Second, the paid Disney Genie+ service you can purchase in the app for $16 per day.
The free Genie service is beyond useless (it’s literally counterproductive), so don’t bother with it. First, the free itinerary builder in the My Disney Experience app that’s basically a personalized itinerary feature to map out a day. Genie is unnecessarily complicated and frustrating–we’ve received more complaints and negative reader feedback about this than anything else in a long time.Īt its core, there are three components to Genie. With that said, the biggest “addition” to Walt Disney World didn’t involve any physical construction–it’s the new Genie+ with paid-line skipping service that replaced free FastPass+. There’s a lot more on the horizon than just those two things–here’s everything exciting being built: What’s New & Coming to Walt Disney World in 2022 & 2023. The next notable new attraction that’s coming soon is TRON Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom, which will hopefully open in late 2022.Īfter that, the Epcot overhaul will wrap up in 2023, with Moana’s Journey of Water being the only noteworthy thing still left to open as part of that. Other additions planned for the start of Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary celebration have been delayed until this year or 2023. Everything you need to know is covered in our Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind FAQ & Ride Guide. It’s already incredibly popular and will be very difficult to experience due to not having a standby line. We’ve had the chance to preview this blockbuster addition to Epcot, and it is awesome. However, there’s one big addition that makes up for this: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. The fireworks aren’t as good as what they replaced, and the whole thing feels more like a celebration of new characters than Walt Disney World turning 50. Honestly, the additions for Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary have been fairly underwhelming. This post covers the fundamentals of planning a vacation–for more on the festivities, see our Guide to Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary. Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary is highlighted by new fireworks, attractions, entertainment, merchandise, decorations, food, and much more. Then there’s the World’s Most Magical Celebration, an 18-month anniversary event running now through April 1, 2023. This was one of the last major steps in Walt Disney World’s return to normalcy, and is definitely a big deal for parents wanting to capture those magical moments with their young children. First up is the return of normal character meet & greets and dining, which means that hugs, autographs, high-fives, etc. Let’s start with some of the aforementioned changes.
We visit the parks regularly, reporting on everything as it happens–if you want to receive updates when discounts are released, new things are announced, etc., sign up to receive our FREE Walt Disney World Email Newsletter. There’s the 50th Anniversary, Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, returning entertainment and nighttime spectaculars, and new Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opening. Heading into summer season, a ton is happening and changing at Walt Disney World.
For 3 of the 4 parks, you’re better off using a ‘free’ strategy rather than paying extra for Genie+ and Lightning Lanes! That’s the result of extensive testing to determine the best and worst ways to beat the crowds during peak season.
Savvy Standby Strategy at Walt Disney World. If you’re visiting in the next few months, we’d highly recommend consulting Genie+ v.
The latest update comes as Walt Disney World approaches the busy summer season, which kicks off Memorial Day weekend. It’s a great resource for first-timers or annual visitors to Florida.
Our 2022 Walt Disney World vacation planning guide offers tips & tricks on how to avoid crowds, save money & time, with info on Genie+ & Lightning Lanes, best rides, restaurant reviews, and itineraries for Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom & Hollywood Studios.