Understanding Disney Genie and DAS
Disney Genie is a complimentary digital service designed to enhance your experience at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort through a tailored itinerary. If you opt for Disney Genie+, a paid feature within the app, you can select the next available time to arrive at a variety of attractions and experiences using the “Lightning Lane” entrance.
For guests with disabilities, the Disability Access Service (DAS) is an offering that provides assistance for individuals unable to wait in a conventional queue due to a disability. It is vital to note that DAS is intended to accommodate physical and mental disabilities alike, ensuring an inclusive park experience.
- Download the My Disney Experience app to access Disney Genie and manage plans.
- Register for DAS in advance via a live video chat with a Cast Member or at Guest Relations once you arrive.
- Select attractions using the app, and DAS will provide a return time based on the current wait.
Both services aim to streamline your visit, but it’s essential that they are not mutually exclusive — you can use DAS in conjunction with Disney Genie or Disney Genie+. While Genie Plus offers expedited access for a fee, DAS focuses on accessibility without additional cost. Remember, to use DAS with Disney Genie+, you’ll still need to purchase the Disney Genie+ service. The integration of both services into your My Disney Experience app simplifies managing your itinerary along with DAS return times.
How to Access Disney Genie+ and DAS
Disney Genie+ and Disability Access Service (DAS) are both systems designed to enhance your park experience at Walt Disney World and streamline your visit. Disney Genie+ allows you to select times to access attractions with shorter wait times, while DAS assists guests who cannot wait in a traditional queue due to a disability.
Acquiring Genie+
1. Purchase Disney Genie+ through the Walt Disney World My Disney Experience app once you have your park tickets linked.
2. Begin reservations at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit. Make your first selection immediately, then make new selections every two hours or after you’ve redeemed the previous one.
Registering for DAS
1. Pre-register for DAS using the video chat feature on the My Disney Experience app before you arrive at Disney World.
2. If not pre-registered, visit Guest Relations inside the park to register upon your arrival.
3. You can select attractions directly from the app, and you will be given a return time equivalent to the current standby wait.
Navigating Theme Parks with Genie+ and DAS
Effectively managing your time at Disney theme parks requires understanding how to leverage the Disney Genie+ service and Disability Access Service (DAS). These tools help in planning your visit and accessing attractions with ease.
Using Genie+ in Parks
Begin your visit by selecting the Disney Genie+ option, available through the Disney mobile app. Genie+ allows you to book arrival windows for certain attractions, reducing time spent in lines. Here’s how to use it:
- Purchase Genie+ for your ticket. You can add it to a single-park or multi-park ticket for the day of your visit or as part of a package.
- Choose attractions you wish to experience. Selection can start at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit.
- Book arrival windows for rides and attractions. You can make one selection at a time throughout the day.
- Enjoy extra features, such as audio tales and photo lenses, to enhance your park experience.
Remember, park hopping is possible if you hold a ticket that permits entry to more than one park per day and after using your first Genie+ booking at the initial park.
Utilizing DAS at Attractions
DAS is intended for guests who cannot wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability. To use the Disability Access Service:
- Register for DAS prior to visiting or at Guest Relations upon arrival at Disneyland or Disney World.
- Select attractions via the app or in person at Guest Relations.
- Receive a return time that is comparable to the current wait time for that attraction. During this wait, you’re free to enjoy other park offerings.
- Access your selected ride at the given return time. Check in with a cast member at the attraction’s entrance.
You can hold only one DAS return time at a time. After you redeem your initial return time or it expires, you may select a new return time for another attraction.
Maximizing Ride Experiences
Maximizing your ride experiences at Disney parks involves using both the Disney Genie+ service and the Disability Access Service (DAS). By leveraging these services, you’ll be able to effectively manage your time and reduce waits.
Booking Lightning Lane with Genie+
Genie+ Lightning Lane selections allow you to bypass the standby lines at multiple attractions throughout the day. Begin by purchasing Genie+ through your Disney account. Select a Lightning Lane return time for your preferred attraction and enjoy other experiences until it’s your turn to ride.
- Check the app for available Lightning Lane entry times.
- Choose a time, then confirm your selection to secure your spot.
- Remember, you can make one selection at a time throughout the day.
Individual Lightning Lane selections for high-demand rides may be available for an additional purchase. These are separate from the standard Genie+ selections and are limited in quantity.
Ride Accommodations via DAS
DAS is designed to assist guests who cannot wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability. Register before your park visit or at Guest Relations upon arrival. Once your DAS is set up, you can select attractions directly within the Disney app or at attraction entrances.
- Select an attraction and receive a return time equivalent to the current standby wait.
- Upon your return, you’ll have access through a more convenient entrance.
- You can only hold one DAS return time at a time.
Remember to plan your day to incorporate both DAS return times and Genie+ selections for an optimized experience. Use your time between return windows to explore, shop, or catch a show.
Park Reservation and Admission Tips
When planning your visit to Walt Disney World or Disneyland, securing a park reservation is as crucial as having admission tickets. Initially, you need a valid ticket or annual pass to make a park reservation. Here’s how to ensure a smooth experience:
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Purchase Tickets Ahead: Be sure to buy your tickets or annual pass prior to making park reservations for your desired dates.
