Walt Disney World has recently implemented a series of discounts on admission prices and hotel stays in response to increasing customer dissatisfaction and a decline in park attendance.
Beginning in May, Disney offered discounted three-day ticket packages priced at $89 per day, allowing access to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom, although Magic Kingdom tickets must still be purchased separately. These reduced ticket prices will be available until September 24, marking a significant drop from the previous high of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
In tandem with the ticket discounts, Disney is also lowering the prices for its budget hotel options. A night at the All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can start at $100, depending on the booking timing, representing discounts of up to 27% off regular rates, according to a Bloomberg analysis.
This summer, new dining packages have been introduced, allowing families to save 20% to 30% on food costs while at the parks. These packages offer all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, usable for a selection of snacks and meals. Additionally, there are more quick meal options and lower-priced children’s meals available, along with relaxed dining policies.
Experts attribute the decline in customer satisfaction partly to rising food costs at the parks. According to Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, surveys have shown a drop in customer satisfaction ratings from 90% to 60% as Disney shifted from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants.
While Testa appreciates Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he warns that this may not indicate a genuine commitment to affordability or guest satisfaction, noting that the company has historically been willing to sacrifice some positive feedback for increased revenue.