Let’s Get In Line

Your Ultimate Guide to Single Rider Lines at Disney World

Getting ready to head to Disney World? Looking to find out if single rider lines at Disney World are right for you? Here’s your guide to everything you need to on single rider lines!

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Hello, Disney vacationers! If you’re looking to maximize your park time at Walt Disney World, you’ve stumbled upon a gem of a strategy: the single rider line. This guide isn’t just about telling you what it is; it’s about diving deep into the hows, whys, and wherefores. Buckle up for a comprehensive journey into the world of single rider lines at Disney World, where we’ll leave no stone unturned and no ride unmentioned.

Single Rider Lines at Disney

What are Single Rider Lines?

At its core, a single rider line is a savvy shortcut for guests willing to ride alone, allowing them to fill empty seats that might otherwise go unused. This not only maximizes the ride’s capacity but also significantly cuts down your wait time. Imagine sliding into a seat that’s just waiting for you, bypassing the longer lines of groups and families. It’s like having a Genie+ for those of us who are solo or simply in a rush.

Timing is Everything

Opening and Closing Times

While these lines are a fantastic, they’re not a 24/7 solution. They typically open after the park has been running for a bit and close before the final curtain. This scheduling means that at the very start and end of the day, when wait times plummet across the board, the single rider line might either be closed or unnecessary. However, during those peak hours, it can be a real game-changer.

Navigating the Wait Times

Single rider wait times can be a bit of a mystery box. Posted times might not always be accurate, often showing a variance of 25% to 50%. When in doubt, a good rule of thumb is to expect about a third of the wait time of the regular line. This isn’t an exact science, but it’s a handy guideline for planning your park conquests. The one attraction where the single rider line can be close to the actually real time is Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.

Single Rider Lines at Disney
Finding Your Way

Locating single rider lines at Disney World is a breeze!

Pro’s and Con’s

Let’s Break it Down

Pros of Single Rider Lines

  • Reduced Wait Times: The most significant advantage is the potential for drastically shorter waits compared to the standard queues. This means you can experience more attractions in less time, optimizing your day at the parks.
  • Efficiency: Single rider lines help fill every seat on a ride, making ride operations more efficient. This not only benefits you but also helps the park manage crowds better.
  • Solo Traveler Friendly: For guests visiting the parks alone, single rider lines offer a way to enjoy the rides without the need for a group, making solo trips more enjoyable and efficient.
  • Adventure on Repeat: If you’re looking to ride your favorite attractions multiple times, single rider lines can be a strategic way to fit in extra rides without consuming too much of your day.

Cons of Single Rider Lines

  • Group Separation: The most obvious downside is that groups will be split up. If riding together and sharing the experience is important to you, single rider lines might not be the best choice.
  • Missed Queue Experiences: Many Disney queues are part of the attraction’s storytelling experience. Single rider lines often bypass most of the themed queue, meaning you might miss out on immersive elements and pre-ride entertainment.
  • Limited Role Selection: On attractions like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, single riders are frequently assigned the role of Engineer, which may not be as interactive or desirable as the Pilot role. This can slightly alter the ride experience.
  • Uncertain Wait Times: While single rider lines are generally faster, the wait times can be unpredictable and sometimes longer than expected, especially on rides where the single rider line is popular.
  • No Genie+ or Lightning Lane Integration: Single rider lines operate independently of Disney’s Genie+ or Lightning Lane services, meaning you can’t use them in conjunction to further reduce your wait times.
  • Not Available on All Attractions: Single rider lines are only available on a select few attractions across the Disney World parks, limiting their usefulness depending on your ride preferences and park itinerary.

A Closer Look at Single Rider Attractions

The Fabulous Four (Plus Two)

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

  • Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • Entrance: The single rider line breaks to the left when you enter Smugglers Run.

You’ll skip most of the queue, including the iconic Millennium Falcon and Hondo’s repair bay. Single riders often get the engineer role, which, while considered the least desirable by some, offers its own unique experience. I recommended to do this at least once using the regular line or Lightning to get the full experience

Single Rider Lines at Disney

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

  • Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • Entrance: The single rider line is just to the right of the regular entrance and Lightning Lane. There will be a sign above the queue entrance

The single rider experience is similar to the standard queue, but anecdotally, the wait can sometimes feel longer than expected, often being a significant fraction of the standby wait.

