Walt Disney World

What to Know About Genie+ & Lightning Lane – Guide to Genie+

What to Know About Genie+ & Lightning Lane – Guide to Genie+

If you’re going to Disney, you may be wondering, “Is Disney Genie Plus worth it?” Along the same lines, you might not even know where to begin with the Genie+ System, which is understandable – it’s a lot of information to take in. The good news is that you’re in the right place to get your questions answered and more!

Here for the quick FREE guide?  Grab it here!

Grab the Genie+ Guide now!

What is the Disney Genie Service, Genie+, and Lightning Lane? What is the difference?!

Disney’s Genie Service and Genie+ is a new service that provides you with beneficial information and the ability to reserve rides and attraction times in advance and skip the standby line at many attractions (it is similar to the old FastPass+ system that you may remember using!).  These “skip the standby” lines are called Lightning Lanes.  

Lightning Lanes in essence are the “skip the standby” lines.  As you walk through the park you will notice that there is a second line at each entrance in addition to the Standby lines.  These second entrances and :skip the standby” lines are Lightning Lanes.  For many of you who remember these lanes being called FastPass, it just got renamed!  In order to enter a Lightning Lane you must first either use Genie+ to select a return time or purchase an Individual Lightning Lane return time which is separate from Genie+ (if you are confused, that is okay I will come back to this later on).

Now…Disney’s Genie Service is a complimentary service that creates the best Disney day inspired by your party’s top interests. It also grants you new planning features, including a personalized itinerary creator that seamlessly and smartly maps out your visit with updates that continue from morning to night. You can access the Disney’s Genie Service by going to your My Disney Experience app, then select the menu button on the right side of the bottom bar, then select “Tip Board” to start planning out your day!

However, the Genie+ service (emphasis on the +) is a paid service that will allow you to use the new Lightning Lane entrance at select attractions and experiences at the Walt Disney World theme parks. On average, guests can enter 2 to 3 attractions or experiences per day (or if you use a travel agent who has a strategy you may get more, we aren’t going to name names here but we know of someone that does 🙋🏻‍♀️ using the Lightning Lane entrance if the first selection is made early in the day. You may make one selection at a time, starting at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit, then again every 2 hours until every return time has been taken.

If your theme park ticket includes the Park Hopper option, you can select Lightning Lane arrival windows across multiple theme parks.  There are some limitations to the Genie+ service… there are specific rides that you CANNOT use Lightning Lane with Genie+ alone (remember earlier when I said I would come back to this?) With these popular and e-ticket specific rides you will need to purchase an Individual Lightning Lane, even if you already purchased Genie+.  You may be able to see what is and is not included in Genie+ below.

List of Attractions Included in Genie+

Here a list of all the attractions you can use the Genie+ organized by park:

Magic Kingdom

♡ The Barnstormer
♡ Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
♡ Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
♡ Dumbo the Flying Elephant
♡ Haunted Mansion
♡ “it’s a small world”
♡ Jungle Cruise
♡ Mad Tea Party
♡ The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
♡ The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
♡ Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade (seasonal)
♡ Mickey’s PhilharMagic
♡ Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
♡ Peter Pan’s Flight
♡ Pirates of the Caribbean
♡ See Cinderella and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall
♡ See Mickey at Town Square Theater
♡ See Princess Tiana and a Visiting Princess at Princess ♡ Fairytale Hall
♡ Splash Mountain
♡ Tomorrowland Speedway
♡ Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid
♡ Space Mountain (included in the Genie+ system until August 2022)

EPCOT

♡ Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
♡ Journey into Imagination with Figment
♡ Living with the Land
♡ Mission: SPACE – Green
♡ Mission: SPACE – Orange
♡ Soarin’
♡ Spaceship Earth
♡ The Seas with Nemo & Friends
♡ Test Track
♡ Turtle Talk with Crush
♡ Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (included beginning May 31, 2022)
♡ Frozen Ever After (included in the Genie+ system until August 2022)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

