What is the New Disney World Lightning Lanes? Your Ultimate Guide to Minimizing Wait Times
Walt Disney World is known for its enchanting rides and attractions, but long wait times can dampen the magic. Enter Disney World Lightning Lanes—the key to minimizing your wait times and maximizing your fun. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Disney World Lightning Lane system, its evolution from the FastPass era, and how you can make the most of this service during your visit.
What is Disney World Lightning Lanes you might ask? Simply put, it is the key to minimizing wait times at Walt Disney Parks. The Disney World Lightning Lane system is a magical way of reserving your place in line for some of the most popular Disney rides and attractions.
The Evolution of FastPass to Lightning Lanes
If you visited Walt Disney World in the early 2000s, you might remember FastPasses. Initially, guests could obtain a paper ticket from a kiosk near an attraction, granting them a reserved ride time later in the day. This system transitioned to a digital format via the My Disney Experience app, allowing guests to reserve three FastPasses 60 days before their trip.
In 2019, Disney retired the FastPass system and introduced Disney Genie and Disney Genie+. These apps offered a blend of complementary services and paid options, letting guests make real-time ride reservations within the parks. However, unlike FastPass, advance ride reservations were no longer possible, leading to guest dissatisfaction.
Listening to feedback, Disney reintroduced some beloved FastPass features into the new Lightning Lane system, which allows for advance planning of ride reservations.
But before we get into Lightning Lanes, it’s important that we first explain what Disney Genie and Disney Genie+ are. (Sometimes, Disney does not make things easy).
Understanding Disney Genie
Disney Genie is a complimentary digital service offered by Disney to enhance guests’ experiences at their theme parks. Integrated into the My Disney Experience app, Disney Genie helps guests plan their day by providing personalized recommendations and itineraries based on their preferences. Key features include:
- Personalized Itineraries: Genie creates custom plans for your day, suggesting the best times to visit attractions, dine, and experience entertainment based on real-time data.
- Dynamic Updates: The service continuously updates your itinerary, offering recommendations and adjustments to maximize your park experience.
- Tip Board: Genie provides a centralized place to see estimated wait times, showtimes, and dining availability, helping you make informed decisions on the go.
If you have visited Walt Disney World since late 2019, you may be familiar with the term Disney Genie+. This was the paid service that enhanced the Disney Genie experience by offering additional features, including access to Lightning Lanes. In 2024, the name Genie+ was dropped, and the service was renamed simply Lightning Lanes.
By combining the free planning tools of Disney Genie with premium paid features, guests can enjoy a more efficient and personalized park visit.
Understanding Disney World Lightning Lanes
Lightning Lanes are designated lines for popular attractions, designed to significantly reduce your wait times. Here’s how the system works:
Lightning Lane Multi Pass
This paid service allows guests to book Lightning Lane entrances for select attractions. In other words, it allows you to get on the “short line”.
Guests staying at Disney resort hotels and other select hotels can make advance ride reservations for most theme park rides and attractions. (Continue reading for more details about when and how to do this).
Included with your Lightning Lane Multi Pass purchase, you get access to these additional features:
- PhotoPass Lenses: Guests can enjoy augmented reality lenses for fun photo opportunities, available within the My Disney Experience app.
- Audio Experiences: Guests have access to exclusive audio content, such as behind-the-scenes insights and themed playlists.
Lightning Lane Single Pass
For the most in-demand attractions, guests can purchase up to two Individual Lightning Lane entries per day. These selections are not included in the Lightning Lane Multi Pass and must be bought separately.
How Many Advance Lightning Lane Reservations Can I Make?
Lightning Lane Multi Pass
You can make 3 advance Lightning Lane selections with a Multi Pass. Most parks have a tier system, allowing you to pick one pass from Tier 1 and two from Tier 2. After using your first Lightning Lane Pass, you can select another via the app, with no tier restrictions. You can choose from any available attraction.
When making your advance selections, all choices must be within the same park. However, if you have a valid Park Hopper ticket, you can make additional selections in any park.
Lightning Lane Single Pass
You can purchase a maximum of 2 Lightning Lane Single Passes per day, and they can be for different parks.
