MaxPass at the Disneyland Resort

Most people would say I'm crazy to have a day like this, but since I typically only go to Disneyland for a day while visiting family, I have to maximize my time! The MaxPass is the answer to my prayers.

I have always been a fan of the FastPass system in both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. I admit that in Disney World I miss the old paper FastPass system, but the Magic Band and FastPass+ system has been enjoyable to say the least. I was in Disneyland a few weeks ago for the roll out of Disneyland's newest experiment, which is the called MaxPass. I can safely say that if you are a fan of the old paper FastPass system then you will love this new system.

I did not plan my trip around getting to try MaxPass, I just happened to be there for the initial roll out. To get this system you must download the Disneyland App. If you have a My Disney Experience account then you don't need to create a new account. It is a very simple system where when you purchase your Disneyland Pass or multi-Day pass, you can add-on the MaxPass for $10 per day. This is an amazing deal! In comparison, a "front of the line" Express pass at Universal can cost you almost $100 to add on to your one day pass. $10 per day, per person is nothing in comparison. You may also be thinking "why should I pay anything when l can still pick up the paper FastPasses for free at the attractions themselves?" It's a valid point, but let me explain to you how all this works and why I think it's so amazing.

First of all, you cannot activate the MaxPass on your phone until you enter the parks. However, once you are inside either Disneyland or DCA you will have many options to choose from. You can book your FastPass for either park once you are through those turnstiles. So, my first order of business that day was in DCA. We arrived before the park opened and they let guests into the park about 15 minutes before any attractions opened. MaxPass was already giving me options for any ride I wanted in that first hour. I booked an 8:15-9:15 slot at Guardians of the Galaxy while also getting into line for that ride, so I could ride it twice in a row almost immediately. Best decision ever.

Now, when you check in your MaxPass at the attraction they have similar kiosks to what they have in Disney World. A stand that scans a bar code on your phone and then you get a green light from the scanner letting you know that it scanned your pass successfully. It's quick and easy!

One of the other things I will say is that it works just like the paper FastPasses do. You cannot accumulate more than two or at the most three, because there will be a time on your pass saying when you can get a new pass. The app will deny you if you try to get a new one even a minute too soon.

Not every ride in DCA or Disneyland uses FastPasses, so if there is a long line for Pirates then you're just going to have to wait. I will also say that I didn't see the option for getting a FastPass for World of Color or Fantasmic! on the app. Those attractions still need the paper FastPass. Also, I have heard that not every FastPass attraction appears on the app every day.

Disneyland Park - Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Taking in the view from the walkway.

One more very important thing: the MaxPass includes a PhotoPass package that includes free downloads of any photos you have taken by cast members.

I hope I've convinced you that the MaxPass is the way to go. Especially if your time at Disneyland Resort is limited.

About the Author: