Overview
- Reporters who visited on Thursday, July 16, 2026, observed the new flow where guests clear security just after 7:00 a.m., tappoints open at about 7:15 a.m., Early Entry access begins near 7:30 a.m., and the park opens to all at 8:00 a.m.
- All pre‑opening waiting is now on Discovery Island instead of inside the narrow Oasis, giving guests room to spread out before rope drop.
- Disney has placed three credential checkpoints on Discovery Island that lead toward Pandora, Asia/Africa, and the former DinoLand U.S.A.; Cast Members check Early Entry resort credentials and wave eligible guests through while non‑resort guests are held until official opening.
- Shops and dining on Discovery Island remain closed before the official opening, with PhotoPass photographers at the Tree of Life the main operational exception.
- Cast Members tell reporters the procedure is a test and may change day to day even though some outlets called the move permanent, and visible pavement work at the entrance plus the planned Tropical Americas land expected in 2027 could alter morning routing further so guests should check the My Disney Experience app for day‑of details.