In a recent development, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has started testing a Single Rider queue for its most popular attraction, Rise of the Resistance. This new option aims to enhance guest experience by potentially reducing wait times. However, there are several important aspects and caveats that visitors need to be aware of when considering this option.
Testing Phase Details
Disney has initiated a limited-time test for the Single Rider line at Rise of the Resistance. According to Cast Members at the attraction, this test is expected to run for a week or two before a decision is made about its long-term viability. During this period, guests can opt for the Single Rider line to bypass longer standby queues, though the effectiveness and duration of this test remain uncertain as Disney has not provided additional information.
Insights from Initial Tests
Early observations indicate mixed results regarding the efficiency of the Single Rider line. While traditional standby queue wait times were reported at 85 to 90 minutes, Single Riders managed to ride after 14 to 30 minutes. This variance suggests that while some guests may experience shorter waits, it is not guaranteed for everyone.
A critical point to note is that Single Riders are less likely to be paired with companions from their own party. The Single Rider line primarily serves to fill gaps in the traditional standby groups, which means individuals may ride alone if they choose this option.
Impact on Guest Experience
One significant drawback of the Single Rider line is the omission of key pre-show elements. Guests using the Single Rider option will bypass the Rey pre-show ready room and the Intersystem Transport Ship (I-TS) experience, which are pivotal parts of the attraction’s narrative and immersion. This route leads riders through un-themed backstage hallways, which might detract from the overall experience for first-time visitors.
For those who have never experienced Rise of the Resistance before, it is advisable to use the traditional standby line to fully appreciate the attraction’s immersive storytelling.
Process for Single Riders
Single Riders check in near the main entrance to the attraction, where a Cast Member will brief them about the truncated experience. They are then escorted to an exit pathway leading to a queue typically reserved for Cast Members. This pathway takes them directly to the IT-S courtyard, bypassing several other groups and leading straight to the Star Destroyer segment of the ride.
Once inside the Star Destroyer hangar, Single Riders wait until directed to join the next available transport group. The traditional standby queue generally moves faster at this point, but Single Riders benefit from having skipped the majority of the initial wait.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Single Rider line at Rise of the Resistance is a noteworthy experiment aimed at improving visitor flow and reducing wait times. While it presents an opportunity for quicker access to the attraction, it comes with significant trade-offs, particularly in terms of the immersive pre-show experiences.
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Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
