When it comes to Epcot fast passes there are a lot to choose from, and with the historic transformation of Epcot underway, there will be even more in the future.
In this post I break down everything you need to know about the Epcot fast pass system, which passes to get and which ones to skip.
Epcot Genie+ Lightning Lane Rides
Can I think get FastPass+ at Epcot?
In August of 2021 Disney announced that Fastpass+ at Epcot and across Walt Disney World Parks would be retired. Replacing it would be Genie+ and the Lightning Lane.
If you ended up here looking to learn about an Epcot Fastpass+ strategy or how much they cost, you’ve come to the right place, so keep reading!
Tell me more about Genie+
Genie+ gets Disney guests skip-the-line access to select attractions at all 4 parks at Walt Disney World, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom in Florida. A lot goes into fully explaining Genie+ so head over to my blog post giving a full Disney World Genie+ Guide.
How much is Genie+ at Animal Kingdom?
Genie+ at Epcot is not included with your entry ticket, unfortunately. For those in the know, yes, I miss FastPass+ too.
The Genie+ service, which gives you access to 11 of the Epcot Lightning Lanes will cost you, usually between $15 and $40 per person, per day. Those numbers are approximate but can vary depending on the time of year and what events are going on in the parks.
In addition to Epcot Genie+ Lightning Lane rides, there is also an option to purchase an Individual Lightning Lane
Epcot Fast Passes: The Tiers
The Epcot fast passes system is different than the Magic Kingdom where you can choose whatever 3 attractions you like. Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and the Animal Kingdom are all the same with a tiered system.
With the tiered system, guests can choose 1 attraction from tier 1 and 2 attractions from tier 2.
Epcot Fast Passes: Tier 1 Attractions
You can only book 1 tier 1 Epcot fast pass to start off with. The 5 attractions are as follows:
- Epcot Forever: a reserved standing area for the fireworks display. (any height)
- Frozen Ever After (any height)
- Meet Disney Pals at the Epcot Character Spot (any height)
- Soarin’ Around the World (40″)
- Test Track (40″)
Epcot Fast Passes: Tier 2 Attractions
You can book 2 Epcot fast passes for tier 2 attractions. The attractions are as follows:
- Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival (any height)
- Journey Into Imagination With Figment (any height)
- Living with the Land (any height)
- Mission: Space (40″)
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends (any height)
- Spaceship Earth (any height)
- Turtle Talk With Crush (any height)
Best Epcot Fast Passes: What to Get
As I’ve said in previous posts, every family is different based on age and previous experiences at Epcot, so my recommendations might not suit everyone.
Epcot is my favorite park at Walt Disney World. I recommend getting the following Epcot fast passes:
- Tier 1
- Soarin’ Around the World: Soarin’ is a ride that can only be found at Disney Parks. the ride system was designed in house by the Imagineers and is one of the best rides they’ve ever created, in my opinion. The wait can get up to 2-4 hours during busy times at the park.
- Tier 2
- Spaceship Earth: This is an Epcot classic that, despite the ride being in constant motion, can have a really long line. It has been updated since Epcot opened and will be getting a facelift again soon with all the updates coming to Epcot.
- The Sea with Nemo & Friends: This ride, while not being the only way into The Seas pavilion, is a great way to enter the pavilion as it’s like you’re traveling into a new underwater world. I’m not a big fan of the Nemo movies, but this ride is so much fun!
Epcot Fast Pass: What to Skip
While Epcot is my favorite of the parks at Walt Disney World, that doesn’t mean I would get every fast pass. To me you should skip the following:
- Tier 1:
- Epcot Forever: To me the reserved seating for the nighttime show at Epcot is just OK. You can see this awesome show from anywhere around the lagoon. Don’t waste the fast pass.
- Tier 2:
- Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival: This 18-minute film is just OK, but I’m probably biased because I loved Honey I Shrunk the Audience that used to be there. Either way, you look at it, this is a big theater that fits at least a few hundred people inside. You’ll get in.
- Journey Into Imagination With Figment: I love this ride and have only had to experience short wait times. There are better tier 2 rides to use your fast pass on. Get this one after you’ve used up your first reservations.
- Turtle Talk with Crush: I have never had to wait for this. If your kids love Crush, go for it, but you’ll probably be able to get in no problem without a fast pass.
Can I just book more Tier 1 Epcot Fast Passes after I’ve used the first one?
No! You need to book 1 tier 1 and 2 tier 2 fast passes and use all 3 before you can book a second tier 1 fast pass.
What’s your favorite Epcot ride? Let me know in the comments!
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