Overview of How to Use Disney World Lightning Lanes
Complicated naming aside, it’s actually pretty simple:
- Link your resort reservation and your tickets: if you are staying at a Walt Disney World resort hotel, the Walt Disney World Swan or Dolphin hotel, or Shades of Green resort, make sure that your reservation is linked to your my Disney experience account. All other guests, including annual passholders, need to ensure that their tickets are linked and valid
- Link Friends and Family: Make sure your friends and family are linked in your My Disney Experience app prior to making any selections.
- Choose Your Park: Decide which park you are going to visit on a specific date.
- Select Your Top Rides: Pick your top 3 rides or attractions that you would like to bypass the regular line. (Read tips below for which Disney World Lightning Lanes are best for each park).
- Make Your Selections: Starting up to 7 days in advance (depending on your resort or ticket type), log into the My Disney Experience app to make your Lightning Lane selections.
- Enter the Lightning Lane: On the day you visit, go to the selected ride at the time of your Lightning Lane reservation. Tap your Magic Band or park ticket at the turnstile to enter special Lightning Lane entrance. Enjoy!
For more details and answers to frequently asked questions, continue reading.
How to Use Disney World Lightning Lanes:
A Simple Guide
How to Get Lightning Lanes Access
Here is what you need to get ready when you can buy passes, and how to make your selections.
You Need to Get Ready
Make Your Wish List
First, talk to your group and get everyone’s wish list for attractions and experiences. After all, it’s their vacation, too. Put them in order of priority. This should be done for every day of your visit.
Note that Disney has split the attractions into 3 tiers. For Lightning Lane Multi Passes, there are 2 tiers:
- Tier 1 includes several very popular attractions.
- Tier 2 includes other popular attractions.
- The third tier is for the most in-demand attractions. Those are not part of Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Instead, they are classified as Lightning Lane Single Pass attractions.
My Disney Experience App
Make sure you’ve downloaded the latest My Disney Experience app, linked your hotel reservation (if staying at a Disney property), and linked your tickets. You also want to be sure everyone in your travel group is connected on your Family and Friends list. That is very important or you won’t be able to plan for your entire group.
Know When You Can Buy Passes
You can purchase Lightning Lane passes beginning at 7:00 AM, 3 days prior to your first park day. If you’re staying at a Disney resort hotel or other select hotels, even better! The chart below explains the different booking windows.
7 Days in Advance for Length of Stay
- Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Guests: Can book Lightning Lane passes 7 days prior to check-in.
- Guests at Select On Property Hotels: Including Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, Swan Reserve, and Shades of Green, can also book 7 days prior to check-in.
- Length of Stay: You can book Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass selections for the entire length of your stay.
3 Days in Advance for Length of Stay
- Non-Disney Resort Guests: Guests staying anywhere then those listed above can book Lightning Lanes 3 days prior to their visit according to the first use date of their date-based ticket.
- Length of Stay: You can book Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass selections for the entire length of your stay.
3 Days in Advance by the day
- Walt Disney World Annual Passholders may only book 3 days in advance of their visit.
- You can only book one day at a time.
- This also applies to other types of single day tickets.
- Note: Annual Passholders and some other ticket types may be required to make a park reservation, depending on the day, time, and park they wish to visit.
International Visitors
Regardless of their ticket type of where they are staying while visiting Walt Disney World, International travelers must wait until they arrive in the United States. At this time, the app does not work outside the US. Also, it is only available in English.
Choosing to stay at a Disney Resort for your Walt Disney World vacation comes with many benefits. Getting to make your Lightning Lane selections 7 days in advance is a big one!
Make Your Advance Selections
For a Lightning Lanes Multi-pass, you will have to choose one park to plan at. You can make 3 selections in advance.
When you are in the park and have used a Lightning Lane Pass, you may make another selection. At that time, you don’t need to worry about the different tiers. You can select any Lightning Lane Pass that is available. If you have a valid Park Hopper ticket, you will also be able to choose an attraction in a different park.
For Lightning Lane Single Pass, you can choose a maximum of 2 selections. If you have a valid Park Hopper ticket, you will be able to choose attractions in a different parks.
Here is an overview of how to make selections:
When you’re ready to make your purchase, open the My Disney Experience app.
Click Purchase.
The booking window opens at 7:00 AM Eastern on the day you are eligible. For more information, read the FAQs below.
Select the date and park you with to plan for.
Choose if you want Lightning Lanes Multi Pass, Lightning Lanes Single Pass, or both.