Single Rider Lines at Disney

Expedition Everest

  • Location: Disney’s Animal Kingdom
  • Entrance: This single rider line is quite separate from the regular queue (look towards the right when facing the main entrance). Just look for the sign on the corner to the left of the entrance of Serka Zong Bazaar.

The single rider line bypasses much of the thematic queue, including the Yeti Museum. It’s a separate path that offers a quicker route to the thrills.

Single Rider Lines at Disney

Test Track

  • Location: EPCOT
  • Entrance: The single rider line is clearly marked as you approach the entrance to Test Track. It’s to the left of the entryway along with the Lightning Lane.

You’ll miss the design phase of the car, a highlight for many. However, you can still engage with this feature at the design stations located at the ride’s exit before joining the single rider line.

Single Rider Lines at Disney

Sorta Single Rider Lines

Go Things to Know

Single Rider Lines at Disney

Space Mountain

Location: Magic Kingdom

Entrance: The sorta single rider line begins where the regular queue splits into two lines. There will be a cast member here, just mention you’re a single rider and they will direct you where to go.

Single Rider Lines at Disney

Soarin’

Location: EPCOT

Entrance: This ride occasionally offers a single rider line during peak times. It’s less predictable but a nice bonus when available. A cast member will be able to let you know if it’s open.

Prior to joining any of the single rider lines at Disney World with younger riders , make sure they meet the height requirements of the attraction and they’re at least 14 years old to ride by themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions About Single Rider Lines at Disney World

Embarking on your Disney World vacation and curious about the ins and outs of Single Rider lines? My FAQ section is here to clear up any questions, ensuring your visit is as magical and efficient as possible.

Single Rider lines are available at the following attractions:

  • Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios
  • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Hollywood Studios
  • Test Track at Epcot
  • Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom

While Single Rider lines can significantly reduce your wait time, they’re not always faster than the regular lines. The efficiency of these lines can vary based on crowd levels, the time of day, and the specific attraction. Generally, they are a great option for shorter waits, but there are exceptions.

Yes, families and groups can use Single Rider lines, but they should be prepared to be separated. Each member of the group will be used to fill empty seats individually, which means you won’t be sitting together during the ride. All group members must meet the height requirements of the attraction and be at least 14 years old.

Depending on the attraction, you may miss some of the themed queue experiences designed to be part of the overall ride experience. For example, the Single Rider line for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run bypasses much of the detailed queue area, including the Hondo Ohnaka animatronic and the iconic chess room of the Millennium Falcon.

The Single Rider line follows the same height requirements as the regular line for each attraction. There are no additional height requirements specifically for Single Rider lines.

Single Rider lines are clearly marked and usually located near the main entrance of the attraction. Look for signs indicating “Single Rider Line” or ask a Cast Member for directions if you’re unsure.

n most cases, no. Single Rider lines are used to fill empty seats, which means you’ll be assigned wherever there’s an opening. This is particularly notable on rides like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, where Single Riders are often assigned the role of Engineer.

Single Rider line availability during Early Theme Park Entry, Deluxe Evening Hours, or special events can vary. It’s best to check the My Disney Experience app or ask a Cast Member on the day of your visit for the most accurate information.

Single Rider lines are typically added to attractions that frequently have one or two empty seats per ride cycle, making it easier to fill these spots and increase efficiency. Attractions that don’t often have empty seats or where seating arrangements don’t allow for easy filling of single seats may not offer a Single Rider line.

Guests with disabilities or those who require assistance should consult with Guest Relations or speak to a Cast Member at the attraction. Disney World offers various services and accommodations, and the best option will depend on the individual’s specific needs.

Ready, Set, Let’s Ride!

Single rider lines at Disney World are a fantastic strategy for those looking to maximize their time and experience as many rides as possible. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group willing to divide for the ride, these lines can significantly cut down your wait times, giving you more magic in your day. So next time you’re at Disney World, consider the single rider line as your secret weapon for adventure. Happy riding!

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!

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