Walt Disney World Lightning Lane 2024 Updated Guide
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Walt Disney World Lightning Lane 2024 Updated Guide
Big changes are coming soon to Walt Disney World, changing the way you can plan your vacation! Genie + is being replaced by Lightning Lane Multi Pass, let's take a look at what this means for your next trip:
Lightning Lane Pass is Disney’s paid service that allows guests to skip the standby queue and more quickly ride attractions via the Lightning Lanes - replacing Genie+. Starting July 24, 2024 you can purchase Lightning Lane passes and make selections up to 7 days in advance of your arrival giving you more time to plan your visit. Let's explore frequently asked questions about Lightning Lane Multi and Single Pass, how to use them, and if utilizing this service is the best choice for your Disney vacation!
What are Lightning Lane Passes?
Lightning Lane Passes are Disney World's newest paid way to skip the standby line for most rides and experiences in Walt Disney World. This is not just a renaming of Genie+, it is a complete revamping of the line 'skipping' services, allowing guests more control over planning their days at the parks. Lightning Lane Multi Pass is replacing Genie+ and Lightning Lane Single Pass is replacing Individual Lightning Lanes. This service allows you to bypass the standby line and enter the shorter 'Lightning Lane' line, eliminating much of the time you would otherwise spend waiting in line for rides, giving you more time in your day to enjoy other experiences Walt Disney World offers, like parades, character meets, and other entertainment!
What is a Lightning Lane Multi Pass?
Lightning Lane Multi Pass (LLMP) is the new service replacing Genie+. Much like Genie+ you are paying to be able to schedule a window of time for an attraction where you can skip the standby queue and enter through the Lightning Lane. Unlike Genie+ you will be able to book your selections up to 7 days prior to your arrival and select 3 different experiences. You will also receive digital downloads of select attraction photos from your day, captured with Disney PhotoPass Service. Plus, access Disney PhotoPass Lenses!
What is a Lightning Lane Single Pass?
Lighting Lane Single Passes are replacing Individual Lightning Lanes. Each park has one or two premium attractions that are not included within Lighting Lane Multi Pass and are purchased separately. You do not have to use Multi Pass to purchase these. Unlike Individual Lightning Lane, you will be able to book your selection(s) prior to your arrival. You will have the ability to make selections and pick your return window prior to purchase.
What are some of the advantages of Lightning Lane Multi Pass over Genie+?
The biggest advantage is being able to manage this pre-arrival, rather than having to wake up at 7am while on vacation to book your first selection for the day. Additionally, you can see availability and make attraction selections and pick times prior to purchase, ensuring you are happy with your initial selection(s) prior to payment. Finally, LLMP offers the ability to hold up to 3 selections at one time. After using one of your pre-booked selections, you can book additional Lightning Lane Multi Passes throughout the day, keeping a maximum of 3 active at any time.
The complimentary features of Disney Genie Service will continue to be available in the MDE app
When does the switch from Genie+ to Lighting Lane Multi Pass take place?
Starting July 24, 2024 you can purchase Lightning Lane passes and make selections up to 7 days in advance of your arrival giving you more time to plan your visit.
What is a Lightning Lane?
Lightning Lanes are Disney's alternative to the standby queue, allowing guests to have a much shorter wait before experiencing an attraction. You must purchase a Lightning Lane Pass (or have DAS) to enter a Lightning Lane.
With Multi Pass, can I choose from any three Lighting Lane experiences?
Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios have a tiered system. You may pick one experience from Tier 1 and two (or all three) from Tier 2. Animal Kingdom only has one tier, and any three experiences that are available may be chosen. We talk about the different groups further down.
When can you buy Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass?
The booking window starts at different times depending on whether you are staying on site at a Disney World Resort hotel or off property:
For guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort, Lightning Lane Passes, both multi and single passes, can be purchased up to 7 days in advance of check-in, for their entire stay.
Off property guests with date-based theme park tickets can purchase Lightning Lane passes and choose experiences and return times for the total number of valid admission days starting 3 days in advance.
