Walt Disney World is experiencing a decline in customer satisfaction and park attendance, prompting the company to implement discounts on admission and hotel stays in recent months.
In May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages for $89 per day, allowing guests to visit Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom, although Magic Kingdom tickets must be purchased separately. These reduced ticket prices, effective until September 24, signify a significant drop from the peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Alongside ticket discounts, Disney is also aiming to make trips to the Florida resort more affordable by slashing prices on its budget hotel accommodations. A night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can start at $100, depending on booking dates, representing discounts of up to 27% from standard rates.
Additionally, the parks have rolled out new dining packages this summer, offering reductions of 20% to 30% on food costs. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, valid for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. Reports suggest that Disney World is also providing more quick meal options and more affordable children’s food, along with flexible restaurant policies.
Experts point to the increase in food prices within the parks as a contributing factor to the decline in customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer satisfaction ratings dropped from 90% to 60% as Disney shifted from a la carte dining to fixed price meals at many popular restaurants.
While Testa commended Disney’s cost-cutting efforts, he warned that these measures may not indicate a genuine commitment to affordability or guest satisfaction. He remarked that Disney has historically prioritized revenue over maintaining positive customer ratings.