Starting from January 2026, Disneyland Resort will be ending a long-standing benefit for guests staying at Disneyland hotels: guests staying at Disney hotels will no longer have the privilege of entering the park 30 minutes early, but they will now have access to the Lightning Lane service.
According to information from the official Disneyland website, currently guests staying at Disneyland Resort hotels can enter Disneyland or Disney California Adventure 30 minutes early on specified dates, allowing them to enjoy some attractions, dining, and shopping experiences ahead of others. This benefit will continue until January 4, 2026.
From January 5 onwards, guests staying at the resort hotels will receive a Lightning Lane access pass, which they can use to enter designated Lightning Lane multi-attraction facilities. This adjustment is significant for hotel guests.
It is important to note that visitors still need to have valid park tickets and make reservations to enter the park. Additionally, the use of Lightning Lane access passes will be limited, and availability is subject to capacity constraints. Disneyland also emphasizes that the availability of the access passes will depend on the day’s circumstances.
This update marks a significant change in the guest experience at Disneyland Resort hotels. It is likely to impact the way guests plan and enjoy their visits to the popular theme parks. The transition from the early park entry benefit to the Lightning Lane service reflects Disney’s efforts to enhance visitor experiences and manage crowd flow within the resort.
Be sure to check the official Disneyland website for the latest information and details on how to make the most of your Disneyland Resort visit under the new system beginning in 2026. Stay tuned for any further announcements or developments regarding park access and guest services.