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Check Availability: Before purchasing, review the park reservation availability calendar on Disney’s official website to ensure your desired dates are open.
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Make Reservations Early: Once tickets are acquired, immediately reserve your park days via Disney’s reservation system. This is especially important for annual passholders due to blockout dates.
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For Walt Disney World visitors:
- Reservations can be made through the My Disney Experience app.
- Consider the Park Hopper option if planning to visit multiple parks in a single day; however, a reservation is still needed for the first park.
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For Disneyland visitors:
- The Disneyland app serves as the reservation platform.
- Park Hopping is available here too, starting from 1 pm.
- Disney Genie+ Service: Enhance your visit by purchasing Disney Genie+ on the day of your visit to access Lightning Lane entrances at select attractions.
- Double-check that Disney Genie+ is available for your tickets as it may vary depending on the type of ticket or pass you have.
- Stay Informed: Rules and options frequently change, so consistently monitor Disney’s official communication channels for updates to park reservations and admission policies.
Exploring Top Attractions with Genie+ and DAS
Genie+ is a paid service that allows you to reserve access to Lightning Lanes for select attractions at Disney parks, including popular rides like Haunted Mansion and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. The Disability Access Service (DAS) is designed to assist visitors with disabilities by allowing them to schedule a return time for attractions, similar to a FastPass. You can use both services to experience the most sought-after rides, including Rise of the Resistance and Flight of Passage.
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Register for DAS: Before you visit, register for the Disability Access Service at Guest Relations. This service is available for guests with disabilities that prevent them from waiting in conventional queue lines.
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Add Genie+ to Your Ticket: Purchase Genie+ on the Disney app to gain access to Lightning Lanes at numerous attractions. Attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Tron Lightcycle / Run are included, providing expedited access.
- Reserve Access: Once inside the park, use the app to reserve DAS return times and select Genie+ Lightning Lane entrances for the aforementioned rides.
- Enjoy Attractions: With return times set, you’re free to enjoy other park features until it’s your turn to ride your selected attractions.
Remember, both services are designed to help make the most of your day at Disney parks. Each offers a smoother experience on popular rides and attractions.
Genie+ and Park Hopper Option
Disney Genie+ Service is an additional paid feature that allows you to optimize your visit to Disney theme parks. When you combine Genie+ with the Park Hopper Option, you gain the flexibility to enjoy select attractions with reduced wait times at multiple parks in a single day.
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Park Hopper Basics:
- You start your day at one park, such as Magic Kingdom.
- After 2 pm, you can switch to another park like Epcot, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom.
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Utilizing Genie+ with Park Hopping:
- Make Lightning Lane selections for your starting park.
- Once you hop, create additional selections, one at a time, at the next park.
Tips for Effective Use:
- Prioritize high-demand attractions at your starting park.
- Check the My Disney Experience app for Lightning Lane availability at your next park.
Visiting multiple parks in a day requires a Park Hopper ticket. Ensure your ticket includes both the Park Hopper and Genie+ options for a seamless experience in the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Remember, Genie+ selections can be made across different parks once park hopping is available, expanding your options and enhancing your day.
Managing Wait Times and Queues
When visiting a theme park such as Disney, you can manage wait times and queues through several methods. The Disney Access Service (DAS) enables guests with disabilities to schedule a return time similar to a FastPass, minimizing the time spent in queues. Genie+ service allows you to choose the next available time to arrive at a variety of attractions and experiences using the Lightning Lane entrance. Standby lines are the traditional queues where you wait until you reach the attraction.
- Lightning Lane entries are subject to availability and must be booked on the day of your visit. First, select the attraction within the Disney Genie app to see the next available return time. If the return time suits you, confirm your selection.
- Standby lines do not require an additional purchase; however, wait times will vary based on the attraction’s popularity and park attendance. Ensure you’re prepared for potentially lengthy waits, especially for high-demand rides.
- For DAS, you’ll need to register at Guest Relations, where the details of how the system operates specific to your needs will be explained. Once registered, you can select attractions to receive a return time when capacity allows.
Remember, attraction availability may fluctuate throughout the day, so it is advisable to check the app frequently. Utilize the resources mentioned to optimize your experience while minimizing the amount of time you spend in queues.
- Conclusion:
- Use Lightning Lane for faster access to popular attractions.
- Expect variable waits in standby lines.
- Register for DAS if applicable to your situation for a more accessible experience.
Understanding Accessibility Options
Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) is designed to accommodate guests who are unable to wait in conventional queue lines due to a disability. With DAS, you can schedule a return time for attractions similar to the standby wait time. When your return time arrives, you can enter without waiting in the regular line.
If you require wheelchair assistance, most queues at Disney parks are wheelchair accessible. Here’s how you can access the services:
- Visit Guest Relations: Upon arrival, head to Guest Relations to discuss your needs and register for DAS.
- Explain Your Disability: Describe your disability to the Cast Member discreetly; proof of disability is not required.
- Photograph: A Cast Member will take a photo of you or the person requiring DAS to ensure it’s personalized.
