Different Queue Experiences (Standby vs. Express vs. Single Rider)

[AB2020]

I couldn't really find reliable and consistent information on this so I thought I'd start a thread. Epic features some of the best queues of the resort, but currently also some of the longest average wait times. So I am sure many are looking for ways to avoid long waits which primarily include buying express or doing single rider. However, some of it might come at the expense of missing major parts of the queue.

So I guess my main motivation of this thread is to collect and get more information on what you miss when you do Express, and what you miss when you do single rider for each attraction. Primarily I am wondering what is missed in terms of pre-shows, or notable scenes of the queue.

Also, for a more subjective question, are there any rides where the main queue adds significantly more to the ride compared to express or single rider and would warrant a longer wait?

 

[Frank Drackman]

I know Monsters' single rider skips both pre-shows.

I believe one should see both pre shows for unchained for their first ride through so (to me) waiting in the longer queue for a first time rider would be worth it.

 

[Mad Dog]

I know Monsters' single rider skips both pre-shows.

I believe one should see both pre shows for unchained for their first ride through so (to me) waiting in the longer queue for a first time rider would be worth it.

Yes, especially since the Monster lines are so short anyway. Generally, its just the time it takes you to walk through the
very long queue. Pre shows are don't miss level.

 

[Eckert]

The good news is the three rides with the most impressive queues (Mario Kart, Ministry, Monsters) share the space with both Express and Standby, meaning you'll get to see almost everything in them regardless of what line you use.

Express at Ministry only misses the Auror locker rooms, which have Harry, Ron and Neville's lockers with some personal items.

 

[DOOMBOT]

Unchained has a specific small room exclusive to the express queue towards the front of the manor.

Yoshi has essentially no major differences in experience, outside of the Egg Block which is exclusive to the standard queue and connects to a number of Power-Up Band stamp achievements. Both queues have access to a basket of apples, and both give the exact same stamp.

I haven't been in the DK Express queue but there is a Band stamp that requires a person waiting in both Standard and Express to tap to activate. Both lines see Cranky Kong. From what I can recall, Express skips by the majority of the temple queue, meaning also skipping the stamps and visual theming in there too like the Golden Monkey statues and Pikmin mural. It isn't much, but it's something.

Hiccups is largely the same experience for both standard and Express. Most all of the theming is littered around the exterior queue and visible to everyone.

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Here's a question for this thread. Does anyone have any idea on if there is a consistent pattern between Standard and Express merge point ratios park-wide? I haven't been able to clock any myself.