What Is Rope Drop at EPCOT?

Rope drop at EPCOT means being among the first guests to enter and head to the park’s most popular attractions. Guests staying at Disney hotels can take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry, which allows you to start 30 minutes ahead of the general crowd.

Pro tip: EPCOT has two entrances—the main entrance and the International Gateway (near World Showcase). If you’re staying at a resort with Skyliner access, like Disney’s Riviera, or at an EPCOT-area hotel, the International Gateway is a quieter, more efficient way to enter.

Best Rides to Rope Drop

To make the most of your morning, prioritize these high-demand attractions:

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (World Discovery): This thrilling coaster is EPCOT’s newest and most popular ride. You’ll need to secure a spot in the virtual queue at 7:00 a.m. or purchase an individual Lightning Lane. If you have Early Entry, rope dropping this ride as a second stop is a strong move.
• Frozen Ever After (World Showcase – Norway Pavilion): This family-friendly boat ride is always a hit, especially with younger guests. It’s a great first choice if you’re entering via the main entrance and don’t want to sprint across the park to Guardians.
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (World Showcase – France Pavilion): This delightful attraction immerses you in the world of Ratatouille. Guests entering through the International Gateway should prioritize this ride first.
• Test Track (World Discovery): Create your own virtual car and zoom through twists and turns at high speeds. It’s another top-tier attraction worth targeting early.

Worst Rides to Rope Drop

These attractions are fantastic but rarely justify the rope drop rush:

• Soarin’ Around the World (World Nature): While this breathtaking flight experience is a must-do, its line tends to fluctuate and can be easier to fit into your schedule later in the day.
• Living with the Land (World Nature): This educational and relaxing boat ride rarely has a long wait. Save it for a midday break when crowds build elsewhere.

Pro Tips for Rope Drop Success at EPCOT

• Plan Your Entrance Strategically:
  • Main Entrance Guests: Start with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind or Frozen Ever After.
  • International Gateway Guests: Begin with Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, then work toward Frozen.
• Leverage Early Entry: Early Entry gives you access to select attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Frozen Ever After. Use this time to tackle high-demand rides before the general crowd arrives.
• Secure a Virtual Queue: For Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, make sure to join the virtual queue at 7:00 a.m. sharp. If you miss it, you can try again at 1:00 p.m., or purchase an individual Lightning Lane for guaranteed access.
• Time Your Moves Efficiently: EPCOT is sprawling, and zig-zagging between attractions wastes time and energy. Group rides by location—tackle Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure together before moving to World Discovery.
• Save World Showcase for Later: Most pavilions and attractions in the World Showcase open later in the day. Focus your rope drop efforts on World Discovery and World Nature before looping back to enjoy the pavilions.

Why Rope Drop Matters at EPCOT

With its mix of thrilling attractions, interactive experiences, and cultural pavilions, EPCOT offers endless possibilities—but also long lines if you’re not prepared. A solid rope drop strategy allows you to hit the must-do rides early, leaving more time to savor the park’s unique ambiance, dining, and shows.