Walt Disney World has been quietly slashing admission and hotel rates in response to increasing customer dissatisfaction and falling park attendance. Over recent months, the company has implemented various discounts to attract visitors back to the Florida resort.
Starting in May, Disney began offering discounted three-day ticket packages allowing access to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for as low as $89 per day. However, tickets for Magic Kingdom must still be purchased separately. These reduced ticket prices, valid until September 24, significantly cut down from the previous high of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
In addition to ticket discounts, Disney is working to lower overall trip costs by reducing hotel prices, with stays at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort available for as little as $100 per night, depending on the booking date. These discounts could mean savings of up to 27% off typical rates, according to a Bloomberg analysis.
Moreover, the parks have rolled out new dining packages this summer, offering meals at a 20% to 30% discount. Families can buy all-day meal passes for $30 for children and $95 for adults, which can be used for various meals and snacks within the parks. Disney is also expanding quick meal options, introducing more affordable kid’s food, and updating restaurant policies to enhance flexibility for guests.
Experts attribute part of the decline in customer satisfaction to rising food prices within the parks. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer satisfaction ratings fell dramatically from 90% to 60% as Disney shifted from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants. While Testa acknowledged the positive nature of Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he expressed concern that they may not indicate a genuine commitment to affordability or improving guest experiences.