Things are slowly starting to return to “pre pandemic” Disney. In some areas Disney will be changed forever because of the pandemic, but some of our favorites are slowly making a return.

Let us welcome back the Minnie Van! This device originally launched in July 2017 and has been “paused” since the lockdown. For those who aren’t familiar with the ride service, here is a quick summary. Minnie Vans are operated through the Lyft ride service app. Unlike other Lyft drivers the Minnie Van drivers are trained cast members. The vehicles are the super fun red and white polka dotted mini vans you see around the parks. They are fantastic for getting to dinner reservations, Disney Springs, or pretty much anywhere around the Disney parks. Some people are apprehensive about taking a Lyft, because they aren’t familiar with the system or how it works. Minnie Vans are a great introduction and a great way for those who may be hesitant about ride share programs. One huge plus about a Minnie Van is that the cast member driver is trained in child safety seat installation. Each vehicle has two. Perfect for a family of 4! Each ride can fit 6 people. Installing the Lyft app on your phone prior and setting up an account makes it easier to book one when needed. On the Disney park site here to what they said you need to know.

How It Works
Our Minnie Van service works with the Lyft app. Simply open the Lyft app from anywhere within Walt Disney World Resort to access Minnie Van service, request a ride and pay for it through the app—or call (407) 828-3500 to request an accessible vehicle. Cars are usually minutes away.

To request a ride through the Lyft app:

• Open the app and select your Walt Disney World destination

• Confirm your pick-up location and tap “Select Minnie Van”; if Minnie Van service is not the default vehicle type displayed, you will need to swipe through your vehicle options until Minnie Van service is displayed

• The app will display a map tracking the vehicle en route—along with an identifying vehicle number to help you spot your car

Here is what they said you can expect from you Minnie Van Lyft Experience

What to Expect – The Experience 
Minnie Van drivers are friendly Disney Cast Members who are trained to whisk you off to where you need to be—with a smile. Each vehicle is equipped with 2 child safety seats that our Disney Cast Members are expertly trained to install for you.

Pricing

• Prices vary based on distance traveled from pick-up location to requested destination within Walt Disney World Resort.

• You’ll see the total cost and pay for the service conveniently through the Lyft app.

Hours of Operation
Minnie Van service operates from 6:30 AM to 12:30 AM daily. Hours of operation are subject to change.

If you have never used Lyft before, you don’t have to pay the driver in the cab. Your tips and charges for the ride can all be done through the app. You will link a card to your Lyft account. It’s so simple. In the past my sister and law and I used it for a Mom night out to Trader Sam’s grotto. That way we returned home safe and sound, and in a responsible adult way. We weren’t falling over drunk, but we never want to risk hurting someone after having cocktails. So this was an amazing service to have.