One thing that is constantly changing at Disney parks is the name of their line-skipping services—from FastPass and FastPass+ to Genie+, Lightning Lane Multi Pass, and now Premier Pass! Not only have the names changed frequently over the past decade, but the options even differ between Disneyland and Disney World. Because this is a pain point for many travelers seeking out these amazing destinations, I will answer a few questions I receive frequently as an authorized Disney vacation planner!
Question: When can I purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Lightning Lane Single Pass, or Premier Pass?
Walt Disney World:
If you stay on-site, you can purchase a Lightning Lane multipass 7 days before you check into your resort. If you are staying off-site (including good neighbor resorts), you can buy it 3 days before.
Disneyland: You can either purchase it at the same time you purchase your tickets, whether that’s a package or tickets only. I highly suggest buying it ahead of time when you purchase your tickets or package because you will get it at the base price.
Question: How much is Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Lightning Lane Single Pass, or Premier Pass?
Walt Disney World: Pricing varies per day and per park.
Lightning Lane Multipass: Pricing can be as low as $16 per person per day.
Lightning Lane Premier Pass: Pricing can be as low as $199 per person per day
Lightning Lane Single Pass: Pricing can be as low as $12 per person per day per ride.
Disneyland: Pricing varies per day.
Lightning Lane Multipass: Pricing can be as low as $32 per person per day.
Lightning Lane Premier Pass: Pricing can be as low as $299 per person per day.
Lightning Lane Single Pass: Starts at $17 per person per day
Question: When can I start reserving rides?
Walt Disney World: If you are staying on-site, you can reserve three rides at the time of purchase (7 days before arrival). As a travel planner specializing in Disney, I have a free guide to send you that will give you all the information you need about which rides you can book ahead of time and the best ways to use Lightning Lanes. Answer some questions for me HERE, and I’ll reach out! If you purchase the Premier Pass, don’t worry about that part. You won’t have to reserve any rides.
Disneyland: You can start reserving rides the moment you scan your tickets and enter the park. Remember, if your entire party is not scanned in, you can only reserve rides for those who have scanned into the park.
Question: Can you reserve the same rides between Disneyland and Disney World?
No. Many rides are the same between the two parks, but many are different. Some rides are in Disneyland, not Disney World, and vice versa. I suggest familiarizing yourself with all the parks (Disneyland or Disney World).
Question: What else is included in Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Premier Pass?
Disneyland’s Lightning Lane Multi Pass also includes PhotoPass, which you must purchase separately at Walt Disney World. With this pass, you will have access to all filtered photos and ride photos.
Question: Is it worth it to buy Lightning Lane Multi Pass?
My answer is always a resounding yes! I don’t enjoy waiting in line, and my kids don’t either. Between purchasing Lightning Lane Multi Pass and rope drop, we get in many rides, making it 100% worth every penny.
Question: Do you have to wait 120 minutes to book your next ride?
Yes. This rule applies to both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Once you reserve your first ride in the parks, you have to wait 120 minutes before you can book another unless you use the lightning lane, in which case you can immediately book another after scanning it.
Hopefully, this helped clear up some confusion about the differences between Walt Disney World and Disneyland. As a travel planner specializing in Disney, I make sure you have all the knowledge you need to have the most magical trip, especially when it comes to Lightning Lanes! If you are ready to start planning a trip, fill out my FORM, and I’ll contact you!