♡ Alien Swirling Saucers
♡ Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along
♡ Disney Jr. Dance Party
♡ For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
♡ Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
♡ Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
♡ Muppet* Vision 3D
♡ Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
♡ See Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight
♡ Slinky Dog Dash
♡ Star Tours
♡ Toy Story Mania!
♡ The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
♡ Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (included in the Genie+ system until August 2022)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

♡ The Animation Experience
♡ Celebration of the Festival of the Lion King – Not available from July 5, 2022 to July 15, 2022
♡ DINOSAUR
♡ Feathered Friends in Flight
♡ It’s Tough to Be a Bug
♡ Kali River Rapids
♡ Kilimanjaro Safaris
♡ Na’vi River Journey
♡ Expedition Everest – closed for refurbishment until May 2022 (included in the Genie+ system until August 2022)

List of Attractions Not Included in Genie+

Here a list of all the attractions you cannot use the Genie+ organized by park:

Magic Kingdom

♡ Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

EPCOT

♡ Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

♡ Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

♡ Avatar Flight of Passage

Okay so how much does Genie+ actually cost? How much do Individual Lightning Lanes cost?

Genie+ is a fixed rate of $15 per person, per day (plus tax). If you purchase Genie+ in advance with a travel agent, in a room-ticket package, then you may be able to get a discount. (Only available until June 8, 2022).  Lightning Lane on the other hand is not a fixed rate and fluctuates between ride and even the time of day.  Depending on the ride it can be as low as $6 per person or it can be as high as $16 per person.

I am so full of what they are all about, how do I actually use the Genie+ and Lightning Lane services?

This will be a lot to read and we know that so we have created an easy to use template and guide for you to grab and use! 

Grab the Genie+ Guide now!
To use either service, you’ll need to purchase a theme park ticket (and don’t forget to make a park reservation) for each day that you plan to visit a park. Once you have purchased your ticket, you must then link it to your Disney account using the My Disney Experience app or website.

If you are purchasing Genie+ in advance then it will automatically be added to your account and you don’t have to do anything until the day of.  However, if you are purchasing it on the day, then you may purchase starting at midnight the day of.

No matter when you purchase, you will be able to make your first Lightning Lane selection starting at 7 am the day of.  To make your selection head to your My Disney Experience app, then select the menu button on the right side of the bottom bar, then select “Tip Board,” at the top of the page you change the park you are going to, then scroll to find the Lightning Lane selection you want!  After 120 minutes, or 2 hours, you may go back to the same page and select another.  If you wish to purchase an Individual Lightning Lane then you scroll to the ride you would like to purchase (such as Snow White’s Mine Train) and select the LL option, it should also tell you the amount that it costs.

Then, when you are within your return time, simply go to the attraction’s Lightning Lane entrance and scan your ticket, MagicBand, watch or phone. You’ll be able to bypass the standby line and head straight for the ride vehicles.

Keep in mind that you are only allowed to hold one Lightning Lane  at a time for each person in your party.   However, you can modify your selections using the app or website if you need to change your plans. And if an attraction is down or unavailable, you may be able to select a different one. You can also cancel your Lightning Lane if you no longer need it.

Is Disney Genie Plus worth it?

The answer to this question is, unfortunately, a bit complicated. It depends on a variety of factors, such as the size of your party, how many days you’ll be visiting the parks, and which rides/attractions you want to experience, etc.

Some people might find that the Genie+ Service is worth it for the convenience and peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a reservation for popular rides/attractions.  Others might prefer to save some money and go with the Individual Lightning Lane option, especially if they’re only interested in riding the few specific rides/attractions that you can purchase with an Individual Lightning Lane.

You’ll need to decide your budget and what you’re looking for in a Disney vacation to determine the answer to this question. No matter what you decide, we hope this guide has been helpful in giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not Disney Genie+ is right for you!

I have all the information, I know I want it, but I am afraid I will miss it or I just don’t want to do it, what do I do?

