The Magic of Genie Plus at Disney World: Is It Worth the Hype?
Jun 23, 2024
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Hey there, fellow Disney enthusiasts! If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando and feeling overwhelmed by all the options, let me introduce you to Genie Plus. It’s Disney’s latest system to help you navigate the parks more efficiently. But is it worth the extra expense? Let’s find out!
What is Genie Plus?
Genie Plus is Disney’s new service designed to help you skip the standby lines and make the most of your time in the parks. For a daily fee, you can access Lightning Lanes (formerly known as FastPass lines) and enjoy your favorite rides with shorter waits. It’s essentially a digital upgrade to the old FastPass system, allowing you to reserve access to attractions and avoid long lines.
The Cost
So, how much does this convenience cost? Genie Plus price varies depending on the day and the park you choose. They typically cost between $15-35 per person per day. Yes, it’s another added expense on top of your park tickets, but it might just be worth it depending on how you plan your day. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on the time of year and demand, so it’s a good idea to check the current rates before your visit.
Booking Lightning Lanes: The Rules
Booking Lightning Lanes with Genie Plus requires some strategy. You can book one Lightning Lane selection at a time, starting at 7 AM on the day of your visit. After you’ve used your first reservation (or two hours have passed since you made it), you can book another. Repeat this process throughout the day to maximize your ride count. It’s important to note that not all rides are included in Genie Plus, so you’ll need to prioritize which attractions you want to experience the most.
To make the most of Genie Plus, you’ll want to be up early and ready to book your first Lightning Lane at 7 AM sharp. This will give you a better chance of securing reservations for the most popular rides before they fill up. Also, keep an eye on the clock and be prepared to book your next Lightning Lane as soon as you’re eligible.
Genie Plus vs. Individual Lightning Lanes
Here’s where it gets a bit more complicated. Genie Plus covers many rides, but some of the most popular attractions (like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Rise of the Resistance) are not included. For these top-tier rides, you’ll need to purchase Individual Lightning Lane access separately. The price for these varies based on the day and demand, typically ranging from $15 to $22 per ride. This means you’ll need to budget extra if you want to ensure you get on these highly sought-after attractions without a long wait.
Is Genie Plus Worth It? My Opinion
Do you need Genie Plus to have a great day at Disney World? No. But does it make your day a lot easier? Definitely. If you’re not a fan of waiting in long lines, Genie Plus can be a real game-changer. However, the cost can add up, especially for families. So, it’s important to weigh the benefits against your budget.
Genie Plus is particularly beneficial during peak times when the parks are busier, and lines are longer. If you’re visiting during a holiday or school break, the extra cost might be worth it to save time and reduce stress. On less crowded days, you might find that you can manage without it, especially if you’re an early riser who can take advantage of shorter lines in the morning.
Pro Tip: Booking Lightning Lanes Smartly
If you decide to invest in Genie Plus, booking your Lightning Lanes strategically is key. Prioritize high-demand rides like Slinky Dog Dash and Jungle Cruise first. This way, you’ll get more value out of your purchase and avoid the longest waits. Also, try to book your next Lightning Lane as soon as you’re eligible, so you can fit in as many rides as possible throughout the day.
Another tip is to keep an eye on the wait times throughout the day using the My Disney Experience app. Sometimes, you can find shorter standby lines for certain rides while you’re waiting for your next Lightning Lane window to open. This way, you can maximize your time and experience more attractions without feeling rushed.
Final Thoughts
Genie Plus is a helpful tool that can turn a good Disney day into a great one. It’s not essential, but it certainly adds convenience. Just be mindful of the cost and plan your Lightning Lane selections wisely to get the most out of the service. If you’re willing to spend a bit more for the sake of efficiency and shorter waits, Genie Plus can make your
Disney experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Ready to try Genie Plus on your next Disney adventure? Let me know your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! Until next time, may your days be filled with magic and your lines be short.