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Disney to Make Critical Changes in 2024

Disney castle with partner statue and cartoon mickey
credit: DisneyDining

We love that the Walt Disney World Resort is constantly changing. These Disney changes keep the magic fresh and exciting by providing guests with new rides, shows, attractions, dining, and more. Because there is always something new to experience, we are constantly heading back to experience the magic.

As we wrap up 2023 and head into 2024, some critical changes are coming to Walt Disney World. As you plan your trip, you will want to be aware of these changes that could impact your vacation experience.

disney's create 100 mickey mouse minnie mouse walt disney 100th anniversary make-a-wish donation $1 million Virgil Abloh royal college 100 years

Credit: Disney

Changes in 2023

As we wrap up 2023, significant changes are still coming to Walt Disney World. On October 16, 2023, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, will open in EPCOT. This walk-through attraction will connect guests with water through interactive features. If you plan to visit EPCOT during the end of 2023, be prepared for long waits for this new, highly-anticipated attraction.

Related: Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana Using Virtual Queue

Now through December 31, guests can celebrate Disney100 at EPCOT. During this celebration, guests can meet Mickey and Minnie in their platinum outfits for the 100th, ride Soarin’ Over California, search for their favorite characters on the new Disney100 Mural, and so much more.

EPCOT will host the Disney 100 Celebration throughout the rest of 2023. A lot is coming to the newly updated World Celebration area, and we look forward to discovering what other magic will show up for guests.

Disney dining plan

Credit: Disney

Disney Dining Plan Returns

A significant change that will impact your trip in 2024 is the return of the Disney Dining Plan. Guests will have the option in 2024 to add one of two Disney dining plans to their Walt Disney World vacation package. This is a great way to make your Disney vacation feel more all-inclusive.

Guests prepay for the dining plan and then use credits throughout their trip during meals or when having a snack.

Disney Genie, Disney Genie+, and Lightning Lane

Credit: Disney

Disney Changes Genie+ 

Disney also announced that changes will be coming to Genie+. Changes will be made to Disney Genie, including Genie+, to make it easier for guests. According to Disney, the goal is to make it so guests spend less time on their phones during vacation and more time together.

No specific information has been provided, but whatever changes come in 2024 will greatly impact guests. We hope that whatever the changes are, they allow us to be on our phones less and present in the magic more.

Calendar Park Reservation System

Credit: disneyfanatic.com

Disney to Change Park Reservations

Another significant change coming in 2024 is the removal of Theme Park Reservations for those with date-based tickets. Starting January 9, 2024, Guests who have purchased a Disney package or date-based tickets will no longer need to make Theme Park Reservations.

This is one less planning step for Guests to take before their trip. Guests can now head to whatever Disney Park they want each day of their trip.

We love that we can always experience new things at Walt Disney World. Changes mean updates and improvements. These changes to Disney Resort guests in 2024 will significantly impact those visiting. Be prepared by knowing how to manage the changes ahead of time.

Related: Disney Announces New Attractions Coming to Disney Expansion in 2024

About Jennifer Retzlaff

My name is Jennifer Retzlaff and I became a lifelong Disney fan during my first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of my life. I live in Iowa with my husband and two kids who are growing up too quickly for my liking. I started introducing my love for Disney early to my family with a Disney honeymoon and then trips when our youngest of 18 months. Since then, our family has been to Walt Disney World over five times and we continue to plan and dream for the next trip. I love the magic that Disney brings to people through the theme parks, cruises, adventures and movies they create. As a teacher, I try to bring that magic into my classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” I recently reached a dream of mine as I joined Magic Vacation Planner as a personal travel advisor. With this team, I can now help others plan magical vacations. As a passionate writer, I also have my own blog at magicalvacationsbyjen which is also where you can follow me on instagram for trip reviews along with tips and tricks for your next magical vacation.