- DAS on Your Device: DAS will be digitally linked to your park admission and accessible through the My Disney Experience app.
- Select Attractions: Pick the attractions you want to visit, and you’ll be given return times throughout the day.
In addition to DAS, you can also enhance your park experience with Disney Genie+. This service allows you to choose the next available time to arrive at a variety of attractions and experiences using the Lightning Lane entrance. Disney Genie+ is a paid service and is separate from DAS.
- Wheelchair Rentals: Available at the park entrances, wheelchairs can be rented for daily use.
- Accessibility Maps: Obtain a map highlighting accessible routes and attractions.
Remember, you can always return to Guest Services for assistance if your circumstances change or you require additional help during your visit. The aim is to make your experience as enjoyable and seamless as possible.
Leveraging Additional Disney Services
At Disney parks, maximizing your visit involves utilizing additional services like PhotoPass and Genie+, as well as understanding the Virtual Queue and Disability Access Service (DAS). These options enhance your experience by offering convenient ways to access attractions and capture memories.
Photopass and Dining with Genie+
With Disney’s PhotoPass, you have the unique opportunity to capture high-quality photos at iconic park locations and with beloved characters. Professional photographers are stationed at predetermined spots to photograph your group. These photos are digitally linked to your Disney account, where you can later purchase or download them if you have the Genie+ service.
Genie+ not only includes PhotoPass downloads but also allows you to make dining reservations. Here are the steps for a smoother dining experience:
- Open your Disney app and select Genie+.
- Locate the dining section to view available restaurants.
- Choose your preferred dining time and make a reservation directly through the app.
Virtual Queues and DAS
Virtual Queues reduce physical wait times by allowing you to reserve access to popular attractions such as Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Radiator Springs Racers. Enroll via the Disney app by selecting the attraction during the distribution times.
Disney’s Disability Access Service, or DAS, is designed to accommodate guests who cannot wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability. This service can be used alongside Virtual Queues and allows you to receive a return time for attractions based on the current wait time.
For those eligible for DAS:
- Visit Guest Relations to enroll in the service.
- Once registered, use the Disney app or go to a Guest Relations kiosk to select an attraction and receive a return time.
- During your return time, proceed to the attraction’s entrance.
Remember, Mobile Order is also available for quick and convenient dining, allowing you to order food from eateries like the Incredicoaster area’s Aladdin-themed Oasis. To use:
- Open the mobile order service on your Disney app.
- Select an eatery and choose your items.
- Pay in advance and pick up your food at the designated time.
Customizing Experience with My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app acts as a comprehensive tool allowing you to enhance your visit to Disney parks. First, download the app onto your smartphone to start personalizing your itinerary. With the app, you can:
- Select Genie+ services: Obtain quicker access to attractions by choosing available times for rides and experiences.
- Create a personalized itinerary: Schedule your activities and manage your plans for the day.
- Take advantage of Mobile Order: Quickly order food from your mobile device and skip the lines at select Quick-Service restaurants.
- Make Dining Reservations: Secure a table at your favorite restaurants up to 60 days in advance.
- Access FastPass+ (subject to availability): FastPass+ allows you to reserve access to select attractions, entertainment, and more.
While navigating the My Disney Experience app, you’ll have access to real-time updates like wait times and show schedules. It’s essential to sync your ticket or pass information within the app for a seamless experience. Remember, Genie+ selections can change, so monitor availability throughout the day.
For dining, select “Dining” in the app; here, you can view menus, prices, and reservation times. Use the mobile order function to pick up meals when it’s convenient for you to maximize your time enjoying the parks.
Lastly, FastPass+ is a valuable feature, if available during your visit, that can reduce waiting times significantly for popular attractions.
Planning for International Guests
When you visit Disney World in Orlando or Disneyland Resort, the Disability Access Service (DAS) and Disney Genie+ can enhance your experience. DAS is designed to assist guests who cannot wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability. Disney Genie+ allows you to select the next available time to arrive at a variety of attractions and experiences.
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Pre-Register for DAS: Before your trip, pre-register for DAS via a live video chat with a Cast Member between 2 to 30 days in advance of your visit.
- Check Availability: Ensure your device supports video chat.
- Prepare Documentation: Although not required, have any relevant documents on hand if questions arise.
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Communication for Non-English Speakers: Assistance is available for non-English speakers during the pre-registration process.
- Use Translation Services: Tactically employ translation tools if needed.
- Ask for Language Assistance: Request a Cast Member skilled in your language during the live chat.
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Downloading Disney Apps: Prioritize downloading the My Disney Experience app for Disney World or the Disneyland app for Disneyland Resort before arrival.
- Set Language Preferences: Configure the app in English or your preferred language.
- Familiarize Yourself With Features: Spend time understanding the reservation systems for DAS and Disney Genie+.
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On Arrival at the Park: Update your DAS registration at Guest Relations and start using Disney Genie+ service.
- Guest Relations Visit: Provide your confirmation and finalize registration.
- Activate Disney Genie+: Pick your first attraction to visit utilizing the service.
Remember: Your visit should be memorable and comfortable. Utilize these services to experience the magic of Disney without undue stress.