Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is introducing a new line-skipping pass, Lightning Lane Premier Pass, which will allow a limited number of visitors to skip the lines at all 24 Lightning Lane attractions across both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks. However, the new privilege comes at a price—$400 per person, in addition to the park’s entrance fee.
Skip the Lines, But At What Cost?
The Lightning Lane Premier Pass will officially be available starting October 23, allowing attendees to bypass the lines for all the popular rides once, and also includes some photo perks. However, the pass can only be purchased up to two days in advance on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition to the $400 pass, guests still need to buy a park ticket, which starts at $104 on low-traffic weekdays, and make a reservation for their visit.
ALSO SEE: Disneyland Guests Concerns Continue Over Updated Disability Access Program
If you want to make full use of the Premier Pass, including the ability to hop between the two parks, adding the Park Hopper option to your ticket is essential.
Prices Set to Increase in 2024
This new pass is not just a limited-time offer. Disney officials have already announced that the price for the Premier Pass will increase in 2024, ranging between $300 and $400 based on the day and demand. This pricing adjustment comes as Disneyland seeks to find a balance between guest demand and overall park attendance, a strategy they have employed with their ticket prices as well.
ALSO SEE: Disneyland Prices Spike Once Again
While Disneyland Resort will roll out its version of the Premier Pass on October 23, Disney World in Florida will introduce a similar offering starting October 30. However, the pricing and eligibility details differ between the two locations, reflecting local demand and preferences.
More Flexibility for Visitors
The introduction of the Lightning Lane Premier Pass was driven by guest feedback, according to Disney officials. They acknowledged that many visitors have been asking for a more flexible, all-access pass. Similar options have been offered at other theme parks for years, and Disney now joins the ranks of parks offering premium experiences for an additional cost. The company plans to adjust the pass based on how guests use it and their feedback over time.
ALSO SEE: Disneyland’s $50 Kids Tickets and Hotel Discounts for 2025: What to Expect
While the Premier Pass gives guests a high level of flexibility and ease, Disneyland is not discontinuing its other, more affordable line-skipping options. Visitors can still opt for the Lightning Lane Multi Pass, which starts at $32 and allows guests to book specific ride times for popular attractions. There’s also the Single Pass, allowing guests to pay a fee for access to two of the more exclusive rides not covered by the Multi Pass.
Rising Costs Amid Declining Demand
The announcement of the Lightning Lane Premier Pass comes shortly after Disneyland raised ticket prices across the board for most of its park admissions. While the base price for a one-day, one-park ticket remains at $104, prices for high-demand days and multi-day tickets have increased by roughly 6%.
These changes come at a time when Walt Disney Co. is facing declining consumer demand across its parks. In its latest earnings report, Disney’s “experiences” division, which includes its theme parks, reported an operating income of $2.2 billion, a 3% drop compared to last year.
As Disney continues to tweak its pricing models, it remains to be seen how the Lightning Lane Premier Pass will be received by visitors looking for a more streamlined, if costly, experience.