Magic Kingdom's New Touring Rules: The Smart Way to Navigate the Park Right Now

Magic Kingdom is shifting. Between new entertainment on the horizon, upcoming construction, and subtle policy changes regarding how you enter the park, the way you tour needs an update. If you show up with a plan from a few years ago, you will be starting at a severe disadvantage.

Here is what is actually changing at Magic Kingdom right now—and the smart way to adjust your strategy so you spend less time waiting and more time riding.

The Early Entry "Rope Drop" Map Has Expanded

Previously, the 30-minute Early Theme Park Entry for Disney resort guests was strictly limited to Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. That meant you couldn't even walk toward the west side of the park until the official opening time. Now, Disney is allowing resort guests to walk into Frontierland, Adventureland, and Liberty Square before the park officially opens to everyone else.

The move: You can now get in line at Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, or Pirates of the Caribbean before the 9:00 AM crowds are even allowed past the hub. While these rides don't start running until official park opening, this gives you a massive head start. If you skip the standard Seven Dwarfs Mine Train scramble, you can knock out the big west-side attractions before the general public even reaches them.