Now that the new Disney Genie+ service has been in place for over a month now at Walt Disney World, a common question I am hearing is “do I really need to purchase Disney Genie+?”. Some Disney goers, particularly ones who have visited Walt Disney World when the free FastPass+ service was in operation, are wondering if there is a need to actually pay the price to add Disney Genie+ to their family’s vacation. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of purchasing Disney Genie+.
What is Disney Genie+?
To make sure we are on the same page, let’s talk about an overall description of Disney Genie+. Disney Genie+ service is a paid-for service that will allow you to skip longer attraction wait times. The cost is $15 per person per day per person. Using Disney Genie+ you can choose the next available time to arrive at a variety of attractions and experiences using the Lightning Lane entrance. You can make one selection at a time, throughout the day – from classics like Haunted Mansion to thrill rides like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and newer favorites like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Resort guests are able to make their first selection at 7:00 am on the day of your visit. It does not, however, include the two most popular attractions at each park. These attractions, labeled Individual Lightning Lane Entrance, can be purchased separately.
Disney Genie+ Does Save You Time
Let’s just go ahead and tackle the biggest reason to purchase Disney Genie+ – it is a time saver. For anyone who has used FastPass+ in the past, you already know what a benefit it is when you are able to bypass the long standby queue and walk to the front (or close to the front of the line). How does that work? When you make your Disney Genie+ selection for attractions you will be given a one-hour window of time to show up and ride the attraction. Upon arriving at the attraction, you will use the shorter Lightning Lane entrance and have a minimal wait time. Once you scan your Magic Band or ticket card at the attraction, you may then select your next Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane.
Disney Genie+ Can Help You Get Great Seats for the Shows
In addition to selecting your favorite ride, you can also use Disney Genie+ to grab a great seat for your family’s favorite shows. Just like the ride selections, for the shows you will be given a window of time to arrive. These timeframes are shorter, usually about 20-25 minutes prior to the showtime. Once you arrive, you will be allowed into the waiting area prior to the standby guests. With this prime waiting spot, your family can easily secure one of the better seats in the house.
Capture Some Fun Photo Souvenirs
A couple of fun additions included with Disney Genie+ are Audio Tales and Disney PhotoPass Lenses. Audio Tales will offer insider tips, information, and other fun facts. I had a great time with Disney PhotoPass Lenses. Using your mobile device you can snap magical photos that will include augmented-reality features. You do not have to have Memory Maker to take advantage of this feature and photos will be saved directly to your phone. Definitely a fun feature!
Have questions about how Disney Genie+ can benefit your next Disney vacation? Reach out to me and I will be happy to assist you: natalie@castleandcruiseadventures.com.