Whether you’re purchasing a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Single Pass, or both, you can make your initial selections for each day all at one time. No need to do separate transactions.
Click Continue.
For lightning Lane Multi Passes, select the attractions you want.
You will not see times for the attractions until the next screen.
Click Continue.
The app will make time selections for you. You can change the time if you choose.
When done, complete your purchase by clicking Check Out Now.
Getting More Lightning Lane Passes
When you are in the park and have used one of your Lightning Lane Multi Passes, you may make another selection. At that time, you don’t need to worry about the different tiers. You can select any Lightning Lane Pass that is available. You will also see the available times in advance of selecting an attraction.
Using Lightning Lane Passes
How do I use Lightning Lane Passes?
You are given a one-hour time window for each attraction. You can arrive at your selected attraction at any time within that window.
When you arrive at the ride, go to the Lightning Lane entrance. Just tap your Magic Band to the Mickey touchpoint at the entrance. Your Magic Band will indicate to the cast member that you have a Lightning Lane Pass, allowing you to enter the special Lightning Lane queue.
Disney World Lightning Lane Passes are automatically linked to your Magic Bands. (Magic Bands are available for purchase in advance through the My Disney Experience app, online at the Disney Store, or in person at the Walt Disney World Resort). Although a Magic Band is not required to use Lightning Lanes, it makes the process more convenient. Your hard park ticket will also work.
What If I Am Late for My Lightning Lane Time?
You should arrive within your one-hour time window. There is a 5-minute grace period at the end, but do not rely on it. Sometimes there is a line to get into the queue, often due to questions or expired passes. Don’t let that be you.
What Happens to My Lightning Lane Pass When the Ride Is Closed?
If you arrive at a ride during your scheduled Lightning Lane time and find it closed, talk to a Disney Cast Member. It may be a temporary closure or something more serious. They will often try to accommodate you with a free Lightning Lane Pass that can be used on any attraction at any time that day.
Can I Get More Lightning Lane Passes?
Once you have used the 3 Lightning Lane Passes you reserved in advance, you can book additional Lightning Lane Passes from the available attractions. After using one, you can book another, and so on, until all Lightning Lane Passes have been distributed for the day.
Can I use Lightning Lanes with a Park Hopper ticket?
You must make and use your first 3 selections in the same park first. Then you can get additional Lightning Lane Passes, one at a time, at another park.
After using your first 3 Lightning Lanes you are able to park hop and get your next Lightning Lane Pass at a different park.
Can I Get a Lightning Lane Pass Without Tickets?
No, you must purchase tickets before obtaining Lightning Lane Passes. Additionally, the tickets must be linked to each member of your party through your My Disney Experience account before making reservations.
Can I Use Lightning Lane Passes Without a Magic Band?
Yes, you can use Lightning Lane Passes without a Magic Band. Magic Bands are linked to your park ticket, so if you do not have a Magic Band, you can use your park ticket instead.
Disney World Rides & Attractions
How to Choose the Best Lightning Lane Multi Pass Selections for Your Park Visit
You can grab one Lightning Pass from Group A and two Lightning Lane passes from Group B. Or, if you prefer, you can choose all your passes from Group B. Keep in mind, some rides aren’t included in the multi-day pass and will need a single pass.
But, when you’re at the park, you not longer have to worry about the attraction being in are split into two main groups.
Everybody wants to know which rides are the best to get Lightning Lane passes for. The answer is simple: it’s the ones your family will enjoy the most. To help guide you, the chart below organizes the groups and highlights our top recommendations for the most in-demand, must-do rides. Our recommendations are in bold.
