Walt Disney World has a whole new transportation system that could be great, or not so great, for families. The new Disney Skyliner gondola combines the fun of a high-flying ride, with the practicality of getting you where you need to be. And while everyone can ride the skyliner, families with children or older adults could find some challenges. Here are our best Disney Skyliner tips!

The Disney Skyliner connects Art of Animation, Pop Century, The Caribbean Beach Resort and the Disney Riviera Resort to both Hollywood Studios and Epcot. With this extra convenience comes a few things to note. 

The Skyliner Does Not Stop
Much like the Flight of Peter Pan, the Skyliner does not stop. But instead moves very slow for arrival and departure at each station. Be sure to guide children and grandparents that may need help getting on and off the gondola. Thankfully, the Skyliner also can accommodate strollers. Plus, there is no need to fold them up as long as they can fit into the 30-48" space between bench seats. 

Guests Can Request to Ride Alone
The Skyliner, much like the monorail, is meant to accommodate multiple guests. Up to 10 guests can fit in a gondola, which often means you'll be traveling with other families. But, as there is only a small space between the benches that face each other, this could prove cumbersome. Especially if you have active children who need more space. Luckily, you are able to request a whole gondola to yourself if desired and never fear, it is quite common. 

It's Handicap Accessible
If you are traveling with a wheelchair or have family in a scooter, they too are able to enjoy the Skyliner. With an accessible gondola off to the side at each Skyliner station, just inform the Cast Member at the station that you will be traveling with your wheelchair or scooter and they can get you set up quite easily.

There are Announcements but No Background Music
As with any good touring attraction you can expect announcements, but not the kind you are used to. At present the Skyliner is equipped with a welcome announcement and an announcement that informs you if the Skyliner is stopped, or if there is an emergency. While you are flying over a vast amount of Disney property, there isn't currently any touring audio that tells you what you are flying over or what you are seeing. There also is not any background Disney music to listen to. We share this because, for some, the noticeable silence of the gondola ride could cause anxiety. 

Food and Drink are Allowed
No need to worry about your little one's cheerios or your teen's frappucino getting discarded before the ride. You can bring all your park gear, including food and drinks on the Skyliner and enjoy them on board. 

You Can Ride at your Leisure
While you can plan on about 5-7 minutes between stops, the typical trip from a resort to Epcot or Hollywood Studios will be 15 minutes, with the longest ride being close to 30 minutes. If you aren't bent on returning to the ground however, you can ride the Skyliner at your leisure and simply disembark when you are ready. 

Disney Skyliner Tips for Families
If you're venturing to Walt Disney World anytime soon be sure to check out the Disney Skyliner. With over 300 gondola cars and many designed with your Disney characters, this is sure to become a new favorite transportation option between the resorts and parks.