As a past 15 year AP I have finally had enough with the price increases, and feeling like a customer. I feel I used to be treated like quest. So I’ve put Disney on the back burner and may not return
Same here, Ray. We’ve been annual pass holders for the past six years, ever since we moved here, but this year, we’re giving them up. The price for our pass doubled, we can’t really go whenever we want as the reservation system is in place, and the in-park prices have increased dramatically.
Finally, like you, we always used to feel like guests. But in the last couple years we feel like we’re imposing on them every time we show up. We’ve noticed a big change in attitude.
They are raising the prices of everything to cover their losses during the parks’ closings. Florida’s WDW did not have to close. They chose to close. Annual passholders and DVCs would have still come. And what about the cruise line? They are requiring vaccinations of everyone age 5 and up. The Star Wars “cruise” looks like it was designed by Paramount (Star Trek). Critics are saying the imagineers have obviously never seen a Star Wars film. All the resorts are going to have to carry this monstrosity until it develops a fan base (it won’t get one with that price tag). The 1% don’t usually go to comi-cons. Disney is simply making bad decisions. Tone-deaf
The prices have skyrocketed lately. I was in the parks about 8 years ago and we chose to stay offsite. Just outside WDW. This trip we spent 3 nights at Caribbean Beach. About 10 days before Christmas. I could not believe that the room rate. We purchased tickets to Magic Kingdom & Hollywood Studios in addition to Genie plus and Memorymaker which cost us over $2000 not including meals plus one day of pictures at $69.99. We also purchased Lightning Lane for Space Mountain at $14.00 plus tax.
And according to Disney our accommodations are moderately priced. In my opinion that is not moderate for 2 Retired teachers. I’m a Senior
I would like to come back with my grandchildren but I don’t think that we can afford that it 2 years. Good luck to all young parents who will be bringing their children to the parks. Are we so brainwashed by the “New Disney” that we must make these sacrifices for our kids?
Methinks Not. This guy is not going to be a sucker once more 🤬
I have been to Disney at least once a year since it opened. Has the experience changed? Of course it has. When the park first opened you paid to get in and then bought ticket books to ride the rides. If you wanted to ride all the big rides, you had to buy extra E tickets.
Next came the world passport. You could get in for multiple days for one price. The people complained then that the price was too high, why should we pay for rides we don’t want to ride etc.
As Disney added more parks and more rides of course the price went up. The food and drinks are priced on par with most other parks in the country.
My home park is Cedar Point. The lines in the summer are always over an hour wait for anything. If you want a fast lane plus to skip the lines on a Saturday they cost at least $200 per person per day after you’ve paid to get in. Even then you usually have to wait at least 15 minutes for smaller rides and up to an hour for the big ones.
My point in all this is yes Disney is expensive. Did it used to be better? I don’t think so. I think the I want it and I want it right now crowd has made it worse and during the lockdowns a lot of people have forgotten how to behave around others. No matter where you go prices are up and it’s up to each person to decide what’s worth it to them. I don’t think steak is worth $25 but that doesn’t mean I have to complain it costs too much. I just quietly don’t eat it.
Like the song says these days will be the good old days our kids remember. Humans tend to remember all the good stuff and forget all the bad stuff. Disney of yesterday is no different.
My issue is with the service. I agree with you – I would not go if I could not afford it. But to be treated like dirt when I arrive is unacceptable after paying all the money. I don’t need their attitude. I can go to Universal or Seaworld and not get attitude and rudeness. Does it cost more? Yep. But the service is now way better than Disney. After 40 years, I won’t go anymore of the service is going to be that bad.
I’m sorry, treated like dirt? Disney cannot cater to every single guest who walks through the gates and feels entitled to have their way. Just because some policies have changed due to being exploited by “treasured guests” and your request is denied or your complaint no longer nets the expected outcome does not mean you are being treated poorly. Cast Members go out of their way to make each interaction with a guest pleasant and even magical but the faces you see in the parks, restaurants, resorts, and transportation as well as the voices you hear when you call to book or get information or figure out how to use the new reservation system are not in positions of leadership. They do not influence policy and are not empowered to override it. Additionally, they are human beings who work long hours, not always in the best conditions (ie inside in the air conditioning or shade), and deal with abuse from the public as well as micromanagement from their leadership. Add in the severe understaffing and required overtime and sometimes you might not get them when they are at their best but to say you are being treated like dirt is a stretch. Not to say there aren’t bad CMs and experiences but overall, those of us who choose to work for the Mouse usually do so because we love the legacy and the magic and making people happy.
