Hi Chris, and welcome to planDisney!
There are so many incredible tools available to help Guests make the most out of their vacation to
The Most Magical Place On Earth, from having us here at planDisney on the front end (or even while you're navigating your visit) to helpful tools like Disney Genie to help plan out attraction entry, and Lightning Lane options that allow you to spend more time experiencing the magic and less time waiting in line, Disney has made it easier than ever to customize your perfect day in the parks.
Let's talk a little more about
Disney Genie, which is found right in your
My Disney Experience app. Before your visit even begins, you can start using Genie by selecting your favorite attractions, entertainment offerings, and dining experiences. Based on what matters most to you, Genie will help create an itinerary tailored to your preferences and designed to save you time. Even better? You can continue to modify your plans throughout your stay, and the Tip Board will update to reflect your new choices. Genie also recommends Lightning Lane entry times based on your interests, but let me dive into Lightning Lanes in more detail.
Lightning Lane access allows you to skip the standby line at select popular attractions, reducing your wait time. There are three different ways to access Lightning Lanes: through the purchase of individual Lightning Lanes for select attractions, through the Lightning Lane Multi Pass for multiple attractions, and the Lightning Lane Premier Pass to experience all Lightning Lane attractions at the park of your choosing. If you're staying at a Disney Resort Collection hotel, you can begin booking Lightning Lane experiences seven days before your arrival. Guests staying elsewhere can begin booking three days before their arrival. While same-day booking is available, I always recommend taking advantage of those early windows, especially for high-demand attractions. That way, as soon as you scan into a Lightning Lane attraction, you can grab another return time for later that day, even at a different park!
If you're a visual learner, Disney has created a series of helpful videos that guide you through the Lightning Lane process.
You can find them right here.
Chris, I know it might all sound like a lot at first, but I promise once you dive in, it becomes second nature. Go ahead and download the My Disney Experience app, start plugging in those preferences, and take a look at the videos I mentioned. And if you have any other questions or would like to know more about my tips and strategies when using Disney Genie and Lightning Lanes,
I'd love for you to send in another question.
TTFN,
Brent