In response to increasing customer dissatisfaction and declining attendance, Walt Disney World has been implementing discounts on admission and hotel stays for several months.
Earlier this year, Disney introduced reduced three-day ticket packages for visits to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom, priced at $89 per day. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom are sold separately.
These lower prices, which are available until September 24, mark a significant reduction from the previous peak of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, Disney is aiming to lessen overall trip costs by slashing prices on its budget hotel options. Guests can book stays at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort for as low as $100 per night, based on booking dates. This represents discounts of up to 27% from regular rates, according to an analysis.
This summer, the parks have also unveiled new dining packages that lower food costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, valid for various meals and snacks within the parks. Disney World is reportedly enhancing quick meal options, offering lower-priced kids’ meals, and providing more flexible dining policies.
Industry experts point to rising food costs inside the parks as a key factor in diminishing customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted a drop in satisfaction ratings from 90% to 60% as Disney shifted from a la carte dining to fixed price meals at popular restaurants.
While Testa acknowledged the benefits of Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he also warned that these actions may not truly reflect a sincere effort towards affordability or enhancing guest experience. He stated, “Disney has long been willing to sacrifice a certain number of positive ratings for a certain amount of revenue.”