Walt Disney World has always been celebrated not just for its rides and shows but also for its seamless transportation system. For decades, the resort has made it simple to get from one park to another, with boats, buses, the Skyliner, and the Monorail creating a network that feels like part of the magic itself. Now, however, one key service is suddenly facing an official early shut-down time, and guests are paying attention.
Minnie Vans in the Spotlight
Unlike the complimentary buses and ferries, Minnie Vans are a paid service run by Disney and booked through the Lyft app. Guests have relied on these red-and-white SUVs since they debuted in 2017, enjoying their convenience and the fact that they’re part of the Disney-operated system. The hours of operation, though, have always been a little fuzzy. Until recently, the message was vague: “times may vary.”
That has now changed. At EPCOT, signage has gone up declaring that Minnie Vans will only run until 1:00 a.m. each night. For the first time, guests have a clear end time instead of guessing or refreshing the app to see if a ride was still available.
Impact on Late-Night Events
This shift might not matter much to families heading home before the fireworks. But for those attending After Hours events that run until 1:00 a.m., the change is significant. Staying until the very end of the party now means Minnie Vans will be off the table when it’s time to head back to a resort.
It’s not just EPCOT that’s in question, either. Disney’s other after-dark offerings, from Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to Jollywood Nights, could also be affected if the 1:00 a.m. cutoff applies property-wide.
The Why Behind the Change
Disney hasn’t shared the reason behind the decision. Some speculate it’s about staffing. Others think it’s an operational choice aimed at streamlining transportation during hours when demand drops. Regardless, it’s a clear shift from the flexibility guests once enjoyed.
What Guests Should Do
Complimentary resort buses are still available after late-night events, and standard ride-shares like Uber and regular Lyft can fill in the gaps. Still, Minnie Vans have been a fan-favorite for their convenience and Disney-branded comfort. Losing them at the exact moment many guests need them most is a big adjustment.
For now, the best advice is simple: plan ahead. If Minnie Vans are part of your late-night Disney routine, double-check their availability in the Lyft app and have a backup plan ready before you stay out past midnight.
