Everyone knows FastPasses are a hot commodity at Disney Parks. Some go faster than others, “selling out” within minutes of the park’s opening. With the addition of Disney MaxPass at the Disneyland Resort, having a solid FastPass strategy is more important than ever!
Before we get to the list, we’re going to make a few assumptions. First, we’re assuming you have a Park Hopper ticket, allowing you to visit both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure on the same day. Second, we’re assuming you want to hit the most popular E-ticket rides. These attractions have height restrictions in place, so, if you have kiddos along for your day, stay tuned for next week’s family friendly FastPass top 5! And finally, we’re assuming you have a great pair of shoes, because you’re definitely going to get your steps in.
So, which ones do you grab first?!
Radiator Springs Racers - This is, hands-down, the hottest FastPass at the resort. These bad boys consistently “sell out” within an hour of the rope drop, and the standby queue can easily surpass two hours. So, make your way to the distribution point right away!
Soarin’ Around the World - Another DCA standby, Soarin’ is popular with all ages (as long as they meet the 40” heigh restriction), making it another in-demand FastPass. So, grab that reservation, and make sure to strut your way past the standby queue and right into the air conditioned hanger for your departure!
Indiana Jones Adventure - Just like Indy hates snakes, I hate “snaking” through that outside line! (queue lame dad joke moans) Avoid that hour-long section by nabbing a FastPass for this one right when you get into Disneyland (but still wave to those departing Jungle Cruise passengers!). These also go incredibly fast, and I’ve missed out on riding it altogether without one, so make sure to prioritize this FastPass!
Space Mountain - The original and easily the best installation of this ride in the world, Space Mountain is a must-see! The middle section of the queue is outside, and some of it is in direct sunlight, making it one of the less enjoyable waiting experiences at the resort. These FastPasses are typically still available through midday, but, if you decide to wait until midday to grab one, be prepared to ride during the final hours of your day.
Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: BREAKOUT! - Debatably my favorite ride at the resort (yes, I debate with myself), Guardians of the Galaxy can’t be missed! The experience is hilarious, thrilling, and simply a blast through and through. The majority of the queue is shaded, and there’s plenty to look at once inside the museum, so, while the line often exceeds an hour, waiting isn’t quite as brutal as some of the others higher on the list. Whether you hit the standby line or FastPass it, don’t miss it!
While talking FastPasses we definitely can’t leave out the two major shows at the parks - World of Color at Disney California Adventure and Fantasmic! at Disneyland. Both shows require FastPass “reservations” to view, and they often “sell out” rather quickly. So, be sure to make your way to those distribution centers right away. If you plan just right, you can enjoy both shows in one evening!
So, there’s my list! Do you agree with the ranking? What rides would you replace, and what would you replace them with? What are your favorites? Convince me to change my list!