In an effort of adding a dose of spontaneity to your Disney days, one of the more unique ways to navigate the sprawling, magical realm that is Walt Disney World is through “bus roulette” — the thrill of hopping on the next Disney bus -no matter the destination- and seeing where it takes you! Here’s how to play and what to expect.
What is Bus Roulette?
Bus roulette involves choosing a bus based on its destination without a fixed plan. Instead of meticulously mapping out every ride, you let spontaneity guide your day. This can lead to unexpected fun, new experiences, and even hidden gems within the parks and resorts!
How to Play
– Choose a Bus Stop: Start at your hotel or any of the parks. Look for the bus sign and pick a bus that catches your eye or random bus station number from the list. Don’t worry about the exact destination; the journey is part of the fun!
– Embrace the Unexpected: Once you board, enjoy the ride! You might end up at a different park, Disney Springs, or even a resort with unique dining options and shops.
– Set a Time Limit: To avoid getting too lost in the adventure, set a time limit for how long you’ll play. This way, you can still make your dinner reservations or catch Happily Ever After back at Magic Kingdom.
Tips for a Successful Experience
– Stay Flexible: Be open to changing plans. If you land at a resort with a great restaurant, consider dining there instead of rushing to a park.
– Pack Light: A small backpack with essentials will make it easier to hop from one place to another without feeling weighed down.
– Time Your Return: Make sure you know the last bus times, especially if you’re playing roulette in the evening. You don’t want to be stranded!
What to Expect
Surprises await! The best part of bus roulette is the potential for delightful surprises. From stumbling upon an impromptu street performance to discovering a quiet spot to relax, every bus ride could lead to an unexpected memorable experience. You might end up at a park you hadn’t planned to visit, or explore a charming resort like Port Orleans Riverside or Wilderness Lodge.
Plus, over these next few months, each Disney Resort will be decked out in their holiday best with towering themed Christmas trees, garlands, and wreaths. Some even feature those beloved Gingerbread displays!
If you have some spare time carved out in your upcoming Disney trip, consider playing one or a few rounds of Disney Bus roulette; you never know where you’ll end up and what memories are waiting to be unlocked.
Theme Park Correspondent for The DIS | Chloé loves kitschy dark rides, roller coasters, a good background area music loop, hot Butterbeer, and all things Halloween. You’ll mostly find her wandering around Orlando’s biggest theme parks snapping pics and sharing tips… or probably talking about The Great Movie Ride.
