Need Tips for Getting INTO Disney World

[Mwokee]

Been to Disney World four or five times though it's been 15 years since the last time I went. I am going to WDW over Christmas, a better time isn't an option but I know what to expect.

Fortunately I am primarily going to do photography but I am still going to do some of the rides. Yes, I have my ticket and Fast Pass options selected.

Having been to Disney World during Christmas once before I know the best trick possible is to get there early and "do stuff" before the crowd peaks.

What I cannot find information for is when do the parking lots open? And when do the transportation options for getting into the parks start running?

I am off-property which means driving in. I want to be at the park gate when it opens at 8:00 AM. There will be lines just to get into the parking lot, security, and transportation so I want to be the first one through so I can be standing at that park gate at 7:59 AM.

Thanks for your help.

 

[Robo]

I am off-property which means driving in. I want to be at the park gate when it opens at 8:00 AM. There will be lines just to get into the parking lot, security, and transportation so I want to be the first one through so I can be standing at that park gate at 7:59 AM.

Thanks for your help.

MK lot is (basically) "open" 24/7.
You want to be PARKED and at the TTC monorail station by 7:00-7:15AM, or so, to get
to the MK gates for an 8AM open on a busy day.

BUT, during the VERY busy Christmas week, and Easter, and July 4th... the MK lot can CLOSE (due to filling completely) to all further cars rather early in the morning.

Epcot and DHS lots will be open hours before those parks open.

DAK's lot, however, is infamous for (sometimes) not being open until 65-75 minutes before the regular park hours that day.

 

[Mwokee]

OK, lots are open, but what about security checks and transportation?

Huge lines just for those when trying to get in? Tips for reducing any hassles with those would be great.

 

[Robo]

OK, lots are open, but what about security checks and transportation?

Huge lines just for those when trying to get in? Tips for reducing any hassles with those would be great.

The earlier you arrive, the fewer other guests (usually FAR fewer) will be there to slow you down.

 

[jdk2]

OK, lots are open, but what about security checks and transportation?

Huge lines just for those when trying to get in? Tips for reducing any hassles with those would be great.

The more bags you have, the longer the process. No bags and you'll walk right in (separate lines).

 

[bumbershoot]

OK, lots are open, but what about security checks and transportation?

Huge lines just for those when trying to get in? Tips for reducing any hassles with those would be great.

From what Robo said, at least MK's lot (the Ticket and Transportation Center aka TTC) is open at least an hour before park opening time. So you want to already be parked AND at the TTC monorail line by 7 or at the very latest by 7:15. As Robo said. The transportation starts running to get you there.

Bag checks are after the parking lot, before the turnstiles into the parks. If you only have your camera, and you wear it on a neck strap instead of in a bag, and you carry NO other bag, you probably wouldn't be shunted to the bag check line.

 

[Traveliz]

If you are going over Christmas its likely the MK will open at 7 am everyday for resort guests so you will not be able to be one of the first through the gates.

Liz

 

[Itinkso]

When older DD is with us, we Valet park at the Contemporary to bypass the Ferry and Monorail. Because you have to pay to park anyway, $3 more (+ tips) isn't bad for Valet and a short walk to bag check and the entrance.

 

[LBIJim]

MK lot is (basically) "open" 24/7.
.

But is it (basically) staffed 24/7? If not, can a driver arrive at 4am and park for free in the closest spot?

 

[SeilerBird]

If you are going primarily for the photography and not the rides I fail to see why it is so important for you to be first in the park. I am an AP holder and a photographer and I go a few times a week. I arrive usually about 15 minutes before rope drop and waltz right in.