Disney’s New Lightning Lane Premier Pass

Hot off the press- another update to Disney’s new Lightning Lane system. Starting October 30th, guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts, Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and Shades of Green will be able to purchase a Lightning Lane Premier Pass to reduce wait times at Disney theme parks. While we don’t have the full details, here are some key points (and a few thoughts):

• Each guest that requires a ticket will need to purchase a Lightning Lane Premier Pass for the day
• The Premier Pass is good for ONE PARK only and prices vary per park
• Only one Premier Pass may be purchased per person, per day
• The Premier Pass provides guests one-time access to any Lightning Lane entrance
• The Premier Pass includes Multi Pass and Single Pass Rides(e.g. Tron: Lightcycle Run)
• There is no need to prebook arrival windows for Lightning Lanes- simply scan in when you want and enjoy the ride
• Disney PhotoPass ride attraction photos are included for the day of the guest’s visit
• There will be a limited number of passes sold per day
Pricing
• Disney World- prices will range from $129 to $449 per pass at launch
• Disneyland- $400 per person until December 31, 2024; price will vary from $300-400 per person for 2025
How to Purchase
• Guests may purchase the Lightning Lane Premier Pass in the MyDisneyExperience app up to seven days prior to their check-in date (for up to 14 days length of stay) starting at 7AM Eastern time.
• A valid resort reservation and a valid Theme Park admission must be linked in the MyDisneyExperience account

​This is a good option for travelers looking for convenience. The Premier Pass eliminates the need to learn the Multi Pass/Single Pass system plus it reduces time on your phone at theme parks. This is a deluxe add-on that falls in between VIP pricing.

VIP tours range from $3150 to upwards of $6500 per day, are booked for a minimum of 7 hours, and gratuity is highly recommended. While larger groups can split VIP pricing (up to 10 guests per VIP tour), this is a nice option for families or smaller groups to have a premier experience at a lower price point.

While there are some other nice features to a VIP tour that make it superior (expert Disney guide, can use lightning lanes more than once per ride, preferred fireworks viewing, and more), the Premier Pass allows for you to enjoy the parks at your own pace and take a break from the day when needed.


I would also consider buying the Premier Pass during busy season (i.e. Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and Spring Break). While I generally try to plan around high crowd levels, for those who must travel during school vacations this is a great option to optimize your time at theme parks. This would also be a great option for those seeking a shorter Disney trip.

For example- I generally recommend two full days at Magic Kingdom. The Premier Pass would be an excellent way to efficiently visit Disney.

What are your thoughts?

​Will you consider purchasing a Lightning Lane Premier Pass?

thanks to our advisor Natalie Tapley for the insight on this brand new offering.

​Email [email protected] to get started planning your next Disney trip with one of our EarMarked agency’s expert advisors.