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Being at Magic Kingdom for Rope Drop is important if you want to get a head start on the crowds that will arrive later in the day. The following tips will help you make the most of Rope Drop at Magic Kingdom.
In 2017 major changes were made to the security screening procedures for the Magic Kingdom. Guests arriving at the Magic Kingdom via Disney bus are screened (bag check and metal detectors) at stations near the bus drop-off point. Guests arriving via the Ticket and Transportation Center are screened walking into the TTC area. Guests arriving via Disney resort monorail or boat are screened at the resorts (Contemporary, Grand Floridian, Polynesian, Wilderness Lodge). This doesn't really affect the arrival procedure, but it does need to be considered when calculating when to arrive.
- Magic Kingdom lets guests through the turnstiles and onto Main Street U.S.A. around 60 minutes before park opening.
- After passing into the park, people are allowed to enjoy the atmosphere on Main Street, but most tend to gather in the hub. (There will be a rope manned by cast members who will prevent you from getting into any of the lands.) The rope will be removed during the Welcome Show.
- The Magic Kingdom Welcome Show starts at official park opening on the stage in front of Cinderella Castle.
- After the show, Cast Members will remove the rope (hence the name "rope drop") allowing you to walk briskly--but not run--to whatever attraction you desire.
- After rope drop, instant waits for popular attractions (such as Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Space Mountain) will form. On busy days we've seen wait times of 60 minutes or more form at popular rides almost instantly. If you want to ride without a wait, be as close to the front of the waiting crowd as you can.
Video Proof!
On Saturday, January 27, 2018 several of the TouringPlans staff tested the impact of arriving early at the Magic Kingdom. On this day the park opened to the public at 8am (with no Extra Magic Hour) and the crowd was measured as an 8 out of 10.
More Rope Drop Tips!
- Disney World Rope Drop
- Magic Kingdom Rope Drop
- Epcot Rope Drop
- Hollywood Studios Rope Drop
- Animal Kingdom Rope Drop
