Disney theme parks are renowned for their magical experiences. However, these experiences often come with long queues that can take up a significant amount of your time. To help guests maximize their time in the parks, Disney introduced a system called FastPass, which has now been replaced by Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane. This article offers an in-depth guide on how to upgrade to these new services and make the most out of your Disney trip.
To upgrade to FastPass at Disney, which is now Disney Genie+, download the My Disney Experience app for Walt Disney World or the Disneyland app for Disneyland Resort. Navigate to the “Tickets & Memory Maker” section under the “My Plans” tab and select the option to add Disney Genie+ to your tickets. This service costs $15 per person per day at Disney World and $25 per person per day at Disneyland.
Overview of the New System
FastPass was a virtual queue system that allowed guests to bypass long lines at popular attractions. In 2021, Disney retired the FastPass system and introduced Disney Genie, a new service designed to enhance the guest experience. The Disney Genie service includes Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections, both aimed at reducing wait times for attractions.
The Genie+ service is a paid feature that allows you to access the Lightning Lane for select rides and attractions. It costs $15 per person per day at Disney World and $25 per person per day at Disneyland. On the other hand, Individual Lightning Lane selections are separate from Genie+ and allow access to specific popular rides at an additional cost.
How to Upgrade to Disney Genie+
Upgrading to Disney Genie+ is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:
- Download the My Disney Experience app for Walt Disney World or the Disneyland app for Disneyland Resort.
- Navigate to the “Tickets & Memory Maker” section under the “My Plans” tab.
- Click on the option to add Disney Genie+ to your tickets.
Maximizing Your Disney Experience
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Disney experience:
- Choose your attractions wisely: Decide which attractions you want to prioritize and select them in Disney Genie. This will ensure they show up at the top of your Tip Board, saving you time when trying to book them.
- Plan your day: Use Genie+ in combination with a good rope drop and Early Entry strategy. This can help you get short waits for rides to start your day.
- Act quickly: On busy park days, return times can vary wildly and disappear in a matter of seconds. Stick with the return times that Disney gives you.
- Use Genie+ at the second park you’re headed to: If you’re planning on starting the day in one park and hopping over to another in the afternoon, use Genie+ at the second park you’re headed to since you’re more than likely starting at the first one when crowd levels are at their lowest.
Conclusion
Disney’s new Genie+ and Lightning Lane services provide a more personalized and efficient park experience. Although they come at an additional cost, these services can help you maximize your time at Disney parks and create magical memories with your loved ones. Remember to plan ahead, act quickly, and most importantly, enjoy the magic of Disney.
For more detailed information, check the official Disney website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Disney Genie+ for all the attractions in the park?
No, Disney Genie+ is available for select attractions only. Some of the most popular rides might require an Individual Lightning Lane selection at an additional cost.
Is Disney Genie+ included in the price of my ticket?
No, Disney Genie+ is not included in the standard ticket price. It costs $15 per person per day at Disney World and $25 per person per day at Disneyland.
Can I purchase Disney Genie+ on the day of my visit?
Yes, you can purchase Disney Genie+ on the day of your visit. However, it’s recommended to purchase it in advance to maximize your chances of securing a spot for your favorite attractions.
Can I cancel or modify my Genie+ selections?
Yes, you can cancel or modify your Genie+ selections. You can do this through the My Disney Experience or Disneyland app.
Is there a limit to how many times I can use Genie+ in a day?
There is no limit to how many times you can use Genie+ in a day. However, you can only make one selection at a time, and you must use your selection before making a new one.