In response to increasing customer dissatisfaction and a drop in park attendance, Walt Disney World has been quietly reducing admission and hotel prices over the last few months.
Starting in May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages, allowing visitors to explore Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for as low as $89 per day. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom still need to be purchased separately.
These reduced ticket prices, available until September 24, are significantly lower than the previous peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Alongside ticket discounts, Disney is also lowering the price of its budget hotel options. For instance, a night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort could start at $100, depending on booking dates. According to a Bloomberg analysis, these discounts can reach up to 27% off regular prices.
This summer, the parks have also launched new dining packages that cut dining 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. Additionally, Disney World is offering more quick meal alternatives, affordable children’s food options, and flexible dining policies.
Industry analysts note that rising food costs inside the parks contribute to declining customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, indicated that customer satisfaction ratings dropped from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many favorite eateries.
While Testa commended Disney’s cost-cutting efforts, he warned that these moves may not signify a genuine commitment to affordability or improving guest experience. He noted that Disney has historically prioritized revenue over maintaining favorable customer ratings.