Navigating Disney's Next Adventure: From Genie+ to Lightning Lane Single & Multi-Passes

Beginning July 24, 2024, Disney will undergo significant changes to how guests can reserve rides. The Genie+ system is being completely overhauled with new terminology. The goal is to reduce guests' phone usage in parks by encouraging more pre-planning of trips before arrival. This change is expected to improve wait times and enhance overall guest enjoyment. However, as with all Disney changes, there will be a steep learning curve.

The purpose of this guide is to help you understand these upcoming changes so you can make the most of your Disney vacation. Let's start by discussing what is included with your park admission. Standby queues remain complimentary with your ticket purchase, though virtual queues will now be available for certain experiences.

Say goodbye to Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes, and welcome the Lightning Lane Single Pass and Lightning Lane Multi-Pass. These can be purchased via the My Disney Experience app and allow access to specific attractions and experiences.

Lightning Lane Single Pass:

Guests can use the lightning lane entrance at popular attractions up to two times per day. Selection of experience times can be made at the time of purchase, with each guest allowed one purchase per day. Guests with Park Hopper tickets can plan their passes across different theme parks.

Lightning Lane Multi-Pass:

Guests can use the lightning lane entrance at select attractions during specified return windows once per day per experience. They can book up to three experiences in one theme park, divided into two groups. After using a selection, guests can book a new one from either group based on availability. Park Hopper ticket holders can select experiences across all four theme parks after their first selection of the day.

Eligibility to purchase Lightning Lane passes begins at 7 am Eastern Time, allowing guests to pre-plan their experiences and return times. Disney Resort Hotel guests can start up to seven days before check-in, while date-based ticket holders can start three days prior.

On the day of their visit, guests can use standby queues and sign up for virtual queues at certain attractions, alongside the option to purchase same-day Lightning Lane passes, subject to availability.

Lightning Lane Single and Multi Passes streamline your Walt Disney World experience by enabling you to pre-schedule essential attractions, saving both time and phone battery on your visit day. Eligibility to purchase these passes depends on whether you are staying on property and the type of ticket you hold. Guests staying on property can plan Lightning Lane Single and Multi-Passes up to 7 days in advance, while all other guests can plan up to 3 days ahead. Same-day purchases are also an option, subject to availability. This approach allows guests to meticulously plan their days and eliminates the need to wake up daily at 7 am to secure Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Disney, Florida. In need of further inspiration? Check out Kevin Razawich’s guide, Art of Animation at Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida.