Walt Disney World has been implementing a series of discounts on admission prices and hotel stays in response to growing customer disappointment and a decline in park attendance.
Starting in May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages, allowing visitors to enjoy Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom remain sold separately. This price reduction marks a significant drop from the previous high of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass, with these lower prices available until September 24.
Additionally, Disney is working to lessen the financial burden of a trip to the resort by lowering rates for its most affordable hotel options. Stays at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can now be as low as $100 per night, depending on the timing of reservations. These reductions represent discounts of up to 27% compared to regular rates.
This summer, the parks also launched new dining packages, providing guests with meal plans at 20% to 30% off regular prices. The all-day meal passes are priced at $30 for children and $95 for adults, and can be used for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. Furthermore, Disney is offering more quick meal options, affordable food for children, and more adaptable restaurant policies.
Experts in the Disney community point to the rising costs of dining within the parks as a key factor contributing to decreasing customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer satisfaction ratings have dropped from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte dining options to fixed-price meals at several popular locations.
While Testa acknowledged the positive aspects of Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he also warned that these changes might not truly reflect a dedication to making experiences more affordable or enhancing guest satisfaction. He remarked that Disney has historically been willing to compromise positive customer feedback for increased revenue.