Questions Before Window Opens

[KyleAfterAWhile]

Which parks have tiers on the Fastpass System for attractions? We are getting together with everybody this weekend to plan so I need to have my info correct? I believe EPCOT does and maybe Disney Studios?

How difficult is it to get a Fastpass for Flight of Passage, even if you are on as soon as the window opens?

Some of our group is using the Magic Keeper instead of the band. I know the tech is the same since it is just being removed from the band, but curious if there are any issues with those? I would image not, but somebody wanted me to ask.

Any specifics on the Christmas party and how the park closing at 6 will open? Are they kicking everybody out at 6 or are they just going to start ushering non-party guests out? Will they be isolating people with a wristband to a certain area? Maybe everything is unknown at this time, but I know there are people in the know on this message board.

Does Be Our Guest take walk-ups? I cannot get a reservation for even a portion of our group, much less all of us.

Is online or mobile ordering for counter service that much more efficient?

 

[Brer Shay]

DHS, AK, and Epcot all have tiers.
We were unable to get Flight of Passage at the 30 day mark which we hit just a couple of days ago.
No experience with your other questions.

 

[KyleAfterAWhile]

DHS, AK, and Epcot all have tiers.
We were unable to get Flight of Passage at the 30 day mark which we hit just a couple of days ago.
No experience with your other questions.

thank you

 

[Amanda999]

I'd book immediately for FoP (and nothing else - move right on to the next day you want FoP). At 60 days out -we're going late Aug. for 2 weeks (probably same time you are going) - we couldn't get FoP at all for some days, and had slim pickings other days.

PS FWIW I just checked for Aug. 18 for kicks, for 1 person: no FoP available at all. Many times for NRJ (but only 2pm and later). Of course they could add more FP before 7am tomorrow (I swear they save FP for different booking windows, but people FAR more savvy than me say they don't). Also, tons of people here say they get FoP all the time day of, so don't give up hope.

Definitely read mesaboy's FP OP before tomorrow - he has a great 'cheat sheet' of which FP should be your priority (not just booking the FP ahead, but which save more time).

 

[ChristineOH]

In general, BoG does not take walk ups. Try the reservation finder on Touring Plans or try in the few days before. We really like it, but only for lunch.

Mobile and online ordering is much easier for my family. We love it!

 

[FSU Girl]

Animal Kingdom - Pandora rides are the only tier one. FOP for my three day trip I couldn't get any day at 60 days out. You should check your later dates for this fast pass as you'll have a better chance getting one later into your trip.
Epcot - Frozen, Soarin', Test track and illuminations viewing are in tier one (I don't think there are others but not 100% sure) Test track has a single rider that can get you on the ride in 5 minutes when the waits over an hour so I never get a fast pass for this ride.
Hollywood Studios - A lot of the park is under construction and I don't think it has enough to do to make it a full day park. I forget which rides are in Tier 1, I believe Toy Story Mania and Rockin Rollercoaster.

I believe this year is the first time they are closing the parks at 6 instead of 7 so I don't think anyone will know until it starts happening. I wouldn't try walking up for BOG. Many times I've seen people turned away, and with a big group the likelihood is even less. Keep checking to see if someone drops a reservation, especially closer to the date, people cancel all the time. If you do get a reservation for less than your total party I would keep looking for an additional reservation because it will be unlikely the extras will be able to get in.

 

[KyleAfterAWhile]

Thanks again for the helpful information