Disney Genie Plus: Features, Pricing and Maximize Your Fun

Imagine you are at Disney World. You’ve bought your tickets, you’re in the park and you’re ready to go on all the rides. But then you realize you don’t know where to go or what to do first.

If this has happened to you before, don’t worry; you’re not alone. That’s why Disney created the Genie and Genie Plus services, to help take the guesswork out of planning your perfect Disney World vacation.

In this blog post, I’ll explain how these services work and what they can do for you. From making restaurant reservations to booking FastPasses, Genie and Genie Plus services will make your next trip to Disney World even more magical.

What is Disney Genie Plus?

Disney Genie Plus is an amazing new service that enhances your Disney theme park experience by offering you a range of benefits to make your day more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Launched as a replacement for the previous FastPass+ system, Disney Genie Plus comes with a host of features that aim to improve your time at the parks.

One of the main perks of Disney Genie Plus is access to the Lightning Lane. With this feature, you can enjoy shorter wait times for many popular attractions, making it easier to fit more fun into your day. By reserving access to these attractions via the My Disney Experience app, you can skip the regular standby queues and save valuable time.

In addition to the Lightning Lane access, Disney Genie Plus also offers other fantastic features such as PhotoPass downloads, augmented reality experiences, and exclusive park tips and recommendations. These extras help create a more immersive and personalized experience for you and your family during your visit.

What is the difference between the free Genie service and Genie Plus?

Both Disney Genie and Disney Genie Plus are services aimed at enhancing your visit to Disney theme parks, but they offer different features and benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the two:

Disney Genie (Free)

• Personalized itinerary: The free Disney Genie service helps you create a customized daily plan based on your interests, preferences, and favorite attractions. It takes into account factors like park hours, wait times, and parade or show schedules.
• Real-time updates: Disney Genie constantly updates your itinerary throughout the day, providing you with real-time recommendations and adjusting your plan based on current conditions at the park.
• Virtual assistant: The service also includes a virtual assistant that can answer your questions and provide suggestions or recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.

Disney Genie Plus (Paid)

• Lightning Lane access: In addition to the features offered by the free Disney Genie service, Disney Genie Plus includes access to the Lightning Lane, which allows you to enjoy shorter wait times at many popular attractions by reserving a time slot via the My Disney Experience app.
• PhotoPass downloads: With Disney Genie Plus, you’ll also get access to unlimited downloads of your Disney PhotoPass photos taken on the day of your visit, making it easy to capture and share your magical memories.
• Augmented reality experiences: Disney Genie Plus offers exclusive augmented reality experiences that bring your favorite Disney stories and characters to life in new and immersive ways.
• Exclusive park tips and recommendations: The paid service also includes a selection of exclusive tips and recommendations to help you discover hidden gems and make the most of your time at the park.

In summary, the free Disney Genie service focuses on helping you create a personalized plan and offers real-time updates, while Disney Genie Plus provides additional benefits like Lightning Lane access, PhotoPass downloads, augmented reality experiences, and exclusive park tips for an extra cost.

Which parks is Disney Genie Plus available?

Disney Genie Plus is available at both Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California. Within these resorts, you can enjoy the benefits of Disney Genie Plus at the following theme parks:

Walt Disney World Resort, Florida:

1. Magic Kingdom Park
2. Epcot
3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios
4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

Disneyland Resort, California:

1. Disneyland Park
2. Disney California Adventure Park

How much does Disney Genie Plus cost?

As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, Disney Genie Plus costs $15 per ticket per day at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and $20 per ticket per day at Disneyland Resort in California. Please note that prices may have changed since then, so it’s always a good idea to check the official Disney website for the most current pricing information.

How to purchase Disney Genie Plus

How to purchase Disney Genie Plus?

Disney’s Genie and Genie Plus services are available at Disney World for a flat fee per guest. These services give guests access to a personal assistant who can help guests with dining reservations, queue reservation selections and more.

Prices vary depending on the day and period. So it’s best to check for yourself, but a general price range is around $15 – $25.

How to use Disney’s Genie Plus?

o purchase Disney Genie Plus, follow these simple steps:

1. Download the My Disney Experience app (for Walt Disney World Resort) or the Disneyland app (for Disneyland Resort) on your smartphone or tablet. Both apps are available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
2. Create an account or sign in to your existing Disney account. If you haven’t already, link your park tickets or annual passes to your account.
3. Open the app and navigate to the Disney Genie section. This is where you’ll find information about Disney Genie Plus and the option to purchase the service.
4. Select the dates and the number of tickets for which you want to purchase Disney Genie Plus. Keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase the service for each day you plan to use it and for each member of your party who will be using the Lightning Lane and other Disney Genie Plus features.
5. Review your selection, and proceed to checkout. Complete your purchase using your preferred payment method.
6. Once your purchase is complete, Disney Genie Plus will be added to your tickets for the selected dates. You can now start making Lightning Lane reservations and using other Disney Genie Plus features through the app.

Remember that Lightning Lane reservations can be made starting at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit for guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel and 9:00 AM for all other guests. Plan accordingly to make the most of your Disney Genie Plus experience.

