Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lanes replaced the old FastPass system in 2021. As a mom who's navigated this new system with four kids, I'm here to break down everything you need to know to make the most of your Disney experience.
What is Disney Genie+?
Disney Genie+ is a paid service that allows you to skip the regular standby lines for most attractions. It's similar to the old FastPass system but now costs money and works through the My Disney Experience app.
Genie+ Pricing
- •Per Person Per Day: $15-35 (varies by park and season)
- •Individual Lightning Lanes: $7-25 per ride per person
- •Must Purchase Daily: No multi-day discounts available
- Note: Prices are higher during peak seasons and holidays
How Genie+ Works
Step 1: Purchase
- • Buy Genie+ through My Disney Experience app
- • Purchase starts at midnight on the day of your visit
- • Can be added to existing tickets
- • Must be purchased for each person
Step 2: Book Rides
- • First booking at 7:00 AM (if staying on-site)
- • First booking at park opening (if staying off-site)
- • Can book one ride at a time
- • Can book next ride after using current one
Individual Lightning Lanes
Some of Disney's most popular rides are not included in Genie+ and require separate Individual Lightning Lane purchases. These are the premium attractions that everyone wants to ride.
Magic Kingdom
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: $7-12
Space Mountain: $7-12
Strategy: Book Seven Dwarfs first, then use Genie+ for other rides
Hollywood Studios
Rise of the Resistance: $15-25
Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway: $7-12
Strategy: Rise of the Resistance is worth the extra cost
Animal Kingdom
Flight of Passage: $10-20
Expedition Everest: $7-12
Strategy: Flight of Passage fills up fast, book early
Epcot
Guardians of the Galaxy: $15-25
Frozen Ever After: $7-12
Strategy: Guardians is the most popular, book first
Our Family's Genie+ Strategy
Proven Strategies
- 1.Book Individual Lightning Lanes First: At 7:00 AM, book the most expensive rides
- 2.Use Genie+ Strategically: Focus on rides with long standby lines
- 3.Rope Drop: Arrive early to ride popular attractions without Genie+
- 4.Stack Reservations: Book later times to build up multiple reservations
Is Genie+ Worth It?
✅ Worth It For:
- • Short trips (1-3 days)
- • Peak season visits
- • Families with young children
- • First-time visitors
- • Limited time in parks
❌ Skip If:
- • Long trips (5+ days)
- • Off-peak season visits
- • Budget-conscious families
- • You don't mind waiting
- • Visiting during low crowds
Money-Saving Tips
1. Choose Your Days Wisely
Only buy Genie+ for your busiest park days. For longer trips, skip it on rest days or less crowded parks.
2. Use Early Entry
Take advantage of Early Entry to ride popular attractions without Genie+. This can save you $15-35 per person per day.
3. Focus on Individual Lightning Lanes
Instead of buying Genie+ every day, consider just buying Individual Lightning Lanes for your must-do rides.
4. Visit During Off-Peak
Genie+ is cheaper during value seasons, and you might not need it at all due to lower crowds.
Genie+ FAQs
Q: Can I buy Genie+ in advance?
A: No, Genie+ can only be purchased starting at midnight on the day of your visit.
Q: How many rides can I book with Genie+?
A: You can book one ride at a time, but there's no limit to how many you can book throughout the day.
Q: Can I modify my Genie+ reservations?
A: Yes, you can modify or cancel Genie+ reservations, but you'll need to wait to book another one.
Q: Do I need Genie+ for every park?
A: No, you can choose which days to purchase Genie+. It's not required for every park visit.
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