Rope drop is a term used at Disney World to describe the time when a theme park or part of a theme park opens for the day. Historically, when a Walt Disney World theme park is closed, Disney often used ropes stretched across the entrance to prevent guests from coming in; thus, when the park is opened the rope is "dropped". Being at the park for its opening is a critical step in many touring plans, and being aware of the way rope drop works gives you an edge. Today, an actual rope is sometimes, but not always, part of this process. And when the park (or part of the park) is opened, the rope may not be physically dropped. Rather, the rope is often slowly pulled aside a few moments before people are allowed to pass, with guests being asked to remain where they are until an appointed time.

The goal of rope drop is to be at the front of the crowds when it is time for rope drop. All the parks open in multiple parts, with Early Theme Park Entry participants gaining access to the attractions first, followed by offsite guests. If you arrive early enough at the park, you can position yourself at the rope closest to the attraction you want to experience first, which will put you ahead of the many guests who dont show up early for rope drop.

Rope drop can make or break your day at Disney World, as arriving before rope drop is hands-down one of the best things you can do to maximize your mornings at Disney World. However, it is not necessary to rope drop every day.