What Is Rope Drop?

“Rope drop” at Hollywood Studios means being among the first guests in the park when it opens, allowing you to beat the crowds to its biggest attractions. If you’re staying at a Disney hotel, you can take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry, which lets you enter 30 minutes before the official opening time.

Pro tip: Arrive at Hollywood Studios 60 minutes before Early Entry begins to secure a prime position for your top-priority ride.

Best Rides to Rope Drop

Hollywood Studios has some of the most sought-after rides in Disney World. Here’s what to prioritize:

• Slinky Dog Dash (Toy Story Land): This family-friendly coaster is a rope-drop favorite, and for good reason. Its wait times skyrocket as the day progresses, so head here first if you don’t have a Lightning Lane reservation.
• Rise of the Resistance (Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge): This epic Star Wars attraction is a must-do, but it’s also time-intensive. Rope-dropping Rise of the Resistance is ideal for Star Wars fans who want to avoid its notoriously long lines later in the day.
• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (Hollywood Boulevard): This charming and unique ride is a great backup option if Slinky Dog Dash or Rise of the Resistance is unavailable during Early Entry.
• Tower of Terror (Sunset Boulevard): If thrill rides are your thing, consider heading to this classic Disney attraction. It’s another crowd-magnet that sees shorter lines early in the day.

Worst Rides to Rope Drop

Some attractions are better left for later in the day when lines thin out:

• Star Tours: The Adventures Continue: This classic Star Wars simulator rarely has long lines, even during peak hours, making it a great option for a mid-afternoon break.
• Alien Swirling Saucers: While cute and fun, this ride doesn’t justify a rope drop effort. It’s better tackled later in the day or skipped altogether if time is tight.

Pro Tips for Rope Drop Success at Hollywood Studios

• Arrive Early and Have a Plan: With so many high-demand attractions, arriving early and knowing your top priorities will set you up for success. Decide in advance if you’re targeting Toy Story Land, Galaxy’s Edge, or another area first.
• Leverage Early Entry: Early Entry lets you access top-tier attractions like Slinky Dog Dash, Rise of the Resistance, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway before the regular crowd floods the park.
• Use Genie+ Strategically: Combine your rope drop strategy with Genie+ reservations for afternoon rides like Tower of Terror or Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. This ensures you maximize your time.
• Use Separate Entrances in Galaxy’s Edge: For Rise of the Resistance, Galaxy’s Edge has two entrances. Use the one closest to your arrival point to save precious time navigating the crowds.
• Be Flexible: Popular rides can sometimes experience technical delays. Be ready to pivot to your second or third choice if necessary.

Why Rope Drop Matters

Hollywood Studios is a park that rewards early risers. Rope dropping gives you the chance to experience the park’s most popular attractions without the stress of long lines. Whether you’re soaring through Toy Story Land, joining the Resistance, or diving into Mickey & Minnie’s world, starting your day early means maximizing the magic.