Overview of Disney World Annual Passes

The “Most Magical Place on Earth,” Walt Disney World has been delighting fans for over 50 years. With four theme parks, two water parks, dozens of hotels, and an entertainment district, it’s no wonder that guests continue to return again and again. From limited-time celebrations to special holiday events, there’s always something new to discover at the Central Florida property.

Frequent visitors can take advantage of the Disney World annual pass program — a multi-plan program that caters to all levels of fandom. Pass tiers are largely dependent on access to theme parks — ranging from no blockout dates to major holiday restrictions. Here’s what you need to know before investing in a Walt Disney World annual pass when sales reopen this week on April 20.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Disney World Annual Pass

The Disney World annual pass program consists of four tiers that offer levels of spontaneity and savings to frequent visitors. Local pass holders appreciate the ability to visit anytime to enjoy seasonal festivals or days with lighter crowds. Moreover, for out-of-town visitors, significant savings can be found when comparing the cost of an annual pass to that of standard multi-day Park Hopper tickets.

• Exclusive merchandise and discounts for annual pass holders.
• Advanced access to new attractions, like the recently opened Tron Lightcycle/Run.
• Benefits available through the My Disney Experience app.

One major factor when deciding which pass is for you is blockout dates. These restrictions vary by price level but run from limited weekday-only access to the pure theme park bliss of year-round fun.

Disney World recently updated reservation rules for annual pass holders. They can enter any theme park on any day after 2 p.m. without a reservation, with the exception of Magic Kingdom on Saturdays and Sundays. If planning to visit Magic Kingdom on weekends or any park on any day before 2 p.m., reservations are still necessary.

Disney World Annual Pass Discounts

Annual pass holders have access to discounted merchandise, dining, experiences, and recreation across its theme parks, water parks, resorts, and Disney Springs. Standard theme park parking is included with all pass levels.

• Up to 20 percent off dining at popular spots like Be Our Guest and California Grill.
• Discounts on select merchandise, including Magic Kingdom Park’s Emporium gift shop.
• Eligibility for discounts on special events and experiences, such as backstage tours.
• Seasonal hotel discounts of up to 30 percent off.

Types of Disney World Annual Passes

There are four levels of Walt Disney World annual passes — Pixie Dust, Pirate, Sorcerer, and Incredi-Pass — which range in price from $399 to $1,399.

• The two most restrictive tiers, Pixie Dust and Pirate, are solely available to Florida Residents.
• The Disney Sorcerer Pass is open to Florida residents and Disney Vacation Club Members, allowing up to five theme park reservations at a time.
• The Incredi-Pass is the only pass open to all guests, providing no blockout dates.

Disney World annual passes may become unavailable at any time, even for renewals.

Disney World Annual Pass Prices and Blockout Dates

The dramatic price difference between the Incredi-Pass and Pixie Dust Pass is due to the latter’s restrictions to weekdays, with all major holidays and peak weeks blocked out.

• The $749 Pirate Pass offers added flexibility, including most weekends, though major holidays remain blocked out.
• The $969 Sorcerer Pass provides year-round visitation with limitations only for Christmas and Thanksgiving.
• The $1,399 Incredi-Pass has no blockout dates and permits visits during Christmas and Thanksgiving.

Monthly payment plans are available for Disney World annual pass purchases.

Annual Pass Add-ons

There are two add-ons available when purchasing passes:

• A bundled water park and sports option for an additional $99, allowing access to the property’s two water parks, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course, FootGolf, and ESPN Wide World of Sports.
• A Disney PhotoPass package for an additional $99, which includes unlimited digital downloads of all photos taken by Disney PhotoPass photographers across the resort.

Annual Pass Renewals

Guests can renew their Disney World annual pass online, in person at the theme parks or Disney Springs, and by phone via the V.I.Passholder services line.