Ultimate Genie+ & Lightning Lane Guide

disney genie
Credit: Disney

As a frequent visitor to Walt Disney World, I’ve always searched for ways to optimize my time in the parks. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the new Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane system.

With Genie+, I can skip the Standby Line and enjoy shorter wait times for my favorite attractions. Plus, I can conveniently make my selections right from my phone.

In this guide, I’ll delve into the details of Genie+ and Lightning Lane, providing you with valuable insights to enhance your Disney World experience.

Understanding Disney Genie

While Disney Genie+ offers a new and convenient way to experience attractions at Walt Disney World, it’s important to understand its features and how it can enhance your park visit.

Disney Genie+ includes Lightning Lanes for a variety of attractions at the Magic Kingdom and other parks. These lanes allow you to bypass the Standby Line and enjoy shorter wait times.

However, there are also Individual lane selections, which are attractions that require an additional payment. These attractions have their own Lightning Lanes that aren’t included with Genie+.

Guests have the option to purchase a return time for these Individual lane selections without purchasing Genie+. Understanding the distinction between Genie+ and Individual selections can help you make the most of your Disney World experience and choose the best option for your preferences and budget.

Cost of Genie Plus

Now let’s delve into the cost of Genie Plus and explore how it impacts our park experience.

  • Genie Plus is an additional cost that guests must pay on top of their park admission.
  • The price of Genie Plus varies depending on the date and park.
  • With Genie Plus, guests have access to Lightning Lane reservations for a variety of attractions.
  • However, not all attractions are included in Genie Plus. Some popular attractions require an additional payment for Individual lane selections.

The cost of Genie Plus is a crucial factor to consider when planning a trip to Walt Disney World. While it provides the convenience of lane access, it comes at an extra expense. Guests must weigh the benefits of shorter wait times and attraction availability against the additional cost. Additionally, guests should be aware that certain attractions may require the purchase of individual lane selections, further adding to the overall expense.

Advantages of Genie Plus

One of the key benefits of Genie Plus is its convenience and time-saving capabilities. With Genie Plus, guests at Walt Disney World Resort can bypass the Standby Line and enjoy shorter waits for attractions by using the Lightning Lane. This new feature allows guests to make selections directly from their mobile devices, eliminating the need to physically wait in line. Additionally, Genie Plus offers flexibility as it can be purchased for specific days rather than for the entirety of a trip. This means that guests can pick and choose which days they want to use Genie Plus based on their plans and preferences. Overall, Genie Plus provides a convenient and efficient way to maximize your time and enjoyment at the theme parks.

Advantages of Genie Plus
ConvenienceBypass Standby Line
Time-savingShorter waits
FlexibilityChoose specific days to use
EfficientMaximize time and enjoyment

Disadvantages of Genie Plus

Moving on to the disadvantages of Genie Plus, I should mention the potential drawbacks of this new FastPass system at Walt Disney World.

  • Additional Cost: One of the main downsides of Genie Plus is that it comes with an additional cost on top of your park admission. This can add up, especially for families.
  • Limited Selections: While Genie Plus includes a variety of attractions, there are certain popular attractions that require an additional payment through Individual lane selections. This means that you may still have to wait in line or pay extra to experience some of the most sought-after rides.
  • Competitive Bookings: With the introduction of Genie Plus, there will likely be a high demand for reservations. This means that securing your desired attractions may require waking up early and being quick to make your bookings.
  • Same-Day Only: Unlike the previous FastPass system, Genie Plus only allows you to book reservations on the day of your visit. This can be inconvenient for guests who like to plan their itinerary in advance.
Ultimate Genie+ & Lightning Lane Guide 1

Lightning Lane Explained

I will explain how Lightning Lane works at Walt Disney World. It is an alternate entrance for attractions that allows guests to bypass the Standby Line and experience shorter waits. Most attractions have both Standby and Lightning Lane lines, with Standby Lines available to all guests used with a reservation. Additionally, some attractions offer a Single Rider Line for individuals to ride solo.

In the table below, you can see a comparison between Lightning Lane and Individual selections:

Lightning Lane SelectionsIndividual Lightning Lane Selections
Included with Genie PlusRequire additional payment
Access to a variety of attractionsAccess to specific popular attractions
Can be used throughout the dayCan purchase return time without Genie Plus

To use the Lightning Lane, guests can purchase Genie Plus, which includes access to a variety of attractions. However, for certain popular attractions, guests have the option to make lightning lane selections without purchasing Genie Plus. This allows guests to have access to specific attractions without the need for the full Genie Plus package.

