Hi Erin!
Welcome to planDisney! Having just experienced a
Walt Disney World vacation utilizing
Disney Genie+,
Lightning Lane, and
Individual Lightning Lane, I am excited to help you with your question. Genie+, is the optional paid-for service that enables you to skip the regular queue and enter the attraction via the Lightning Lane, previously the FastPass lane. Guests who are staying on the property have the option of purchasing Genie+ for their entire party, whether they are staying at a Disney Resort or not, at midnight of the day they will be visiting the parks. This will then allow Guests to book their entire party Lightning Lane reservations beginning at 7 a.m.
Erin, the same cannot be said with respect to Individual Lightning Lane. Solely Guests who are staying on Walt Disney World property are able to purchase Individual Lightning Lane access at 7 a.m. For those off property, they will be able to book an Individual Lightning Lane at the scheduled park opening time. This may make planning with others a bit strategic, however, completely doable. Be sure to have your friends linked to your
My Disney Experience Friends and Family List in order to sync up times and attractions.
I hope this helps you plan a most magical time exploring the theme parks and resorts at Walt Disney World!
Malanie