Walt Disney World has been discreetly lowering admission and hotel prices in recent months in response to rising customer dissatisfaction and decreasing park attendance.
In May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages that allow visitors to experience Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, with Magic Kingdom tickets still required separately. This reduction marks a significant drop from the previous high of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, the company is working to make trips to the Florida resort more affordable by reducing rates for its budget hotel options. Accommodations at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort may cost as low as $100 per night, depending on booking dates. These adjustments can result in discounts of up to 27% off standard rates, based on a Bloomberg analysis.
This summer, Disney parks have also rolled out new dining packages that decrease meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, redeemable for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. Furthermore, Disney World is reportedly enhancing quick meal options, offering lower-priced kids’ meals, and implementing more flexible restaurant policies.
Experts attribute the increased dining expenses within the parks to declining customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, stated that satisfaction ratings fell from 90% to 60% when Disney transitioned from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants.
While Testa commended Disney’s efforts to cut costs, he cautioned that these moves may not genuinely indicate a dedication to affordability or guest satisfaction. He noted that Disney has often prioritized revenue over maintaining positive customer experiences.