Amid increasing customer dissatisfaction and falling attendance, Walt Disney World has been quietly lowering admission and hotel prices over recent months.
In May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages that allow visitors to experience Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom remain separate.
These reduced prices, available until September 24, represent a significant drop from the peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, Disney is working to lower the overall cost of trips to its Florida resort by offering reduced rates for its budget hotel options. For example, a stay at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort could cost as little as $100 per night, depending on booking timing. These price reductions can amount to discounts of up to 27% compared to standard rates.
This summer, the parks have also rolled out new dining packages which cut food 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 within the parks. Additionally, Disney World is reportedly adding more quick meal choices, affordable kids’ food options, and flexible dining policies.
Experts attribute the rising costs of dining within the parks as a key factor in declining customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer approval ratings have dropped from 90% to 60%, coinciding with Disney’s shift from a la carte dining to fixed pricing at many popular restaurants.
While Testa acknowledged Disney’s efforts to cut costs, he warned that these moves may not necessarily indicate a genuine commitment to affordability or improving guest satisfaction. He stated, “Disney has long been willing to sacrifice a certain number of positive ratings for a certain amount of revenue.”