Individual Lightning Lane Selections

Continuing from the previous subtopic, let’s delve into the world of Individual lane Selections at Walt Disney World.

These selections are attractions that require an additional payment and have lanes that aren’t included with Genie+. Here are some key points to understand about Individual lane Selections:

  • They offer access to specific popular attractions.
  • Guests can purchase a return time for these selections without purchasing Genie+.
  • These attractions have limited availability and may require early booking.
  • They provide an opportunity to experience high-demand attractions without waiting in the Standby Line.

While Genie+ offers Lightning Lanes for a variety of attractions, Individual lane Selections allow guests to prioritize and pay for specific attractions they don’t want to miss.

It’s important to consider your budget, park, attraction preferences, and crowds when deciding between Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections.

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Comparing Genie+ and Lightning Lane

Now let’s dive into comparing the features and benefits of Genie+ and Lightning Lane at Walt Disney World.

When comparing Disney Genie Plus and Lightning Lane, it’s important to consider the type of access they provide to rides at Walt Disney World. Genie+ offers a wide range of attractions included with the purchase, allowing guests to bypass the Standby Line and experience shorter waits. On the other hand, Individual lane access is available for specific popular attractions that require an additional payment.

To help you better understand the comparison, here’s a table outlining the key differences between Genie+ and Individual lane access:

FeatureGenie+Individual Lightning Lane Access
Access to attractionsIncluded with purchaseRequires additional payment
Range of attractionsWide varietySpecific popular attractions
Wait timesShorter waits with dedicated lineVaries depending on attraction
CostIncluded in Genie+ priceAdditional cost
Booking flexibilityCan be purchased day-ofCan purchase return time separately

Ideal Users of Genie+ and Lightning Lane

When considering the ideal users of Genie+ and Lightning Lane at Walt Disney World, it’s important to evaluate the individual’s preferences, budget and desired attractions. Here are four factors to consider:

  • Budget: Disney Genie service is an additional cost on top of park admission, so it’s important for users to assess whether the benefits outweigh the expense.
  • Desired attractions: If there are specific individual attractions that the user wants to experience, it may be more beneficial to purchase individual selections instead of Genie+.
  • Frequency of visits: Genie+ is great for guests who don’t visit Disney World often or have a once-in-a-lifetime trip, as it allows them to experience a variety of attractions.
  • Availability and wait times: If the user is visiting during a busy time with long wait times, Genie+ can help them bypass the standby lines and make selections for popular attractions.

Purchasing Genie Plus

To purchase Genie Plus, I simply need to open the My Disney Experience app and navigate to the Genie+ section. From there, I can select the park I want to visit and choose the date of my visit. The app will show me the price for Genie Plus on that specific day. Once I’ve confirmed my selection, I can proceed to purchase Genie Plus using my preferred payment method.

It’s important to note that Genie Plus is a separate purchase from park admission. After purchasing Genie Plus, I’ll have access to Lightning Lanes for a variety of attractions throughout the day. However, it’s worth mentioning that there are also Individual selections available for certain popular attractions. These attractions require an additional payment and can be purchased separately without Genie Plus.

my disney experience app

Using the My Disney Experience App

In the article titled ‘Genie+ & Lightning Lane Guide’, let’s delve into the subtopic of using the My Disney Experience App to enhance my park experience.

The My Disney Experience app is a powerful tool that allows me to make the most of my visit to Walt Disney World. Here are four key ways the app can help me navigate the Lightning Lanes and Individual attractions:

  • I can use the app to purchase and manage my Disney World Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections.
  • The app provides real-time information on wait times and attraction availability, helping me make informed decisions on which lanes to use.
  • I can use Lightning Lanes to bypass the Standby Line and save time on popular rides.
  • The app allows me to easily book my first reservation at 7 a.m. each day, ensuring I secure access to my desired attractions.

Benefits of Disney World Genie Plus

The benefits of Genie Plus include maximizing my park experience and enjoying shorter wait times on popular attractions.

With Genie Plus, I can make the most of my time at Disneyland or Disney World by bypassing the Standby Line and accessing attractions. This means I won’t have to spend hours waiting in line and can instead focus on experiencing more rides and shows.

Additionally, Genie Plus allows me to make selections directly from my mobile device, making it convenient and easy to plan my day.

Another great advantage is that I can purchase individual selections for specific popular attractions that aren’t included with Genie Plus. This gives me the flexibility to choose which attractions I want to prioritize and pay for only those that I really want to experience.

