Editor’s Note: This is the first in an ongoing series of posts about railfanning at Walt Disney World.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Florida — For railfans, Walt Disney World is full of opportunities to experience the magic of trains up close.
From historic steam locomotives to futuristic ride systems, rail travel plays a starring role across the resort, reflecting Walt Disney’s lifelong passion for railroading.
One of the most iconic experiences is the Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom, even if it is currently running an abbreviated route. This 1.5-mile steam-powered circuit encircles the park, with stations at Main Street, U.S.A., Frontierland, and Fantasyland.
The four authentic Baldwin locomotives, built between 1916 and 1928, were restored and relocated from Mexico to Florida before the park’s opening in 1971. The railroad offers a relaxing way to take in the sights while celebrating Disney’s rich railroad heritage.
Guests looking to learn more about the railroad can opt to take Disney’s The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour, if available. The tour, which has been offered in the past, takes visitors to the roundhouse and provides an intricate look at the system.
On Main Street, U.S.A., horse-drawn streetcars evoke the early 20th-century era of transportation. The trolleys run along a narrow-gauge track from Town Square to Central Plaza.
A passing track midway between Town Square and the castle allows trolleys to pass, which was common years ago when multiple trolleys operated simultaneously.
In Tomorrowland, the elevated Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover takes guests on a tour of the land. In doing so, the system, powered by linear induction motors, offers glimpses into several attractions, including Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin and Space Mountain.
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Wildlife Express Train takes guests on a 1.2-mile ride to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Unlike the Magic Kingdom’s steam-powered trains, these trains are modern locomotives styled to resemble vintage equipment.
At EPCOT, the Germany Pavilion features a meticulously detailed G-scale model train display. The garden layout recreates a tiny European village, with model trains weaving through tunnels, bridges, and alpine scenery.
Of course, outside the theme parks, the Walt Disney World Monorail System connects Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and several resort hotels, including the Contemporary. The Walt Disney World system opened in 1971.
Although some have derided it as a “bus on a beam,” the system is arguably one of the resort’s most recognizable symbols.
Guests staying at or visiting Disney’s Wilderness Lodge can take a detour to the Carolwood Pacific Room. The space honors Walt’s personal backyard railroad, the Carolwood Pacific, and features historic photos, artifacts, and even two of Walt’s original train cars.
Lastly, for a bit of lost history, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground once operated the Fort Wilderness Railroad from 1973 until 1980. The 3.5-mile narrow-gauge steam train that transported guests around the campground.
Although it was retired due to maintenance and safety challenges, remnants of the track and ties can still occasionally be spotted.
Be the first to comment