Walt Disney World is responding to a surge in customer dissatisfaction and dwindling park attendance by implementing various discounts on admission and hotel stays over the past few months.
In May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages priced at $89 per day, allowing visitors access to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom. However, tickets to the Magic Kingdom remain available for separate purchase.
These new ticket prices, available until September 24, mark a significant drop from the previous high of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
In addition to ticket discounts, Disney is working to make trips to the Florida resort more affordable by cutting prices on its budget hotel accommodations. Rates at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort could drop to as low as $100 per night, depending on booking dates. According to a Bloomberg analysis, these reductions represent discounts of up to 27% compared to standard rates.
The parks have also launched new dining packages this summer, which lessen food costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes, priced at $30 for children and $95 for adults, redeemable for various meals and snacks inside the parks. Additionally, Disney is expanding quick meal options, offering more affordable kids’ food, and implementing flexible restaurant policies.
Experts attribute the rising food costs within the parks as one reason for the drop in customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer satisfaction ratings fell from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at popular restaurants.
While Testa recognizes the potential benefits of Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he warns that this shift may not genuinely indicate a commitment to affordability or guest satisfaction. He stated that Disney has historically balanced customer ratings and revenue generation.