Disney: Changes coming to park reservation system, resort parking and more

Updates expected in the next few months

Walt Disney World

BAY LAKE, Fla. – Walt Disney World on Tuesday said its listening to its guest’s feedback and making some big changes for the new year.

The resort said in the coming months, annual passholders will be able to visit the theme parks after 2 p.m. without needing a park reservation, except on Saturdays and Sundays at Magic Kingdom Park. Disney blockout dates will stay in place for each of the annual passholder tiers.

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“While the theme park reservation system remains important to manage attendance in our parks, especially on busier days, we realize our Passholders enjoy more spontaneous visits – and this change will make that possible,” Disney said on its blog. “Passholders will also receive access to Disney PhotoPass lenses and one complimentary Cinderella Castle Mural of Memories experience (age restrictions apply).”

In addition to the park reservation system changes, Disney also shared the news that overnight self-parking is now once again being offered complimentary to guests staying at Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World.

There is also good news for those guests who use the Disney Genie+ service in the theme parks.

Beginning in the next few months, guests purchasing Disney Genie+ service will receive digital downloads of their Disney PhotoPass attraction photos, taken in the park on the day of their purchase, at no additional charge. Disney said attraction photos are taken at more than a dozen of its most popular attractions including Space Mountain, Slinky Dog Dash, Test Track, Expedition Everest and more.

“As we step into this bright future it is important that we continuously evolve to help deliver the best guest experience possible. Many of you know that I’m in the parks fairly often … and I listen to you and to our guests about the things that are working … as well as the things that might need some change,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “And, as we enter this new year, I want you to be the first to hear about a few enhancements that we are going to be making – specifically ones that our guests have asked for and you’ve shared with me. And while this doesn’t address everyone’s feedback, these changes will increase flexibility and add value to our guests’ experience.”

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