Epcot Testing New Opening Procedures This Summer
Following the footsteps of the neighboring Disney's Animal Kingdom, Epcot has been testing a new opening procedure that aims to help spread the crowds even before the park officially opens for the day (usually at 9 a.m., except for EMH).
On most days, the main Guest areas of Future World (including the Fountain of Nations Plaza) will open at 8:30 a.m. While all the rides will still open at 9 a.m., Spaceship Earth should open to Guests around 8:45 a.m. during the test.
On most days, the main Guest areas of Future World (including the Fountain of Nations Plaza) will open at 8:30 a.m. While all the rides will still open at 9 a.m., Spaceship Earth should open to Guests around 8:45 a.m. during the test.
At 8:50 a.m., a special fountain show will be presented. This minor (yet interesting) addition includes a short announcement welcoming all Guests in different languages, which is then followed by a brief "show" presented entirely by the park's iconic Fountain of Nations.
As a caveat, it is important to remember that Guests may not enter inside any of the pavilions of the park (with the exception of the aforementioned Spaceship Earth) before 8:50 a.m. This will avoid having some Guests line up too early for some of the park's more popular attractions, such as Soarin' and Test Track. That said, Guests may still wait by the East and West breezeways before the rest of the area opens.
What about the International Gateway? I can't imagine that they would not let folks in early there as well. If they don't, that would be a big mistake since that is the main entrance for those staying at the Epcot Resorts.
ReplyDeleteLooks like they are trying to bring back the old way they had done the rope drop a few years ago...Good to see it back as the main entrance does get a bit crowded in the morning.
ReplyDeleteI'm curious as well in regards to the IG. We normally stay at the Beach Club and it would suck if we get held until 8:50.
ReplyDeleteMaybe you'll just have to take a bus to the front entrance.
ReplyDeleteThey don't offer buses from Beach Club to the front of Epcot.
ReplyDeleteLines at Soarin and TT at the start of the day could be reduced if they'd require those entering to scan their bands, and if they already have a FP+ for that ride scheduled alert them that their FP+ time will be cancelled if they enter at that time.
ReplyDeleteNext year I'm wondering what's gonna happen with World Showcase. As that opens at 11am I'm sure there not gonna let guests queue near the roped off area for the Frozen ride to open. Will the shows and rides around the showcase open at 9am also.
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