Walt Disney World has been addressing growing customer dissatisfaction and a drop in park attendance by discreetly reducing admission and hotel prices over recent months.
In May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages, allowing guests to visit Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, while separate purchases are still required for Magic Kingdom tickets.
These new ticket prices, available until September 24, mark a significant reduction from the peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, the resort has initiated discounts on its budget hotel accommodations. Guests can book a night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort for as low as $100, depending on booking dates. This represents discounts of up to 27% off the regular rates, according to Bloomberg.
Moreover, Disney has launched new dining packages this summer that decrease meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 for children and $95 for adults, which can be used for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. The company is also providing more quick meal options, affordable food for children, and increased flexibility in dining policies.
Experts attribute the rising cost of food within the parks as a significant factor contributing to the decline in guest satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that satisfaction ratings fell from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants.
While Testa acknowledged Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he expressed concerns that these efforts may not indicate a genuine commitment to making visits more affordable or enhancing guest contentment.