Hi Julie!
Welcome to planDisney. I'm happy to help as you prepare for a magical and delicious visit to Walt Disney World Resort.
Early Theme Park Entry is reserved for Disney Resort Collection Hotel guests and offers an additional 30 minutes to enjoy select attractions in the parks. You'll need to have your
MagicBand+ scanned or show an eligible resort reservation in your My Disney Experience Mobile App to access the areas available during this 30-minute window. But that doesn't mean you can't take advantage of early morning dining availability as an off-site guest. Though you won't get to take a pre-park opening ride on your favorite attractions without an eligible resort stay, you should still be able to get to your advance dining reservation. Let's discuss the details.
First and foremost, you'll need valid admission and a
theme park reservation (when applicable) to enjoy in-park dining regardless of your reservation time. If you happen to secure a reservation before the official park opening you'll just need to follow signage to the appropriate check-in location. Each park typically has a designated line for guests with early morning dining or
Enchanting Extras Collection reservations. Have your confirmation details available and follow the signage or ask a Cast Member for assistance to navigate to the correct area. Since you'll be staying off-site and not utilizing complimentary transportation to the parks you'll want to allow plenty of time for travel, parking and security.
I always love getting to
Magic Kingdom Park bright and early because guests are usually allowed to explore the stores along Main Street, U.S.A., and walk to Cinderella Castle for some photos even before Early Entry officially begins. So even if you can't secure an early morning dining reservation you'll likely still get to soak up that magical atmosphere before the parks officially welcome guests for the day. Keep in mind that park hours are subject to change. Be sure to check the latest details right before your visit as you may find that opening and closing hours have shifted for your travel dates.
I hope this helps you plan a most magical adventure, Julie. Please come back and let me know if I can answer any other questions!
Magic and memories,
Amy