The term 'rope drop' refers to the opening of a park at the beginning of each day, allowing members of the general public into the park. At Disney parks, there are actually two "rope drops":

1. when they allow you into the park (this is preceded by a small opening ceremony at Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, see below) and then
2. into the "lands" of the parks.

Before the park opens, you are allowed to go into the park up to a certain location. In the Magic Kingdom this location is at the tunnels under the Train Station. At Epcot, it's after you get past Innoventions to across from Mousegears. In Hollywood Studios near the Sunset Blvd intersection and in the Animal Kingdom at the bridge as you first view the Tree of Life. Only the Magic Kingdom and the Animal kingdom have 'ceremonies' (or small shows) at the Rope Drop. Opening Ceremonies take place about 15 minutes before actual park opening time.

Then, at actual opening time, the second "rope drop" occurs and you head directly for the attractions in whatever section of the park you are going to first.

Magic Kingdom Rope Drop Ceremony (February 2011)


Animal Kingdom Rope Drop Ceremony (July 2010)