you get closer to Cinderella Castle.

The ferry is a great option during non-peak times, such as mid-morning or late afternoon, when crowds are thinner. During park opening and closing, expect longer waits. Boarding early, especially for rope drop, can help avoid the bulk of the crowd.

And while it’s practical, the ferry is a memorable part of the Disney experience. The expansive views of the lagoon and Magic Kingdom’s iconic skyline create a magical entrance into the park, setting the stage for an exciting day ahead.

Monorail Entrance

The monorail is one of the most iconic ways to arrive at Magic Kingdom. Guests can board the monorail from the TTC or from select Disney resorts. The monorail from the TTC takes around 5–10 minutes to reach Magic Kingdom, with stops at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa along the way.

The monorail is known for its efficiency and convenience, especially during off-peak hours. The elevated view gives guests a chance to take in beautiful surroundings, like glimpses of the resorts and the castle in the distance.

The Resort Monorail Loop is particularly convenient for guests staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, or Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, all of which offer direct access to the park. This unique convenience is perfect for guests looking to enjoy breakfast at their resort and then head straight to Magic Kingdom without the hassle of additional transfers.

Bus Entrance

Guests staying at Disney Resorts can take advantage of the bus service to Magic Kingdom. Disney buses run from all resort hotels.

Secret Entrance to Magic Kingdom

Most guests use the main transportation methods to get to Magic Kingdom, but there are a couple of lesser-known or “secret” entrances that are more convenient or exclusive for certain guests.

Contemporary Resort Entrance

Guests staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort can use a secret entrance to the Magic Kingdom. This entrance is via a walking path that connects the resort to the park. The path is a peaceful 10-15 minute walk that bypasses transportation altogether.

This is great for those who want to avoid the crowds on buses, ferries, or the monorail and is perfect for early risers who want to get a head start on their day at Magic Kingdom. It’s also a great way to get back to the resort for a mid-day break without dealing with long transportation lines.

Special Event Entrances

During special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, guests with event tickets can enter Magic Kingdom through special entrances. These events often allow early entry giving you extra hours at Magic Kingdom before the party begins.

For these events, you can usually enter Magic Kingdom as early as 4:00 PM, even though the event doesn’t start until later in the evening. You’ll check in at the entrance gates, where cast members will scan your special event ticket and give you a wristband that allows you access to special areas and activities during the event.

Security Checkpoints At All Entrances

Before entering Magic Kingdom, all guests go through security screening, which includes bag checks and metal detectors. Guests with no bags can often bypass the main lines and get through faster.

Security Screening at Entrances

Security varies based on how you arrive. If you take the ferry or monorail, you’ll be screened at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). Once you arrive at the park, you can go straight to the gates. Bus riders and those walking from the Contemporary Resort are screened at Magic Kingdom’s entrance.

Accessibility Notes

Magic Kingdom has accessibility options at all the entrances for guests with wheelchairs or strollers. If you’re coming by ferry, monorail, bus, or walking path, you can feel comfortable knowing each mode of transportation is designed to be smooth for all guests.

Wheelchair and Stroller Access at Entrances

The ferryboats are fully accessible with ramps for easy loading. Both the front and back of the ferry can accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. The monorail has accessible cars with designated seating for wheelchairs and strollers. Buses have lifts and designated areas for wheelchair users, and drivers are trained to assist with loading.

Tips for Accessible Entry

When taking the monorail, ask a cast member to help you with the accessible car which has a designated loading area. Get there early for more space on the ferry, especially during peak times. For buses, get there early as wheelchair spaces are limited and fill up fast. Whether you’re in a wheelchair, scooter, or stroller, Disney’s transportation is designed to make your entry to the Magic Kingdom as smooth as possible.

Your Magical Start: Choosing the Best Entrance to Magic Kingdom

Each entrance to Magic Kingdom offers a distinct experience for your visit. The ferry provides scenic views, the monorail adds convenience, and the walking path from Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a quiet approach. Planning your transportation and being mindful of security and accessibility options helps ensure a smooth start to your day. No matter how you arrive, the magic of the park is just ahead.