AP, who are not staying on property, and guests with other ticket types must purchase 3 days before their park visit, one day at a time.
What time will guests be able to purchase Lightning Lane Passes?
Guests can purchase Lightning Lane Passes for the days they have valid theme park admission starting at 7:00 AM Eastern Time on their first day of eligibility.
How do I purchase Lighting Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass?
Passes will be available for purchase in the My Disney Experience app
Open the MDE app, then tap the Lightning Lane Passes section on the home screen
Select a date and theme park
Select Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Single Pass, or both
Follow all prompts to complete your purchase
From the confirmation screen, you can tap “Plan another day” to purchase another pass or “View My Day” for details about your selection
*Lightning Lane passes are nonrefundable and nontransferable but can be modified pending availability*
When can international guests purchase Lightning Lanes?
International travelers can only purchase Lightning Lane passes and make selections upon arrival into the United States.
How much does Lightning Lane Multi Pass cost?
The price of Lightning Lane Multi Passes will vary by date and theme park. The prices for Lightning Lane Single Passes also vary both by date and attraction. Beginning July 24, 2024, prices will be available in the My Disney Experience app.
Can you make Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections in a different park if you are planning to Park Hop?
You must schedule your first three Lighting Lanes selections at the same park. If you have a Park Hopper ticket or an Annual Pass, once you redeem your first selection of the day, you can use the MDE app to choose another Lighting Lane return time in any of the other theme parks, subject to availability.
Is there an additional charge for using the Multi Pass when park hopping?
No. There is no additional charge for Park Hopping.
Can I book a Lightning Lane selection to the same attraction multiple times?
No. You may only use Lightning Lane Multi Pass to book an attraction one time each day. But you can always join the standby line to ride twice.
Can you use Lighting Lane Multi Pass with all the same experiences as Genie+?
No. Character meet & greets will no longer offer Lightning Lanes, nor will parades and other entertainment.
Rides Available for selection at each park:
Magic Kingdom:
Tier 1: Choose up to one experience from this tier:
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Jungle Cruise
Peter Pan’s Flight
Space Mountain
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Tier 2: Choose your other 2 experiences—or all 3—from this tier:
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
The Barnstormer
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Haunted Mansion
“it’s a small world”
Mad Tea Party
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Mickey’s PhilharMagic
Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
Pirates of the Caribbean
Tomorrowland Speedway
Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid
EPCOT:
Tier 1 Choose up to one experience from this tier:
Frozen Ever After
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
Soarin’ Around the World
Tier 2: Choose your other 2 experiences—or all 3—from this tier:
Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
Journey into Imagination with Figment
Living with the Land
Mission: SPACE
The Seas with Nemo & Friends
Spaceship Earth
Turtle Talk with Crush
Hollywood Studios:
Tier 1: Choose up to one experience from this tier:
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Slinky Dog Dash
Tier 2: Choose your other 2 experiences—or all 3—from this tier:
Alien Swirling Saucers
Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
Disney Junior Play & Dance!
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Muppet*Vision 3D
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Toy Story Mania!
Animal Kingdom:
Animal Kingdom only has one tier. Any three selections that are available may be scheduled from the following experiences:
DINOSAUR
Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
Feathered Friends in Flight!
Festival of the Lion King
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!
It’s Tough to Be a Bug!
Kali River Rapids
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Naʻvi River Journey
In addition to Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you can purchase up to 2 Lightning Lane Single Passes per day:
Magic Kingdom:
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
TRON Lightcycle Run
EPCOT:
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Hollywood Studios:
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Animal Kingdom:
Avatar Flight of Passage
Is it necessary to use the Lightning Lane Pass system?
Absolutely not. It is possible to tour the parks without purchasing a Lightning Lane Pass, almost every ride has a standby queue that can be used at no extra charge. The exceptions to this are TRON and Guardians of the Galaxy, which do not currently have a standard standby line, but do have a virtual queue. Depending on crowd levels, having LLMP can make it easier to fit in more rides. However, LLMP is not a requirement for having an enjoyable vacation! We do recommend using LLMP at Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, especially if you are aiming experience more of the more popular attractions.
