Hi Dawn,
I think there are wonderful things about having an early dining reservation in a park AND there are wonderful things about rope drop.
With an early dining reservation, I love the feeling of entering a nearly empty park. It's always a treat to get a family photo in front of the park icons without thousands of other guests sharing the moment. Plus you have the added bonus of a great meal with fun characters to start your day.
My favorite thing about rope drop at the Magic Kingdom is the
Magic Kingdom Welcome Show. Starting the day with an official opening celebration add a festive beginning to your day. The fantastic benefit is being able to ride a few of your favorite attractions before the crowds become heavier.
I will admit that as my children get older it is harder and harder to convince them to wake up early for rope drop. They will, but not every day so I have to choose wisely!
If I
had to choose between the early dining reservation and rope drop, I would choose the dining reservation at least once. Perhaps you can talk your family into rope drop on another day!
Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question!
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Amy H.