Disney is, and will remain, the gold standard in guest service because the majority of us who make it our livelihood actually do care.
There is inflation I agree, but there is also Disney’s blatant ripping off its Customers. Definitely the most Expensive Place in the World, CERTAINLY NOT the most magical anymore.
I completely agree with the Reddick article. I have said it before & will say it again Mr Walt Disney is rolling in his grave. This definitely was not what he wanted. I love WDW but due to the current cost I will not be back. We can all thank the new CEO for that. As the old saying goes “THE MORE THEY GET THE MORE THEY WANT”. In the past you never saw a day the parks empty due way less people coming. Mickey I will miss you!!!!
As a Canadian Disney fan it became extremely expensive now considering the us dollar value. We have been to wdw in 2011 2013 2017 and now it would cost more than 50% extra. We were thinking of going this year but not sure anymore. They only care it seems about rich people or Florida residents.
Price is not a function of “worth” or “perceived value” but rather of Supply and Demand. Right now the Demand exceeds the Supply to the price will continue to rise. As the price rises, Demand will decrease until it reaches an equilibrium price. The parks are full, the resorts are full so the price must continue. Disney is underpriced right now.
Just like no one complains that Ferrari is overpriced and should lower the price so more people can buy them, Disney is under no obligation to lower prices so more people can afford to attend.
One that understands the law of supply and demand. Basic Economics. Fair market value is the price that both a willing buyer and seller are willing to do business.
That’s a fair point. I can also see prices rising until they become too high, and then demand falls ways down and they’re lowering prices and begging people to come to the parks (i.e. 2008 recession). We’ll just have to wait and see.
Yeah, the simple fact is Disneyland/World is too cheap right now. It is a luxury and should be priced as such. I would happily save and only go every few years if all the lines were 15-20 mins cause the parks were less crowded. Think of all you could do in 2 days at Disneyland if the crowds were 20% of “capacity”. The simple fact is we have overcrowded this planet and our cities, and everyone thinks they are entitled to everything.
Scott has it right, and the proof is when “capacity-controlled” pricing happened some time ago, it was meant to ease overcrowding that was a growing problem. But capacity simply kept up with demand, and here we are. And to “Guest”, as a pass holder, we go frequently, and I can describe with glee how when they opened after the Covid closure, we were treated to no lines, walk ins everywhere. Avatar in MK was no wait, after lines of 6 hours and more previously. The trips we took during the reopening remain as the most memorable ever.
My mother lived next door to Walt Disney’s right hand man when she was in high school, and his daughter was my mom’s best friend. Because of this she was an attendee at Disneylands grand opening and hated it. I went for the first time in 1968, and again at 18 & 21. Pricing was expensive, but affordable. I went last month and was shocked at the prices. No longer affordable for most families, and food isn’t as good. I’ll never return to a Disney park because I can’t see the value for the buck.
Disney is going down hill on so many levels. We used to be AP and loved it. However, between the insane prices and lack of benefits for passes, we purchased Universal passes. Disney is suffering thru the prices, food, and seemingly more ride break downs and disrespectful guest issues . The company as a whole is getting super ridiculous and politically motivated. It’s no longer a magical place for families. It seems to be just a front.
I really will miss the luggage transfers…. Drop off at departing airport and have them “magically” end up in our room. This was really the beginning of a vacation that would be care free.
As DVC owner and annual pass holder we haven’t been back since early 2019. We will go in March 2022 and really evaluate for ourselves all the changes.
Prices will rise the more million dollar attractions they add. That’s how it works. You want Star cruiser, Remi’s, Guardians, and Tron? You have to pay for them. Sure it’s frustrating when stuff is expensive. But inflation is causing everything in the country to rise faster. Universal also has the same kind of “buy your fast pass” kind of system and has for years. It works. Because the fast pass lines at Disney got to the point where they were just as long as the regular lines. So now that they aren’t free, they’re shorter and actually a fast line. People seem to be forgetting that Disney is a business. Not a magical fairy land. They’re in it to make money. And when you go to universal and then to Disney you see the difference in quality and cleanliness and yes, you’re paying for it. If you want to see the parks get increasingly overfilled and the wait times to rise even more, then keep the price low. You want to be able to get on more rides and not have to be pressed up against a sweaty dad and his popcorn bucket? You’re going to see more price increases until crowds start to thin out.
