Disney’s Hollywood Studios has introduced changes to its rope drop and early entry procedures for Toy Story Land as part of operational adjustments related to seasonal events. These updates reflect Disney’s efforts to manage guest flow and enhance the experience for visitors. If you’re planning to visit Hollywood Studios this summer, here’s what you need to know about the changes.
Background on Early Entry and Rope Drop
Early Entry is a benefit offered exclusively to Disney Resort guests, providing entry to select attractions 30 minutes before the park officially opens. Rope drop refers to the broad opening of attractions to all guests, typically marking the start of the day for the park.
In order to be eligible for Early Theme Park Entry, guests must have a valid theme park ticket or annual pass, a Park Pass Reservation for the desired theme park, and either be a guest at a qualifying Disney Resort hotel, have booked certain select Early Morning Magic experiences, or have a dining reservation that is scheduled at, or even slightly before, the park’s opening time.
The timing for these processes remains the same. The parking lots open approximately one hour before Early Entry begins, while the park opens to all guests about 30 minutes before Early Entry starts. Cast Members station checkpoints throughout the park to verify Early Entry eligibility.
Key Changes to Toy Story Land Checkpoints
One significant update involves the location of Early Entry checkpoints for Toy Story Land. Previously set up near the entry marquee on the walkway between One Man’s Dream and Toy Story Land, the checkpoint has now moved closer to the Animation Courtyard, specifically at the Hollywood Studios archway.
This shift is attributed to expanded use of Animation Courtyard for the seasonal event Cool Kid Summer. While the change offers logistical benefits for the event, guests aiming to access Toy Story Land may find adjustments to crowd flow at rope drop.
Procedures for Non-Resort Guests
For non-resort guests, these changes modify the queuing process for Toy Story Land. Regular guests now line up at the newer checkpoint near Animation Courtyard to await access. It’s important to note that when Early Entry guests are already in line for popular attractions such as Slinky Dog Dash and Toy Story Mania, non-Resort guests may experience longer waits upon entering.
Even with these adjustments, rope drop still provides shorter wait times compared to mid-day lines for attractions. Visitors are encouraged to plan their morning itinerary accordingly, factoring in anticipated wait times during peak summer months.
What Remains Unchanged
Despite these updates, the overall structure of Early Entry and rope drop at Hollywood Studios is unchanged for areas outside Toy Story Land. Sunset Boulevard and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge continue to operate under their current processes. Both Resort and regular guests retain predictable access to attractions across the park.
Eligible guests can continue to enjoy Early Entry perks for select attractions, a feature that remains an important planning tool for Disney enthusiasts aiming to maximize their time in the park.
Available Disney’s Hollywood Studios Attractions
Final Thoughts
Adapting to operational changes is part of navigating a Disney park visit, especially during the busy summer season. While the updates to Toy Story Land checkpoints add a new consideration for guests, understanding these changes can help you make the most of your trip.
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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.
