If you're planning a visit to Disneyland Resort, you may want to be prepared for some potentially steep prices for the theme park's latest feature, Genie+.
Genie+ was introduced in 2021 as a way to address the extended wait times at sought-after attractions, while also generating additional revenue for the theme park. It replaces the previous FastPass system, which was replaced by a digital version called MaxPass in 2017.
Initially priced at $20 per day, Genie+ saw a price increase to $25 in October 2021. But that's not all - the price is now based on demand, meaning it increases as more people use the service. According to Thrill Data, which tracks wait times at amusement parks, the price of Genie+ has reached $30 at least 16 times since switching to the demand-based model. And the highest prices have occurred on weekends and during Thanksgiving week, when wait times are longest.
Some Disneyland fans have criticized the higher prices for Genie+ and suggested that the service be eliminated or priced at a level that fewer people use it. The demand-based pricing model means that the more people use Genie+, the higher the daily price tag becomes.
So, if you're considering using Genie+ to skip the traditional stand-by queues and access an expedited "Lightning Lane" to enter popular attractions, be prepared for the potential cost. While it may be a pricey investment, it could also save you a lot of time spent waiting in line. Just be sure to weigh the cost against the value of your time and enjoyment at the theme park.
