Good news, Disney fans – there’s a new way to “skip the line.” However, brace yourselves because it comes with a hefty price tag.
Introducing the Disney Lightning Lane Premier Pass: a premium solution for park-goers who prefer to avoid the hassle of booking ride return times, navigating different ride tiers, and constantly checking their phones on vacation. Launched on October 23 at Disneyland and October 30 at Disney World, this pass offers one-time access to every Lightning Lane ride within the park of your choice, any time you desire. Sound magical? It certainly is, but the magic comes at a cost.
Initially available as a pilot program with very limited availability, the Lightning Lane Premier Pass is exclusive to guests staying at Disney World’s Deluxe hotels and villas, while any guest at Disneyland can purchase it. Eligible visitors at Disney World can buy the pass up to seven days in advance, while those at Disneyland can do so up to two days in advance.
Now, let’s talk numbers. The price of the Lightning Lane Premier Pass depends on the park and the day:
– **Disney’s Animal Kingdom**: $129 to $199 per day (plus tax)
– **Epcot**: $169 to $249 per day (plus tax)
– **Disney’s Hollywood Studios**: $269 to $349 per day (plus tax)
– **Magic Kingdom**: $329 to $449 per day (plus tax)
– **Disneyland Resort**: $400 per day (not taxable) through December 31, 2024, with prices ranging from $300 to $400 per day in 2025
These prices do not include your park admission tickets, which start at over $100 per day.
When compared to other passes, the Premier Pass is steeply priced. For instance, the Lightning Lane Multi Pass usually costs between $30 and $35 per day for a park like Magic Kingdom. Universal Orlando’s Express Pass ranges from $90 to $260 per day, but it’s free for high-tier hotel guests. Disney’s VIP Tour, allowing near-instant ride access and including a guide, ranges from $450 to $900 per hour. Surprisingly, on some days for larger groups, the new Premier Pass could be more cost-effective than a VIP tour, especially at Magic Kingdom.
In conclusion, the value of Disney’s Lightning Lane Premier Pass depends significantly on your budget. For many families, the additional cost may be prohibitive. However, for those seeking the ultimate luxury experience without worrying about ride schedules, this pass could be an attractive option. Disney continues to expand its offerings to cater to guests who don’t mind spending extra for convenience and exclusivity.
What do you think about the new Lightning Lane Premier Pass? Is it worth the price for a stress-free experience, or do you prefer a more budget-friendly approach to Disney magic? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know!
Source: The Points Guy
