In response to growing customer dissatisfaction and declining attendance at its parks, Walt Disney World has been discreetly lowering admission prices and hotel rates over the last few months.
Starting in May, Disney began providing discounted three-day ticket packages that grant access to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, although entry to Magic Kingdom must still be purchased separately. These ticket prices, valid until September 24, represent a significant drop from the peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
Additionally, Disney is working to reduce the overall expenses for visitors to its Florida resort by cutting prices on its most affordable hotel options. For instance, a stay at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can be priced as low as $100, depending on booking dates. According to a Bloomberg analysis, these adjustments can amount to discounts of up to 27% off regular rates.
This summer, the parks have introduced new dining packages designed to lower meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes priced at $30 for children and $95 for adults, which can be redeemed for various meals and snacks within the parks. Disney World is also reportedly expanding its quick meal options, introducing more cost-effective food choices for children, and adopting more flexible dining policies.
Experts note that the rising cost of dining within the parks has contributed to the decline in customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, which surveys thousands of Disney visitors annually, indicated that satisfaction ratings have dropped from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals in many popular restaurants.
While Testa commended Disney’s cost-reduction efforts, he warned that these moves may not genuinely indicate a dedication to affordability or improved guest satisfaction. “Disney has long been willing to sacrifice a certain number of positive ratings for a certain amount of revenue,” he stated.