
For six months in 2020, Walt Disney World was forced to shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic. When the parks finally reopened, there were so many things that were different. Guests had to social distance, wear masks at all times (except when in designated dining areas), and could not Park Hop. There were also no trams to take Guests from the theme park parking lots. That meant that there were some long treks for those who did not get close spots.
It’s been three years since the theme parks reopened, and most of Disney’s COVID health and safety guidelines are a thing of the past. Masks are no longer required, social distancing is not enforced, and all forms of Disney transportation are now available — sort of. The monorail, Disney buses, and Disney ferries are all fully operational. However, the Disney trams are an entirely different story.
Disney trams have been a point of contention for years. Disney announced the return of its tram to and from the Magic Kingdom in December 2021. Disney officials said that the trams would all be returning throughout 2022. However, we are now almost nine months into 2023 and the trams have only returned to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.
But that is about to change!
On August 20, Disney announced that trams would be returning to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios next month!
Beep beep! This September, parking trams will return to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. With this update, trams will once again be available at all Walt Disney World theme parks.
Beep beep! This September, parking trams will return to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. With this update, trams will once again be available at all @WaltDisneyWorld theme parks. pic.twitter.com/ISw6PZiNJT
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) August 20, 2023
Disney has not said the exact date the trams will return, but it is something guests have been waiting anxiously for. Guests have frequently called Disney out for its lack of trams at the parks. Guests have not been happy that the trams have been gone for three years, with no good reason. With all other forms of transportation back, trams should have been fully back as well.
With the full return of the Walt Disney World Resort tram transportation system, there are only two COVID protocols that are still in place — and both are hated by Guests. Those are the theme park reservation system and Park Hopping restrictions. However, beginning early next year, Guests with date-based tickets will no longer need to make reservations. Annual Passholders will also start receiving more “Good to Go” days when they don’t need reservations.
Disney has not said when they will end Park Hopping restrictions.