Guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios this week have been greeted with an unexpected hiccup in their carefully planned rope drop strategies. Slinky Dog Dash, one of the park’s most popular attractions, has reportedly been unavailable during the early morning hours, leaving visitors frustrated and seeking answers. One guest shared their experience online, writing:
“Hi all, I’ve been planning on rope drop strategy and I planned on doing SDD, but the past few days it hasn’t been up and running in the early morning. Anyone have any insight as to why this hasn’t been available for rope drop these past few days?”
Could Cold Weather Be the Culprit?
Many Disney enthusiasts believe the early morning closures are linked to the recent cold snap that has gripped central Florida. With temperatures dipping into the 40s—a rarity for the Sunshine State—some guests speculate that the winter weather is causing operational delays for outdoor attractions like Slinky Dog Dash.
Cold weather can impact ride systems and machinery, particularly in outdoor attractions designed for Florida’s typically warm climate. Safety precautions may also be contributing to the delays, as Disney prioritizes the well-being of both guests and cast members during extreme weather conditions. Although Disney has not issued an official explanation, past experiences suggest that these closures are likely tied to temperature-sensitive operations.
Related: Disney World Pushes Guests’ Limits with 12-Hour Ride Breakdown
Guests Forced to Adjust Their Plans
For many visitors, rope drop—arriving at the park at opening to hit popular attractions before the crowds—has long been a cornerstone of maximizing their Disney experience. The unexpected downtime of Slinky Dog Dash, however, has forced guests to pivot and find alternative ways to kick off their day.
“We decided to head to Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway instead,” one guest shared. “It’s disappointing because Slinky Dog Dash is such a fun ride, but safety comes first.”
Slinky Dog Dash down in the AM?
byu/SingZap23 inWaltDisneyWorld
Disney Remains Silent on the Closures
As of now, Disney has not commented on the recurring morning delays, leaving guests to speculate about the exact cause. Visitors are encouraged to check the My Disney Experience app for live updates on ride availability and to adjust their plans accordingly. Forecasts indicate warmer weather later in the week, which could bring Slinky Dog Dash back to its usual morning operation.
While delays like this can be frustrating, they serve as a reminder for Disney guests to remain flexible, especially during periods of unpredictable weather. Hollywood Studios offers a variety of attractions and experiences, ensuring visitors can still have a magical day even if their plans don’t go perfectly.
As the situation with Slinky Dog Dash develops, fans are hopeful the attraction will resume its usual rope drop availability soon. Until then, staying informed and adaptable is the key to making the most of your Disney vacation.