Booking Your First Genie Plus Reservation

I booked my first Genie+ reservation for a popular attraction at Walt Disney World. Here are some tips to help you book your first Lightning Lane reservation with Genie+:

  • Be prepared: Make sure you have the My Disney Experience app downloaded and your tickets or Annual Pass linked to your account.
  • Plan ahead: Research the attractions included with Genie+ and decide which ones you want to prioritize.
  • Wake up early: Reservations can be made starting at 7 a.m. on the day of your visit, so set your alarm and be ready to book.
  • Be flexible: Popular attractions may have limited availability, so have a backup plan in case your first choice isn’t available.

Booking your first reservation with Genie+ can enhance your Disney World experience by reducing wait times and maximizing your time in the parks.

Don’t forget, you can also purchase individual lane selections for specific popular attractions that aren’t included with Genie+.

Genie Plus Attractions List

Now let’s dive into the list of attractions included with Genie+ and explore the options available to enhance your Disney World experience.

With Genie+, you gain access to a variety of rides, characters, and shows across the parks. In Magic Kingdom alone, there are 23 rides and attractions included with Genie+. Some of these attractions include Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, and Enchanted Tales with Belle.

It’s important to note that certain attractions, like Enchanted Tales with Belle, have limited capacity, making Genie+ a valuable tool to save time. By using Genie+, you can skip the regular standby lines and enjoy these popular attractions without the long wait.

Additionally, Genie+ allows you to make quick reservations for character meets. These meet and greets tend to fill up quickly, so having the ability to make reservations through Genie+ ensures that you won’t miss out on meeting your favorite Disney characters.

Ultimate Genie+ & Lightning Lane Guide 3

Individual Lightning Lane Attractions

Moving on to the next aspect of the Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane system, let’s delve into the attractions that can be accessed through Individual reservations. These individual attractions are separate from the ones included with the purchase of Genie+. Here are some key points about these attractions:

  • Individual  attractions require an additional payment on top of the Genie+ purchase.
  • These attractions have their own separate lanes that aren’t included with Genie+.
  • Guests can make an individual reservation for these attractions without purchasing Genie+.
  • Availability for individual lane reservations may vary depending on the attraction and the day.

While Genie+ offers access to a variety of attractions, the option to make individual reservations allows guests to prioritize specific popular attractions that they don’t want to miss out on.

Magic Kingdom Genie Plus Attractions

To explore the attractions included with Genie+ at Magic Kingdom, let’s dive into the lineup of Genie Plus attractions.

With Genie+, guests can enjoy lightning-fast access to a variety of attractions at Walt Disney World theme parks. The Genie+ package includes Lightning Lane access, allowing you to bypass the standby line and reduce wait times.

At Magic Kingdom, there are 23 rides and attractions included with Genie+. Some notable attractions include:

  • Enchanted Tales with Belle, which has limited capacity and can benefit from using Genie+.
  • The Festival of Fantasy Parade offers reserved spaces, but there are non-reserved spots available as well.
  • Haunted Mansion’s queue is partially covered but can have long waits, making Genie+ a valuable tool.
  • Jungle Cruise is another popular attraction with slow loading times, and using Genie+ can help you maximize your time in the park.

It’s important to note that Genie+ reservations for character meets can run out quickly, so booking early is recommended.

With Genie+ at Magic Kingdom, you can modify your experience and make the most of your visit to the happiest place on earth.

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Epcot Genie Plus Attractions

Continuing from the lineup of Genie Plus attractions at Magic Kingdom, let’s now explore the Epcot Genie Plus attractions.

Epcot, one of the four Disney World theme parks, offers a variety of rides and attractions that are included with Genie Plus. Here are four Epcot Genie Plus attractions to look forward to:

  • Soarin’ Around the World: Experience a breathtaking flight over famous landmarks and natural wonders.
  • Test Track: Design your own virtual concept vehicle and then put it to the test on an exhilarating high-speed ride.
  • Spaceship Earth: Journey through time as you explore the history of communication in this iconic geodesic sphere.
  • Living with the Land: Take a leisurely boat ride through greenhouses and learn about sustainable farming and experimental techniques.

With Genie Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy these popular Epcot attractions with shorter wait times and the convenience of Lightning Lane access.

Hollywood Studios Genie Plus Attractions

Now let’s dive into the Hollywood Studios Genie Plus attractions, where you’ll find even more thrilling experiences included with Genie Plus.

Hollywood Studios is home to some of the most popular attractions at Walt Disney World, and with Genie Plus, you can make the most of your visit. Some of the must-try attractions include Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Toy Story Mania!, and Star Tours – The Adventures Continue. These attractions offer immersive experiences and are sure to provide excitement for guests of all ages.

