Tips for Early Theme Park Entry
When you stay at a Disney Resort, you can enter the theme parks 30 minutes before the official opening. This benefit is available at each of the four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom) every day. Although 30 minutes may not sound like a lot of time, it can give you a head start on your favorite attractions! Here are some ways to make the most out of your early entry.
Know Which Attractions Will Be Open
Not every attraction is open for Early Theme Park Entry. However, if you check this list beforehand, you can strategize where to go first and what to save for regular theme park operating hours. For instance, in the Magic Kingdom, only Fantasyland and Tomorrowland are open for Early Theme Park Entry. It’s great to go for the popular attractions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Peter Pan, or Space Mountain during early entry.
Arrive About 30-40 Minutes Early
Arriving at the parks early means being towards the front of the crowds waiting to head to the attractions. Transportation to the parks via bus, skyliner, or boat begins about 45 to 60 minutes prior to the start of Early Theme Park Entry. However, to get towards the front of the transportation lines, it’s recommended that you arrive at the stations about 90 minutes prior to the start of Early Theme Park Entry.
If you plan on driving to the parks, the parking lots open about an hour prior to Early Theme Park Entry.
Be Prepared for an Earlier Start
While Early Theme Park Entry is officially 30 minutes prior to park opening for the day, the parks often start early entry even earlier. This is especially the case with Hollywood Studios. Many guests report being able to ride attractions about 30 minutes before the official start of Early Theme Park Entry, which may leave enough time to ride a second attraction before the park opens to the general public.
Book a Disney Resort for your next Disney World trip, and enjoy Early Theme Park Entry! When you book through the DVC Rental Store, you get great deals for a Deluxe Disney Villa with low up-front payments and a Stress-Free Cancelation Policy.