Well you are in the right place, at Trinity Dias Travel Company we have our own strategy to Genie+ to get the most out of your day.  We offer Genie+ assistance for FREE with all of our bookings!  If you are looking for us to take care of all of your Genie+ needs, reach out to us via our Contact Form, or email us at travel@trinitydias.com!
If you have any questions, thoughts or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out via Contact Us form, or via email at travel@trinitydias.com! Until next time,

Trinity

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Disney World Resorts and Hotels

Disney World Resorts and Hotels

We know how overwhelming it can be when looking to decide what Walt Disney World Resort you would stay at. We have created a list of all resorts and put them all in one place so you can easily look through all the resorts and decide which is your favorite! Before we continue you should understand the different classifications of Disney resorts.  There are four different categories, Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Villas.  Value resorts are 

Without further ado… all 32 Walt Disney World Resorts!  If you’re looking for a quick read based on the right category for you select them from the buttons below!

Value Resorts
Moderate Resorts
Deluxe Resorts
Villa Resorts

Value Resorts

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Discover the magic and enchantment of Disney and Pixar movies with a stay at a Disney Resort hotel. The Art of Animation shows off the stunning landscapes and characters from some of the company’s most popular films. Featuring Landscape of Flavors which serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, largest resort pool in Walt Disney World, family suites, access to the Disney Skyliner, and dog-friendly accommodations! Average per night is usually $233 USD.

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

Imagine being surrounded by the Disney friends you love. At the Disney Resort, you’ll have the luxury of being able to experience the magic of Disney in an all-star resort hotel.  With features such as a Fantasia themed pool, premiere food court, and movies under the stars.  Average per night is usually $167 USD.

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

The Music Room at The Resort features a variety of music genres, including jazz, country, rock ‘n’ roll, and Broadway-style show tunes. Features include a guitar-shaped pool, “Intermission” food court, and family suites.  Average per night is usually $153 USD for standard rooms and $353 USD for suites.

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

With a variety of sports themes, this resort hotel is the place to be if you love to watch and play sports. There are plenty of ways to celebrate these moments starring as your favorite Disney characters.  Features include a pool with Surfboard Motif, and “End-Zone” food court.  Average per night is usually $153 USD.

The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Located in the heart of Disney’s Fort Wilderness, this resort features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and hunting.  Other features include fully-equipped campsites, golf carts for rent, pet-friendly policy and decorating your campsite.  Average per night is usually $126 USD.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

From the 1950s to the 1990s, this resort hotel features an extensive collection of popular toys and fashions that have remained incredibly popular.  Other features include a specific-to-resort store and dining, pool with water jets, and access to the Disney Skyliner.  Average per night is usually $195 USD.

Looking to Book a value resort? We can provide you with a FREE quote!

Moderate Resorts

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter & Riverside

Discover the elegant French Quarter of New Orleans at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. It features elegant cobblestone streets, elegant balconies, and vibrant Mardi Gras characters. Take in the sounds of jazz as you walk through the French Quarter. Other features of this moderate resort is Scat Cat’s Club and horse-drawn carriage rides. At Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside you discover the elegant homes and cottages in the Magnolia Bend region, as well as the charming backwoods cottages in Alligator Bayou. Then, take a walk through the Sassagoula River to the Port Orleans Resort. Other features include fully refurbished guest rooms, dog-friendly accommodations, and Riverside Mill Food Court! Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside average per night is usually $283 USD.

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Discover the unique culture and traditions of Southwest America at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.  Features include romantic paradise, club-access benefits, a pool with waterslide, and 24-hour fitness center!  Average per night is usually $270 USD.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is a place where life can slow down and relax. With its five distinct islands, this resort captures the spirit of the Caribbean. From the beaches to the colonial forts, this magical region is sure to have everyone captivated.  Other features include pirate-themed rooms, pool with waterslide, Old Port Royale, and access to the Disney Skyliner!  Average per night is usually $318 USD.

