Hi there, Brittany!
I am so happy to hEAR that you are planning your very first visit to Walt Disney World Resort!
Any Disney World veteran will tell you that you will experience the shortest lines first thing in the morning, especially if you are one of the very first people to enter the park. This is where the term "rope drop" comes in. In most parks, an actual rope is set up after you enter the theme parks but before you arrive at the attractions. Once the theme park opens, this rope will literally drop, and the Cast Members will calmly escort you to the most popular attractions. No running here, folks!
To be the very first in line, I like to arrive at the parks about an hour early. Parks like the Magic Kingdom open around then to allow guests to grab a coffee at the
Main Street Bakery and browse the
Emporium before they start their day. At other parks, like Disney's Animal Kingdom, I like to bring a snack to eat while I wait.
If you are staying on-site at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you will get to experience the attractions
30 minutes early! Since the 30-minute advanced opening time is only for resort guests, I still think arriving at the parks an hour early will give you plenty of time.
Enjoy your visit, Brittany!
Sarah B.