Welcome to planDisney, Bruce!
I am happy to help you with your rope-drop plan! As a die-hard rope-dropper myself, I know that being among the first Guests to enter the parks allows me to experience several attractions with low wait times. As a bonus, I can then enjoy the relatively cooler morning in the park before heading out to enjoy time by the pool at my resort during the warmer afternoon hours.
Guests are admitted to
Magic Kingdom Park up to an hour prior to the
scheduled park opening time so they can make their way up Main Street, U.S.A. to enjoy the welcome ceremony, "
Let the Magic Begin". Arriving early is also a great way to capture photos in front of
Cinderella Castle.
Disney PhotoPass photographers will be out and about, and some shops will be open as well. Cast Members will be stationed near the central hub to verify eligibility for access to Tomorrowland and Fantasyland for
Early Theme Park Entry. Guests staying at
Disney Resorts Collection hotels and other select hotels may enjoy attractions in these areas 30 minutes prior to the park opening to the general public.
To be among the first Guests to enter the park, I would plan to be at your resort's
bus stop about 45 minutes to an hour prior to the first Guest entry. On a day when Magic Kingdom Park opens at 9:00 am, Guests will be admitted beginning around 8:00 am, so I would plan to be at the bus stop between 7:00 and 7:15. This should give you enough time in case you need to wait for a bus and to go through security screening so you can be toward the front of the line for the tapstyles.
I hope that helps! I will wish you luck on your rope-drop quest. Have a wonderful visit!
Anne Marie