Tim, wwwaaaiiiittttt a minute. …you can’t get away with “projecting” your guesses at revenue and ending with “hefty profits” and lining the Ceo’s pockets. Business of entertainment (in park management) is certainly far more involved, and without factoring operating expenses, its pure folly. ( how about $300M in property taxes? how about $100M in ad-valorem sales taxes?How about liability insurance?) When you add all that up, you get what’s listed in the earnings report and
K-1. Who’s paying all the design, engineering, construction, and upkeep on all the new additions in the last three/four years?
Sorry, your “projections ” just dont add up.
For the first time in a decade, we’re letting our passes lapse. It was a sad feeling, but I can’t justify paying more for less. We’ve never had universal passes and recently bought them and going to enjoy that for the year.
Absolutely true. Sometimes we would just go eat at a country! The food has gotten bad and you can’t get on rides. How many homes and expensive cars does the board need? They are touting being inclusive but they are catering to the very group they came out against to begin with. The top 10% of people. Go look at the parks now.., it’s truly sad.
As a family that went at least once a year for the past decade and truly use to love going to Disney (got engaged there) we cancelled our latest trip. We went in Nov 2021, and the general lack of everything with huge increases in pricing everything, removing Magical Express (we would have paid for it) were the final straw. Tried to use the Genie+ and epic failed, the virtual queues filled moments after they opened. It was very frustrating and added stress to a vacation, the opposite of what our family wanted. I understand the supply and demand but I think when the Pent up demand wanes, Disney might have an attendance problem. We have been to universal many times and this might be our go to park, the express pass is way easier to use (no idea why Disney did not go that route) and is less stressful.
My family HADenjoyed Disney for several years. My oldest son even went through 2 hitches with their college program while becoming a chef. Fast forward to 2009, we moved to Florida and the Kissimmee area. Since living here we have been to the park ONCE, just ONCE. They have become so money driven their out of control and you can stop a runaway train.
Price increase almost every year, with more in the near future.
They’ve simply lost the entire dream of Walt.
Every person we know here in Kissimmee and surrounding communities avoid the park like death itself. So many people I’ve met while on vacation have not a single good word to say about their vacation. Tired, aggravated, frustrated and disappointed are words most use to discribe this Worderful Place on Earth.
Well Disney, you raised prices, charge extra for rides, over pack the parks out of greed, did you expect high praise? Not from this Floridian. My Disney days are far behind as many others living here. You suck the life and money out of people and could care less. As long as CEO’s, BOD and shareholders get their greedy bank accounts full fast.
Disney makes and control the magic. Sadly, Walt is ashamed of the monsters you’ve become I’m sure.
The adding a genie +, the raising ticket price, removing the dining plan, removing the magical express. At the end of the day only 23% (roughly 77 million) of Americans on average can afford to visit Disney annually and that was pre-Covid days. After the pent up demand go home can people that defend Disney or even Disney confidently says that percentage of people will still be the average? I think not, especially considering that middle class is dwindling. Idk if Disney is just untouched with the average income of an American but it doesn’t look like myself will be visiting. The cost + perks + experience = expense Especially with universal being half the cost but all the perks taken away and with better quality (sorry but Harry Potter tops Star Wars, it’s just more immersive)
It just seems to me that they are taking away more and more perks and raising prices. No more Magical Express, no more free Fast Passes, no more Dining Plan. GEEZ- a weeklong stay at The Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki would cost less.
I too, have come to the realization that WDW has become unaffordable. My family and I went there in August 2021, and it was fun, but most of my trip was worrying about the debt I was incurring. Our trip was 14 days, 10 at the parks. We took one day at Universal and that was the most affordable one day experience compared to one day at WDW. The lines were not as long and most rides could be done multiple times in a row. I’m sad my grandchildren will not be able to attend WDW as I did and my children did. After 50 years it’s just not affordable now.
Recently visited for our 12th time and vowed to never return. The struggles began with the dinning reservations as most of our desired choices were not available. Our stay at the Grand Floridian was impeccable where service was outstanding. The days spent at the parks were miserable, park reservations, spending $195 per person for hopper tickets and another $75 for Genie service we couldn’t use on Star Wars. Refreshment lines an hour wait and I had to have a reservation to be in this park…never again. At least we got the last month of magical express service or we could of spent a few more hundred. Disney thanks for the memories and one memory to remind me to never return !
