Hi there, Ashley! Welcome to planDisney!
There have certainly been some changes at the Happiest Place on Earth in the last few years, but.. Hakuna Matata! I'm here to help!
The former MaxPass system for quicker access to some of your favorite attractions no longer exists. But as Gusteau reminds the fearless little Remy, "If you focus on what you left behind, you will never be able to see what lies ahead." In this case, what lies ahead is
Disney Genie+! While it does have similarities to the previous system, it is a magic carpet ride all of its own! Here's how it works.
You can purchase Disney Genie+ prior to your arrival or on the day of your park visit. Once you scan into your starting park, you become eligible to make your first selection. Using the
Disneyland Mobile App, click the menu button in the bottom right corner of the page, then select "Tip Board." Here, you'll find a list of the attractions available for you to reserve and the first available return time to experience them. Select your attraction and confirm and you'll be all set for your first choice! You will be able to utilize the Lightning Lane, a faster-moving, less crowded line located next to the standby line at each attraction. After you scan into that attraction or two hours from the time you made your first selection, you can then make your next selection. Repeat this process all day long until you've managed to hit all your favorite attractions and experiences! Though Disney Genie+ does come with a price tag, I found it to be worth every penny on my last visit.
Ashley, you do not need to provide proof of your vaccination status at any time during your stay. Though the Disneyland Resort and the State of California both
strongly encourage Guests to be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test result before visiting, it is not required. I do recommend bringing a face covering with you, as there are still some areas where it may be required during your visit.
I know new things can be daunting, but with a little faith, trust and pixie dust, you'll have a magical time using the Disney Genie+ system. Though change is often inevitable, Anna and Olaf remind us that "Some things never change," like the magic you'll feel when you arrive at the Disneyland Resort! Be sure to check out some old classics, like
Haunted Mansion and
"it's a small world" to feel the nostalgia during your stay!
Have a magical day,
Ashley