VIP early entry typically refers to allowing VIP guests into an event or venue before general admission. This allows VIPs to avoid lines and crowds and have early access to the venue. There are a few key things to know about VIP early entry:
Who Gets VIP Early Entry
VIP early entry is offered to select guests who have special status, connections, or have purchased premium tickets or packages. This may include:
- Celebrities, athletes, or performers
- High-roller customers at casinos or hotels
- Holders of backstage passes at concerts
- Guests who purchased VIP tickets or packages
- Guests with connections to event organizers or venue owners
Offering VIP early entry is a way for venues and events to provide added value to important guests. It makes them feel special and gives them a more exclusive experience.
When VIP Early Entry Happens
VIP early entry usually occurs in a designated window before general doors open to the public. For example:
- At a concert, VIPs may get access 1-2 hours before the public is let in.
- At theme parks, VIPs can enter 30-60 minutes before regular operating hours.
- At casinos, special guests may have 24/7 access while others wait until the official opening time.
The early entry window provides VIPs enough time to get in and enjoy the venue before crowds accumulate. The timing is set by the event or venue based on factors like staffing, security, and layout.
Where VIP Early Entry is Offered
Many different types of venues offer VIP early entry experiences:
- Sporting events – enter to watch warmups from premium seats
- Concerts – first access to secure a spot near the stage
- Amusement parks – shorter wait times for rides
- Museums – tour exhibits before public hours
- Movie theaters – reserve the best seats
- Casinos – bypass lines to start gambling
- Clubs – skip entry queues and get first pick of tables
The early entry perk allows VIPs to maximize their experience at these venues. It also builds excitement and exclusivity around the brand.
Why VIP Early Entry is Offered
There are several reasons venues offer VIP early entry:
- Customer appreciation – Makes VIPs feel valued with exclusive access
- Drive sales – Early entry is used to upsell premium tickets and packages
- Reduce wait times – VIPs don’t get stuck waiting in long lines to enter
- Enhance experience – Gives VIPs the best experience possible at the venue
- Brand building – Generates buzz and status for the venue
Granting early entry also helps venues manage crowds by staggering guest arrival times. It’s a win-win for both VIP guests and the venues.
How to Get VIP Early Entry Access
There are a few main ways to get access to VIP early entry at an event or venue:
- Purchase VIP tickets or packages – Many tickets have early entry included, or it can be added on for an upgrade fee.
- Get guest listed – Venues can pre-approve your name for early entry on their guest list.
- Book a VIP experience – Some venues sell special experiences with early entry included.
- Join a membership program – Memberships may provide early entry as a membership benefit.
- Have VIP connections – If you know the right people you may be able to get on the early entry list.
If early entry matters, it’s best to inquire about VIP options when purchasing tickets. For high-demand events, it’s wise to plan ahead and buy early to ensure access.
Benefits of VIP Early Entry
There are several advantages VIP guests enjoy with early entry access:
- Skip long lines and crowds
- First selection of the best available seats/spots
- More convenient entry through expedited security and check-in
- Earlier access to amenities like VIP lounges or bars
- More time to settle in and get oriented before the masses arrive
- A chance to meet performers, athletes, or characters before others
- Feelings of exclusivity, status, and superior experience
Having early entry can greatly enhance enjoyment of the event and make it more convenient and comfortable.
Disadvantages of VIP Early Entry
While early access has many advantages, there are some potential downsides to consider as well:
- It may cost more for early entry tickets/packages
- VIPs miss out on the energy and spectacle of crowds arriving
- Some attractions may not be operating yet during early entry
- Food and beverage choices may be limited initially
- The venue may feel empty at first before crowds arrive
- Staff may still be getting ready and service might be slower
However, for most VIPs the benefits outweigh the downsides. As long as expectations are properly set, early entry provides a superior experience.
Early Entry Etiquette
There is some basic etiquette VIPs should follow when utilizing early entry privileges:
- Arrive on time during the designated early entry window.
- Be patient with staff who are getting ready for opening.
- Don’t hog equipment or resources since crowds are coming.
- Be respectful not to flaunt your VIP status to regular guests.
- Tip generously for early service from staff.
- Thank venue representatives for the early entry opportunity.
Following etiquette ensures VIPs don’t abuse the privilege and staff feels appreciated for accommodating them.
