One of the most common questions I get as a travel planner specializing in Disney is “how do I avoid the lines?” Though a trip to Disney World is the “most magical place on Earth”, standing in long lines is not always the most memorable experience. The good news is there are ways to avoid significant wait times on some of the most popular attractions. Keep reading to find out all of my best tips on using the single-rider lines at Disney World!
Are single rider lines back at Disney World?
Yes, good news! The single rider queue did not immediately reopen when Disney World reopened back in 2020 with physical distancing rules in place, but the single rider option at select attractions is back to work at Disney World. The same lines reappeared as the ones prior to the pandemic. This is a great option for solo travelers and a great way to cut down on the posted wait time of the traditional standby queue.
What is a single-rider line at Walt Disney World?
A single rider line simply means that guests can opt to enter a single rider queue instead of the traditional standby line. This helps cast members even out an odd number of guests and keep the line moving. This option does not exist at all of the popular rides in the parks, but if it does, be sure to check it out!
First, check the posted wait time for the regular line. If it is more than you want to wait, check to find the entrance to the single rider line (read below for the full list of options.) Do you need help finding the single rider line entrance? The best way to find out is to ask a cast member for help! If it is your first time in the single rider line, this separate entrance can be a bit tricky to find.
Guests in the single rider line help fill in empty seats in a ride vehicle and fill in all of the empty space. The separate line typically moves much faster and gives you shorter waits at many of your favorite attractions. If you don’t mind riding with a group of strangers, this option can get you to the front of the attraction line quickly! Be sure to check any height requirements before entering the queue to avoid any disappointment.
Single riders lines is also a good option for adults traveling with small children. If one parent is willing to stay with the kids (or take them to another attraction), the other parent can get through the attraction queues quickly with less waiting time. The use of single-rider lines can definitely be used for your benefit!
Which rides feature a single rider option at Epcot?
At Epcot, be sure to take advantage of the single-rider line at Test Track. This popular attraction where guests build their own car can also build up quite a line! You design your own car using a computer system and then test it out in your vehicle.
Test Track features cars with two rows of 3, for a total of 6 in each car. The only downside to using the single rider line on Test Track is you won’t go through the design process for the different vehicles. The cue for the Test Track single rider line skips the building experience to get you to the front of the line. If you have ridden Test Track dozens of times, this may not be a big deal to you but if it is your first time, missing interactive queues like this one may be a disappointment. Keep that in mind on your next Disney vacation.
Which rides feature single-rider lines at Animal Kingdom?
Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers a single-rider line at the fantastic Expedition Everest. This is one of my favorites and has always been a part of my Walt Disney World vacation! I love the theming of this ride featuring Mount Everest and the legend of the Forbidden Mountain. One thing you will miss out on in the single rider line is some of the fantastic theming and decoration that is part of the queue. Again, if you have been to Disney before, this may be less important to you than getting to the front of the line quickly.
Which rides feature single-rider lines at Hollywood Studios?
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you will find a single-rider line at two rides. In Galaxy’s Edge, you will find a single rider line at Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run. Again, you will not get the full experience as you skip the theming of the line. Also, you will not be able to choose your role in the loading area. Most likely, you will receive the role of “engineer” in Smugglers Run. However, if you want to skip a long wait, the single-rider line at Smuggler’s Run is the way to go!
Another single rider line option in Hollywood Studios is Rock ‘n Roller Coaster. This fantastic roller coaster starring Aerosmith allows you to ride in a stretch limo with the rockers on the way to the next concert. Aerosmith music blares in your ears the whole time! You won’t miss much in the queue if you opt for the single seats- just ask a cast member if it will save you a lot of time during your visit. Single rider lines at Walt Disney World can cut off some of the line theming, but it can be worth it!
Are there single-rider lines at the Magic Kingdom?
Unfortunately, there are no current single-rider line options in the Magic Kingdom. It would be nice to have one at popular attractions like Space Mountain, Splash Moutain, or Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Your best bet to skip the lines in these areas is to purchase Disney Genie + or an individual Lightning Lane.
Are there drawbacks to using the single-rider lines?
The only drawback to using the single-rider lines is that you may miss out on some interactive elements and themes in some of the ride queues. If your time Is more valuable than seeing those things, or if you travel to Disney frequently, the single-rider option may still be your best option.
Can I take other family or friends with me in the single-rider lines?
You can take family and friends with you into the single rider line. You just need to know that you may be placed with another group of people and you may not ride at the exact same time. My best advice is just to agree on a meeting location after the ride, in case you are separated. Single rider lines at Walt Disney World have lots of advantages that may outweigh being separated in line.
Are there other ways to lessen my wait times at Disney World?
The best advice I have for getting through the lines at Disney World is to purchase Disney Genie + and Individual Lightning Lanes. This is particularly true at Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. If you want to avoid spending more money, get to the parks early before the main entrance even opens. Knock out some of the headliner attractions early. Take a break in the afternoon and head back for the nighttime spectaculars.
Always check news from the Walt Disney Company to see if any single rider lines at Walt Disney World are being added. Keep reading for more great ideas on planning your best vacation to Disney. Be sure to sign up for my free Disney packing list! Have a magical vacation!
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