Walt Disney World has been quietly reducing admission and hotel prices amid growing customer discontent and falling park attendance.
Starting in May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages priced at $89 per day, allowing access to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom are still sold separately. This price drop marks a significant reduction from the previous high of $254 for a day with a Park Hopper pass, and the promotional rates will continue through September 24.
In an effort to make trips to the Florida resort more affordable, Disney has also cut prices on its budget hotel options. Guests can find rooms at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort for as low as $100, depending on booking dates. This discount can reach up to 27% off regular rates, as analyzed by Bloomberg.
Additionally, new dining packages have been rolled out this summer, offering families meal plans that reduce costs by 20% to 30%. These packages allow guests to purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, usable for various meals and snacks in the parks. Disney is also reportedly expanding quick meal options and introducing more affordable food for children, along with more flexible dining policies.
Experts attribute rising dining costs within the parks as a key reason for decreasing customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that overall customer satisfaction dropped from 90% to 60%. This decline coincided with Disney shifting from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants.
While Testa acknowledged the cost-cutting measures Disney is implementing, he warned that these efforts may not indicate a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction or affordability and suggested that Disney has a history of prioritizing revenue over positive customer experiences.