You’re a Disney pro, right?
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
I mean, when you’re planning a trip to Disney World, I’m sure you’ve got all your Minnie ears ready, your phone’s charged up and ready to go at a moments notice to snag those Lightning Lanes, and you’ve even memorized all the secret menu items at Trader Sam’s. Speaking of secrets, there’s this one shortcut at Disney World that if you don’t already know about, your “Disney expert” status might be in question. But, don’t worry. I’m not here to revoke your Disney fan card. I’m here to level it up!
So what’s this shortcut I’m talking about? Glad you asked! I’m talking about the walkway that connects Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Now you might be rolling your eyes and thinking, “I already know how to get around the parks,” but hold up! If you don’t already know about this shortcut, it might seriously change how you approach your next park day.
Hollywood Studios
You know the drill. You’re at the hotel and you’ve spent all morning getting ready for the day. You’ve refueled with some Mickey waffles, and now you’re ready for a Star Wars adventure at Hollywood Studios. Here’s where the question comes in: “How am I going to get there without losing precious park time?”
Boardwalk Skyliner Gondola Station
Usually, most people will jump on the Skyliner, hop a bus, or, even drive their own car, but if you’re staying anywhere in the Crescent Lake area, meaning Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Yacht and Beach Club, or the Swan and Dolphin, there’s an underrated shortcut you need to know about.
The Shortcut: BoardWalk to Hollywood Studios
Here’s the deal: There’s a scenic walking path that starts at Disney’s BoardWalk and leads directly to Hollywood Studios! You can find the walkway just beyond the BoardWalk’s villas area, near the Jellyrolls and the Atlantic Dance Hall. It’s a peaceful stroll along the water, complete with lovely views of Crescent Lake and boats ferrying other guests to the park.
The walk itself is a little over 1-mile one-way, which can take about 25-30 minutes if you’re going at a pretty leisurely pace. But guess what? You’re not going to be waiting for transportation, there’s no getting stuck in post-show traffic, and zero lines. It’s just you, the path, and maybe a few ducks along the way.
Why You Should Consider the Walk
- It’s Time-Saving: Sure, 25 minutes sounds like a lot of walking when you’re already on your feet all day, but trust me. It’s faster than waiting for a bus or Skyliner, especially during peak times.
- It’s Relaxing: Need a break from the crowds? The walkway is usually pretty chill, and offers a quiet escape before you dive back into the action.
- The Views: You’ll pass the gorgeous BoardWalk Resort area and even spot the Tower of Terror looming in the distance. Plus, the water views are just oh, so peaceful.
It’s Also Perfect for Post-Show Exit
Also, after Fantasmic! (or even just having stayed in the park until park close), the lines for buses, boats, and Skyliner can get out of control. But, if you’re in the know about this walking path, you can zip past all of the crowds and be back at your resort in no time. It’s like having a Lightning Lane for your feet!
Walking Path between Disney’s BoardWalk and Hollywood Studios ©Disney
So, if you’re staying near the BoardWalk or just want to explore more of what Disney’s Crescent Lake area has to offer, the walking path is a total hidden gem. Next time you hit up Hollywood Studios, go ahead give your feet a little extra magic and take the scenic route. You might just find it’s your new favorite Disney hack.
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We use that path all the time to go between Epcot and Hollywood Studios. It’s such a nice walk.
As many times as I have stayed on the Boardwalk, I have chosen never to use this walkway. My poor feet just can’t add more miles at Disney World. It is a definite time saver if your feet can hold up as our kids have walked and we have ridden the boat and they beat us by quite a bit. Not sure how the skyliner would measure up because we love the boat ride over there and back and always take that.
I’ve been walking that path since I became a Vacation Club owner in 1997. It is a beautiful, peaceful walk. Sometimes boats go by and you can wave. It’s one of the best features of staying at the Boardwalk. You can also take a nice walk and enter into Epcot.
I used this shortcut when I stayed at the Boardwalk and it was very convenient. Plus it’s a really nice walk along the river. I can seem a little long at the end of the park day, though.
There’s an even shorter route than shown on the graphics. There’s an entrance to the walkway behind the pool slide. Just go through the tunnel from the Boardwalk itself to the pool. Follow the path behind the pool and it will lead you to the exit. It knocks off about 15% or more of the walk as shown on the graphic. The kids use it everytime we stay at the Boardwalk.
It’s the most pleasant walk and there can be a reward to it: beautiful pine cones often lay undamaged on the floor. We pick them up as souvenirs and we have collected many over the years and bring them out every Christmas.