Best Disney World Lightning Lane Passes for Magic Kingdom
Choose up to 1 from this group
Plus, choose 2 from this group or all 3
- The Barnstormer
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Haunted Mansion
- “it’s a small world”
- Mad Tea Party
- The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic
- Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Tomorrowland Speedway
- Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid
Lightning Lane Single Pass Attractions
These are not Available with the Multi Pass. A Lightning Lane Single Pass can be purchased for:
Ride/Attraction | Description | Lightning Lane |
Adventureland |
|
|
Jungle Cruise | Outdoor Boat Ride | Multi Pass |
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin | Flying Ride | Multi Pass |
Pirates of the Caribbean | Indoor Boat Ride | Multi Pass |
Swiss Family Treehouse | Exploration Area | |
Fantasyland |
|
|
The Barnstormer | Junior Rollercoaster (35” minimum height requirement) | Multi Pass |
Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station | Water Play Area | |
Cinderella’s Castle | Walkthrough Exhibit | |
Dumbo The Flying Elephant | Flying Ride | Multi Pass |
Enchanted Tales with Belle | Interactive Storytelling |
|
It’s A Small World | Indoor Boat Ride | Multi Pass |
Mad Tea Party | Spinning Ride | Multi Pass |
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh | Scenic Ride | Multi Pass |
Mickey’s Philharmagic | 4-D Movie | Multi Pass |
Peter Pan’s Flight | Flying Scenic Ride | Multi Pass |
Prince Charming Regal Carousel | Classic Carousel | |
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train | Family Coaster (38” minimum height requirement) | Single Pass |
Under The Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid | Scenic Ride | Multi Pass |
Frontierland |
|
|
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad | Family Coaster (40” minimum height requirement) | Multi Pass |
Country Bear Jamboree | Musical Show | |
Splash Mountain | Scenic Log Flume (40” minimum height requirement) | Multi Pass |
Tom Sawyer Island | Exploration Area | |
Liberty square |
|
|
Hall Of Presidents | Audio-Animatronics Show | |
Haunted Mansion | Scenic Ride | Multi Pass |
Liberty Square Riverboat | Boat Ride | |
Tomorrowland |
|
|
Astro Orbiter | Flying Ride |
|
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin | Interactive Ride | Multi Pass |
Carousel of Progress | Audio-Animatronic Show | |
Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor | Interactive Show | Multi Pass |
Space Mountain | Indoor Rollercoaster (44” minimum height requirement) | Multi Pass |
Tomorrowland Speedway | Car Ride (32” minimum height requirement) | Multi Pass |
Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover | Slow Ride | |
Evening Spectacular |
|
|
Happily Ever After | Nighttime Extravaganza |
Recommend FastPasses
- Tron
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- Big Thunder Mountain
- Space Mountain
- Tianna’s Bayou Adventure
Secondary recommendations:
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Haunted Mansion
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Tomorrowland Speedway
Recommendations for smaller children:
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- it’s a small world
- Mad Tea Party
It pays to wake up early. Some of the most popular Disney World Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections often go within the first hour. Lightning Lane Single Pass selections can go as fast as a few minutes.
If being an early-bird is not your style, this is another area where using a Disney Travel Planner can be well worth it.
Best Disney World Lightning Lane Passes for Epcot
Choose up to 1 from this group
Lightning Lane Single Pass Attractions
These are not Available with the Multi Pass. A Lightning Lane Single Pass can be purchased for:
Ride/Attraction | Description | FassPass+ |
Futureworld |
|
|
Awesome Planet | 10-minute film | |
Advanced Training Lab | Astronaut-Themed Play Area | |
Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival | 4-D Cinema Attraction | Yes |
Imageworks | Interactive Play Area | |
Innoventions | Tech Museum With Hands-On Activities | |
Journey Into Imagination With Figment | Scenic ride | Yes |
Living With The Land | Indoor Boat Ride | Yes |
Mission: Space | Simulated Space Launch Ride (40” minimum height requirement) | Yes |
Wonders Of The Future | Interactive Play Area | |
Seabase | Aquarium | |
The Seas With Nemo And Friends | Scenic Ride | Yes |
Soarin’ | Flight Simulator (40” minimum height requirement) | Recommended |
Spaceship Earth | Slow indoor ride | Yes |
Test Track | Speedway Ride (40” minimum height requirement) | Recommended |
Turtle Talk With Crush | Interactive Attraction | Yes |
World showcase |
|
|
The American Adventure | 30 Minutes Of Film, Music, And Audio Animotronic | |
Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along | (coming soon) | TBD |
Frozen Ever After | Indoor Boat Ride | Recommended |
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros | Indoor Boat Ride | |
Impressions De France | 20 Minute Film | |
Canada Far and Wide | Circle-Vision 360 Film (coming soon) | |
Reflections Of China | 14-Minute Circle-Vision 360 Film | |
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure | (coming soon) | TBD |
Evening spectacular |
|
|
