After decades of early Disney mornings, I’ve learned a few things that help me have a more successful park day, including prepping a few key things before 7 AM!
Disney World
I like to say that for me, Disney World is more of a trip than a relaxing vacation. If you are like me, you’re taking advantage of those Early Theme Park Entry times and you want to start your day with a bang! Whether you’re a rope-drop regular or just trying to make the most of your park time, these early-morning habits can set the tone for a smoother, happier Disney day.
1. Eat Something Before Rope Drop
In the excitement of rope drop, it’s easy to forget the basics, like breakfast. Before you know it, it’s 10 AM, you’ve been zig-zagging between rides, and suddenly you realize you’re hangry. To avoid that crash, eat something before you head out. It doesn’t have to be fancy — even a granola bar, banana, or protein snack you packed in your bag will do the trick. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, grab a quick bite from the food court or a pastry from your hotel’s café. The key is to have fuel for your morning because once those gates open, stopping for food won’t be your first priority.
Early Entry
2. Have Your Lightning Lane Strategy Ready
At 7 AM, timing is everything, and Disney pros know to go in with a plan. While you might already have your first three Lightning Lane selections lined up for the day, make sure you know exactly which one you’ll grab next. The moment you snag your first pick, the clock starts ticking toward when you can book the next one. If you’re still deciding what to do next, you could lose valuable time and miss out on high-demand rides. So talk strategy the night before, set reminders, and have your My Disney Experience app open and ready to refresh as soon as you’ve scanned in to your first ride. Being prepared means less stress and more time enjoying the magic.
Lightning Lane at Peter Pan’s Flight
3. Start Hydrating NOW
It’s no secret that Disney days are long, hot, and full of walking, and dehydration can sneak up fast. The best time to start hydrating isn’t once you’re already in the park, but it’s before you even leave your room. Drink a big glass (or two!) of water while you’re getting ready, and bring a refillable bottle to keep the momentum going throughout the day. Even if the weather doesn’t feel extreme, you’ll be doing a ton of physical activity. Getting a head start on hydration helps keep your energy up and your mood steady.
Water fountain and refill station
4. Have Your Tickets Ready
There’s nothing worse than reaching the park entrance and realizing your tickets aren’t linked, your MagicBand isn’t charged, or you’re scrambling to pull up the right screen on your phone. Avoid the stress by double-checking your park tickets and MagicBands before you head out. Make sure everyone in your group can access their tickets through the Disney MagicMobile feature in the My Disney Experience app, or that your MagicBands are active and charged. That way, when it’s your turn to scan in, you’re ready to roll right through. A smooth entry means you can focus on the fun without fumbling with your phone.
Scan into the parks
5. Be Ready for Security
Security lines can be one of the biggest slowdowns in the morning rush, but seasoned Disney fans know a few simple tricks to make them faster. Before you reach the bag check, take out items that tend to flag the scanners (umbrellas, eyeglass cases, and metal water bottles) and hold them in your hand as you walk through. This helps security see what you’re carrying and can keep your bag from being pulled for additional screening. Organize your park bag the night before so everything has its place.
Disney World Security
Bonus Tip: Give Yourself Grace
Not every Disney morning has to start at sunrise. If your crew needs a slower start, that’s okay! If you know you need a rest day, you can “stack” your Lightning Lane times to be later in the day. Deluxe Resort guests can also take advantage of Extended Evening Hours, which give you extra park time at night when crowds are lower.
Magic Kingdom
From your first sip of coffee to that 7 AM rope drop, these small habits make a big difference in your Disney day, and you can count on Disney Food Blog to keep you in the know with all the tips, tricks, and tasty hacks to make your trip easier. For more expert Disney tips and food finds, follow us at DFB!
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Is there truly a 7AM rope drop?!?! I thought the earliest to rope drop is 0830?
Hi Patti! Nope, we’re just telling you what our suggestions are for you to start doing at 7am to prepare for rope drop. Things like eating breakfast beforehand are more time-consuming than people realize.