Fab 5 Updates from Disney Parks

Many of the updates are lacking definition from Disney on exactly what is changing and when these will be implemented, however, the overarching theme is... 2024. Let's talk some more details on each below.

1. Removing theme park reservation requirements for date-based tickets.

I see this as a real positive step and could be the beginning of the end for the park reservation system that remains in place at Walt Disney World. Prior to the reservation system,  I really enjoyed the flexibility of changing parks on the day-to-day without having to hope for availability or dealing with the disappointment that no changes are available. Yes, I kept my own Google calendar with park plans and all reservations, but still had the freedom to easily adjust the plans. Flexibility returns with date-based tickets with a start date of January 9th or later.

2. "Good-to-go days" for Annual pass holders and cast members

If there is beta testing available prior to 2024 sign me up! This is again a positive step in the right direction and will give a greater amount of flexibility to your vacation. There will still be a reason to plan ahead on the days that you want to visit the parks, but at least not all days will require a park reservation moving forward. 

3. Bringing back Disney dining plans

The Disney dining plans deserve a separate booklet to best understand the benefits and whether it is cost-effective for you. At the end of the day, it is great to see Disney bringing back this option to guests. In the past, we have purchased the 1 table service and 1 quick service plan while on vacation. Like most things at Dinsey World, it took planning ahead and some running around to different reservations but gave us the opportunity to experience many different restaurants on Disney property. It really depends on the budget and dietary considerations

4. Continuing to provide extended park time to Disney Resort hotel guests

This is more positive news for those who are staying at a Walt Disney resort hotel. Break down of the existing benefit below:

• Early Theme Park Entry for Disney Resort Hotel Guests:  This is a 30-minute early entry into all Walt Disney World theme parks every day. This benefit is also available to other select hotels, so be sure to know the benefits of the hotel you plan for your vacation.

• Extended Evening Theme Park Hours - Guests staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort can take advantage of extra time in the theme parks on select evenings throughout the week. This also comes with another opportunity to join EPCOT or Magic Kingdom virtual queues at 6 pm.

These are definitely opportunities to spend more time in the parks with lower crowds that you will want to take advantage of while staying at a Disney resort hotel. 

5. Simplifying the Disney Genie+ experience

It is good that Disney is taking feedback from guests and considering ways to improve this service. Hopefully, this will allow for better planning capabilities prior to the day of the visit. We were frequent Maxpass users at Disneyland and loved the system, however, Disneyland and Disney World are very different experiences and considerations need to be made as to the implementation of the system. I think that only positive changes will be coming for Disney Genie+

It is great to see Disney taking a critical eye on the guest experience and looking for ways to make the park experience magical. Look forward to more detail about some of these items.

Who's ready for 2024? Let's go!