What’s New In 2024 Walt Disney World Vacation Planning?

Just as we’ve done in the past few years, we’re sharing a quick list of things that will change how you plan your Walt Disney World vacation in 2024.

People often ask me why I am so willing to hand out this information – especially since it’s my job to plan awesome Disney vacation. And the answer is simple: I want you to have the information you’ll need to start planning your 2024 Disney vacation the right way.

Just like I’ve recommended in the past, I ask that you give this list a quick look before getting too far in your planning. Because the last thing you want to do is learn all about products or services that are no long being used in the Disney Parks.

And if you’d like to see how things in the Parks have changed over the past few years, feel free to check out our posts from 2021, 2022, and 2023.

No More Park Reservations

This first update is Walt Disney World specific. Disneyland will still be using Park Reservations in 2024. But, if you’re Florida-bound, you’ll no longer need a Park Reservation as of January 9, 2024.

There are some exceptions, as stated on Disney’s website. But, honestly, if you’re booking a standard Disney package, don’t confuse yourself by reading through them.

As long as you have your Theme Park tickets, you’re good to go.

Park Hopping Is Returning To Normal

If Park Hopping is a part of your 2024 Disney vacation plans, I’ve got great news – the 2 PM restriction is officially being lifted! Starting January 9, 2024, you’ll no longer need to wait until the afternoon to hop between the different Parks.

As long as your ticket includes the Park Hopper upgrade, you’re allowed to hop between the Parks whenever you like.

Dining Plans Are Back

You may be starting to see a pattern. But, the Dining Plans are finally making a comeback on January 9, 2024, as well.

However, it’s coming back slightly different than they were before the pandemic.

2 Dining Plans and Modified Credits

The first change is that only 2 Dining Plans coming back – the Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan. The second change has to do with how many credits you receive with your plan.

The chart below shows what the new plans looks like in 2024.

Type of Plan	Table Service	Quick Service	Snacks	Reusable Mug	Cost per Night
Quick Service Dining Plan	0 Credits	2 Credits per night	1 Credit per night	Yes	$57.01 – Adult $23.83 – Child
Disney Dining Plan	1 Credit per night	1 Credit per night	1 Credit per night	Yes	$94.28 – Adult $29.69 – Child

My Disney Experience

Previously, the only way to track your credits was to look at the bottom of your receipt. But we recently received an email starting that credits will be able to be tracked on My Disney Experience.

According to Disney’s website, you’ll be able to track your remaining meals and snacks in the “My Resort Stay” section. Select “Check Dining Plan” to view the status of your dining plan meals and snacks. You’ll also be able to see the total number of credits issued, already redeemed, and still available.

Genie+

Oh boy…where to begin…

Since its debut in October 2021, Genie+ has undergone several tweaks. This has created a lot of confusion. And as Genie+ evolves into a better product, the price unfortunately increases.

I’m not going into the specifics of Disney Genie, Disney Genie+, Lightning Lanes, Individual Lightning Lanes or Virtual Queues in this post. If you want to see an in-depth look into what they are and how to use them, read through Everything You Need To Know About The New Disney Genie.

We also have an easy to follow guide on the 4 Easy-To-Remember Tips For Genie+. The popularity of this information was evident in the 33,000+ views our Instagram reel received.

Now, let’s recap the most recent changes to Genie+, to make sure you’re all caught up.

• Pricing: Disney has introduced a per-park pricing model, which means that your Genie+ cost now fluctuates based on both the day of your visit and the specific park you’re going to. They do have a Park Hopper option, as well. Also keep in mind that the busier the day is, the more Genie+ will cost.
• Modify Lightning Lanes: Not new to 2024, but you can now modify Lightning Lanes in the app. No more cancelling and rebooking!
• Visual Reminders: Also not new to 2024, but there is now a visual reminder of when you’re able to book your next lighting lane. Not sure when you can book your next Lightning Lane? Look to the top of your Genie+ screen and you’ll see the time.
• Quickly Identify Lightning Lane Attractions: If you’re not sure which attractions are a part of Genie_, there is now an on and off switch to easily identify which attractions offer Lightning Lanes.
• Free PhotoPass: In early 2023, Disney began giving Guests who booked Genie+ free attraction photos for the days they purchased Genie+. Keep in mind that this is for attractions only. Magic Shots and pictures around the Parks are not included.

Free Overnight Parking at the Resorts

In early 2023, Disney brought back free overnight parking for Disney Resort Guests as a way of encouraging Guests to stay on property.

Several area hotels charge parking fees and/or resort fees. If you’re not paying attention, this can add up to several hundred dollars in hidden fees. Not to mention, that by staying off property, you’re also paying to park at the Theme Parks.

This is just one of the ways that Guests are saving money on their 2024 Disney vacation. Although Disney Resorts typically have a higher price tag, there are no hidden fees to watch out for. And if you’ll be bringing a car, you can park anywhere on Disney property for free, including the Theme Parks.

Got questions? Feeling a bit anxious? Not sure where to begin? We help families, just like yours.

Planning an entire vacation can be overwhelming. But, here’s the good news: we have the answers to the questions that have been stopping you from pulling the plug on your next vacation.

We understand the journey, the ups, and the downs. We’ve been through the training, made our fair share of mistakes, and learned valuable lessons from them. This is what makes us the perfect people to assist you.

From thoughtfully crafted itineraries to having direct access to your dedicated Travel Professional, our mission is to remove the stress from your vacation planning. With our simple 3-step process, we’re here to help you every step of the way, ensuring that your dream destination becomes an unforgettable reality.