 | Do you love the Disneyland Resort as much as we do? Do you like taking multiple trips a year? Then this is the program for you! The Magic Key program is the latest version of the now defunct Annual Pass program and, although it's had its issues, it can be a great option for super fans who want multiple magic visits every year. Let us break everything about this program down for you and, if we don't answer all your questions, reach out to us and we'll update it for you! |
What Are Magic Keys?
Magic Keys are similar to Annual Passes. Magic Keyholders have access to visit one or both parks of the Disneyland Resort hundreds of days a year and enjoy special benefits including discounts on food and merchandise, giveaways, early access to special event tickets and even certain dining options. Unlike the Annual Pass, Magic Keys require reservations made in advance.
What Benefits Do Magic Keyholders Get?
Each Magic Key comes with enchanting extras you can enjoy the whole year! While the value of some benefits can vary depending on the Key you purchase, you can expect:
- Discounts on food & merchandise at most locations in the parks
- 10% discounts at most non-Disney locations in Downtown Disney
- 20% off Genie+ service
- Early access/Ticket pre-sales for special events
- Exclusive Magic Keyholder meals at certain quick-service locations
- Special giveaways throughout the year
- Theme park parking benefits
- Unlimited PhotoPass downloads
- Special PhotoPass opportunities
- Access to the Magic Key Terrace in California Adventure
- Plus much more...
How Many Magic Key Levels Are There?
| There are 4 different Magic Key levels to choose from. As of 18 August 2022, the Dream Key (one of the originals offered) is no longer available for new purchase or renewal and will be phased out so we did not include it here. INSPIRE KEY - $1599
BELIEVE KEY - $1099
ENCHANT KEY - $699
IMAGINE KEY - $499
|  This is a handy guide to screenshot or save for later! |
What If I Don't Show Up For My Reservation?
Things happen and sometimes cancelling your reservation is the last thing on your mind, and that's okay. You're allowed up to 2 no-shows in a 90-day period with no penalty. However, if you miss 3 or more you will not be allowed to make another park reservation for 30 days starting from the date of your 3rd no-show.
To avoid be classed a "no-show", enter the park before park closing on the day of your reservation or cancel it by 11.59p the night before and you won't have to worry about it.
To avoid be classed a "no-show", enter the park before park closing on the day of your reservation or cancel it by 11.59p the night before and you won't have to worry about it.
If I'm Limited On Reservations, Do I Really Have That Much Access To The Parks?
Mostly, yes. Although reservations are limited and can be sold out well in advance, most guests do not have difficulty taking the trips they'd like. Spontaneous trips can be possible if there are reservations available, but as long as you plan ahead you shouldn't have difficulty making your Magic Key feel worth it. Plus, you are able to make a new reservation the minute your ticket has been scanned at the gate!
Is It Worth The Money?
That depends on how often you visit Disneyland and what Magic Key you're interested in. Assuming that most guests will visit the parks for 3 days at a time and would park hop, here's how many trips you'd have to take for the Magic Keys to be cost-effective:
- Imagine Key - 2 3-Day trips and you're good (even 2 2-Day trips would do)
- Enchant Key - 2 3-Day trips or 3 2-Day visits
- Believe Key - 3 3-Day trips (or possibly 4 2-Day trips)
- Inspire Key - 4 3-Day trips are necessary (unless you take many short trips)
Will I Get A Physical Card For My Magic Key?
No, all Magic Keys are digital and can be viewed in the Disneyland app or their website once they are linked to your Disney account. If you would like to have something physical instead, you may ask a Cast Member at the gate to print you out a paper ticket when you arrive.
When Will I Be Able To Renew My Magic Key?
All Magic Keys can be renewed online, in person or over the phone up to 30 days prior to the expiration date (the date you first used it to enter the parks). As of now, all Magic Keyholders who are within that window have been able to renew.
I'm Not Currently A Magic Keyholder, Can I Buy One Now?
That depends. They're not available at just any time, but Disney does regularly make new passes available for purchase as they become available. Keep an eye out on social media since that's how they typically make those announcements if you're interested in becoming a Keyholder.