Standalone Lightning Lane reservations

Standalone Lightning Lane reservations are separate from Disney Genie Plus and allow guests to make reservations for select high-demand attractions that are not included in the standard Disney Genie Plus offering.

These reservations can be made for an additional fee, and guests do not need to have Disney Genie Plus to purchase standalone Lightning Lane reservations.

Here’s how to make standalone Lightning Lane reservations:

1. Download and open the My Disney Experience app (for Walt Disney World Resort) or the Disneyland app (for Disneyland Resort) on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Sign in to your existing Disney account or create a new one if you don’t have one already. Make sure your park tickets or annual passes are linked to your account.
3. On the day of your visit, navigate to the Disney Genie section of the app. You’ll see a list of available attractions and experiences that offer standalone Lightning Lane reservations.
4. Choose the attraction for which you’d like to make a reservation, and select an available return time.
5. Review your selection and proceed to checkout. Complete your purchase using your preferred payment method.
6. Your standalone Lightning Lane reservation will now be added to your account, and you can view it within the app.

Please note that the number of standalone Lightning Lane reservations you can make per day is limited, and they are subject to availability.

Additionally, the price for each reservation may vary based on factors such as the attraction’s popularity and the time of day. Be sure to check the app for the most current information on availability and pricing.

Disney Genie Plus features

Lightning Lane access

Lightning Lane access is a key feature of Disney Genie Plus, allowing guests to reserve access to select attractions with reduced wait times.

By using Lightning Lane, you can enjoy more attractions and experiences during your visit, making the most of your time in the park.

Here’s how to use Lightning Lane access with Disney Genie Plus:

• Purchase Disney Genie Plus: First, make sure you’ve purchased Disney Genie Plus for each member of your group who wishes to use Lightning Lane access. The service can be purchased through the My Disney Experience app (for Walt Disney World Resort) or the Disneyland app (for Disneyland Resort).
• Make reservations: On the day of your visit, you can start making Lightning Lane reservations using the app. Disney Resort hotel guests can begin making reservations at 7:00 AM, while all other guests can start at 9:00 AM. You can make one reservation at a time per ticket.
• Choose an attraction and time: Browse the available attractions and select one for your Lightning Lane reservation. Choose a return time that works best for your schedule. Once you’ve confirmed your reservation, it will appear in the app.
• Arrive at the attraction: When your reservation window arrives, head to the attraction and look for the Lightning Lane entrance. This entrance is separate from the standby queue and typically has a much shorter wait time.
• Scan your park ticket or MagicBand: To enter the Lightning Lane queue, scan your park ticket, MagicBand, or the barcode in your Disney app at the designated checkpoint. The cast member will verify your reservation, and you can proceed into the queue.
• Make additional reservations: Once you’ve used your current Lightning Lane reservation or the return window has passed, you can make another reservation for a different attraction or the same one later in the day (subject to availability).

By utilizing Lightning Lane access with Disney Genie Plus, you can optimize your theme park experience, enjoying more attractions with less time spent waiting in lines.

Disney Genie itinerary planner

The Disney Genie itinerary planner is a feature within the My Disney Experience app (for Walt Disney World Resort) and the Disneyland app (for Disneyland Resort) that helps guests create personalized, optimized itineraries for their park visits.

The planner takes into account your preferences, interests, and real-time park data to suggest the best attractions, shows, and dining experiences.

To use the Disney Genie itinerary planner, follow these steps:

• Set up your preferences: Open the app and navigate to the Disney Genie section. Enter your preferences, such as favorite characters, types of attractions, and any shows or parades you’d like to see. You can also specify dietary requirements or accessibility needs.
• Select your park and date: Choose the park you’re visiting and the date of your visit. Disney Genie will use this information to create a customized itinerary tailored to your preferences and the park’s available experiences on that day.
• Review your personalized itinerary: Disney Genie will generate a suggested itinerary that includes attractions, shows, and dining experiences based on your preferences, showtimes, and estimated wait times. You can review the suggestions, and if needed, modify the itinerary according to your needs.
• Follow your itinerary: As you go through your day, use the app to navigate between attractions and experiences. The itinerary planner will update in real-time, adjusting your schedule based on wait times, showtimes, and any changes in park operations.
• Make changes on the go: If you decide to change your plans, the Disney Genie itinerary planner can adapt accordingly. Simply update your preferences or add new experiences, and the app will adjust your itinerary to optimize your park visit.

By using the Disney Genie itinerary planner, you can streamline your theme park experience, ensuring that you make the most of your time at Disney parks.

The planner’s ability to adjust in real-time helps you avoid long wait times and enjoy more attractions, shows, and dining experiences during your visit.

PhotoPass downloads

PhotoPass downloads are a feature included with Disney Genie Plus, allowing guests to access and download digital copies of their photos taken by Disney PhotoPass photographers throughout the parks.

This service helps you capture magical moments with your friends and family without worrying about taking the pictures yourself.

