Disney's new "Lightning Lane Premier Pass" offers guests the opportunity to access faster lines at its US parks without the need for reservations. This new service comes with a hefty price tag, ranging from $137.39 to $478.19 per person at Walt Disney World and $400 at Disneyland, depending on date and demand. Available in limited quantities, the pass allows guests to skip the line once per ride, per day, without using the app, making it convenient but pricey.
Disney World's Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is a very popular attraction in the Hollywood Studios theme park. Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images
Disney's competitor, Universal Studios, has long offered similar services through their "Express Pass," which has been available for over 20 years. These passes, priced between $80 and $351.44, allow visitors to bypass lines multiple times. Unlike Disney's new pass, Universal offers unlimited access to express lines for guests staying at select hotels.
Critics point out that Disney's Premier Pass targets wealthier visitors, offering a luxury experience. However, Disney emphasizes that it provides options for all budgets, including discounted tickets for children. For those with less time, the Premier Pass offers a time-saving alternative, but it comes at a significant cost.