Epcot Forever | Nighttime Extravaganza | Yes |
Recommendations for smaller children:
- Frozen Ever After
- Nemo & Friends
- Turtle Talk with Crush
- Journey into Imagination with Figment
Best Disney World Lightning Lane Passes for Hollywood Studios
Lightning Lane Single Pass Attractions
These are not Available with the Multi Pass. A Lightning Lane Single Pass can be purchased for:
Ride/Attraction | Description | FassPass+ |
Animation courtyard |
|
|
Disney Junior Live On Stage | 24-Minute Interactive Show | Yes |
Star Wars Launch Bay | View Movie Props And Greet Star Wars Characters | |
Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream | Multimedia Gallery Exhibit | |
Voyage Of The Little Mermaid | 17-Minute Live Show | Yes |
Echo lake |
|
|
For The First Time In Forever: A “Frozen Sing-Along Celebration | 30-Minute Show | Yes |
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular | 30-Minute Stunt Show | Yes |
Muppet courtyard |
|
|
Muppetvision 3D | 25-Minute 3-D Extravaganza | Yes |
Toy story land |
|
|
Alien Swirling Saucers | Spinning Ride (32” minimum height requirement) | Yes |
Slinky Dog Dash | Roller Coaster (38” minimum height requirement) | Recommended |
Toy Story Mania! | 4-D arcade game ride | Recommended |
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge | ||
Jedi Training: Trials Of The Temple | Interactive Show For Kids Ages 4-12 | |
Star Tours: The Adventure Continues | 3-D Motion Ride (40” minimum height requirement) | Yes |
Star Wars: Path of the Jedi | 10-Minute Behind-The-Scenes Film | |
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run | 3-D Motion Ride (38” minimum height requirement) | Recommended |
Star Wars Rise of the Resistance | Immersive 3-D Motion Ride (40” minimum height requirement) | (See note below) |
Sunset boulevard |
|
|
Beauty And The Beast Live On Stage | 30-Minute Live Musical | Yes |
Rock ‘N’ Rollercoaster Starring Aerosmith | Indoor roller coaster (48” minimum height requirement) | Recommended |
The Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror | Elevator Drop Ride (40” minimum height requirement) | Recommended |
Evening spectacular |
|
|
Fantasmic! | 30-Minute Nighttime Spectacular | Yes |
Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular | Nighttime Extravaganza |
Rise of the Resistance Boarding Groups
At the time of this article, Star Wars Rise of the Resistance does not offer a FastPass+. They do, however, have a virtual cue line. You can join the virtual cue once you are physically inside Hollywood Studios park.
You must be physically inside the gate, thought the ticket takers. Once in, go onto the My Disney Experience app and try to “Join a Boarding Group”. If unsure how to do it, there are Cast Members around to help.
It’s important to note that the virtual cue fills up extremely quickly. It is recommended to arrive prior to the official opening time.
Recommendations for smaller children:
- Disney Jr. Dance Party
- Frozen Sing-along
- Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage
- Toy Story Mania
- Alien Swirling Saucers
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
- Muppet Vision 3D
Best Disney World Lightning Lane Passes for Animal Kingdom
Choose up to 1 from this group
Lightning Lane Single Pass Attractions
These are not Available with the Multi Pass. A Lightning Lane Single Pass can be purchased for:
Ride/Attraction | Description | FassPass+ |
Africa |
|
|
Affection Section | Petting Zoo | |
Festival Of The Lion King | Musical Extravaganza | Yes |
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail | Walking Trail Animal Exhibit | |
Kilimanjaro Safaris | Off-Road Safari Ride | Recommended |
Asia |
|
|
Expedition Everest | Rollercoaster (44” minimum height requirement) | Recommended |
Flights Of Wonder | 25-Minute Exotic Bird Show | Yes |
Kali River Rapids | Water Ride (38” minimum height requirement) | Yes |
Maharajah Jungle Trek | Walking Trail Animal Exhibit | |
Dinoland USA |
|
|
The Boneyard | Exploration Play Area | |
Dinosaur | Thrill Ride (40” minimum height requirement) | Yes |
Finding Nemo: The Musical | 40-Minute Musical Spectacular | Yes |
Fossil Fun Games | Carnival-Style Games | |
Primeval Whirl | Spinning Family Coaster (38” minimum height requirement) | Yes |
Triceratop Spin | Flying Ride | |
Discovery island |
|
|
Discovery Island Trails | Walking Trail | |
It’s Tough To Be A Bug! | 4-D Movie | Yes |
Oasis |
|
|
Oasis Exhibits | Tropical Garden Pathways And Animal Exhibits | |
Pandora – The world of Avatar |
|
|
Avatar Flight Of Passage | 3-D Motion Ride (40” minimum height requirement) | Recommended |
Na’vi River Journey | Scenic Boat Ride | Recommended |
Rafiki’s Planet Watch |
|
|
Affection Section | Petting Zoo | |
Conservation Station | Animal Care Center | |
Habitat Habit! | Walking Path | |
Wildlife Express Train | Train Ride | |
Evening spectacular |
|
|
Tree Of Life Awakenings | Nighttime Experience | |
Rivers Of Light | Open-Air Nighttime Musical Extravaganza | Yes |
Recommendations for smaller children:
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
- Na’vi River Journey
- Festival of the Lion King
- Finding Nemo, the Musical
- Up! A Great Bird Adventure
- Meet Disney Pals
Disney World Lightning Lane Planner
Be sure to download our Lightning Lane Planner to help organize your Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass selections.
