In a move that promises to further enhance the guest experience at their theme parks, Disney has announced the upcoming pilot launch of a brand-new service—the Lightning Lane Premier Pass. Set to debut soon at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, this offering will allow guests expedited access to some of the most popular attractions, with convenience at the forefront.
What is the Lightning Lane Premier Pass?
The Lightning Lane Premier Pass is an exclusive new option for guests who wish to enjoy quicker access to attractions with Lightning Lane entrances at the Disney theme parks they are visiting. Unlike previous offerings, this new pass will provide guests with one-time entry to each available Lightning Lane attraction without needing to choose a specific arrival time.
This pass will include all attractions available under both the Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass options, making it the most comprehensive Lightning Lane access available. However, the Premier Pass will be available in very limited quantities each day, and prices will vary depending on the date and park visited, making it a premium offering for those who want maximum flexibility and convenience.
Disneyland Resort Details
At Disneyland Resort, the Lightning Lane Premier Pass will be valid across both theme parks, meaning guests can use it for attractions at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. The pass will be available to purchase beginning two days in advance of a guest’s theme park reservation, with availability on a first-come, first-served basis. The first date this new pass will be offered is October 23, 2024.
The price for the Lightning Lane Premier Pass at Disneyland Resort will be $400 per person for all days remaining in 2024. In 2025, prices will vary by date and demand, ranging between $300 and $400 per person.
This new offering is set to provide guests with ultimate convenience—allowing them to arrive at their favorite attractions at any time during the day without having to plan specific arrival windows. As a result, the Premier Pass will be an ideal option for those who prefer a more spontaneous approach to their park visit or someone looking to tackle every ride in a single day.
Walt Disney World Resort Details
At Walt Disney World Resort, the rollout will have a slightly different approach. The Lightning Lane Premier Pass will first be made available to guests staying at Disney Vacation Club, Disney Deluxe, and Deluxe Villa Resorts as well as select other resort hotels, including Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels and Shades of Green Resort. Eligible guests can purchase the pass up to seven days prior to their check-in date for the duration of their stay (up to 14 days), starting at 7 a.m. Eastern. The first date of availability for Walt Disney World guests is October 30, 2024.
The pass will provide one-time access to all Lightning Lane attractions at a single theme park of the guest’s choosing each day. Prices will vary by date and theme park:
- Animal Kingdom: $129-$199 per person, plus tax
- EPCOT: $169-$249 per person, plus tax
- Hollywood Studios: $269-$349 per person, plus tax
- Magic Kingdom: $329-$449 per person, plus tax
In addition, the Premier Pass will also include Disney PhotoPass Lenses and digital PhotoPass Downloads of any attraction photos taken on the day of the visit—adding even more value to this premium offering.
Key Benefits and Features
- No Arrival Window Needed: Guests can head to any Lightning Lane entrance whenever they like, without having to book a time slot.
- One-Time Access to Each Attraction: Experience every available Lightning Lane attraction in the chosen theme park for that day.
- PhotoPass Perks: Guests will enjoy PhotoPass Lenses and digital downloads of attraction photos from their visit.
- Additional Flexibility: Guests purchasing the Lightning Lane Premier Pass can also buy Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Single Passes, offering even greater flexibility.
To purchase the Lightning Lane Premier Pass, guests must have a valid resort reservation and valid theme park admission linked to their My Disney Experience account. This pass must be purchased using the My Disney Experience app, which also allows guests to track their experiences throughout the day.
A Premium Experience for Disney Enthusiasts
The Lightning Lane Premier Pass is Disney’s latest move to provide more customized and premium options for park guests. By offering priority access to all Lightning Lane attractions, Disney is aiming to cater to those who want a more leisurely, spontaneous experience without the need to plan every ride. With limited availability and a wide range of pricing, this pass is expected to appeal to guests who prioritize convenience and are willing to pay for a hassle-free experience.
Would you buy the Lightning Lane Premier Pass? Stay tuned to DVCFan.com and the DVC Fan Facebook Group for more details and reactions!
Frank Muller
October 16, 2024Holy cow…an expensive add on for a traveling party of 5. Love the flexibility, but the price is 3 or 4x the gate price. A little too rich for me. 🤑
Ian McDonald
October 16, 2024I can only assume that as soon as people learn how to use this service the company will change it again.
Kevin Bokesch
October 16, 2024One thing I don’t really need is the photo pass part… maybe they should offer without that.. or offer it if someone wants it.. would be less expensive, because for $329-$449 per person, that’s kind of tough to swallow, after paying the prices of tickets also!
Zane
October 16, 2024Thank you Paul.
Ian Lamble
October 16, 2024LOL, how much ? And no park hopper ?
Jay Wil
October 16, 2024They are really ticking people off with these extra expenses. Bring back the free fast pass system, maybe stock prices will go back up. We went this summer and spent so much time waiting in line… never even had a chance to shop like we normally do or even enjoy snacks and beverages. It was frustrating, but I refuse to pay to wait in line (even if a shorter wait) on top of our park tickets. It’s principle. We will start finding other places to travel.
Bad decision Disney!! You’re ruining what was a magical place.