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Disney Virtual Queues: Your Fast Track to Fun

So, you’re heading to Disney and want to conquer those epic lines, right? Well, one tool in your arsenal is the virtual queue. Let’s cut to the chase: currently, the Disney rides using a virtual queue system are:

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT
TRON Lightcycle / Run at Magic Kingdom
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom (Opening Late 2024)

Keep in mind that virtual queue availability is subject to change, and Disney often tweaks its operations. Always check the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit for the most up-to-date information. Now, let’s dive deeper into the world of virtual queues and get you prepped for a smoother, more magical Disney experience!

Understanding Disney’s Virtual Queue System

The virtual queue is essentially Disney’s way of managing crowds and reducing wait times for its most popular attractions. Instead of standing in a physical line for hours, you join a virtual line through the My Disney Experience app. When it’s your turn to ride, you’ll receive a notification, giving you a specific window to head to the attraction. This allows you to explore other parts of the park, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy other rides while you “wait” for your spot in line. Think of it as a reservation for a ride – a game-changer!

The main difference between a virtual queue and the now-retired FastPass+ and the current Genie+ system is that virtual queues are free. They provide access to select high-demand rides that might otherwise have impossibly long wait times, while Genie+ requires a daily purchase and covers a broader range of attractions.

Mastering the My Disney Experience App

The My Disney Experience app is your lifeline for navigating the virtual queue system. Before your trip, download the app and link your park tickets to your account. Ensure everyone in your party is linked so you can attempt to secure a boarding group for them as well. Familiarize yourself with the app’s layout. You’ll find the virtual queue section under the “Virtual Queues” tile on the home screen. Pro-Tip: Check the “Join Virtual Queue” option under the Menu prior to 7:00 AM to save time and be ready to select the applicable virtual queue.

Securing Your Spot in the Virtual Queue

Joining the virtual queue involves a bit of strategy. Here’s the breakdown:

Timing is Everything: There are two opportunities to join a virtual queue each day. The first is at 7:00 AM, and you don’t need to be inside the park to attempt to join. The second is at 1:00 PM, but you must be inside the park to participate. The 1:00 PM drop is designed for those who missed the 7:00 AM opportunity or those who are park hopping. For Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, there will be a third opportunity at 6:00 PM for guests staying at Deluxe Resorts, Deluxe Villa Resorts or other select hotels who have valid admission and a park reservation.
Prepare in Advance: A few minutes before the queue opens, open the My Disney Experience app and navigate to the virtual queue section. Refresh the screen a few seconds before the hour. This can help ensure you’re ready to pounce when the join button becomes active. Ensure that everyone in your party that is in the park and has a park reservation is selected.
Speed is Key: Once the queue opens, tap “Join Queue” as quickly as possible. The app will guide you through the process. If all goes well, you’ll be assigned a boarding group.
Boarding Groups: Boarding groups are assigned sequentially. Earlier boarding groups mean you’ll ride sooner. Don’t be discouraged if you get a later group – it just means you have more time to enjoy other park offerings.
Notifications: The app will send a notification when your boarding group is called. You’ll typically have a one-hour window to return to the attraction entrance. Keep notifications turned on!

Maximizing Your Chances of Success

Stable Internet Connection: Ensure you have a strong and stable internet connection. Wi-Fi is generally more reliable than cellular data, but test both options beforehand. Test the app’s response in your hotel room.
Sync Your Party: Make sure everyone in your party is linked in the My Disney Experience app. This allows you to secure a boarding group for the whole crew.
Designated Queue Master: Assign one person in your party to be responsible for joining the virtual queue. This eliminates the risk of multiple attempts that could potentially lead to errors.
Don’t Give Up: If you don’t get a boarding group at 7:00 AM, try again at 1:00 PM (if eligible).

What Happens If You Miss Your Boarding Group?

Disney is generally understanding. If you miss your boarding group window due to unforeseen circumstances, head to the attraction entrance and explain the situation to a Cast Member. They may be able to accommodate you, depending on capacity and other factors, but it’s not guaranteed. Don’t assume you’ll be able to ride if you are late. It’s best to arrive during your assigned window!

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Virtual Queues

Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the virtual queue landscape:

1. Can I join more than one virtual queue per day?

No, currently, you can only join one virtual queue per park, per day. You could join the queue for Cosmic Rewind and the queue for TRON on the same day, but only if you have Park Hopper tickets and follow the park hopping rules.

2. What if I don’t get a boarding group?

If you miss out on a boarding group, you can still experience the attraction through the Individual Lightning Lane purchase option (if available). This allows you to purchase access to a shorter queue for the attraction. This is not a free option.

3. Is there a standby line for attractions with a virtual queue?

Generally, attractions using a virtual queue do not have a standby line. The virtual queue and Individual Lightning Lane are the only ways to ride.

4. Can I modify my boarding group time?

No, you cannot modify your assigned boarding group time. However, you can arrive anytime within the one-hour window specified when your boarding group is called.

5. What happens if my plans change and I can’t ride?

If your plans change, simply don’t redeem your boarding group pass. It will expire after the window closes. This doesn’t affect your ability to join other virtual queues in the future.

6. Does having Genie+ guarantee me a spot in the virtual queue?

No. Genie+ and the virtual queue are separate systems. Genie+ allows you to book Lightning Lane passes for a variety of other attractions, while the virtual queue is specifically for select high-demand rides. Some attractions may only have access to a virtual queue or an Individual Lightning Lane purchase.

7. Can I use the virtual queue for multiple days of my trip?

Yes, you can use the virtual queue each day of your trip, provided you have valid park admission and a park reservation (if required). Each day offers a fresh opportunity to secure a boarding group.

8. Do children need to join the virtual queue?

No, children do not need to independently join the virtual queue. As long as they are linked to your My Disney Experience account and included in your party, you can secure a boarding group for them along with the rest of your group.

9. Is the virtual queue available for all guests?

The virtual queue is available to all guests with valid park admission and a park reservation (if required).

10. Does staying at a Disney resort give me an advantage in the virtual queue?

No, staying at a Disney resort does not give you an inherent advantage in securing a boarding group (except for Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure). The process is the same for all guests.

11. What if my phone dies while I’m waiting for my boarding group?

Consider bringing a portable charger to keep your phone powered up throughout the day. If your phone does die, try to find a charging station within the park or visit Guest Services for assistance.

12. How far in advance can I check which rides use a virtual queue?

While Disney often makes announcements, the most reliable information will be available on the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit. Check the app early in the morning to confirm which attractions are using the virtual queue system.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the virtual queue system requires a bit of preparation and strategy, but mastering it can significantly enhance your Disney experience. By understanding how the system works, utilizing the My Disney Experience app effectively, and following the tips outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to conquering those epic rides with minimal wait times. Now go forth and conquer those virtual queues and have a magical time!