Walt Disney World is responding to growing customer dissatisfaction and declining attendance figures by quietly reducing the prices of admission and hotel stays in recent months.
Starting in May, Disney offered discounted three-day ticket packages that allow visitors to experience Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for as low as $89 per day. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom must still be purchased separately.
These lower ticket prices, available until September 24, represent a significant drop from the previous peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, Disney is working to lower trip costs by discounting its budget hotel options. Guests can book a night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort for as little as $100, depending on their booking date. This reduction amounts to discounts of up to 27% on regular rates, according to a Bloomberg analysis.
The parks have also introduced new dining packages this summer, offering reductions of 20% to 30% on meals at the parks. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 for children and $95 for adults, which can be used for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. Disney reportedly has also added quicker meal options, more affordable food for children, and more flexible restaurant policies.
Experts indicate that rising food costs within the parks have contributed to declining customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted a drop in customer satisfaction ratings from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants.
While Testa applauded Disney’s cost-cutting efforts, he expressed concern that this trend may not genuinely indicate a commitment to affordability or enhancing guest satisfaction. He stated that Disney has historically been willing to trade off positive ratings for increased revenue.