Disney World mornings can feel like a race, and mastering the art of rope drop is the secret to squeezing the most magic out of your day. But which rides are worth the hustle, and which are better left for later?
Whether you’re an early bird or just trying to make the most of your vacation, here’s everything you need to know about starting your day at Disney World’s four parks.
What Is Rope Drop?
In Disney-speak, “rope drop” refers to being among the first to enter the park and head to popular attractions as soon as it opens. For guests staying at Disney hotels, Early Theme Park Entry provides a 30-minute head start, giving you access to select areas of the park before everyone else.
Planning your rope-drop strategy around these advantages can make a huge difference in wait times and your overall experience.
Magic Kingdom: The Ultimate Rope Drop Playground
Best Rides to Rope Drop
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: A top-tier coaster with long wait times later in the day. If you’re not using a Lightning Lane for this, it’s the ride to prioritize.
- Space Mountain: Thrill-seekers should head here if Seven Dwarfs isn’t an option.
- Peter Pan’s Flight: Surprisingly popular due to nostalgia, making it a strong contender for rope-dropping if other priorities are covered.
Worst Rides to Rope Drop
- Pirates of the Caribbean or Haunted Mansion: These classics usually have shorter lines early and later in the day. Save them for a leisurely moment.
Pro Tip
Use the Tangled Bathrooms Path after riding early-entry attractions in Fantasyland. It’s a great shortcut to Liberty Square and Frontierland to get to Big Thunder Mountain or Jungle Cruise with minimal crowds. Check out this post for more Magic Kingdom Rope Dropping tips
Epcot: Timing Is Everything
Best Rides to Rope Drop
- Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure: Perfect for those entering via the Skyliner at the International Gateway.
- Frozen Ever After: A must-ride, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind: Use the virtual queue at 7 a.m., but if you’re lucky enough to grab an individual Lightning Lane, this is a great second stop.
Worst Rides to Rope Drop
- Soarin’ Around the World: A fantastic attraction but easier to fit into your day later when crowds thin out.
Pro Tip
Skyliner guests can save significant walking time by starting at Remy’s, while main entrance guests should prioritize Frozen. Check out this post for more EPCOT rope dropping tips
Hollywood Studios: A Strategist’s Paradise
Best Rides to Rope Drop
- Slinky Dog Dash: Book a Lightning Lane early, or head straight here for the shortest wait.
- Tower of Terror: This classic is back in full swing and draws crowds quickly.
- Rise of the Resistance: Avoid long waits for this highly popular and time-intensive Star Wars experience.
Worst Rides to Rope Drop
- Star Tours: This ride rarely has long lines, even during peak hours, making it a better fit for later.
Pro Tip
Consider your must-rides and start with Slinky Dog if you want a second chance via Lightning Lane later in the day. Check out this post for more Hollywood Studios rope drop tips
Animal Kingdom: Rope Drop Royalty
Best Rides to Rope Drop
- Avatar Flight of Passage: This stunning attraction in Pandora is a rope-drop staple for good reason. It’s worth the early wake-up call.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris: Animals are most active in the cooler morning hours, making this a great early-day choice.
Worst Rides to Rope Drop
- Dinosaur: While fun, it rarely justifies the early-morning rush.
Pro Tip
If you’re using a Lightning Lane for Flight of Passage, rope drop Navi River Journey instead for a more efficient morning. Check out this post for more Animal Kingdom rope drop tips.
Key Tips for a Perfect Rope Drop
- Arrive Early: Plan to be at the park gates 45-60 minutes before Early Entry or regular park opening.
- Use Lightning Lanes Strategically: Combine rope drop with Lightning Lanes to hit as many top rides as possible.
- Plan for Delays: Some rides, like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, occasionally experience delayed openings. Have a backup plan ready.
- Follow the Paths Less Traveled: Utilize shortcuts like the Tangled Bathrooms Path in Magic Kingdom to outpace the crowds.