I am excited to use this new system on my upcoming trip!
Follow along on my socials for Disney tips and reach out when you are ready to plan your next Disney Destinations vacation, I would love to assist!
Get in touch with Chali Francis
Chali Francis
As your dedicated travel agent, I specialize in crafting magical experiences, with a focus on Disney Destinations, unforgettable cruises, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. With a passion for creating seamless and joyful journeys, let me turn your travel dreams into reality. Embark on adventures filled with pixie dust, ocean breezes, and the finest resort amenities. Let’s make your next getaway a tale of enchantment and relaxation!
Chali Francis
Walt Disney World Lightning Lane 2024 Updated Guide
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As your dedicated travel agent, I specialize in crafting magical experiences, with a focus on Disney Destinations, unforgettable cruises, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. With a passion for creating seamless and joyful journeys, let me turn your travel dreams into reality. Embark on adventures filled with pixie dust, ocean breezes, and the finest resort amenities. Let’s make your next getaway a tale of enchantment and relaxation!
An expert destination wedding travel agent near me with five star luxury travel packages with a luxury travel company, Vincent Vacations.
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Hi, I am Chali Francis, a vacation planner based out of Oklahoma. I spend quite a bit of time each year in Orlando exploring the theme parks and staying up to date on the latest offerings to help my clients plan magical, memorable vacations.
On a recent trip to visit EPIC Universe prior to the park’s official opening date of May 22nd, I had the opportunity to stay at the brand-new Helios Grand Hotel—Universal’s flagship resort at Epic Universe. It is a beautifully designed property, and the level of theming throughout the hotel truly mirrors the immersive feel of the park itself. From the lighting and architecture to the artwork in the hallways, it is clear that Helios was built to be part of the story, not just a place to sleep.
One major perk: Helios offers a private, dedicated entrance directly into Epic Universe. This makes it incredibly convenient to return to your room for a midday break or to drop off souvenirs. In the Florida heat—especially since there is not much shade in the park yet—this easy back-and-forth access is something guests will really appreciate.
The on-site dining was another highlight. I had a pasta dish at Terra Flora that I will genuinely be thinking about for a while—it was that good. And Bar Helios offers great drinks with even better views of the park, especially at night.
When it comes to the rooms, Helios offers some truly elevated features. Each room includes a digital tablet where you can make requests, view your folio, and access hotel information. There are also thoughtful touches like automatic drapes, which add to the overall upscale feel of the space. I found the beds to be very comfortable, and I had a great night’s sleep during my stay.
That said, it is worth noting that the area to get ready is on the smaller side. The bathroom does have a split-bath layout, which is helpful for multiple people getting ready at once—one person can be in the shower while another uses the vanity—but it is still just a single-sink setup with limited counter space. Something to keep in mind if you are traveling with a group
The Standard Rooms at Helios Grand Hotel feature two queen beds and a split bathroom layout. These rooms can accommodate up to five guests with the addition of a rollaway bed (available upon request and subject to availability).
For families looking for a more immersive stay, the How to Train Your Dragon Kids’ Suites are a fantastic option. These themed suites offer a separate kids’ room inspired by the Isle of Berk, complete with two twin beds and playful décor straight out of the How to Train Your Dragon films. The main bedroom includes a king bed for the adults. These suites can also sleep up to five guests total.
One important thing to note: Helios does not include Universal’s Express Pass benefit like some of the other Premier Resorts (such as Royal Pacific, Portofino Bay, or Hard Rock Hotel). If you are planning to spend time in Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure, I still recommend one of those three hotels for the Express Pass perk.
My top recommendation? Do a split stay. Spend the nights you are visiting Epic Universe at Helios to enjoy the immersive experience and convenient park access, and book another Premier Resort (Royal Pacific, Hard Rock or Portofino Bay) for the days you are touring the original parks. While Universal is not currently offering luggage transfers between Helios and the other resorts, it is still very easy to catch a quick rideshare or shuttle. You can drop your luggage at Bell Services at Helios, grab your key, and head straight through the private entrance into the park.
