Walt Disney World has been reducing admission and hotel rates over recent months due to rising customer dissatisfaction and falling park attendance.
In May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages for $89 per day, allowing access to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom, though Magic Kingdom tickets remain separate. These ticket prices, valid through September 24, mark a significant drop from the former high of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, Disney is cutting costs for travelers by offering lower rates for its budget hotels. Overnight stays at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort could be as low as $100, reflecting discounts of up to 27% off standard prices, according to a Bloomberg report.
The parks have also launched new dining packages this summer, which reduce meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, redeemable for various meals and snacks within the parks. Furthermore, Disney is providing more quick meal options, affordable children’s food, and greater flexibility with restaurant policies.
Experts attribute the decline in customer satisfaction to rising food prices inside the parks. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted a drop in customer satisfaction ratings from 90% to 60% that coincided with Disney’s shift from a la carte dining to fixed-price meal options at popular restaurants.
While Testa commended Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he warned that these changes might not genuinely reflect a commitment to affordability or guest satisfaction. He remarked that the company has historically been willing to trade off positive ratings for increased revenue.