Disney Announces Major Change Coming to Parks Next Month

Disneyland and Walt Disney World are overhauling their Genie+ system, starting July 24th. The updated system, rebranded as "Lightning Lane Multi-Pass," will allow guests to book reservations ahead of their park arrival.

The current Genie+, introduced in 2021 as a paid replacement for the complimentary FastPass system, has faced criticism for its same-day booking requirement. This new update directly addresses those concerns.

Key Changes:

• Advance Booking: Guests staying at Disney resorts can book up to seven days prior to arrival; other guests can book up to three days in advance. This pre-planning option is a significant departure from the current system.
• Name Change: Genie+ is being renamed "Lightning Lane Multi-Pass," with individual Lightning Lane bookings referred to as "Lightning Lane Single Pass."
• Expanded Reservations: Guests will be able to make more Lightning Lane reservations than currently allowed.
• Limited Disneyland Impact: Disneyland will primarily see the name change; booking procedures will remain largely the same. Walt Disney World will experience the full range of updates.
• Virtual Queue Remains: The Virtual Queue system, used for attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and TRON Lightcycle / Run, will continue unchanged.

These changes aim to improve guest experience by allowing for more streamlined planning. With summer events and new attractions on the horizon, the ability to pre-book Lightning Lane passes could significantly benefit park visitors. The long-term success of this revised system remains to be seen.