Walt Disney World has been implementing discounts on admission and hotel stays over the past few months in response to growing customer dissatisfaction and a decrease in park attendance.
Beginning in May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages that allow guests to visit Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, although Magic Kingdom tickets must still be purchased separately. This discount represents a significant reduction from the previous high of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass. These lower ticket prices are applicable until September 24.
In conjunction with ticket discounts, Disney is also lowering the costs of its budget hotel options. Rates at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can drop to as low as $100 a night, depending on the booking period. This reduction can be as much as 27% off the usual rates, as noted in a Bloomberg analysis.
This summer, the parks have introduced new dining packages that offer a 20% to 30% reduction in meal costs. Families can now buy all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, redeemable for meals and snacks within the parks. In addition, Disney World has expanded quick meal options, lowered children’s food prices, and improved restaurant policies to enhance flexibility.
The hike in food prices inside the parks has been identified as a significant factor contributing to diminished customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, reported a drop in satisfaction ratings from 90% to 60% as Disney shifted from a la carte dining options to fixed-price meals at popular restaurants.
While Testa acknowledged the merits of Disney’s cost-reduction measures, he warned that these changes may not indicate a genuine commitment to enhancing affordability or guest satisfaction. He noted that Disney has historically prioritized revenue over maintaining positive customer feedback.