Lightning Lanes at Disneyland
Generally speaking, Lightning Lanes work very similarly at Disneyland, with a few key differences. The main one is that there is no advanced planning or selection of Lightning Lanes. All Lightning Lane reservations are made once you are inside the Disneyland theme park.
Frequently Asked Questions About Disney World Lightning Lane Passes
Planning Ahead and Purchasing Disney World Lightning Lane Passes
How Much Does the Lightning Lane Pass Cost?
Each person in your party aged 3 and up will need to purchase a Lightning Lane Multi Pass to use the Lightning Lanes. Prices vary by date and attraction. You can view prices in the My Disney Experience app.
Do I Need to Purchase Lightning Lane Passes?
Purchasing Lightning Lane Passes is optional. Regular standby lines and virtual queues are still available.
Can I Use a Multi Pass and a Single Pass on the Same Day?
Yes, you can use both on the same day. You can hold up to 3 Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections and 2 Lightning Lane Single Passes per day, subject to availability.
Do All My Lightning Lane Selections Need to Be in the Same Park?
No, you can make selections in different parks if you have a Park Hopper ticket or an Annual Pass. First, you’ll choose up to 3 Lightning Lane Multi Pass experiences in the same park. Once redeemed, you can then select additional Lightning Lane Passes in any park, subject to availability.
When Can I Make Disney World Lightning Lane Reservations?
- Guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel can book 7 days prior to check-in.
- Guests at Select Hotels, including Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, Swan Reserve, and Shades of Green, can also book 7 days prior to check-in.
- All other guests can book 3 days prior to their visit according to their date-based ticket.
- International travelers must wait until they arrive in the United States, as the app does not work outside the US and is only available in English.
What hotels get the 7-day advance booking window?
Guests staying at these Disney hotels get the perk of booking their Lightning Lanes 7 days in advance of their check-in date:
- Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
- Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
- Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
- Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
- Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
- Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
- Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
- Disney’s Pop Century Resort
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- Disney’s Riviera Resort
- The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
- The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort
- The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
- The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Plus, these other on property hotels:
- Walt Disney World Swan
- Walt Disney World Dophin
- Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
- Shades of Green
These are the only hotels that will grant you the 7-day advance booking window.
What Time Can I Start Making Reservations?
You can start making reservations at 7:00 AM EST on the booking date. That is the same time you are able to purchase Lightning Lanes. You can make your purchase and selections in the same transaction.
I’m confused and overwhelmed. What should I do?
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be overwhelming, and navigating the Lightning Lane system can add to the confusion. That’s why we developed this blog—to help people have the best Disney vacation possible. But there is a lot to learn and understand. We strongly recommend booking your trip with an experienced travel planner who specializes in Disney.
We highly recommend Destination Magic. They are extremely experienced and understand the ins and outs of how to make the most of your park visit, whether you choose to utilize the Lightning Lanes or not. They will be your guide every step of the way, ensuring a magical and stress-free experience. Contact Destination Magic today for expert assistance.
Does Everyone in My Group Need a Lightning Lane Pass to Ride at the Same Time?