With Genie Plus, you’ll have access to Lightning Lanes, allowing you to bypass the standby lines and enjoy shorter wait times.

hollywood studios showtimes

Animal Kingdom Genie Plus Attractions

As an avid Disney fan, I’m excited to explore the Animal Kingdom Genie Plus attractions and discover the magical experiences that await. Animal Kingdom is home to some incredible attractions that will surely be enhanced by the convenience of Genie Plus.

Here are four standout attractions in Animal Kingdom that I can’t wait to experience with Genie Plus:

  • Avatar Flight of Passage: This thrilling 3D simulator ride takes you on a journey through the breathtaking world of Pandora. With Genie Plus, I can bypass the standby line and enjoy shorter wait times for this popular attraction.
  • Kilimanjaro Safaris: Get ready for an unforgettable safari adventure where you can see a variety of African animals up close. With Genie Plus, I can make a reservation and maximize my time exploring the savanna.
  • Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain: Brace yourself for a high-speed roller coaster through the Himalayas. Genie Plus will allow me to skip the standby line and experience the thrills of this iconic attraction.
  • Festival of the Lion King: This live musical celebration of Disney’s The Lion King is a must-see for any fan of the film. With Genie Plus, I can secure a reservation and guarantee a seat for this vibrant and engaging show.

With Genie Plus, I can make the most of my visit to Animal Kingdom by enjoying shorter wait times and experiencing these incredible attractions without the hassle of long lines.

Making Multiple Genie Plus Selections

After experiencing the convenience of Genie Plus at Animal Kingdom, I’m eager to explore the option of making multiple Genie Plus selections to further enhance my day at the park.

With Disney Genie, I can make reservations for a variety of attractions throughout Disney World. This means I can skip the Standby Line and enjoy shorter wait times for my favorite rides and shows.

By making multiple Genie Plus selections, I can maximize my park experience and make the most of my time. Whether it’s riding popular attractions like Space Mountain or meeting beloved characters like Mickey Mouse, Genie Plus allows me to prioritize and plan my day with ease.

With a simple tap on the Disney Genie app, I can secure my reservations and enjoy a seamless and efficient park visit.

Timing Your Genie Plus Selections

To optimize my Genie Plus experience at Walt Disney World, I strategically time my selections throughout the day. Timing is crucial when it comes to maximizing the benefits of Genie Plus.. Here are some key considerations for timing your selections:

  • Early Morning: Making your first Genie Plus selection as soon as the park opens can ensure you secure a popular attraction with shorter wait times.
  • Mid-Morning: Use this time to take advantage of shorter standby lines for attractions that aren’t included in Genie Plus.
  • Afternoon: Consider using Genie Plus for attractions with longer standby wait times, as the crowds tend to be higher during this time.
  • Evening: Save your Genie Plus selections for nighttime entertainment, such as parades or fireworks, to end your day on a magical note.

Top Genie Plus Choices

I strategically time my Genie Plus selections throughout the day to maximize the benefits, and here are my top choices.

When it comes to the Disney parks, there are certain rides that I always prioritize with my Genie Plus selections.

One of my top choices is Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Magic Kingdom. This popular roller coaster tends to have long wait times, so using Genie Plus can save me valuable time.

Another favorite of mine is Avatar Flight of Passage in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This immersive experience is a must-do, but the standby line can be incredibly long. With Genie Plus, I can bypass the line and enjoy the breathtaking ride without the wait.

Finally, I always make sure to secure a reservation for Space Mountain in Magic Kingdom. This classic coaster is a fan favorite and can have significant wait times, so having a Genie Plus selection for it’s a game-changer.

These top choices allow me to make the most of my Genie Plus experience and enjoy more of the Disney parks’ amazing rides.

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Maximizing Genie Plus With Park Hopping

Continuing my exploration of maximizing Genie Plus, park hopping enhances the benefits of this service. With the ability to visit multiple parks in one day, you can make the most of your Genie Plus experience. Here are four ways park hopping can maximize your Genie Plus:

  • Access to more attractions: By park hopping, you have the opportunity to experience a wider range of attractions across different parks. This means more chances to use Genie Plus and enjoy shorter wait times.
  • Flexibility in planning: Park hopping allows you to be more flexible with your itinerary. If one park is crowded or doesn’t have availability for Genie Plus attractions, you can easily switch to another park and make the most of your day.
  • Variety of experiences: Each park at Walt Disney World offers unique experiences and attractions. Park hopping gives you the chance to explore different themes and immerse yourself in the magic of multiple parks.
  • Efficient use of time: With park hopping, you can strategically plan your day to minimize wait times and maximize your Genie Plus reservations. By moving between parks, you can optimize your time and make the most of your Disney Genie experience.

