History of the Walt Disney World Monorail

Walt Disney World has always been known for its innovative technology. One of the most distinguished technological features of Walt Disney World is that of the Disney World monorail system. This particular transportation system that is part of this popular vacation resort consists of approximately fourteen miles of track, transports over one hundred thousand guests on a daily basis. Here, you will learn more about the Walt Disney World monorail system and what makes it so unique and popular.

In the year of 1971, Walt Disney World introduced the very first monorail system. This unique transportation system sat on a track that basically consisted of double concrete beams. In the middle of this track is a cement lip that is approximately two feet in height. There is a dip on either side of this cement lip that the actual monorail sits over on. Underneath the monorail, there are tires that are made of rubber that help to guide the monorail along the track. The power for the Disney World monorail stems from the actual track as well as an electrical system that is operated from a unique propulsion electrical unit.

Around the year of 1990, the Disney World monorail system was upgraded. In addition to this, the Grand Floridian Hotel was added to the track of places to see while on the monorail. The other two common areas that visitors were able to see while on the monorail included the Polynesian Hotel and the Contemporary Hotel. Now, visitors could access various areas of the Magic Kingdom by the Disney World monorail that they were not able to previously. This even included the Walt Disney World Epcot Center.

Walt Disney World has always been known for its popular contribution to family entertainment by way of film. This is why most employees at Walt Disney World are referred to as cast members. This includes the individuals that operate and control the Disney World monorail transportation system. However, as a cast member, the roles of these individuals are referred to as "pilot". The pilots will transport you from one location to another and will even let you ride up front with them if you ask!

The Disney World monorails are just over two hundred feet in length. Each of these trains can carry nearly four hundred passengers. The Disney World monorail has six cars each that include plenty of room for passengers to move around, large windows, comfortable seating, and an air conditioning system that works to keep guests and their families cool and comfortable.

While Walt Disney World offers many transportation methods, such as bus and boat, the Disney World monorail system remains to be the most popular method of traveling around the Magic Kingdom and other Disney World locations among guests. You can board the monorail at the ticket center and unload at various locations around the park. Every once in a while, you may even enjoy the pleasure of riding with your favorite Walt Disney character!