Crowds before closing?

[ask!]

What are the lines for the rides like an hour before closing (Non-EMH)? Are most people waiting for the fireworks/parades? Are the lines for the major attractions shorter? I am going in August (first time in over 11 years) and I am trying to come up with a plan that will minimize standing in line...I guess that is what we all want...maybe I'll be very lucky and one of my million dreams will be granted...one of those FP lanyards!

We love thrill rides and they are on our "must-do" list....

MK

Space Mountian
Buzz Lightyear
Pirates of Caribbean (sp?)
Splash Mountain
KBTMR


Epcot

Soarin'
Test Track
Mission: SPACE


MGM

Rock and Roll rollercoaster
Tower of Terror
Star Tours


and of course, EE at AK

Did I miss anthing in the thrills, E-ticket rides?
We are going in August 7-12, I know it is a crowded hot time, so I am taking the planning seriously.....I am not so much interested in seeing everything but rather enjoying being there with all the Disney magic.....oh, I am getting excited just thinking about it!

Thanks, ask!

 

[MattyFresh]

the lines do thin down because of parades and fireworks as you mentioned. But at that time of the year, I don't think it is going to be a dramatic decrease, because you like everyone else are going to be planning to hit the more popular rides. This will be the best time to do it, but the lines are still going to be somewhat long. I would keep in mind what parks are doing EMH and hit the park that had EMH the day before. That also kinda helps croud control. But I would be sure to stay away from the parks that have EMH the day you are going to be there.

 

[HollyBelle]

Nothing beats Splash Mountain at night during wishes! It's great to come around the top (before the first minor drop back into the mtn) and see the fireworks over the castle. Also, we've found the lines to be shorter at this time.

And like already mentioned... if you aren't partaking in the extra magic hours, then the crowds will be worse nearing the usual park close time.

 

[erasure fan1]

When we go in Aug. the lines do thin a bit at the parade/firework time but its not that big of a drop. Last year the lines for splash, thunder and space all averaged just over 35min or so. If I am going to stand in line because I dont have a fastpass this is the time I will do it.