Got a spare few hundred dollars? Disney is launching a new service at its U.S. parks, allowing visitors to bypass standard lines at any time of the day. Introduced as the “Lightning Lane Premier Pass,” this pass will let guests enjoy expedited access to each ride once per day without the need for app reservations. However, this convenience comes with a hefty price tag in addition to the regular park ticket.
Starting October 30, Walt Disney World will offer this pass for $137.39 to $478.19 per person, based on date and demand, while Disneyland Resort begins its rollout on October 23 at a flat rate of $400 through the end of the year. Come 2025, Disneyland will also adopt variable pricing. Only guests staying at Disney World’s deluxe hotels will have initial access to this pass, while at Disneyland, it will be available two days in advance for all guests.
For context, current Lightning Lanes allow access to shorter lines for many popular attractions, but these necessitate reservations that can be made with a Multi Pass via the resort’s app. The new Premier Pass simplifies this by granting spontaneous entry to shorter lines without further reservations.
Unlike Disney, Universal Studios has been utilizing a similar model for more than two decades with its “Express Pass.” Prices for Universal’s expedited access range widely but seem far more budget-friendly compared to Disney’s new offering.
According to Don Munsil from MouseSavers, this pricing strategy highlights targeting those with more disposable income or limited time, emphasizing that most visitors shouldn’t find it necessary. Instead, they might consider multi-day tickets and the existing Multi Pass for a more affordable experience.
What are your thoughts on Disney’s latest offering? Worth the splurge, or something you’d skip? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Source: KRDO