What’s funny as that about an hour ago I read an article that said Disney will continue to raise prices because people are still going to pay. Not the best business model I could think of.
It’s the biggest business model ever. If you’re in business to make money, you choose a business where people are so attracted to the memories and joy it brought them, they’ll continue to come no matter the price. Look at all the posters who say they’ve gone for years. No one is forcing people to go to the Disney parks. Walt wouldn’t have done this if he wasn’t going to make a lot of money. He made his dream come true, creating a business that was profitable and made people happy. You can’t afford it, don’t go. There isn’t one person on the Disney board that cares whether people can afford it or not. Business is business.
Wow this is truly the conversation to be had. Why has it never been a conversation before? Because Disney magic has changed dramatically. The expense is just a piece of it. You used to walk in the park and the quality of what you were getting matched the price. Today it’s not, I have been going to Disney my entire life and even in the past when prices went up it wasn’t great but now….! So the shows used to have fun people for preshows (Matt the juggler, Hunchback show)and 4for a Dollar at Beauty and the Beast). I’m not a fan of Genie+ I did it because there was almost no alternative except to wait for a minimum of 55 min for almost every ride. But I can tell you that Ok fine you want to charge for freaking FP then it needs to be done better especially if you now have to get up at 7 am just to book 1 and pay extra for the other ones. Ok now you have created mass lines to get in because you want to get to the park for rope drop so you can keep getting a fast pass. At least the old way you can do 3 at a time and get to the park a little later and it was done in advance. Peoples patience has become shorter just look at the fights lately. The other issues such as prices of annual passes are beyond crazy. You are getting less and paying more. I’ve been a Disney pass holder for forever I’m going to let it lapse. I’m DVC and I’m not sure if I’m selling or just using it for different trips. I know I’m ranting and all over but this conversation is a long one and everyone has their own opinions.
As a local I’ve turned off Disney a couple years back when they canceled passes for residents and gave no refund for being closed during COVID-19. Definitely a money grab and sad.
greedy man chapek at this best. Bleed you dry as long as he gets richer. If everyone would find someplace else to vacation and greedy man made no money for a couple of week things might go back to normal pre chapek days. Americans are to spoiled. They will continue to go and whine and complain. Hit the board where is hurts, in the wallet, and go somewhere else this year. America has lots of places to see. Six flags is a blast. Best coasters ever. Grand canyon, New York City, Washington D/C.
Thanks for calling me riff raff. Disney has always been my favorite place on Earth. I was at the grand opening in 1971. Stayed at the Contemporary. My son was just born. I loved it so much. I was 21. When my daughter was born she also grew up loving Disney. When my grandchildren came along they were brought up loving Disney. We live in Florida. Bought annual passes for years. Stayed several days in on-site hotels twice a year and came for daily visits often. As the years went on and the kids got older and I have 5 grandchildren I began to bring them all – entire family as their Christmas gift. I loved it. I am now 72 years old and a widow. I worked hard all my life in a good job and really enjoyed being able to splurge on my favorite place. I have spent thousands of dollars. My favorite character is Eeyore and I have met him every time. Now that I am widowed, on social security and have medical problems, I can no longer afford to come – plus the last time I came it was so crowded I could not even enjoy it. My last wish is to make one more trip to my favorite place on Earth. The magical place that brings me joy. The problem is – I can’t afford it – and no, I am not riff raff. I don’t drink, smoke or do drugs. I am a normal person that just doesn’t have the money. Bless those that do.
I believe they are making it too hard for the working class to come and enjoy Disney, the higher ups have become money hungry and are making it to expensive!!! I have no desire to go to Disney now that the prices are so high and the food is sub par, hopefully they see these complaints and do something to make it better!!! But I doubt it!!
The entire experience is all messed up now. Kids loved the express . Gone . Pay for parking now . What’s next ? Pay for toilet paper ? Just sick too death of paying a fortune for this .
I’ve gone to WDW over 23 times in the past 24 years. We’ve had 6 children we have taken along the way with friends and family. We use to spend 7-14 nights and it was the vacation we l loved and looked forward to. Some years we even went 2-3 times within a calendar year. But yes the prices keep soaring, the amenities are decreasing, fees increasing, etc. Guest services is lacking as well. We went this last summer and as much as I love the place I can’t say when we will return. We went to FL and stayed in Orlando for all of Christmas break but didn’t even try to go to a park, it’s just not worth it anymore. I miss WDW like it use to be. We use to go and it was like we were in another world for that time, it was magical. Expensive but not this outrageously expensive.
