How Much Are the FastPasses at Disneyland?

The short answer? Disneyland’s FastPass system, as you knew it, is gone. It’s been replaced by Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections. So, you’re no longer asking about “FastPass” cost, but rather the cost of these new systems designed to help you bypass standby lines. Disney Genie+ costs around $25 per person, per day (price can vary based on demand), while Individual Lightning Lane selections are priced individually, per ride, and vary dramatically, typically ranging from $12 to $30+ depending on the ride and time of year. In other words, preparing for a Disneyland trip requires understanding this new landscape of paid line-skipping options.

Decoding Disney’s Line-Skipping Landscape

The key to navigating Disneyland efficiently now lies in understanding the distinctions between Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections. They’re not interchangeable, and mastering their use can save you valuable time and headaches. Think of them as distinct tools in your arsenal for conquering those notoriously long Disneyland queues.

Disney Genie+: Your All-Day Line-Busting Buddy

Disney Genie+ operates much like the old MaxPass, but with some critical differences. For a daily fee of around $25 (remember, price fluctuates), you gain access to Lightning Lane entrances at a wide selection of attractions across both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. You can book one Lightning Lane selection at a time, and once you’ve used that Lightning Lane or waited two hours, you can book another.

Important Caveats:

• Not all attractions are included. The most popular rides are typically excluded from Genie+ and fall under the Individual Lightning Lane selection category.
• Demand fluctuates. The early bird gets the worm. Popular rides run out of Lightning Lane availability quickly, so booking your selections as early as possible (starting at 7:00 AM, even before entering the park!) is crucial.
• Subject to change. Disney has been known to adjust the list of attractions included in Genie+, so always check the Disneyland app on the day of your visit.

Individual Lightning Lane: Bypassing the Biggest Beasts

Individual Lightning Lane selections are a completely separate purchase, allowing you to skip the line at some of the most popular attractions not included in Disney Genie+. These are pay-per-ride, and the price varies based on the ride, the day of the week, and the time of year. Expect to pay significantly more during peak season.

Think of rides like:

• Disneyland Park: Rise of the Resistance
• Disney California Adventure Park: Radiator Springs Racers

These are the big-ticket attractions where standby lines can easily stretch to two hours or more. Paying for Individual Lightning Lane access can be a worthwhile investment if these rides are a must-do for your group.

Strategies for Maximizing Your Time (and Money)

So, how do you decide whether to purchase Genie+ and/or Individual Lightning Lane selections? Here’s a breakdown of strategies:

• Prioritize your must-do rides. Identify which attractions are non-negotiable for your group. If those rides are Individual Lightning Lane selections, budget accordingly.
• Consider the time of year. During peak season (summer, holidays), the parks are significantly more crowded, making Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections more valuable. Off-season, you might be able to navigate the parks efficiently without them.
• Start early. As mentioned earlier, book your Genie+ selections first thing in the morning. Availability dwindles as the day progresses.
• Stack your Lightning Lane selections. Understand the two-hour rule and plan your bookings strategically to maximize the number of Lightning Lane rides you can experience.
• Rope Drop. Arrive at the park before it opens (“rope drop”) to get a head start on the crowds and ride a few popular attractions with minimal wait times.
• Single Rider Lines. Utilize single rider lines when available (for attractions like Radiator Springs Racers and Incredicoaster) to significantly reduce wait times if you don’t mind riding separately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly is Disney Genie+?

Disney Genie+ is a paid service within the Disneyland app that allows you to book Lightning Lane access to a selection of attractions throughout Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, one ride at a time.

2. How much does Disney Genie+ cost?

The cost of Disney Genie+ varies by date and park and can be anywhere from $25+ per person, per day.

3. What are Individual Lightning Lane selections?

Individual Lightning Lane selections allow you to purchase access to a Lightning Lane for specific, high-demand attractions not included in Disney Genie+.

4. How much do Individual Lightning Lane selections cost?

The price of Individual Lightning Lane selections varies greatly, typically ranging from $12 to $30+ per person, per ride, depending on the attraction and the day of the week/time of year.

5. How do I purchase Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections?

You can purchase Disney Genie+ daily through the Disneyland app after you have entered the park. Individual Lightning Lane selections can also be purchased through the Disneyland app, starting at 7:00 AM, even if you aren’t in the park.

6. Can I purchase Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections in advance?

No. Disney Genie+ is only available for purchase on the day of your visit. Individual Lightning Lane selections can be purchased the same day beginning at 7:00 AM.

7. What rides are included in Disney Genie+?

The list of attractions included in Disney Genie+ varies and is subject to change. Check the Disneyland app on the day of your visit for the most up-to-date list. Some popular examples (subject to change) often include:

• Disneyland Park: Haunted Mansion, Indiana Jones Adventure, “it’s a small world”, Space Mountain
• Disney California Adventure Park: Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!, Incredicoaster, Toy Story Mania!

8. What rides are typically offered as Individual Lightning Lane selections?

Typically, the most popular attractions, such as Rise of the Resistance (Disneyland Park) and Radiator Springs Racers (Disney California Adventure Park) are offered as Individual Lightning Lane selections.

9. Do I need a Park Hopper ticket to use Genie+ effectively?

While not strictly required, a Park Hopper ticket makes Genie+ more effective. You can maximize your time by booking Lightning Lane selections in one park and then hopping to the other park after you’ve used them.

10. What happens if a ride breaks down after I’ve booked a Lightning Lane?

If a ride breaks down after you’ve booked a Lightning Lane, you’ll typically receive a multiple experience pass that can be used at other attractions. Check the details in the Disneyland app for specifics.

11. Is Genie+ worth the cost?

Whether Genie+ is worth the cost depends on several factors, including the time of year, the crowd levels, and your group’s priorities. If you’re visiting during peak season or have a limited amount of time, Genie+ can be a valuable investment.

12. Are there any free options for reducing wait times at Disneyland?

Yes! Utilizing Rider Switch (child swap), Single Rider lines, and arriving at the park before it opens (rope drop) are all free ways to minimize wait times. Keep an eye on wait times in the Disneyland app and plan your day accordingly.

Ultimately, navigating Disneyland without the traditional FastPass requires a strategic approach and an understanding of Disney Genie+, Individual Lightning Lane selections, and other time-saving techniques. Careful planning and a willingness to adapt will help you make the most of your magical vacation.