Walt Disney World has been quietly lowering admission and hotel rates amid growing customer discontent and falling park attendance.
Beginning in May, Disney introduced a discounted three-day ticket package that allows guests to visit Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, although Magic Kingdom tickets remain separate. These reduced prices, valid until September 24, significantly drop from the previous peak of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, Disney is aiming to make trips to its Florida resort more affordable by slashing prices on its budget hotel accommodations. Rates for Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can start at $100 per night, depending on the booking period, marking discounts of up to 27% from regular prices, according to a Bloomberg analysis.
This summer, the parks have also rolled out new dining packages that cut food costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, allowing them to redeem meals and snacks throughout the parks. Moreover, Disney World is enhancing quick meal options, providing cheaper food for kids, and adjusting restaurant policies to increase flexibility.
Experts believe that rising dining costs within the parks have contributed to decreased customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer satisfaction ratings have plummeted from 90% to 60% following Disney’s shift from a la carte dining to fixed-price offerings at many popular restaurants.
While Testa commended Disney’s efforts to reduce costs, he warned that these measures might not necessarily indicate a genuine dedication to affordability or enhancing guest satisfaction. He expressed concern that Disney has historically prioritized revenue over maintaining positive customer ratings.