I absolutely agree. I was there on October 1st (in magic kingdom) and the week leading up to the first. It was a huge disappointment and disaster. The souvenir shops were like Walmart on Black Friday. In addition, I’ve never experienced rude cast members like I did on this trip. If it were 5-10 years ago, they would have been fired on the spot! I won’t be going back. It’s a shame
Long time AP’er. Disney has priced me out and not provided enough to support it’s price. Tired of constant construction as well. Something dear to the heart is always being refurbed and/or changed. At Disney time is money and for what you pay there should be more. Currently I can go to Vegas a dozen times for the cost of a WDW vacation for 2 and that just seems to be the better deal. I think the straw that broke the camels back was the loss of daily housekeeping. For $600. a night somebody should at least make the bed and provide clean towels. Until then, adios Disney.
I’ve been to Disney World over 30 times over the years. But, WDW is no longer “magical” for me. Between having my vacation ruled by computer programs, the constant cancellation of live entertainment, the rising prices, Genie +, and the elimination of the Magical Express, I’m done.
Been a huge Disney fan for decades. We have visited Disneyland and WDW every year. We were in Disneyland for the holidays as we’ve done in past years. We were so excited for our first trip back since covid. It was so disappointing! The price increases on everything is outrageous. I resent being charged for every single item. It is stressful and ruins the point of a ‘magical’ vacation. I also despise the fact that Disney wants me stuck in my phone all day in order to ‘experience’ the parks. It has the exact opposite effect. I miss all the magical small details that Disney is known for when I’m constantly in my phone ordering food, selecting our next ride on Genie+ etc. Hate the LL and Genie+ system! We were also treated badly by several different cast members. That is probably the most disappointing of all. I used to feel welcome and valued in the parks. Disney was the benchmark for exceptional customer service. My how things have changed. Now I feel like a walking dollar sign. The magic is gone for us…and I’m crushed. I don’t think Walt envisioned his parks like this.
Had been taking our granddaughter since she was 4. We stayed on average 7 to 9 nights until covid hit. We were really excited to get back this Christmas. I had known of the price increases the past times we had attended but was able to justify the cost based on our memories and experiences. I call to make reservations and was really taken back by the cost based on what we have done in the past. Last week they increased prices on ALOT of meals, snacks and beverages. I too suffered from nostalgia when it comes to the mouse. We went to Universal Studios and had a fantastic time at almost half the cost. We stayed in same level resort and actually had more park access. We now have new memories and are planning our next trip. Sad to say we can no longer afford the mouse.
Literally THE only way you’re going to lower the crowds is to put a lower cap on how many people are allowed in. Sure, there are plenty of people who are honest enough about their finances to realize they can no longer afford it; but there will always be plenty of people more than willing to go into credit card debt to swing vacations. Setting a lower capacity and sticking to it is the best way to keep these ridiculous crowds down…but then people would be complaining that they can’t get in when they want to.
As far as prices themselves go, however…yeah, it’s ridiculous. I honestly can’t knock the Genie+ idea, because if it was free then Lightning Lane lines would be just as long as standby lines, as we usually saw with Fastpass. But otherwise yeah, ticket prices and food prices are out of hand.
I REFUSE!!! I can’t stomach it. Pay ALL that $ to go wait in line in the heat surrounded by all those people and deal with all of that? Absolutely not!!! I would rather take my kids overseas and spend the money on a beach instead of Disney.
Since the beginning, there has ALWAYS been a demographic group of people that even just a day at Disney was financially out of reach. It amuses me to see the angry entitlement of people who are now experiencing what others have simply accepted for well over 60 years, but they didn’t care then because it didn’t affect them. Now that they have been moved to the group on the outside looking in, it so “unfortunate” and “not what Walt wanted”. What a bunch of crybabies.
