Special Needs Family with Mirabel; girl in costume; Encanto
  • On Jan 31, 2025
    Bria from NV Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hello! I have a few questions about the new lightening lane passes. Are we really allowed to reserve times for rides 3 days before or is that only if you’re staying at a Disney resort ?

    Hi Bria!

    I'm so glad you stopped by planDisney with your question. I know it can be a pixie-dusted challenge to stay on top of all the news and offerings at the Disneyland Resort, and we're here to help you break it down and plan for a successful and magical visit! 

    While there are lots of similarities between Disneyland and Walt Disney World, there are some nuances between the two that are important to know before you head into the parks. One of those is ... you guessed it, Lightning Lane Multi Pass. For Disneyland, Guests can select their first Lightning Lane for the day as soon as they scan into the park. This is the case whether you are a Disneyland Resort Hotel Guest, a day guest, or a Guest staying at a Good Neighbor Hotel. Everyone has to wait until they are through those Main Entrance Gates to make that first selection. Over at Walt Disney World, it works a bit differently. Guests can book 3 Lightning Lanes as early as 7 days ahead of their arrival date for Resort Guests and as early as 3 days for Non-resort Guests. I know that's a lot to process! I hope you're still with me, Bria!

    As a Disney planner at heart, I know it can feel a little uncertain heading into the parks without a Lightning Lane in place. What I can tell you is that the system works pretty seamlessly at Disneyland. As with every visit, I recommend having a list of your can't-miss attractions before you head into your day. This will help you prioritize your selections throughout the day. You can make a new selection as soon as you tap into your current one or two hours after it was originally made, whichever comes first. I like to set an alarm on my phone to remind me when it's time to book that next Lightning Lane.

    If you have visited Disney World recently, you'll also want to take a look at the list of attractions that offer a Lightning Lane at Disneyland as they are not an exact match. This is easily done by heading into the "Tip Board" in the Disneyland Mobile App. You will see the option to toggle to "Show Only Lightning Lane Experiences" and be able to take quick scan to get a lay of the land. 

    Bria, another difference (and perk, in my book!) is at Disneyland, Lightning Lane Multi Pass includes unlimited digital downloads of all the Disney PhotoPass photos you take during the day. Yes, all of them, including attraction photos, iconic castle photos, and Magic Shots! This a great way to capture the magic and memories for years to come! 

    I hope this was helpful in your planning! If you have any more questions or just want to stop by for a quick tip, you know where to find us here at planDisney.

    Wishing you magic,
    Tara

thumbnail image for Tara

Meet the Panelist: Tara, Pennsylvania

Hello from Philly! Disney Parks have been my heart and soul since my 3-year old feet first hit Main Street, U.S.A. Nothing compares to the burst of pure joy, nostalgia and magic that I feel EVERY time I enter the gates! I love planning Disney vacations and have been known to convert a non-believer or two in one magical afternoon. Whether it's park days with friends, multi-generational trips, toddling around with kids or flying solo, I'm ready to help you personalize the magic at the Happiest Place On Earth! Learn More About Tara

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