Any major changes in the last 2 years?

[HollyL]

I am planning a trip with my 8 year old daughter from April 30- May 3rd. This will be our first time back in 2 years. Have there been any big changes? I see that there have been closures/new additions to DTD, and I know that Star Wars land is coming this Summer, and I know about the Pixar Pier changes at C.A. How has the FP process changed? Can you still just buy the base tickets, and get the fast passes in the front of the ride like you did 2 years ago? Are the RSR fast passes still in the same place?

I grew up going to DL at least once a year, and always considered myself a veteran, until I moved away, and now we get to go once every 2 years or so, so I feel so out of touch.

 

[lalasmama]

The biggest change, I believe, is the addition of the MaxPass system. You can still get free Fast Passes at the regular spots where they were 2 years ago. Now, though, you also have an electronic option via your smart phone. It allows you to book FPs on your phone, and you're able to get your next pass sooner. It's $15 per person per day. It also includes Photo Pass, so even of you don't do it for the electronic FPs, the PP benefit allows lots of parent/child photos and ride photos.

 

[Winnowill]

Yes, you can still get free FPs manually, but now there's Maxpass also, which is awesome.

The RSR FP machines have been moved into Carsland, up closer to RSR itself.

 

[tarheelalum]

Max pass (yes its worth it) and its more crowded, all the time.

 

[Skyegirl1999]

This may help give you an overview of FP/Maxpass. All FPs are digital and linked to your tickets now, for one thing. https://www.disboards.com/threads/m...view-and-some-strategy.3726246/#post-60074882

As mentioned, RSR machines moved, and Toy Story and Matterhorn have FP now.

 

[ChrissyLou]

A lot has changed in the last two years. I am sure many people here can provide more info. than I, we typically go just once a year, not frequently as many on this board do. Yes, many closures and additions to DTD, (thumbs up for Earl of Sandwich), but have yet to try several other places, not sure if Ballast Point would appeal with your 8 year old daughter, but Splitsville is now open (bowling and food). Over in DCA, I think you may have already been aware that Tower of Tower was turned into GOTG, Bugs Land closed, the pier area was redone to Pixar Pier, seems much of DCA is really focusing on Marvel (ugh - but that's just me), some people love it. At DL several changes with how one can view Fantasmic - make sure to read up on that if that is something you enjoy, Tropical Hideway just opened, and there is mobile food ordering now (I've not used it). May I ask where you're staying? I ask because there have been some security changes that are helpful to know relative to where someone is staying (for example: if you are used to entering the GCH to enter the park although staying off-site, that is no longer the option it once was), if you're staying on the Harbor side that won't matter, but if you are at Paradise Pier, or any of the Katella end hotels (Best Western Stovall's, Pavilions, Eden Roc and others it would be nice to know that in advance.) Now one goes through security just once at either end of DTD. I'm sure there are more, I just always think it's wise to check the hours and entertainment schedules, refurbishments, etc., and read this board a lot before our trips so I know what to expect. I'm sure you will have a great time.

 

[HollyL]

Thanks for all of the info and advice! I'm usually a "just go with the flow" type person, but it's good to know stuff ahead of time. Not sure where we are staying yet...probably one of the Marriotts close by (either SpringHill Suites or Fairfield closest to the park). I just decided to do this trip last week when I saw that SWA had non-stop flights between Houston and LAX for $57 each way!

 

[theluckyrabbit]

DLR has a sweet ticket deal going on right now through May 23rd: https://disneyland.disney.go.com/offers-discounts/special-ticket-offer/. Check the fine print for blackout dates.
This thread will help you with MP: www.disboards.com/threads/maxpass-fastpass-an-overview-and-some-strategy.3726246/.