Little girl with Minnie Mouse; holding hands; front of castle; castle bridge
  • On Jun 1, 2026
    Francisco from Queretaro Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    How does the Fast Pass work at the park? Do you have to reserve each ride in advance? I wish it were like before, when you could just pay for Fast Pass and use the shorter line without making reservations.

    Hi Francisco! Welcome to planDisney! I am so glad you sped your way here for some Disneyland Resort planning advice! 

    Let’s jump right in. The classic FastPass system at Disneyland Resort has evolved into Lightning Lane, which is a great way to spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the magic. There are three Lightning Lane options to choose from. 

    First is Lightning Lane Multi Pass. This lets you select a return time for eligible attractions, once per attraction each day. Next is Lightning Lane Single Pass, which is used for some of the most in demand attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Radiator Springs Racers. These are one-time purchases for the next available return window. Then there is the Lightning Lane Premier Pass. This option gives you one-time entry to eligible attractions without needing to pick a return time. It is a more flexible, go with the flow option.

    That last one sounds like it might be right up your alley since you mentioned not wanting to manage return times. That said, I use Lightning Lane Multi Pass every time I visit Disneyland, and once you get the hang of it, it becomes very easy and fits naturally into your day.

    If you decide to use Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you can add it right in the Disneyland Mobile App after you have scanned into the parks. From there, tap the three line menu button and select Lightning Lane Passes. You will be able to browse attractions and choose your return time. After you scan into your selected ride, or after two hours have passed, you can book your next one. I love how it keeps my day moving. While I am waiting for a return time, I can hop on another ride, grab a snack, or relax for a bit.

    Here is a great extra tip. If you are staying at a Disneyland Resort Hotel, each Guest receives one anytime Lightning Lane entry for an eligible attraction per stay. I love pairing this with Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Since it does not require a return time, you can use it whenever it fits best into your day. It is a nice perk and one of my favorite new additions this year.

    Another bonus with Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Premier Pass is unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos. You can visit the PhotoPass Photographers throughout the parks and the pictures will show up in your Mobile App for free downloading, saving, and sharing! I love being able to let them capture the magic for me, as I am often the one taking the pictures, and not the one in them!

    Francisco, your trip is coming up so soon, and there is so much fun ahead. You are all set for a day full of adventure, magic, and memory making.

    Wishing you a practically perfect Disney day! Come back and see us anytime as your countdown continues!

    Kimberly
thumbnail image for Kimberly

Meet the Panelist: Kimberly, Colorado

Hi there, friend! I’m Kimberly from beautiful Colorado, where I serve as an Assistant City Manager for a mountain municipality. I love connecting with others, finding magic in everyday life, and helping families make their own unforgettable memories. Think of me as your friendly guide on this Disney adventure, because every great trip starts with a little pixie-dusted planning. I can’t wait to help you with yours! Learn More About Kimberly

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