Disney is shaking its Lightning Lane system up once again.
The days of free express line access are history. In 2021, both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort rolled out Genie+ as the replacement for FastPass. This paid service, operated solely via each resort’s respective app versus the traditional old paper FastPasses, required guests to book their rides on the same day.
To say that this system was unpopular is an understatement. Launched during Bob Chapek’s tenure (with many attributing the changes to the ill-fated Disney CEO, who was booted from the company and replaced by predecessor Bob Iger in 2022), it left many frustrated with its fluctuating prices, limited availability, and often convoluted booking process.
In July 2024, Disney introduced the Lightning Lane Multi Pass as a replacement, allowing guests at both U.S. parks to book their attraction slots in advance. In other words, no more waking up at 7 a.m. daily.
Now, Disney has unveiled the Lightning Lane Premier Pass, taking the system to the next level (and a new pricetag).
What is Lightning Lane Premier Pass?
The Lightning Lane Premier Pass grants guests one-time access to each Lightning Lane attraction per day without needing to book arrival times in advance—a feature many have been eagerly anticipating. This new offering not only boosts convenience but also transforms how visitors explore the parks.
Available in limited quantities, this pass covers attractions from both the Multi Pass and Single Pass options but can only be used at one park each day. It mirrors the Premier Access available at Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland and is extremely similar to the Universal Express Pass at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, where prices can range from $89 to over $300.
While more expensive than regular Lightning Lanes, it does offer guests greater flexibility and benefits—but it comes with its own set of restrictions and frustrations.
Lightning Lane Premier Pass Prices
Pricing varies between parks. At Walt Disney World Resort, it fluctuates from $129 to $449 per person, plus tax, depending on the day. Expect the highest prices during peak seasons like the upcoming holidays, much to Disney’s financial benefit. Animal Kingdom will typically bear the cheapest price tag, while Magic Kingdom Park – the most-visited theme park in the world – will be the most expensive.
At Disneyland Resort, the Premier Pass is priced at a flat rate of $400 per person per day until the end of 2024. Starting January 1, 2025, the price will range between $300 and $400, depending on the day.
How Does It Work?
The rules differ from coast to coast. At Disney World, the pass launches on October 30, exclusively for guests at Disney Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resorts, with purchases available up to seven days before their visit.
It’s valid for use in one park per day, requiring guests to choose between Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Depending on the park you choose, you’ll then be able to use it on that park’s selection of the 55 attractions available through the service throughout Florida, such as Tower of Terror, Space Mountain, Frozen Ever After, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
In Southern California, the Lightning Lane Premier Pass will be available on a first-come, first-served basis starting October 23, 2024. Guests can purchase the pass up to two days before their theme park reservation, valid at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
Will you purchase a Lightning Lane Premier Pass?
