What time do gates open?

[Buzz Lightyear]

Now that we do not have EE days, I was just wondering if the gates open at the exact park opening or do they open a little earlier? I want to try to be there to get in as early as possible. Maybe a CM could answer this for me. We are leaving tomorrow and was trying to plan out our days. Thanks for your help.

 

[ToTBellHop]

sometimes they open fifteen minutes before park opening...I know epcot did this one of our days, but the only thing that was open was Spaceship Earth, with everything else roped off until 10...but, it's always good to show up maybe a half hour early, so you can get your bags all checked and get right into the park when they DO open.

 

[Pioneer Hall]

Even if the gate doesn't open earlier the security screenings will begin a little earlier than the scheduled opening time.

 

[SJTSmith]

The gates normally open around 15 mins early. But normally none of the rides open early. The shops are open early. If you get there early you can get through security with out a headache which is nice.

 

[ToTBellHop]

oh yes...the stores are ALWAYS open! And have no fear...if you don't get all of the merchandise you want during the day, they keep the shops open a full one hour after park closing to serve your need for expensive t-shirts! Gotta love Disney!