It’s been several years since the MagicBand was introduced at Walt Disney WORLD, but to celebrate the resort’s 50th anniversary, a new version was launched: the MagicBand+.
Before explaining the new features of the MagicBand+, let’s go over all the functionalities already available with the original MagicBand, which is still available to guests.
What Can You Do with the MagicBand?
The MagicBand has both exclusive features and others shared with regular park tickets.
Shared features with regular tickets include:
- using it as a park entrance ticket
- using it for Photopass (photos only, NO videos)
- using it at the entrances of Lightning Lanes and virtual queues
Its exclusive features include:
- automatically receiving Photopass videos
- using it as a payment method (only if staying at a Disney hotel)
- free parking at the parks (only if staying at a Disney hotel)
- access to your hotel’s paid parking (only if staying at a Disney hotel)
- early entry or extended evening hours at the parks (only if staying at a Disney hotel)
- opening your hotel room door (only if staying at a Disney hotel)
- accessing hotel guest-only areas like pools and laundry rooms (only if staying at a Disney hotel)
What Can You Do with the MagicBand+?
MagicBand+ features include:
- lighting and vibration effects based on the park you’re visiting
- using it as a locator for the role-playing game inside Galaxy’s Edge
- interaction with the 50 golden statues scattered across the 4 theme parks
- interaction with nighttime shows
Where to Buy the MagicBand+?
There are 3 ways to purchase a MagicBand+:
- during your ONSITE hotel reservation
- online at shopdisney.com
- at Walt Disney World resort shops
Onsite Hotels
When you book a hotel at Walt Disney World Resort, you can add a MagicBand to your reservation, and it will be delivered to you at check-in.
At shopdisney.com
On shopdisney.com you’ll find not only common Disney products but also both the standard and PLUS versions of the MagicBand.
Note: This option is ONLY available if you’re located in the United States—it’s currently not possible to order from Italy.
Walt Disney World Resort Shops
You can purchase your MagicBand+ at select stores throughout Walt Disney World Resort:
- Magic Kingdom Park: Emporium
- EPCOT: Pin Traders – Camera Center
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Celebrity 5 & 10 and Tatooine Traders
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: Discovery Trading Company
- Disney Springs: Disney’s Pin Traders
How Much Does the MagicBand+ Cost?
MagicBand+ comes in 3 different categories, both in design and pricing:
- basic model – solid color, no graphics: $34.99 + tax
- customized – base model with Disney-themed print: $44.99 + tax
- limited edition – like the previous, but printed in small quantities for special events: $49.99 to $54.99 + tax
How to Start Using the MagicBand+?
After purchasing your MagicBand+, it’s time to link it to My Disney Experience so you can start using it.
Before you begin, make sure to:
- have Bluetooth enabled
- have the My Disney Experience app installed on your smartphone
- have created an account in the app
- fully charge your MagicBand+ using the included cable
To link your MagicBand+ to My Disney Experience:
- open the app
- tap the hamburger menu in the bottom right
- tap “MagicBands and More”
- scroll down and tap “Link Your MagicBands or Card”
- tap “Open Scanner” and follow the guided process
- after installation, you’ll likely be prompted to update the MagicBand+
- you’re now ready to use it!
Is the MagicBand+ Mandatory?
No, neither the MagicBand nor the MagicBand+ is required to visit Walt Disney World—but they can make a great souvenir and add an extra touch of magic to your time in the parks.
Buy My Guide to “The Happiest Place on Earth”
If you’re looking for tips on how to plan your next Walt Disney World vacation, I highly recommend my guide—it will walk you through every step of planning the trip you’ve been dreaming of.
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