Walt Disney World has been implementing discounted admission and hotel rates in response to rising customer dissatisfaction and a drop in park attendance over recent months.
Since May, the company has introduced discounted three-day ticket packages for guests looking to visit Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom at a rate of $89 per day, although tickets for Magic Kingdom must still be acquired separately.
These new ticket prices are significantly lower than the previous peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass. The discounts will be in effect until September 24.
In addition to lowering ticket prices, Disney is aiming to decrease the overall cost of trips by offering reduced rates on its most affordable hotel options. Guests can secure a night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort for as little as $100, depending on the timing of their booking. Some estimates suggest discounts can reach up to 27% off regular rates.
The parks have also rolled out new dining packages this summer, which provide a 20% to 30% discount on meals. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, usable for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. Additionally, Disney has introduced more quick meal options, lower-priced food for kids, and more adaptable restaurant policies.
Experts attribute the increase in dining costs within the parks as a major contributor to the decline in customer satisfaction. According to Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, who annually surveys thousands of Disney patrons, satisfaction ratings have plummeted from 90% to 60% as the company shifted from a la carte dining to fixed price meals at several of its most popular restaurants.
While Testa has commended Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he warned that these changes may not indicate a genuine commitment to affordability or enhancing guest satisfaction. He noted that Disney has historically prioritized revenue over positive customer feedback.