To make the most of PhotoPass downloads, follow these steps:

1. Locate Disney PhotoPass photographers: As you explore the parks, look for Disney PhotoPass photographers stationed in front of iconic locations and character meet-and-greets. They are easy to spot, typically wearing a uniform with a PhotoPass logo.
2. Pose for photos: When you find a PhotoPass photographer, simply approach them and ask for a photo. They’ll professionally capture your magical moments, taking multiple shots to ensure you get the perfect picture.
3. Scan your park ticket or MagicBand: After taking the photos, the PhotoPass photographer will scan your park ticket, MagicBand, or the barcode in your Disney app. This links the photos to your Disney account, making them accessible through the app.
4. View and download your photos: Open the My Disney Experience app (for Walt Disney World Resort) or the Disneyland app (for Disneyland Resort) and navigate to the PhotoPass section. You’ll find your photos here, typically available within a few hours of being taken. As a Disney Genie Plus user, you can download these photos without any additional charges.
5. Share your memories: Once downloaded, feel free to share your photos with friends and family through social media or other sharing platforms. You can also order prints, photo books, or other merchandise featuring your photos through the app or Disney’s online store.

By taking advantage of PhotoPass downloads included with Disney Genie Plus, you can focus on enjoying your park experience while still capturing and preserving those unforgettable Disney memories.

Tips and Tricks for Maximizing Your Disney Genie Plus Experience

To make the most of your Disney Genie Plus experience, consider these tips and tricks:

• Start early: Begin making Lightning Lane reservations as soon as you’re eligible, which is at 7:00 AM for Disney Resort hotel guests and 9:00 AM for all other guests. The sooner you start, the better your chances of securing reservations for popular attractions.
• Prioritize high-demand attractions: When selecting your Lightning Lane reservations, prioritize attractions that typically have longer wait times or are in high demand. This will help you save the most time and make the most of your Disney Genie Plus purchase.
• Be flexible with your schedule: Disney Genie Plus will suggest personalized itineraries based on your preferences and interests. Be open to adjusting your plans to make the most of the recommendations, as they are designed to help you experience more attractions with minimal wait times.
• Keep an eye on availability: Throughout the day, periodically check the app for Lightning Lane reservation availability. Sometimes additional reservation times become available, or new attractions may open up due to changes in park operations.
• Utilize the walk-up wait times feature: In addition to Lightning Lane reservations, use the app to monitor walk-up wait times for attractions. You may find shorter wait times for certain attractions, allowing you to enjoy more experiences without a reservation.
• Take advantage of PhotoPass downloads: Be sure to use the Disney PhotoPass service included with Disney Genie Plus. Capture memorable moments throughout your visit with professional-quality photos. Download and share your photos to commemorate your magical Disney adventure.
• Plan around shows and parades: While making your itinerary, consider the timing of shows, parades, and nighttime spectaculars. Be mindful of how these events might impact attraction wait times and Lightning Lane availability, and plan accordingly.
• Keep your group connected: Link your party’s accounts within the app to make and manage reservations together. This ensures everyone in your group can enjoy the same experiences and stay organized throughout the day.
• Don’t forget about standby queues: If you’re unable to secure a Lightning Lane reservation for a particular attraction, remember that you can still wait in the standby queue. Make the most of your day by balancing your use of Lightning Lane reservations with standby lines for other attractions.
• Stay charged: Disney Genie Plus relies on your smartphone or tablet, so ensure your device is fully charged and consider bringing a portable charger to keep your battery topped up throughout the day.

FAQs

Do I need Disney Genie Plus for every member of my group?

Yes, each member of your group who wishes to use Disney Genie Plus features, such as Lightning Lane access, should have their own Disney Genie Plus purchase.

However, if certain members of your group have different preferences or do not wish to use the Lightning Lane, they can choose not to purchase the service.

Can I use Disney Genie Plus for multiple parks in one day?

Yes, you can use Disney Genie Plus for multiple parks in one day if you have a park hopper ticket. Keep in mind that you can only make Lightning Lane reservations for one park at a time, and park hopping is generally allowed after a specific time (usually 2:00 PM, but it’s best to check current park policies).

What happens if a ride is temporarily closed or unavailable?

If a ride with a Lightning Lane reservation becomes temporarily unavailable, you will be notified in the app.

You’ll typically receive an alternative experience pass, which you can use for the same attraction later (when it reopens) or for another attraction that offers Lightning Lane access.

How many rides can I book with Genie Plus?

With Disney Genie Plus, you can make one Lightning Lane reservation at a time. Once you have redeemed your reservation or the reservation window has passed, you can book another reservation.

This process can be repeated throughout the day, allowing you to make multiple reservations as long as there’s availability.

Which rides are not included in Genie Plus?

Disney Genie Plus covers most attractions with Lightning Lane access, but there are a few high-demand attractions that require a separate standalone Lightning Lane reservation.

These attractions are not included in the standard Disney Genie Plus offering and require an additional fee. The specific attractions may vary between parks and can change over time, so it’s essential to check the app or the official Disney website for the most current information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Disney Genie Plus is a valuable tool for enhancing your theme park experience, offering features such as Lightning Lane access, customized itinerary planning, and PhotoPass downloads.

By understanding its features and utilizing the tips and tricks shared in this article, you can make the most of your Disney vacation. Embrace the magic and convenience of Disney Genie Plus to create unforgettable memories with your friends and family.