Walt Disney World has been implementing various discounts on admission and hotel accommodations in response to growing customer dissatisfaction and a decline in park attendance. Over the past few months, Disney has begun offering discounted three-day ticket packages allowing entry to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, while tickets for Magic Kingdom must still be purchased separately.
These reduced ticket prices, available until September 24, mark a significant drop from the peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass. Additionally, Disney is working to lower overall trip costs by cutting prices on its budget hotel options. A stay at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can start at $100, depending on booking times, reflecting discounts of up to 27% off regular prices.
This summer, the parks have launched new dining packages that aim to lower meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes priced at $30 for children and $95 for adults, which can be used for select meals and snacks throughout the parks. Disney World is also reportedly expanding quick meal options, providing cheaper food for children, and adopting more flexible dining policies.
Experts attribute part of the declining customer satisfaction to the rising cost of dining within the parks. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, indicated that customer satisfaction ratings have plunged from 90% to 60% as Disney shifted from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants. While he commended Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he warned that these actions might not genuinely reflect a commitment to affordability or guest satisfaction, noting that the company has historically been willing to sacrifice positive ratings for increased revenue.