If you do book a stay at Helios, I highly recommend upgrading to a theme park view room. Watching the park come alive at night from your window is a truly special touch that makes the stay even more memorable.
The resort also features a well-equipped fitness center, a fun arcade, and a beautiful pool area that I hope to enjoy more on a future visit. While I did not have much time for relaxing on this trip, those amenities definitely caught my eye.
If you are ready to plan your own Universal Orlando vacation—or just want more honest travel tips and updates—follow me on social media at @ChaliPlansMagic. And if you are ready to start planning, reach out directly. I would love to help you put together the perfect trip.
Hi, I am Chali Francis — a Travel Advisor based in Oklahoma, a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder, and a mom who knows the ins and outs of making Disney vacations magical for families!
One thing I hear from clients all the time is:
“We are thinking about skipping EPCOT until the kids are older.”
But trust me — EPCOT is absolutely worth visiting even with little ones!
From riding Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, exploring the underwater wonderland at The Seas Pavilion, to splashing through Moana’s Journey of Water, EPCOT has become a family favorite for good reason.
And there is a hidden gem that kids especially love: the Kidcot Fun Stops!
Kidcot Fun Stops are a FREE interactive experience located throughout World Showcase at EPCOT.
Kids (and grownups too!) can collect activity cards at each of the 11 international pavilions, meet Cast Members from around the world, and even learn a little about different cultures along the way.
When my daughter and I visit EPCOT, Kidcot is one of our must-do activities! She loves going from country to country, meeting new friends, and seeing how different — and yet how connected — our world is.
How to Experience Kidcot Fun Stops
It is super simple (and so much fun!):
Visit the Kidcot stop in any country — I recommend starting at the first country on your route!
Pick up your free Kidcot “suitcase” — a cute Ziploc bag to hold your treasures.
At each pavilion, find the Kidcot location and meet the Cast Member there.
Collect your country’s Kidcot card — and sometimes, if they have time, Cast Members will even:
Write your child’s name in their native language,
Share a story,
Or teach your child a simple phrase from their home country!
You can visit all 11 countries or just a few — it is completely flexible.
Kidcot is the perfect activity to sprinkle into your day while waiting for your next Lightning Lane or dining reservation!
Pro Tip: Some Kidcot stations are tucked away deeper inside the pavilions, so you might have to hunt for them — which is half the fun! You will get to explore parts of the countries you might otherwise walk right past.
Where to Find Kidcot Fun Stops at EPCOT
Here is a quick guide to where you can find each Kidcot location:
Mexico Pavilion — near the Mexico Folk Art Gallery
Norway Pavilion — inside The Puffin’s Roost
China Pavilion — near the exit of Reflections of China
Germany Pavilion — inside Volkunst shop
Italy Pavilion — outside, near La Bottega Italiana
American Adventure Pavilion — outside, near Art of Disney
Japan Pavilion — in the Bijutsu-kan Gallery
Morocco Pavilion — at the Marketplace in the Medina
France Pavilion — inside Souvenirs de France
United Kingdom Pavilion — inside The Toy Soldier
Canada Pavilion — at the exit of Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360
Whether you start your journey at Mexico, Canada, or (my personal favorite) the International Gateway, make sure to pick up your Kidcot “suitcase” and start collecting memories!
Why Families Should Not Skip EPCOT
Adding Kidcot into your day gives kids a mission — and helps turn World Showcase from a “walk through the countries” into an exciting, interactive adventure.
It is educational and it is fun, and it is one of the best-kept secrets when visiting EPCOT with children.
If you are planning your next Walt Disney World trip and would like help creating a vacation full of magical moments, I would love to help you!
Follow my social media channels @Chaliplansmagic on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube for more tips! If you are ready to plan, reach out — helping families create incredible Disney memories is what I do best!
Hi! I’m Chali Francis — a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder and Travel Advisor based in Oklahoma. I specialize in Walt Disney World and Universal vacations, and I help families find the best fit for their budget, travel style, and vacation goals.
