Disney World is a place where magic and excitement abound, but the thrill of the adventure can be hindered by long queues and wait times. The FastPass+ system was designed to help mitigate this issue, allowing guests to skip the long lines and get straight to the fun. However, the FastPass+ system has been replaced by Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, which function similarly but with a few key differences.
When you can make FastPass reservations at Disney World depends on your accommodation. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you can make reservations up to 60 days in advance of your check-in date for the entire length of your stay (up to 14 days). If you’re staying off-site, you can make reservations up to 30 days in advance of each day of your theme park visit. These reservations are now made through the Disney Genie+ service and Lightning Lane selections, as the FastPass system has been replaced.
What is Disney’s Fastpass System?
The FastPass system was a tool that allowed guests to reserve access to select attractions, entertainment and more. Guests would select a one-hour window to enjoy certain attractions, effectively bypassing the regular standby lines. However, Disney has replaced the FastPass system with the Disney Genie and Genie+ services, along with the Individual Lightning Lane selections for select attractions.
How Does the New System Work?
The new system consists of two main components: 1. Lightning Lane: This is a paid service that allows guests to reserve access to select attractions and experiences, bypassing the regular standby lines. 2. Genie+: This is a paid service that provides priority access to a selection of attractions at Disney World.
To use these services, guests need to download the My Disney Experience app and link their park tickets to the app. They can then purchase the Genie+ service and make reservations for the Lightning Lane attractions. Once the reservation time arrives, guests can enter the Lightning Lane at the selected attraction and enjoy a shorter wait time.
When Can You Make Reservations?
The timing of when you can make your FastPass reservations largely depends on where you are staying. Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel can make FastPass+ reservations up to 60 days in advance of their check-in date for their entire length of stay (up to 14 days). Guests staying off-site can make reservations up to 30 days in advance of each day of their theme park visit.
Can Reservations Be Changed or Cancelled?
Yes, FastPass reservations can be changed or cancelled once they are made. At Walt Disney World Resort, you can change or cancel your FastPass+ reservations using the My Disney Experience app or at a FastPass kiosk. However, you can only change the time of your FastPass if there are other times still available.
Tips for Making Fastpass Reservations
To secure the most desired attractions using Fastpass reservations, follow these tips and strategies:
- Book your Fastpasses early: Guests staying at an on-site hotel within Disney World can make FastPass reservations up to 60 days before their vacation, while off-site guests can make them up to 30 days prior.
- Schedule FastPass ride times for early in the day: This allows you to use your initial FastPasses quickly and then book additional ones throughout the day.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: This app allows you to modify your FastPass selections and make new ones while in the park.
- Be persistent and flexible: Keep checking for availability and be ready to modify your reservations if better options become available.
- Prioritize popular attractions: Focus on securing FastPass reservations for the most popular attractions, as these tend to have the longest wait times.
Conclusion
While the FastPass+ system has been replaced by Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, the strategy for maximizing your time at Disney parks remains the same. By planning ahead, prioritizing popular attractions, and being flexible, you can make the most of your Disney World adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Genie+ and Lightning Lane services?
As of now, the Genie+ service costs $15 per ticket per day at Walt Disney World. Lightning Lane prices vary based on the attraction and the day, ranging from $7 to $15 per person per ride at Walt Disney World.
Are all attractions available with the Genie+ and Lightning Lane services?
Not all attractions are available with the Genie+ service. Disney has selected a list of attractions for each park that are included in the Genie+ service. Lightning Lane selections are available for most popular attractions and shows, but availability may vary.
Can I use the Genie+ and Lightning Lane services without the My Disney Experience app?
No, you need to use the My Disney Experience app to access the Genie+ and Lightning Lane services. The app allows you to purchase the services, make reservations, and manage your plans throughout the day.
Can I make reservations for multiple parks in a single day with Genie+ and Lightning Lane?
Yes, you can make reservations for multiple parks in a single day if you have the Park Hopper option on your ticket. However, you can only make your initial Genie+ selections at one park per day. Once you have used your initial selections, you can make additional selections at other parks.
Can I make reservations for the same attraction multiple times in a day with Genie+ and Lightning Lane?
No, you can only make one reservation at a time for each attraction with Genie+ and Lightning Lane. Once you have used your reservation, you may be able to make another reservation for the same attraction if availability allows.
