Unpacking Genie+ at Walt Disney Word
Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom
Updated on July 5, 2024
The countdown is on and we leave for our next Walt Disney World trip in 6 days. We’ve used Genie+ on previous trips, but there have been some important changes so I’ve taken a deep dive into the process to get ready for our trip. This post will share the important information I’ve learned to help you with your future visits to WDW. I’ll also share some of the basics for those considering using Genie+ for the first time.
What is Genie+?
Genie+ is a paid add-on that allows you to skip the long lines at some of the attractions across the four parks at Walt Disney World. Genie+ gives access to “Lightening Lane Entrances” at over 40 rides/attractions. There are restrictions and rules to the service, so it’s important you understand those before deciding to purchase.
Are there Rules and Restrictions?
Yes! If you are considering this purchase, it is important you understand the basics.
You can select your first Genie+ “Lightening Lane Entrance” at 7am on the day of your visit. So can everyone else visiting the park so you want to sign-in to the “My Disney App” at 7am and make your first selection. Your second selection is either two hours after the the park officially opens (dosen’t include Magic Hours) or after you have scanned into your first lightening lane.
Genie+ options are based on availability for each ride. You don’t simply pick the ride and your ideal time. And popular rides do max out, meaning you can no longer select them.
You cannot schedule the same ride twice in one day via Genie+.
You can modify an existing reservation by tapping the 3 dots in the top right corner of your reservation (this is a new feature).
If you are park hopping, you can only book rides at the second park for after 2pm.
Each park has an additional option called “Individual Lightening Lanes.” These are the most popular rides in each park. They are not included in Genie+ and the fees for these are separate. Here is the current list of Individual Lightening Lanes, but they are subject to change:
Magic Kingdom: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Tron Lightcycle Run
Hollywood Studios: Rise of the Resistance
EPCOT: Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind
Animal Kingdom: Avatar Flight of Passage
How to Purchase?
Genie+ cannot be purchased in advance! It opens for purchase at midnight the day you are visiting the park. If you are a night owl, purchase before you go to bed, or if you are like me, set an alarm the day of your visit to have time to purchase before the first 7am ride select time. Genie+ can be purchased via the mobile app "My Disney Experience.” Open the app and click the three horizontal lines (the hamburger) in the bottom right corner, select “My Disney Genie Day,” and then scroll down to the purple banner that says “More Magic…Disney Genie+. This is a quick step-by-step video to help you find Genie+ on the App.
Step-by-step to purchase Genie+ from the App
How Much does it Cost?
This is the part that is frustrating. Not just that is it an add-on cost, but the cost varies by park, date, and crowd levels. Basically, the more you need Disney+ the more expensive it is. The low range is $15 per person per day, but the cost can be as much as $29 per person per day.
Is it Worth It?
This answer depends on the goals of your trip. If you are visiting during a busy time and want to experience as many attractions as possible, effectively using Genie+ will help you meet that goal. If you are more flexible and/or visiting during lower crowd levels, you might consider skipping it. Remember, Genie+ is a per day purchase. This means you can use it some days and not others. Some people find it very helpful for Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, but skip it for EPCOT and Animal Kingdom. I’d suggest reviewing the attractions in each park, make a list of what you want to experience, and see if Genie+ is worth the expense. Either way, if you have realistic expectations about what you can accomplish, you will have a magical day!
Are there Additional Resources Available?
Yes! First, I’m available to discuss the pros and cons of Genie+, as well as strategy for effectively using Genie+. I’ve also watched some videos that I’ve found useful and I will share the links here if you want to do some of your own research!
Disney Genie+: Everything You Need to Know & The Best Way to Use It In Disney World Magic Kingdom
Our Step-by-Step Guide & Best Tips for the MAJOR new Features of Disney Genie+ at Disney World
Do you have experience using Genie+? Feel free to add your tips and tricks to the comments. I’d love to hear from you.
