The Walt Disney World Skyway was a beloved attraction at the Magic Kingdom theme park in Walt Disney World Resort. Opening on October 1, 1971, the Skyway quickly became an iconic part of the park’s landscape, providing guests with a unique and picturesque aerial view of the Magic Kingdom.
The Skyway consisted of two separate gondola systems, transporting guests from Fantasyland to Tomorrowland and vice versa. The gondolas were suspended from a network of steel cables, gliding effortlessly above the park, offering stunning vistas of the attractions and landscapes below.
For many visitors, the Skyway provided a relaxing and enjoyable journey between the two themed lands, giving them a chance to take in the beauty and charm of the Magic Kingdom from a bird’s-eye perspective. It was especially popular for its picturesque views of Cinderella Castle and the surrounding areas.
The interior of each gondola was spacious enough to accommodate several guests, making it a delightful experience for families and friends to share together. The gentle sway of the gondola added to the enchanting ambiance, making it a memorable and magical part of the Disney experience.
Over the years, the Walt Disney World Skyway became a beloved classic, cherished by both first-time visitors and seasoned Disney enthusiasts. Unfortunately, the attraction closed permanently on November 10, 1999, after nearly three decades of operation.
It was permanently removed in 2009 (Tomorrowland Station) and 2012 (Fantasyland Station). The Fantasyland station was were the Tangled-themed restrooms are today.
Fun Facts
- The Skyway was built by Von Roll of Bern, Switzerland.
- The gondolas had a capacity of 700 pounds.
- guests at a time, as they traveled between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.
- The ride featured a number of different scenes, including views of Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and the surrounding areas.
- The ride was popular among guests who wanted to experience the thrill of riding in a gondola and for those who wanted to enjoy the views of the park and the surrounding areas.
- The Walt Disney World Skyway was closed in 1999 due to safety concerns and maintenance issues, and it was never replaced by another attraction.
- The gondolas were removed and the towers were repurposed for other uses, including as a scaffolding for Cinderella Castle.
- The Walt Disney World Skyway remains a fondly remembered attraction by many Disney World guests who enjoyed it before it’s closed.
At a Glance
- Disney Resort: Walt Disney World Resort
- Disney Park: Magic Kingdom Park Info News and Attractions
- Park Area: Magic Kingdom Fantasyland, Magic Kingdom Tomorrowland
- Attraction Type: Disney Rides, Extinct Disney Attractions
- Year Opened: 1971
- Year Closed: 1999
- Replaced: Original Attraction
- Replaced By: Nothing
Experience:
Related News:
- Vintage Disney – A 1990’s Look at Magic Kingdom’s Skyway, August 2, 2016