Securing Virtual Queues at Disney World: Never Miss a VQ Again!
Disney World’s most popular rides often come with long wait times. To enhance the guest experience, Disney has introduced virtual queues for some of its top attractions. Unlike traditional standby lines, these virtual queues require quick action and a bit of strategy to secure a spot. In this post, we'll guide you through securing virtual queues for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
Why Virtual Queues?
Virtual queues were introduced to manage the overwhelming demand for certain attractions without the need for long, physical wait lines. This system allows guests to enjoy other parts of the park while waiting for their turn, offering a more relaxed experience. The downside? These queues fill up within seconds, leaving many hopefuls without a spot if they’re not fast enough.
Which Rides Use Virtual Queues?
Currently, two of Disney World’s most sought-after attractions use virtual queues (updated 9/17/24)
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure - This immersive ride takes guests on a journey through the bayou with Tiana, bringing the magic of "The Princess and the Frog" to life.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind - Join Star-Lord and the gang in this thrilling, story-driven coaster that combines epic visuals with an adrenaline-pumping ride experience.
For these rides, there is no standby line. If you don’t secure a spot in the virtual queue, you won’t be able to experience the attraction that day unless you opt for an Lightning Lane Single Pass (Guardians) or you get a return time via Lightning Lane Multi Pass (Tiana’s).
Why These Rides?
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind are not just popular; they’re immersive, cutting-edge attractions that offer unique experiences. The high demand, combined with their newer status in the park, makes them ideal candidates for virtual queues. Disney’s goal is to manage the demand in a way that doesn’t result in excessively long wait times, allowing more guests to enjoy the attraction throughout the day.
How Much do Virtual Queues Cost?
Unlike most anything else at Disney, Virtual Queues are free for those with valid park admission!
How to Secure Your Spot: The 7:00 AM Sprint
The most crucial step in securing a virtual queue spot is waking up early. Virtual queues open at 7:00 AM sharp, and all spots are usually gone within seconds. Here’s how to increase your chances:
Set Multiple Alarms: Ensure you’re awake and ready by 6:45 AM. Give yourself a few minutes to fully wake up, open the My Disney Experience app, and get into position.
Prep your Phone: Make sure your Disney app is up to date and linked to your current reservations. Close out all other apps so as to not slow down your phone. DO NOT use Disney Wi-Fi for this as it will slow you down. Use your own mobile data and make sure you are in a spot with good signal.
Confirm your Party Ahead of Time: Starting at 6:00 AM, you can go ahead and confirm your party for the VQ you will be trying to get using the Virtual Queues tile. Click the 3 lines in the bottom right of the app to find it then pick your park, find your ride, and hit “confirm your party.”
Watch the Clock: Timing is everything. Keep an eye on a world clock or your phone’s time display, watching for the moment it hits 6:59:58. This is your cue to start refreshing the virtual queue screen, or start even earlier, if you’d like!
Hit Refresh Continuously: Begin refreshing the virtual queue page in the My Disney Experience app. There is a “refresh” button at the bottom. When virtual queues are open, that “refresh” button will turn into a “join queue” button, so just keep hitting that button without stopping to read for the change. Just keep tapping. You’ll eventually join the queue without even realizing it.
Speed is Key: Once you’re in the virtual queue, submit as quickly as possible. Every second counts, and hesitation could mean missing out.
Take a Screenshot: Once it gives you a boarding group, take a screenshot just to protect yourself in case anything goes wrong in the app. They will let you ride as long as you have proof.
Final Thoughts
Securing a spot in Disney World’s virtual queues requires preparation, timing, and a bit of luck. By following these tips and understanding the process, you’ll maximize your chances of getting into some of the most exciting attractions Disney has to offer. Remember, if you miss out on the virtual queue, you can always try again at the 1:00 PM drop if you’re in the park, or consider purchasing a Lightning Lane Single Pass to guarantee your ride. Happy queuing!
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