Hi Makayla!
Thanks for stopping by planDisney! My family has become professional Rider Switch riders over the years because my oldest isn’t a fan of rollercoasters, my middle guy is a big thrill seeker, and my youngest isn’t big enough for any of those rides yet. Of course, my husband and I want to ride everything. So, we have quite the mix going on at the moment!
I’m happy to help break it all down, so you know what to expect with
Rider Switch on your upcoming trip.
First things first, just to set the stage. When using Rider Switch, your party will break up into 2 groups. Group 1 will ride, while Group 2 will wait with the non-riders. Once Group 1 finishes the ride, they’ll wait with the non-riders while Group 2 enjoys the attraction.
The cool part about Rider Switch is that if Group 2 only has one rider, they’ll be able to take one other person with them so they don’t have to ride alone. My thrill-seeker middle son I told you about always loves this perk because that means he gets to ride twice!
Now, let’s add in the Lightning Lanes.
When using Rider Switch
with a
Lightning Lane, everyone riding (who’s 3 years old or older) will need to have a Lightning Lane for that attraction. As long as everyone has a Lightning Lane booked, Group 1 AND Group 2 will both get to go through the Lightning Lane when it’s their turn to ride.
When using Rider Switch
without a Lightning Lane booked for that attraction, Group 1 will wait in the standby queue, and then Group 2 will go through the Lightning Lane.
Whenever you’re ready to use Rider Switch, just head up to the entrance of the queue with your whole party, and let the Cast Member know. They’ll get you all set up!
While I'm waiting with my
non-rider boys, we love to find a nearby play area, grab a snack, or take a bathroom break. Sometimes we've even gone to a nearby attraction with a short wait. Just make sure Group 2 is back and ready to ride once Group 1 is done.
Hope that all made sense! Feel free to come back with any other questions you have!
Jenn J.