Colorful exterior of it's a small world with geometric shapes, gold accents, and toy soldiers.
  • On May 15, 2026
    Timothy from UT Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    If the park opens at 8am, when does security open? Also, what is the earliest time cast members start letting guests through the "turnstiles"?

    Hi there, Timothy! Welcome to planDisney. As the saying goes, “The early bird gets the worm” or in this case, the quickest onto your favorite attractions! We rope drop with a toddler due to being early risers, and I’d love to share how it typically goes for my family!

    Looking back at my photo timestamps from my most recent trip, we got in line for Disneyland around 7:24 AM and by 7:34 AM, we were already strolling past the Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor! In my experience, I find that Cast Members begin letting Guests into the park about 30 to 45 minutes prior to the 8:00 AM rope drop.

    On this particular visit, we actually didn’t rope drop attractions. Instead, we headed straight for our annual Christmas ornament at Plaza Point right by Plaza Inn. It’s one of my family’s favorite Disneyland traditions! During one visit each holiday season, we create a personalized ornament to hang on our tree. We’ve had one every year since our first married Christmas, and we’ve continued adding to the collection as the years have gone by. The personalization is my favorite part! If you’re interested in this sweet keepsake, I definitely recommend going first thing. I was in and out in less than 10 minutes while my husband had a little dance party with our toddler just outside the Baby Care Center.

    Timothy, thank you so much for visiting planDisney. I hope this information was helpful as you map out your rope drop plans for the parks! If you have any other questions or need ideas for the perfect rope drop strategy, planDisney is here to help!

    With a Sprinkle of Pixie Dust,

    Bev
thumbnail image for Bev

Meet the Panelist: Bev, Nevada

Hi there! My name is Beverly, but you can call me Bev. I’m a wife, teacher, and mother to a sweet little boy. Disney has been woven into every season of my life; from childhood trips to Disneyland to splashing in the waters of Castaway Cay with my family as an adult. No matter what season you’re in, I’m happy to help you plan a Disney vacation that feels just right for you!
Learn More About Bev

Related Video

  • thumbnail image for Plan The Perfect Day at Disney California Adventure

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please log in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.