Walt Disney World has been quietly lowering admission and hotel prices in response to growing customer dissatisfaction and decreasing park attendance.
In May, the company began offering discounted three-day ticket packages, allowing guests to visit Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 each day, though entry to Magic Kingdom remains a separate purchase. These lower ticket prices will continue until September 24 and mark a significant drop from the previous peak of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, Disney is aiming to make trips to its Florida resort more affordable by reducing rates at its least expensive hotels. Prices for stays at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can be as low as $100 per night, depending on booking times, representing discounts of up to 27% from regular prices, as noted in a Bloomberg analysis.
Furthermore, new dining packages introduced this summer aim to decrease food costs in the parks by 20% to 30%. Under this plan, families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, applicable for certain meals and snacks throughout the parks. Disney has also expanded quick meal options, introduced more affordable children’s food, and adjusted restaurant policies for greater flexibility.
Experts highlight rising food costs inside the parks as a key factor contributing to declining customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer satisfaction ratings dropped from 90% to 60% coinciding with Disney’s shift from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants.
Testa acknowledged the effectiveness of Disney’s cost-cutting initiatives but cautioned that they may not genuinely reflect a commitment to affordability or enhancing guest satisfaction. He mentioned that Disney has historically been willing to sacrifice positive guest ratings in favor of greater revenue.