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Located in the heart of Disney’s Fort Wilderness, the Resort features a variety of activities and facilities that are sure to keep you busy.  Other features include pre-order pantry of groceries, renting a golf-cart for four people, decorating your cabin, dog-friendly accommodations and Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue.  Average per night is usually $450 USD.

Looking to Book a Moderate resort? We can provide you with a FREE quote!

Deluxe Resorts

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The Disney Resort Hotel features an elegant setting that recalls Palm Beach’s golden era. Guests can enjoy a relaxing massage or watch fireworks over Cinderella Castle.  Other features include exquisite dining at Gasparilla Island Grill, Grand Floridian Cafe, Narcoossee’s and the Enchanted Rose, as well as access to the monorail, health club, Grand Floridian Spa, and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique!  Average per night is usually $720 USD.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique currently unavailable

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

The Disney Resort features an ultra-modern hotel that features stunning views and award-winning dining. The A-frame Contemporary tower is located near the Garden Wing and the main gate of the Magic Kingdom. Inside, a mural by Mary Blair captures the American Southwest and Grand Canyon.  Other features include a pool with waterslide, award-winning restaurant California Grill, and the resort monorail which can take you to and from Magic Kingdom!  Average per night is usually $565 USD.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Discover the essence of the South Pacific at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, where the diverse flavors of the region come to life. This award-winning resort features an outdoor island atmosphere. Other features include the savoring succulate tasks of the island at O’hana, and access to the monorail. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort average per night is usually $658 USD.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

The Disney’s Yacht Club Resort features a lavish New England-style interior and a spacious lobby with nautical touches. This lakeside hotel is located near Disney’s Hollywood Studios and is easily accessible from the nearby Disney’s Beach Club Resort.  Other features include outdoor water recreation area, Yachtsman Steakhouse, “Ship Shape” Health Club, dog-friendly accomodations, and access to Disney Skyliner!  Average per night is usually $603 USD.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Beach Club Resort is the elegant New England-style resort featuring a variety of dining and entertainment options, and it’s located near Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s various pools and spa treatments. The Disney’s Beach Club Resort is a short walk from the Walt Disney World’s Epcot Center.  Other features include outdoor water recreation area, Beaches and Cream, 24-hour fitness center, and access to the Disney Skyliner!  Disney’s Beach Club Resort’s average per night is usually $701 USD.  Disney’s Beach Club Villas average per night is usually $591 USD.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn has the most elegant touches and impeccable service, the Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is a perfect place to stay in Atlantic City. Entertain guests at the hotel’s Luna Park Pool and Spa, which features a state-of-the-art fitness center, a swimming pool with a waterslide, and access to the Disney Skyliner.  Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Resort’s average per night is usually $612 USD.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

The elegant design of this resort hotel is inspired by the African kraal, and it features spectacular views of the 4 distinct regions of Africa. With over 200 bird and animal species living in these areas, this is the perfect place to experience an African adventure.  Features include exotic animals roaming the grounds, pool with waterslide, and award-winning dining!  Average per night is usually $526 USD.

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

The Disney’s Contemporary Resort features a variety of elegant accommodations, including studios and multi-bedroom villas, with spectacular views of the lake or the park. Located in the Magic Kingdom area you have direct access to the monorail and are a 2 to 5 minute monorail ride to the park!  This resort also features an award-winning restaurant, California Grill and a grand pool with a waterslide!  Average per night is usually $672 USD.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is located in America’s Great Northwest. From the moment you step inside the lodge, you’ll feel the magic of the outdoors. From the moment you step out onto the trail, you’ll feel the majesty of the outdoors.  Also features StoryBook dining with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.  Average per night is usually $505 USD.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

The elegant Victorian-style Hotel Saratoga Springs features a variety of rooms and suites, and it’s close to the famous Saratoga Springs golf course.  As well as features Lake Buena Vista Golf Course and health club.  Average per night is usually $458 USD.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

A Disney Resort hotel that’s inspired by Europe and reimagined by Disney. This elegant resort features a variety of accommodations that are stylish and comfortable, as well as style, artistry and Disney touches, with Topolino’s Terrace and access to Disney Skyliner.  Average per night is usually $701 USD.

