Hiya Amanda,
Welcome to planDisney! We are honored to have you here, and thank you for your service to this country. As the proud daughter of two military veterans, it is always my pleasure to assist our military Guests!
Great question, by the way; nothing throws off a plan quite like waiting in a line you weren’t prepared for. You mentioned you were getting in late, but if you are arriving before 11:30 PM EST, then I would recommend heading to the
Disney Ticket Center at Disney Springs. There you can activate your tickets before you head to
Magic Kingdom and avoid the lines altogether. If you are not arriving until after 11:30 PM, then I would prioritize activating your theme park tickets at the Transportation and Ticket Center. In my experience, those lines are generally a little shorter than the ones at the main Magic Kingdom gate. But the bonus is, if you get to the Transportation and Ticket Center and the lines look too long, then you can always ride the monorail or ferry over to Magic Kingdom and activate your tickets there! Either way, I recommend getting to the Transportation and Ticket Center as soon as it opens, generally 1-2 hours before Magic Kingdom opens for
Early Theme Park Entry, so you can increase your chances of getting in before the park opens.
I hope this was helpful, Amanda, and that you are able to kick off your magical vacation as intended. Magic Kingdom is extra special during the holidays, and we love all the fall decorations. Be sure to head to the Storybook Circus area in Fantasyland. I know the Mickey Pumpkins on Main Street, U.S.A. are iconic, but the adorable Dumbo-themed ones are a must-see. If you need anything else, please come back and see us.
Happy Planning,
Ashley F.