In response to increasing customer dissatisfaction and a drop in park attendance, Walt Disney World has been quietly reducing admission and hotel rates over recent months.
Starting in May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages allowing visitors to enjoy Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for just $89 per day, although tickets for Magic Kingdom must still be purchased separately. The reduced prices will be available until September 24, marking a significant drop from the previous peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, the company is aiming to lower the overall cost for visitors by offering discounts on its least expensive hotel options. A night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort may start at $100, depending on the booking date, reflecting discounts of up to 27% off standard prices.
This summer, Disney parks have also rolled out new dining packages, which can decrease meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can now purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, usable for various meals and snacks across the parks. Reports indicate a rise in quick meal options, more affordable food for children, and flexible restaurant policies.
Industry analysts attribute growing food costs within the parks as a significant factor contributing to decreased customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com which surveys thousands of Disney visitors each year, indicated that satisfaction ratings have plummeted from 90% to 60%. This decline coincides with Disney’s shift from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at popular restaurants.
While Testa commended Disney’s new cost-reduction measures, he warned that these changes may not signify a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction or affordability. He suggested that Disney has historically been willing to trade off positive guest feedback for increased revenue.