A joyful family riding Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom. They laugh and scream as they plunge down the thrilling drop.
  • On Mar 31, 2025
    Angie from IA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi! It’s been 3 years since our last visit and I feel like Genie and lightening lane processes have changed. When can we start reserving those now along with dining reservations? Thanks!

    Hi Angie! Welcome back to planDisney! Three years away from Walt Disney World Resort? Oh boy, that’s practically a whole Disney decade! So much has changed, but don’t you worry! Just like Genie himself, I’m here to grant your planning wishes!  

    Let’s talk Lightning Lane Pass magic! Unlike dining reservations, which you can start booking 60 days before arrival if you're staying at a Disney Resort hotel (or day-by-day starting 60 days out for other guests), Lightning Lane passes follow a different kind of pixie-dusted timeline.  

    If you're staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you can purchase and make your Lightning Lane selections starting 7 days before check-in for your whole stay (up to 14 days). Other guests can purchase their passes 3 days before their park visit. No matter when you're eligible, the magic window opens at 7:00 AM Eastern Time each morning. So, set that alarm, grab a Mickey-shaped snack, and get ready to book!  

    It’s a bit of a shift from the old FastPass+ days, but with a little strategy, some Disney-style patience, and maybe an extra churro for good luck, you’ll be skipping through those Lightning Lanes like a pro!  

    If you need more tips, don’t hesitate to let me know. I’m always happy to sprinkle in a little extra pixie dust for your trip planning! 

    ~Emille
thumbnail image for Emille

Meet the Panelist: Emille, Florida

¡Hola! I’m Emille, your go-to mamá for all things Disney magic—especially in Español! As a proud mom of two, I’ve spent nearly a decade living in Orlando, where Walt Disney World is practically my backyard. When I’m not soaking in the magic of Main Street, U.S.A., I’m here to help fellow Disney fans craft their own unforgettable adventures—because the best Disney stories are the ones we write together. Let’s make some magic!
Learn More About Emille

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