Visiting EPCOT is often a highlight of any Walt Disney World trip, and planning your arrival can make all the difference in starting your day smoothly. Recent changes to the Early Entry and rope drop procedures have been implemented, particularly in anticipation of larger crowds for the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind standby queue debut.
This article outlines what the new procedures mean for guests, along with helpful tips for navigating these updates.
What is Early Entry?
Early Entry at EPCOT is a benefit available to guests staying at Walt Disney World Resorts and select partner hotels. This perk allows eligible visitors to enter the park 30 minutes before its official opening time. Early Theme Park Entry is a convenient way to get ahead of the crowds and enjoy popular attractions with shorter wait times.
What’s Changing in the Early Entry Process?
Guests using Early Entry may notice some changes, particularly around how entry is managed. Upon arriving at EPCOT, signage directs Early Entry guests to a designated check-in area near Spaceship Earth. Cast Members validate Early Entry entitlement for one member of the party, ensuring a streamlined process for large groups.
Previously, guests were held in a general holding area before being released into the park. Now, Early Entry guests are guided to World Celebration Gardens instead, offering a more spacious waiting zone. The timing remains the same: guests are held until approximately 30 minutes before Early Entry begins, when access to attractions is granted.
Regular Rope Drop Adjustments
For guests without Early Entry, there are also adjustments that impact the regular rope drop process. Previously, day guests were held near the fountain under Spaceship Earth. With the anticipated high demand for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, a new holding area has been created for these guests. This zone is located further back, near the Guest Relations building behind Spaceship Earth.
The new process separates Early Entry and regular guests into different lanes, with Early Entry on the west side and regular guests on the east. Approximately one hour before the park opens, non-Early Entry guests are moved from the initial holding area to the new one, allowing for a smoother start when the park officially opens.
Key Tips for Planning Your Arrival
- Arrive Early
Whether you’re eligible for Early Entry or sticking to regular rope drop timings, arriving at the park at least an hour ahead of your planned entry allows you to get situated and avoid delays. - Utilize the My Disney Experience App
Stay informed on attraction wait times, park maps, and real-time updates on holding areas using the app. - Be Aware of Cosmic Rewind Popularity
If Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is a priority for your group, take note of its location and crowd dynamics to plan your route accordingly after rope drop. - Pack Your Patience
With these new procedures, there may be some initial growing pains. Remaining patient and flexible can help ensure a pleasant start to the day.
Why the Changes Were Made
The modified procedures aim to better handle growing park attendance and accommodate the excitement around Cosmic Rewind’s standby queue. Adjusting the holding areas creates a more organized entry experience while mitigating congestion near the front of the park.
Final Thoughts
EPCOT’s updated Early Entry and rope drop procedures are designed to enhance both efficiency and guest experience as park operations evolve. Understanding these changes ahead of your visit can help you make the most of your day and get a head start on enjoying all EPCOT has to offer.
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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.