Looking to Book a Deluxe resort? We can provide you with a FREE quote!

Villa Resorts

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Step into this intriguing version of the Florida Keys through Conch Flats which is a charming island community situated on the Florida Keys. This area features a variety of amenities, including a golf course, pool, and fully equipped kitchens.  Other features include Olivia’s Cafe and fitness center at R.E.S.T. Beach.  Average per night is usually $466.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House & Kidani Village

The Jambo House elegant African resort features a horseshoe-curved design that draws inspiration from the traditional African kraal. With its expansive views, this hotel is the ideal place to experience Africa’s wildlife firsthand. With features the same as Animal Kingdom Lodge!  Kidani Village is an African Safari Lodge that features a horseshoe-shaped design and an abundance of wildlife, including over 30 species of African wildlife. This luxury resort hotel is situated in the heart of Africa’s renowned wilderness.  With an additional feature of the Sanaa, a restaurant with an open view of the savanna.  Jambo House’s average per night is usually $476 USD.  Kidani Village’s average per night is usually $911 USD.

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

The Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge features a variety of rustic accommodations, all of which are designed to take advantage of the resort’s stunning location. These include: The Copper Creek Springs Pool, a fun and relaxing water feature.  Other features this rustic resort includes is Storybook Dining with Snow White and Villas with home-like amenities like a kitchen, washer, and dryer.  Average per night is usually $1,066 USD.

Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Come along this retreat which features a rustic-elegant design that pays homage to the Pacific Northwest’s rich and pioneering history. With a variety of accommodations, this camp is the ideal base for exploring the area. Features include Deluxe Studios, 26 waterfront cabins, home-like amenities and adventurous stories tucked down the trails off Bay Lake.  Average per night is usually $475 USD.

Disney’s Beach Club Villas

Disney’s Beach Club Villas are elegant and relaxing atmosphere. This New England-style beach hotel is within walking distance of Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot. This property features a variety of amenities and pools, and access to the Disney Skyliner!  Disney’s Beach Club Resort’s average per night is usually $701 USD.  Disney’s Beach Club Villas average per night is usually $591 USD.

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The Disney Resort Hotel features a variety of elegant accommodations, including deluxe studio and multi-bedroom villas. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s full-service spa, including a walk-in shower. Located in the heart of Walt Disney World, this elegant property is minutes from the Magic Kingdom park.  Other features include exquisite dining at Gasparilla Island Grill, Grand Floridian Cafe, Narcoossee’s and the Enchanted Rose, as well as access to the monorail, health club, Grand Floridian Spa, and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique!  Average per night is usually $720 USD.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique currently unavailable

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Villas

The elegant atmosphere of the Disney’s BoardWalk Villas waterfront hotel is enhanced by its private gardens and saltwater taffy-colored cottages. BoardWalk Villas is also located near both Epcot and the Hollywood Studios. Features include the “Flying Fish” dining experience and access to the Disney Skyliner.  Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Villas average per night is usually $858 USD.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Villas & Bungalows

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is a tropical paradise located in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort. With its swaying palms and tropical atmosphere, this resort is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the magic of the South Pacific. Features include a Disney Original Island Escape and access to the monorail. Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows average per night is usually $658 USD. 

Looking to Book a Villa resort? We can provide you with a FREE quote!

Well, that’s all 32 of them… if you want to see a blog post about how to do Disney on a budget comment below!  If you are struggling with planning your vacation, reach out to us for a FREE quote!  Remember all of our Disney planning services are free!

If you have any questions, thoughts or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out via Contact Us form, or via email at travel@trinitydias.com!

Until next time,

Trinity

Don't forget to Subscribe To Our newsletter

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