VIP Early Entry vs. General Admission
| Factor | VIP Early Entry | General Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Entry time | Enter 30-90 minutes early | Standard entry time |
| Lines | No lines | Long waiting lines |
| Crowds | No crowds initially | Large crowds |
| Seating/Positions | First pick of best spots | Remaining open spots |
| Perks | VIP lounge access, free amenities | Standard experience |
| Cost | Higher ticket prices usually | Regular admission price |
VIP early entry provides a much more convenient, comfortable, and exclusive experience compared to general admission.
Types of Venues that Offer Early Entry
Many venues across different industries offer some form of VIP early entry. Some of the most common include:
Sporting Events
- Pro and college stadiums
- Motor speedways
- Golf tournaments
- Marathons
Concerts & Theater
- Arenas
- Amphitheaters
- Music festivals
- Theaters
Theme Parks
- Disney parks
- Universal Studios
- Six Flags
- SeaWorld
Attractions
- Museums
- Zoos
- Aquariums
- Observation decks
Hospitality
- Casinos
- Cruise ships
- Resorts
- Hotels
Any venue that draws crowds can benefit from offering VIP early entry as part of the experience.
Famous Examples of VIP Early Entry
There are many famous examples of VIP early entry at iconic venues and events:
- Disneyland – Offers 1 hour early entry for on-site hotel guests and holders of certain annual passes to ride popular attractions first.
- Wimbledon – The famed tennis tournament has a special queue allowing members earlier access to the grounds.
- U.S. Open – Lore Lounge at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center opens early for VIPs before matches start.
- Coachella – Big-spender festivalgoers can access the sites via safari tent or helicopter before general crowds arrive.
- Super Bowl – VIPs enter stadiums hours early to enjoy pre-game hospitality and watch warmups from the sidelines.
- Oscars – A-list celebs and nominees get settled on the red carpet well before telecast time.
These examples showcase how early entry is used to enhance experiences at the world’s top events.
How Early Entry Works at Theme Parks
Theme parks have extensive VIP early entry programs that enhance the guest experience:
- Hotel guests get access to rides 30-60 minutes before park opens
- VIP tours let guests into lands or queues before anyone else
- Special queue lines bypass regular lines during early entry
- Annual passholder early entry days are scheduled periodically
- Upcharged early rider options allow purchasing earlier access
This staggered entry prevents overcrowding and allows hotels and parks to charge more for early access privileges.
The Value of VIP Treatment
Why do people pay more for VIP treatment like early entry? There are several psychological benefits:
- Feelings of status and prestige
- Exclusivity compared to the general public
- Peace of mind avoiding lines and hassles
- Knowing you have the best seat or spot
- Relaxed pace to enjoy amenities before crowds
- Personalized service and attention to detail
- Superior comfort and amenities
For some, the intangible benefits of VIP treatment outweigh the higher cost. Businesses capitalize on this demand.
Economics of VIP Early Entry
Charging for VIP early entry makes good business sense:
- Captures additional revenue from fans willing to pay more
- Increases per caps and spending if early access includes amenities
- Allows tiered pricing and upselling opportunities
- Rewards loyal customers willing to buy annual passes
- Drives increased hotel bookings for properties with early entry
- Greater ability to yield manage pricing for high demand dates
Despite some operational challenges, the economics of early entry packages and programs is quite favorable.
Legalities of VIP Early Entry
When offering VIP early entry, there are some legal considerations:
- Americans with Disabilities Act compliance for accommodations
- Local occupancy limits and fire marshal approvals
- Insurance coverage for incidents during early entry periods
- Responsible service of alcohol policies if service starts early
- Age limit enforcement at venues where entry is restricted
- Trademark controls on third-party ticket resales touting early entry
Venues must ensure early entry aligns with all existing laws, regulations, licenses, and insurance policies.
Conclusion
In summary, VIP early entry is a special perk granting select guests access to a venue before general crowds. It provides an exclusive, convenient experience that makes VIPs feel valued. Venues offer early entry to attract premium customers and enhance their satisfaction. This primer covers who gets early access, when it occurs, reasons it is offered, and how it benefits both guests and host venues. If you ever have the chance to enjoy VIP early entry through work, pleasure or luxury spending, take advantage of the unique experience it provides.