Yes, everyone who wants to ride together needs a Lightning Lane Pass, except for children under the age of 3.
Do Children Under 3 Need a Lightning Lane Pass?
No, since Lightning Lane Passes are linked to tickets and children under 3 do not require a ticket, they cannot get Lightning Lane Passes. However, they can still join you on rides.
Can I Use Lightning Lanes with Rider Switch?
Yes, Rider Switch, also known as Child Swap, works the same way with or without a Lightning Lane Pass. Refer to #9 in our Top 11 FastPass+ Tips & Strategies below.
Can Disney World Lightning Lane Pass Times Overlap?
No, Lightning Lane Pass times cannot overlap. The reservation system will not allow you to make overlapping Lightning Lane Passes.
Can Lightning Lane and Dining Reservations Overlap?
The reservation system should prevent overlapping Lightning Lane reservations. If you are booking a Lightning Lane Pass after a dining reservation, ensure you have enough time to finish your meal and get to your ride on time. Expired Lightning Lane Passes due to overlapping dining reservations will not be accommodated.
What If I Change My Mind and Want a Different Lightning Lane Pass?
You can change your Lightning Lane Pass selections at any time, including on the day of your visit, as long as there are available selections.
If I have a Park Hopper ticket, can I book Lightning Lanes in different parks?
Yes, you may make Lighting Lane selections at multiple parks in the same day. However, if you are reserving your Lightning Lanes in advance of your visit, you may only make selections in one park.
Which Disney Rides Can I Get a Lightning Lane For?
Not all rides and attractions offer Lightning Lanes. Continue reading for more information on which rides have Lightning Lane Multi Pass access and which require a Lightning Lane Single Pass.
Which Are the Best Disney Lightning Lanes to Get?
The best Lightning Lanes to get are a personal preference. Some passes are more difficult to get than others and are considered “must-do” rides by many. However, they are only must-dos if they align with what your family enjoys.
For more detailed information on selecting the best Lightning Lanes for your visit, continue reading below.
If all this seems too complicated or time-consuming, we have another suggestion. Consider a Disney private VIP tour. Your private guide will ensure you access the Lightning Lane lines for all attractions throughout your tour.
However, if a private VIP tour is out of your budget, hiring a virtual guide might be the perfect fit. We highly recommend Aladdin VIP Guide Service. You will receive highly personalized service for a fraction of the price.
How do I use Lightning Lanes?
You are given a one-hour time window for each attraction. You can arrive at your select attraction at any time within that window.
When you arrive at the ride, go to the Lighting Lane entry. Just tap your Magic Band to the Mickey touchpoint at the entrance. Your magic band will let the cast member know you have a Lightning Lane pass and you will be permitted to enter the special Lightning Lane queue.
Just like your park tickets, your Disney World Lightning Lane are automatically linked to your Magic Bands. Magic Bands are also available for purchase through your My Disney Experience account, the Disney Store, or at retail locations throughout Walt Disney World. You are not required to have a Magic Band to use Lightning Lanes, but it does make it much more convenient. Your hard park ticket will also work.
What if I am late for my Lightning Lane time?
You should be at the queue to redeem your Lightning Lane within your hour time window. However, there is a 5 minute grace period at the end. Do not rely on that grace period. Sometimes there is a line just to get into the queue. Often its caused by some asking a question or trying to use and expired Lightning Lane. Don’t let that be you.
What happens to my Lightning Lane when the ride is closed?
If you go to a ride at your scheduled Lightning Lane time only to find the ride closed, be sure to talk to the Disney Cast Member. It may be a temporary closure or it could be something more. They will often try to accommodate you as best they can. Often it is with a free Lightning Lane pass that you can use on another attraction, at any time that day.
Can I get more Lightning Lane?
You are permitted to reserver up to 3 Lightning Lane pass in advance of your visit. Once you have used the 3 Lightning Lanes you reserved in advance, you will be able to book an additional Lightning Lane from the available attractions. Once you used that one you will be able to book another, and so on until all Lightning Lane have been distributed for the day.
Top 12 Disney World Lightning Lane Multi-Pass Tips and Strategies
#1. Link All Guests and Tickets in Advance
Before your booking window opens, ensure all your guests are linked with valid park admission. This way, you’ll be ready to go when the time comes.
