Hiya Kenny - welcome to
planDisney!
I'm so glad you stopped by with a question about my favorite attraction at the Walt Disney World Resort -
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at
EPCOT!
While some people might be wondering why you'd want to go through a queue and not ride an attraction, I completely understand, and they would too if they've experienced this unique attraction! The standard queue for this attraction just so happens to wind through the Wonders of Xandar, EPCOT's newest pavilion. You'll start in the Galaxarium before experiencing some unique exhibits showcasing Xandarian culture, often highlighting the many characteristics that both Earth and Xandar share.
Kenny, a Guest will never be forced to ride an attraction, so it shouldn't ever be a problem to experience a queue and opt out of riding once you reach the boarding area. Just inform a Cast Member at the boarding area that some in your party won't be riding.
There is one important thing for you to consider. In your case, I recommend joining the
Virtual Queue instead of purchasing
Individual Lightning Lane access. The Lightning Lane does start in the Galaxarium, but doesn't wind through the other exhibits in the pavilion. I think those in your crew who just want to walk the queue will get to see more if you avoid the Lightning Lane.
That being said, if the Virtual Queue fills before you're able to join, you could purchase Individual Lightning Lane Access for everyone in your crew and simply ask a Cast Member at the entry if you can use the standard queue. They might look at you funny - it is a slightly longer wait after all - but I don't see why they wouldn't permit this. That being said, these Cast Members have ultimate decision-making authority about how Guests experience the pavilion and may require you to use the Lightning Lane.
I hope this information is helpful, Kenny -
stop by any time with more questions for us!Ryan J.