Mastering the Magic: Your Guide to Early Entry at Disney World

Want to beat the crowds and experience the magic of Disney World before everyone else? The key is Early Entry, a perk that can significantly enhance your vacation.

How to Unlock the Magic: Getting Early Entry

To get Early Entry to Disney World, you need to meet just one primary requirement: be a guest staying at a Disney Resort hotel or select other eligible hotels. This is the golden ticket! This includes hotels like the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, Shades of Green, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, and the hotels at Flamingo Crossings. If you are, you and your entire travel party linked to your reservation can enter any of the four Disney theme parks 30 minutes before the official park opening time each day.

Strategizing Your Early Entry Adventure

Early Entry isn’t just about showing up early. It’s about strategically planning your visit to maximize your time and experience. This means deciding which park to prioritize each day, understanding which attractions are typically open during Early Entry, and having a solid game plan.

Deciding Which Park to Visit

Every day, all four Disney World parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom – offer Early Entry. To make the most of it, consider the park’s usual crowd levels and which rides are your top priorities. For instance, if you’re a thrill-seeker, hitting Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom or Slinky Dog Dash at Hollywood Studios first thing can save you hours in line later.

Attractions Open During Early Entry

While not every attraction is open during Early Entry, many of the most popular ones are. Disney provides information on the attractions available during Early Entry in each park, which can be found on the My Disney Experience app or the Disney World website. Familiarize yourself with this list to plan your route efficiently.

Crafting Your Park Strategy

Before you even step foot on Main Street, U.S.A., have a clear plan. Know which attractions you want to ride, and the order in which you’ll ride them. This can mean grabbing a quick breakfast beforehand or designating one person in your party to handle Genie+ selections, if you plan on using it. The 30 minutes of Early Entry can set the tone for a less stressful and more enjoyable day in the parks.

Mastering Genie+ and Lightning Lane During Early Entry

The Genie+ service and Lightning Lane access work in conjunction with Early Entry. If you purchase Genie+, you can start making Lightning Lane selections at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit, regardless of whether you’re eligible for Early Entry. The trick is to utilize this access strategically in combination with your Early Entry advantage. For instance, you could ride a high-demand attraction during Early Entry with minimal wait, then immediately book a Lightning Lane for another popular ride later in the day.

Staying Flexible and Adapting

Even with the best-laid plans, things can change. Rides may experience unexpected closures, or crowd levels may shift throughout the day. Being flexible and adapting your strategy as needed is crucial to a successful Disney World experience. Keep an eye on the My Disney Experience app for updated wait times and attraction statuses, and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Early Entry

Here are some common questions about Early Entry to further clarify its benefits and how to make the most of it:

1. What hotels qualify for Early Entry?

As mentioned earlier, all Disney Resort hotels qualify, ranging from value resorts like All-Star Movies to deluxe resorts like the Grand Floridian. Select other hotels, like the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels, and Shades of Green, also offer Early Entry. Be sure to confirm eligibility with your hotel before your trip.

2. Does everyone in my party need to stay at a qualifying hotel to get Early Entry?

No, as long as you are all linked to the same reservation, everyone in your party is eligible for Early Entry. This makes it easy for families and groups to experience the magic together.

3. Can I use Early Entry on my check-in day?

Yes, you can! As long as you are officially checked in and your MagicBands or digital keys are activated, you can take advantage of Early Entry on your arrival day. This is a great way to kick off your vacation.

4. Is Early Entry offered every day of the year?

Yes, Early Entry is currently offered every day at all four Disney World theme parks. However, it’s always a good idea to check the official Disney World website or My Disney Experience app for any potential changes or updates to the schedule.

5. What time does Early Entry actually start?

Officially, Early Entry is 30 minutes before the posted park opening time. So, if the park is scheduled to open at 9:00 AM, Early Entry would begin at 8:30 AM.

6. What rides are typically open during Early Entry at Magic Kingdom?

Popular attractions often available during Early Entry at Magic Kingdom include Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Peter Pan’s Flight, Space Mountain, and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. It’s best to confirm the specific attractions open on the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit.

7. What rides are typically open during Early Entry at Epcot?

At Epcot, you can often enjoy Test Track, Frozen Ever After, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure during Early Entry. These are some of Epcot’s most sought-after rides, making Early Entry a valuable asset.

8. What rides are typically open during Early Entry at Hollywood Studios?

Slinky Dog Dash and Twilight Zone Tower of Terror are very popular to ride during early entry. Consider heading there first thing!

9. What rides are typically open during Early Entry at Animal Kingdom?

Avatar Flight of Passage is the biggest ride for Animal Kingdom’s Early Entry. Na’vi River Journey also opens early.

10. Do I need a park reservation to use Early Entry?

Yes, a valid park reservation is required for the park you plan to visit during Early Entry. This ensures that you meet all the necessary requirements for entry. Remember that Park Hopper does not begin until 2:00 PM.

11. Is there a separate line for Early Entry?

Yes, at the park entrance, there will be designated lines specifically for guests eligible for Early Entry. Cast Members will verify your eligibility using your MagicBand, park ticket, or digital key.

12. What if I arrive late for Early Entry?

While arriving on time is ideal, even arriving a few minutes after Early Entry begins can still be beneficial. You’ll still be ahead of the general crowds, giving you a head start on your day.

Conclusion: Unlock the Magic and Maximize Your Disney Day

Early Entry is a fantastic perk for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and select partner hotels. By understanding the guidelines, planning strategically, and staying flexible, you can maximize your time and experience the magic of Disney World with shorter wait times and a less crowded atmosphere. It is, after all, your vacation. Enjoy every minute!