Transportation at Disney World is supposed to make your trip easier, but there’s a major hiccup coming soon.

Skyliner

From January 25th, 2026, through January 31st, 2026, the Disney Skyliner will be closed for refurbishment. While complimentary bus service will be available, this closure could still have a big impact on how you get to and from the parks. If you’ve got a trip planned during this week, here’s what you need to know to avoid frustration and keep your Disney days running smoothly.

Why the Skyliner Matters

The Disney Skyliner is one of the most popular transportation options on property. It connects Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT with several resorts, including Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. For many guests, this gondola-style system feels like part of the magic itself, offering beautiful views and a fast ride straight into the action.

Disney Skyliner

But with the Skyliner down for refurbishment, those staying at Skyliner resorts will need to rely solely on Disney buses during this period. That means longer waits at bus stops, potentially crowded buses, and less flexibility when it comes to park hopping.

What This Means for Resort Guests

If you’re staying at Pop Century or Art of Animation, you’re probably used to the convenience of hopping on the Skyliner to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios within minutes. Without it, your only option will be buses, which take longer and often come with long lines during peak hours. Families with strollers, wheelchairs, or lots of gear may especially notice the difference in convenience since loading onto buses can take more time than the Skyliner’s continuous boarding.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Skyliner

Caribbean Beach and Riviera guests will also feel the impact. Both resorts benefit from the Skyliner as a direct connection to the parks, and without it, their bus stops could see major congestion. This may also ripple out to other resorts, as Disney shifts buses to cover the missing Skyliner routes.

Park Hopping Becomes Trickier

One of the best things about the Skyliner is how it makes EPCOT and Hollywood Studios feel connected. It’s one of the fastest ways to hop between two Disney parks.

Disney Skyliner at Hollywood Studios

Without it, park hopping between these locations is going to be slower and less convenient. You’ll need to take a bus or even consider walking from EPCOT to Hollywood Studios (a long walk, but possible if you go through the International Gateway). For many guests, this could add an extra 30 minutes or more to their travel time.

Timing Is Everything

Because the Skyliner is down for a full week, it overlaps with the tail end of January crowds. While January is not peak holiday season, it is a popular time for those looking to enjoy cooler weather, lower prices, and EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts.

Inside the Disney Skyliner

That means you’re not just dealing with fewer transportation options—you’re dealing with them during a time when a lot of visitors will be staying at Skyliner resorts specifically for festival access. If you’re one of them, be prepared for longer waits and plan your mornings accordingly.

How to Prepare

If you’ll be at Disney World during the closure, here are a few tips to help you navigate:

• Leave extra time in your schedule for transportation. Don’t cut it close for dining reservations or showtimes.
• Use the EPCOT walking path if you’re willing to put in the steps. The walk between EPCOT’s International Gateway and Hollywood Studios can be quicker than waiting on a bus during busy times.
• Consider rideshare services like Uber or Lyft if you want a faster option without relying on Disney buses.
• Be patient at bus stops. Cast Members will be working hard to keep lines moving, but delays are almost guaranteed.

The Big Picture

At the end of the day, the Skyliner refurbishment is short—it’s just one week. But for those staying at connected resorts during that time, it could still put a dent in your plans. Disney transportation closures, even temporary ones, ripple across the resort and can impact everything from your park hopping strategy to your dining schedule. Knowing about it now gives you the chance to prepare and avoid stress once you’re actually there.

Disney Skyliner

So if your Disney World trip is set for late January 2026, don’t let this surprise you. The buses will still get you where you need to go, but the extra time and planning could make all the difference.

Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney World news!

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Would you change your Disney resort plans if you knew the Skyliner was going to be closed during your trip? Let us know in the comments!