1st or 2nd Fantasmic

[Lisa AF]

I need some advise. Which is better, 1st or 2nd Fantasmic.
Our thoughts were that the second would be less crowded. The only problem is what time does the line begin to cue for the 2nd and what time do they allow the second group in. When there is only one show (we usually go off season) we bring in our dinner and eat and relax while we are waiting. If the wait time for the second show is similar but the wait time is standing outside in a line I'd prefer the first show.
Hope that makes sense!

 

[QuickGold]

Always, always, always go for the second Fantasmic. It will be less crowded in general. Lineups begin pretty much as soon as they close it off for the first show, but getting there 30-45 minutes before showtime is a good bet, unless you absolutely need front row center.

 

[Lisa AF]

QuickGold,
Is most of the 30-45 minute wait inside the theater or out?

 

[snyderla]

Most of the wait is outside the theater. But you don't have to get in line early unless you want center. In April '04 during Easter Week DH & I saw Fantasmic during the 2nd show 2 times. The first time we waited in line about 20 -25 minutes and got just left of center, down toward the front. I don't really prefer that close due to the mist from the water. The 2nd time was when we went to EPCOT first for Illuminations, then walked quickly from there through the International Gateway exit (we watched from the bridge near there) to the Boardwalk walkway to Disney MGM Studios. We got there just as they were opening the "backdoor" to the right next to one of the vendors, up near the entrance to the seating area. We went around through the backdoor and sat in the section on the right with hardly anyone around us and those seats were great, with a wait of about 5 minutes until show time.

If you want to have a long wait time so you can eat a meal and relax in the seating area before the show, then you will probably be happier with 1st show. If you want to avoid the long wait time, 2nd show is best.

Lori

 

[QuickGold]

Outside, as they have to clear everyone out of the first show, clean up a little, etc.