
4. Rope drop
Arriving for “rope drop”- or park opening- is a best practice for Disney guests. If waiting in lines drives you nuts, you’ll definitely want to give this a try. Arrive 30-60 minutes before park opening and be among the first to enter the park. You’ll love getting to ride on the headliner attractions with very little wait before the crowds stroll in an hour or two later..
5. Get familiar with the parks (before you’re inside)
Don’t be that guy standing in the middle of the walkway looking at a map if you can help it! You’ll save yourself a lot of in-the-moment overwhelm and frustration if you go into your park day with a general idea of what you’re doing, how to get there, and how the park is laid out. You should also familiarize yourself with the park’s attractions beforehand, so there’s no question of who is tall enough or brave enough to ride something. If you can, talk to your traveling partners about what their priorities are in each park in advance.
6. Take breaks
Going to the parks from morning till night is not sustainable for most families on a week-long vacation. Mid-day breaks are your friend, especially if you are staying on-site and can get back to your resort fairly easily. The mid-afternoon break is a great way to beat the heat and the highest crowds (and longest lines) of the day.