Walt Disney World has been implementing admission and hotel discounts in response to growing customer dissatisfaction and a decline in park attendance over recent months.
In May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages priced at $89 per day, allowing access to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom must still be purchased separately. These reduced ticket prices, valid until September 24, represent a significant drop from the previous peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, Disney is working to lower overall trip costs by reducing rates for its budget hotel options. Stays at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can start as low as $100, depending on booking timing. This pricing strategy offers discounts of up to 27% compared to regular rates, as noted in a Bloomberg analysis.
The parks have also introduced new dining packages this summer aimed at decreasing food costs by 20% to 30%. These meal plans allow family members to buy all-day passes priced at $30 for children and $95 for adults, redeemable for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. Reports indicate that Disney World is now providing more quick meal options, lower-priced children’s food, and more adaptable restaurant policies.
Experts attribute the rising dining costs within the parks as a key factor contributing to the drop in customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that satisfaction ratings among Disney customers fell from 90% to 60% as the company shifted from a la carte dining options to fixed-price meals at several popular restaurants.
While Testa commended Disney’s efforts to cut costs, he also warned that these strategies may not genuinely reflect a commitment to affordability or improving guest satisfaction, pointing out that Disney has previously prioritized revenue over positive customer feedback.