With over 25 resort hotels to choose from on Walt Disney World property, there truly is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for deluxe accommodations with monorail access or something more budget-conscious that still keeps you immersed in the magic, Disney has you covered.
Today, I want to shine the spotlight on the most affordable resort options at Walt Disney World — the All-Star Resorts. These three value resorts are packed with fun theming, larger-than-life characters, and that special Disney touch. Let’s take a closer look at each one to help you decide which is the right fit for your family.
The All-Star Resorts are Disney’s most budget-friendly accommodations, but that does not mean you are missing out on the magic. In fact, staying at an All-Star resort still gives you access to many of the same perks you will find at higher-tier Disney resorts, such as:
Early Theme Park Entry
Complimentary bus transportation to all four theme parks and Disney Springs
Fun resort activities like poolside games, movies under the stars, arcades, and playgrounds
Large themed pools (while they do not have waterslides, they are still incredibly fun and kid-friendly)
Food courts and pool bars for convenient meals and snacks
A compact layout — making it easy to get from your room to the lobby, pool, or bus stop without a long walk
Plus, the All-Star Resorts are “motel-style,” meaning you access your room from an exterior corridor. This makes it super simple to get in and out without walking down long interior hallways — a small but convenient perk when you have tired little ones after a long park day.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
If you are traveling with younger children (or young at heart!), All-Star Movies is a guest favorite. With bold, oversized character statues and vibrant theming throughout, every corner of this resort feels like you stepped into a Disney film.
The resort is divided into five themed sections:
Toy Story
101 Dalmatians
Fantasia
The Mighty Ducks
Herbie the Love Bug
Each section features iconic characters and playful designs — from giant Woody and Buzz to Sorcerer Mickey casting magic over the Fantasia pool. It is a great option for families who want to keep the Disney magic going even after they leave the parks.
Personal pick: This is my favorite All-Star Resort because of the imaginative theming and classic movie nostalgia that makes every part of the resort feel special.
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
All-Star Music hits a high note with sections themed after different musical genres, including jazz, rock, country, Broadway, and calypso. It is colorful, energetic, and full of personality.
But what really makes All-Star Music stand out is its family suites — one of the few value-level options that can sleep up to six guests. These suites include a bedroom, a living area with additional sleeping options, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette.
For families needing a bit more space without upgrading to a moderate or deluxe resort, this is the best budget-friendly option on Disney property. Standard value and moderate resort rooms typically accommodate up to four people (plus one infant under 3), so the extra room here is a game-changer for larger families.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
All-Star Sports celebrates athletics with oversized icons representing baseball, football, basketball, tennis, and surfing. From giant tennis rackets to surfboards taller than your room, it is a high-energy resort that kids (especially sports lovers) will absolutely adore.
While it may be the last All-Star Resort I typically choose, that is just personal preference — the theming is bold and playful, and if you have a future MVP in the family, this could be the perfect fit. Like the other All-Star Resorts, it also has a themed pool, food court, and quick access to Disney transportation.
Value Without Sacrificing the Magic
All three All-Star Resorts provide incredible value while still letting you stay inside the “Disney bubble.” You get that extra dose of pixie dust with every pool party, every themed section, and every cast member interaction — all while keeping your vacation budget-friendly.
You will enjoy:
Easy-to-navigate resorts that are compact and walkable
Fun and safe spaces for kids to play, swim, and explore
All the convenience of staying onsite — no need to worry about driving, parking, or missing out on Early Entry
Ready to Plan?
Disney Resorts are one of my favorite topics to talk about — and where you stay can truly make a big difference in your overall vacation experience. Whether you are team Toy Story or dreaming of a suite that fits the whole family, there is an All-Star Resort that can be a perfect match for your trip.
My name is Chali, and I specialize in Walt Disney World vacations. I would love to help you plan a magical, stress-free getaway that fits your budget and your dreams.
Let’s connect!
Follow me on TikTok and Instagram: @chaliplansmagic
Or reach out directly to get started on your Disney vacation!
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