Walt Disney World has been quietly reducing admission and hotel prices in response to increasing customer dissatisfaction and decreasing park attendance. In May, the resort started offering discounted three-day ticket packages that allow visits to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom must still be purchased separately.
These lower ticket prices, available until September 24, mark a significant reduction from the previous record high of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass. In addition, Disney is lowering the cost of its budget hotel accommodations, with rates as low as $100 per night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort, depending on booking time. These reductions represent discounts of up to 27% compared to regular prices.
This summer, Disney parks introduced new dining packages that cut meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, usable for various meals and snacks in the parks. Disney World is also reportedly offering more quick meal choices, lower-priced food for kids, and more flexible dining policies.
Experts point to the rising costs of food within the parks as a factor contributing to declining customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer satisfaction ratings have dropped from 90% to 60% as the company shifted from a la carte dining options to fixed-price meals at many of its well-known restaurants. While he observed that Disney’s cost-cutting measures are commendable, he also warned that this trend may not indicate a genuine commitment to affordability or guest satisfaction.