Disney PhotoPass and Genie Plus

As I delve into the topic of Disney PhotoPass and Genie Plus, let’s explore how this combination can enhance your Walt Disney World experience.

Disney PhotoPass is a service offered at Walt Disney World that allows guests to capture and preserve their magical moments with professional photographers stationed throughout the parks. With Genie Plus, guests can take advantage of unlimited Disney PhotoPass downloads for the day. This means you can capture all the special memories without worrying about additional costs.

By combining Genie Plus and Disney PhotoPass, you not only have access to attractions and shorter wait times, but you also have the opportunity to document and cherish every moment of your magical adventure at Walt Disney World.

Understanding Genie Plus Refunds

To further enhance your understanding of Genie Plus, let’s delve into the topic of refunds and how they’re handled within the system. Understanding Genie Plus refunds is important for guests who may need to modify their plans or cancel their Genie Plus purchase. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Refunds for Genie Plus are generally not available once the service has been purchased and used.
  • However, if there are technical issues or disruptions to the Genie planning service access, guests may be eligible for a refund or alternative compensation.

It’s advisable to contact Guest Services or visit a Guest Relations location in the park to discuss any issues or concerns regarding refunds.

Keep in mind that the availability and terms of refunds may vary, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the refund policies and guidelines before purchasing Genie Plus.

Understanding the refund process for Genie Plus can help guests make informed decisions and ensure a smooth experience with the new Disney Genie planning service.

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Using Genie Plus With Disability Access Service

Moving forward with the topic of using Genie Plus with Disability Access Service, I’ll provide some insights and guidelines. The Disability Access Service (DAS) is a program designed to accommodate guests with disabilities who are unable to wait in traditional queue lines at Walt Disney World. With Genie Plus, guests utilizing the DAS can still experience attractions efficiently by using the Lightning Lane entrance. Here is a table to help you understand how to use Genie Plus with the Disability Access Service:

StepGuidelines
1Register for DAS at Guest Relations upon arrival.
2Purchase Genie Plus through the app.
3Link your DAS to your My Disney Experience account.
4Reserve your first attraction using Genie Plus.
5Utilize the Lightning Lane entrance with your DAS return time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Genie+ in Advance of My Park Visit?

Yes, you can purchase Genie+ in advance of your park visit. It’s recommended to purchase it early to familiarize yourself with the new system.

Genie+ can be bought on the day of your visit via the app, starting at 12 a.m. EST. Annual Pass holders and ticket holders have the option to purchase Genie+ one day at a time, subject to availability.

It’s convenient to have Genie+ ready before you arrive at the park.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Genie+?

There are no age restrictions for using Genie+. Guests of all ages can take advantage of this service to bypass the Standby Line and enjoy shorter waits for attractions at Walt Disney World.

Genie+ offers a convenient way to make selections directly from your mobile device, allowing you to customize your park experience.

Whether you’re young or young at heart, Genie+ can enhance your visit to the Happiest Place on Earth.

Can I Purchase Genie+ for Multiple Days in a Row?

Sure, you can purchase Genie+ for multiple days in a row. It’s a convenient option if you’re planning to visit Walt Disney World for a few consecutive days and want to make the most of your time.

With Genie+, you can enjoy shorter wait times and bypass the Standby Line at various attractions. Just keep in mind that Genie+ is an additional cost, so it’s important to consider your budget before purchasing it for multiple days.

Can I Purchase Genie+ for Just One Park or Do I Have to Purchase for All the Parks?

Yes, you can purchase Genie+ for just one park if you prefer. You have the option to choose between a single-park option or a multiple-parks option.

This means you can tailor your Genie+ experience to the specific park you plan on visiting. It’s a convenient feature that allows you to customize your Disney World experience based on your preferences and schedule.

Can I Purchase Individual Lightning Lane Selections Without Purchasing Genie+?

Yes, you can make selections without purchasing Genie+. This allows you to access specific popular attractions that aren’t included with Genie+.

It’s a great option if you have your heart set on experiencing certain rides and don’t want to purchase Genie+ for the entire day.

However, keep in mind that Individual Lightning Lane selections require an additional payment, so it’s important to consider your budget and priorities before making your decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane offer an exciting new way to enhance your Walt Disney World experience. While there are some downsides, such as the additional cost and competitive booking process, the advantages of shorter wait times and convenient mobile selections make it worth considering.

Here’s an interesting statistic for you: Did you know that on average, Genie+ users experience a 30% reduction in wait times for attractions?

So, if you’re planning a trip to Disney World, be sure to take advantage of these new features to make the most of your time in the parks.