Professional travel agents who specialize in Disney can help with this. They know the ins and outs of My Disney Experience and can assist with your Lightning Lane selections. Contact our friends at Destination Magic for a free, no-obligation quote.
#2. Book Your Disney Lightning Lane Passes ASAP
For the best selection, book your Lightning Lane passes as soon as your booking window opens. Those with date-based tickets can plan for their entire visit.
It’s worth getting up early to be online by 7:00 AM Eastern Time. Popular Lightning Lane passes book up quickly, especially for:
- Slinky Dog Dash
- Flight of Passage
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
- TRON Lightcycle / Run
If these are on your must-do list, book them first, then fill in with other rides.
#3. Magic Bands
Magic Bands, similar in size to an Apple Watch, are a convenient, contact-free way to make purchases throughout Disney. They also act as your park ticket and room key.
They come in fun colors and are personalized with each guest’s name. Disney offers them at a discounted price through your My Disney Experience account.
#4. Use Your Passes Wisely
Use your Disney World Lightning Lanes on the rides your family will enjoy most. Prioritize attractions with consistently long lines to get the most value from your passes.
#5. Stay at a Disney Hotel
Staying at a Disney hotel lets you make Lightning Lane selections four days earlier than other guests. This can be crucial for securing passes for popular rides.
#6. Be Aware of the Tier System
Most parks divide Lightning Lane attractions into two tiers. You can select one Lightning Lane from Tier 1 and two from Tier 2. The most popular rides are typically in Tier 1.
#7. Rope Drop Strategy
Start your day early to maximize your Lightning Lane benefits. Arrive at the park 30-60 minutes before opening to enjoy a few rides before the crowds. Plan your first Lightning Lane for 60-90 minutes after the park opens.
#8. Park Map Strategy
Plan your Lightning Lane selections in a logical path around the park. This might mean spacing your reservations throughout the day to avoid zig-zagging but could limit the number of additional passes you can get if they sell out.
#9. Use It or Lose It
Even if your desired rides or time slot is not available, don’t waste your advance Lightning Lane pass. Make a reservation anyway, then modify the time or select a different attraction later.
#10. Maximize Your Lightning Lane Access
As soon as you use a Lightning Lane Multi-Pass, get your next one. You don’t need to wait until you’ve finished the ride. Immediately after you tap your Magic Band or ticket at an attraction, go onto the app to secure your next pass. Acting quickly will give you access to more Lightning Lanes than if you waited.
#11. Be Persistent
Persistence pays off. If you don’t get the Lightning Lane reservations you wanted initially, keep checking. Cancellations happen, especially the day before or the morning of.
#12. Check for Refurbishments
Check Disney’s website for planned attraction closures and refurbishments. View the Hours and Event calendar for your visit dates to see scheduled closures.
Bonus Tip: Transform Your Disney Vacation with a Virtual Guide
For the ultimate Disney vacation, enlist the help of a virtual guide. VIPAladdin.com offers personal guides who will remotely manage your Lightning Lanes on the day of your visit. Plus, they know the best strategies. Let them handle the stress of planning so you can focus on enjoying your time in the parks. An Aladdin virtual guide can make your Disney experience truly magical!
Disney World Lightning Lanes: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Reduced Wait Times: Spend more time enjoying attractions and less time waiting.
- Flexibility: Make real-time decisions based on current park conditions.
- Enhanced Experience: Enjoy more attractions and experiences in a single day.
Cons
- Additional Cost: Lightning Lanes Multi Pass and Lightning Lanes Single Pass comes at an extra cost.
- Advance Planning Required: To maximize benefits, you need to plan and strategize.
- Limited Availability: Popular attractions can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Is Disney World Lightning Lanes Worth It?
For many guests, the answer is a resounding yes. The ability to skip long lines and experience more attractions can significantly enhance your Disney visit. While it comes with an additional cost, the time saved and the overall improved experience often justify the investment.
Conclusion
The Disney World Lightning Lanes system is a game-changer for managing wait times and optimizing your park experience. By understanding how it works and implementing strategic planning, you can make the most of your visit to Walt Disney World.
For more helpful planning tips, check out these articles:
- Using a Disney Travel Planner
- Walt Disney World Resort Comparison
- What is the Disney Dining Plan and is It Worth it?
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