Our Experience: Early Entry to Disney World's Toy Story Land

Early entry into the Disney parks isn’t new, but they keep adding new experiences to their line up! In October my family experienced the latest early entry offering at Disney Hollywood Studios – Toy Story Land. Early entry starts at 7:30, but they ask that you arrive early to go through the process of checking you into the park. To enter, you need a park ticket as well as the early entry purchase. 

Rising early, my kids and I decided to order a Minnie Van rather than wait for a bus. At 6:25 am, I put in the order and the vehicle and driver were there by 6:30 am. He was a very personable driver who told us a lot about the park and some of his experiences there. Dropping us off at the new Minnie Van location, he directed us to where to walk along the walkway. Within a minute we were at security and the front gates.

First we had to check-in with one of the cast members with a tablet to make sure we were on the list. Then we received our wristbands that got us our breakfast and entry into Toy Story Land. Scan your Magic Band like you were there on a normal day and off you go! We were there at 6:55 am so they sent us to get breakfast until the land opened at 7:30 am.

Breakfast included an entrée and beverage, but also included a continental breakfast with fresh fruit, yogurt, pastries, cereal, milk, coffee and juice. They don’t scan anything, just show your wristband. In fact, you can order as many entrées as you want! We all chose the maple fried chicken with sweet potato barrels and cinnamon donuts. The chicken was amazing! It looked like any other chicken finger, but with the maple flavor it was addicting. In fact, we came back after 9:30 am to get another helping!

Once we were finished we were ready to experience Toy Story Land for the first time! We immediately headed to Slinky Dog Dash, which had a short 10-minute line. We all fell in love with this ride that is park exciting, but also park sentimental, reminding you of your childhood. The line moved quickly with even numbered groups going in one line and odd numbered groups going in another. To see a video on this ride, check out Whitney World Travel’s YouTube Channel.

Next up we headed to Alien Space Saucer, which wasn’t as thrilling, but still a cute ride. Continuing our ride journey, we headed to Toy Story Mania to see the new cue line. Mr. Potato Head his back! He even interacted with my daughter who didn’t know there was someone on the other end watching her. It was hilarious seeing her reaction when she figured it out. While this is a new line, it is very familiar and comforting.

The lines were longer for the characters. Woody and Jessie were together while Buzz Lightyear was positioned by himself. We decided to forgo the characters for more rides on Slinky Dog Dash.

Heading back into Slinky Dog Dash, we rode five more times back to back, walking on! In fact, after our first ride on Slinky Dog Dash, we never stood in line for any ride for more than five minutes. Our last ride we went back to Toy Story Mania and when we got out, lines were forming in Toy Story Land so we decided to move on.

We rode two more rides in the park before deciding we wanted to get a drink while we still could on the early morning entry. Another entrée was added to our order, and my daughter and I decided we are addicted to this meal!

Early morning entry was a hit with my family! We experienced a fun time together doing more and standing in line less. The cues tell a story and if you do wait in line, they won’t disappoint you or fail to keep you entertained. Back to back riding of the newest ride at Disney was a fun way to spend the morning and the memories will last for a long time.
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Whitney World Travel can help you plan your next visit to Disney World as well as help you plan your next early morning entry! Contact us today!

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About the Author:

​Shari Jung, Travel Advisor
Shari grew up where vacations were a mix of local venues and big city tours. When she met the love of her life, he introduced her to Disney World for their honeymoon and she was instantly hooked. More than 30 Disney trips later, Shari has made it her mission to plan great family vacations where the magic last long after returning home. No matter what Disney Destination you are interested in, she brings her personal experience to bear to help plan the perfect trip. Shari has lived her entire life in southern Indiana, where she resides with her husband of 22 years and three children. She is a graduate from the University of Southern Indiana.