Couple enjoying pretzel at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park; AA; mickey ears
  • On Jan 25, 2026
    Bambi from GA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I have a reservation for a Disney gateway hotel. Can I buy and reserve a lightning lane pass 7 days before my stay?

    Hi Bambi!

    Welcome to planDisney!

    Currently, guests staying at the following resorts are able to purchase Lightning Lane services beginning at 7 AM Eastern, 7 days prior to their check-in date:

    Disney Resort hotels
    Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
    Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
    Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
    Shades of Green Resort

    All other guests, including those staying at Walt Disney World Gateway Hotels, will be able to purchase Lightning Lane services beginning at 7 AM Eastern, 3 days prior to the start date of their ticket for date-based tickets. 

    If you’ll be visiting the parks for more than one day, I always recommend booking Lightning Lane services for the end of your trip first, then working your way backwards. That will give you a better chance at snagging some of the harder-to-get Lightning Lane return times. 

    It’s good to note that, if you don’t get a Lightning Lane return time you were hoping for, you can modify your Lightning Lanes, pending availability. I like to check back here and there leading up to my park day (and even on my park day!) to see if anything opens up that may work better with my itinerary. 

    I hope that helps! If you have any other questions as you continue to plan, feel free to come back and visit us here at planDisney!

    Jenn J. 

thumbnail image for Jenn

Meet the Panelist: Jenn, Ohio

Hello from Ohio! I’m Jenn–a physical therapist, wife, and mom of 3 boys…who look just like Huey, Dewey, and Louie if you squint! I grew up visiting “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” and now I consider Walt Disney World my home away from home. I have a healthy mix of Joy and Nostalgia when I’m at the Disney Parks, and I’m so excited to help you make lifelong memories on your next Disney vacation. Learn More About Jenn

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