Amid rising customer dissatisfaction and decreasing attendance, Walt Disney World has been quietly reducing admission and hotel prices over the last few months.
Starting in May, Disney rolled out discounted three-day ticket packages that allow visitors to enjoy Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, although separate tickets are still required for Magic Kingdom. This discount comes as a significant drop from the peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass, and the reduced rates will be available until September 24.
In addition to lowering ticket prices, Disney is cutting back prices on its most affordable hotel options. A night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can be booked for as low as $100, depending on the timing of the reservation. These reductions represent discounts of up to 27% compared to traditional rates, as analyzed by Bloomberg.
This summer, Disney parks also introduced new dining packages aimed at lowering meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can now purchase all-day meal passes priced at $30 for children and $95 for adults, which can be used for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. Notably, Disney World has increased the availability of quick meal options, introduced more affordable children’s food items, and made restaurant policies more flexible.
Experts attribute the decline in customer satisfaction partly to the rising costs of dining within the parks. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, reported a drop in customer satisfaction ratings from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte options to fixed-price dining at many top restaurants. While Testa commends the company’s cost-cutting measures, he warns that such changes may not genuinely signify a commitment to enhancing affordability or guest experiences.
“Disney has long been willing to sacrifice a certain number of positive ratings for a certain amount of revenue,” he stated.