I know my experience will differ from most, likely due to how my experience went as a disabled person utilizing the DAS system to be able to get on rides, but I wouldn’t say it’s any more expensive now than it was when we went in 2018. Both times we’ve managed to take a family of 5+ for just under $3000 which included accommodations, food, gas to drive from Kentucky to Florida and back, souvenirs and everything else. I think it largely just depends on expectations. It’s always been a fairly expensive destination for most folks, and honestly complaining about the lack of free fast pass is just silly when you look at parks like Kings Island near me or Cedar Point where the fast pass can run you a small fortune just for one day.
People now days just buy everything with no regard. When I grew up if my parents didn’t have the cash we didn’t buy it. People need to vote with their pocketbooks. Younger people think it cost what it costs. It doesn’t, don’t pay the money and they will be forced to lower the price. We live in a society where no one can save up or wait for anything. Just charge it and worry about it later. The day of reckoning is coming. I am ready, I hope you are.
What’s perplexing is that WDW is increasing prices while decreasing service & value.
The changes they’ve implemented are objectively worse experiences for the Guests who pay the most: no more free & convenient transport from airport to hotel. No more free Fastpasses or Magic Hours. More complicated dinner reservations.
Worst of all is the elimination of the Fastpass system. Previously, you could book Fast Passes well in advance, making it possible to plan out a day that coordinates with your dinner reservations. That’s gone. Now, you have to wake up at 5:00am each day—during your vacation!—and take whatever the park is able to give.
It’s a chaotic mess. Raising prices is fine, but raising prices while delivering a worse experience doesn’t make sense.
There are so many things in life that people have to accept the high price of, gas, groceries, utilities ect.. Disney is one of the things people can make their displeasure heard. Boycott all things Disney, until they hear us and stop the greed. We can make a stand. BOYCOTT DISNEY !
We have trip planned on February and are thinking of cancelling. Paying for parking, dining, every little thing…charge me up front and get it over with. Tell me my all in with food…that way we can budget or not. I agree with most on board that Universal is looking more and more appealing for family trips for less cost. Still have 3 days to decide but if we do go, this will be last trip. As a parent I am one looking for memories, happy memories; not memories of dreading cost of meals and unexpected or unnecessary costs from park visits. My daughter could care less if we were at universal, Busch gardens, six flags, as long as we are having fun together.
My parents and my sisters family have all been boycotting Disney due to rising costs for years, my sister won’t even allow Disney channel or Disney plus in her house and are letting their money speak.
This upcoming trip has had me in more duress than it is worth and would not be surprised if we decide to cancel and go to universal instead. Still time to cancel!
Raise the prices X4 I say. Keep raising until crowds are cut in half. Maybe then the millennials will get a clue and stop mortgaging their kids’ future for 3 days of “fun”.
With respect to supply/demand curve, just raise the price and provide the quality as previously provided. In other words, there is a quality control issue which people are beginning to experience. The ones who are frustrated are frustrated at a product which has lost value. Raising prices on little things here and there, smaller portion sizes, a genie system which more people than not believe detracts from the experience, and more, make the value less than what it was. People are going and finding this out after the fact. I myself went in November and felt this way. Just raise the ticket price. I am canceling my next scheduled trip there. I decided against buying a season pass too. As long as wait times are so long, I don’t want to go either. My guess is that the quality will again improve at some point, when they realize what used to be a Lexus is now more like a Tercel. That may be a bit of an exaggeration. Maybe it is more like a Lexus which is being serviced with off brand parts to save money. It just doesn’t seem the same. Just take it to the better service station. In the meantime, I will go buy a Honda.
You are correct. There is more riffraff. I have noticed that too. I am sure it is the Florida residents who are buying the cheap season passes. Maybe by making all season passes equally priced (and expensive) regardless of the state you live in could help take care of that. On a weekend, EPCOT is filled with this riffraff stuff. Another idea would not be popular, but it would take care of the problem. And that is, do what Walt did and eliminate alchohol.
They need to start asking to see drivers licenses from everyone buying a ticket and not allow in New Yorkers, that would fix most of the things you listed.
I can’t help but wonder if Disney has CM’s assigned to read comments from articles like this, social media and other sources. If they do, then Disney has proven they don’t care about ANY of the patrons. There are too many people posting negative comments for Disney not to be concerned. Unless…they just don’t care, which certainly seems the case since Bob Paycheck took over.
Comments for Disney Faces Massive Backlash, Guests Claim It’s “Too Expensive”
I love Disney
Disney has to raise prices in the Parks and merch so that Chapek can pay for Disney+. They will be paying $33 BILLION for Disney+ this year.
beautiful gorgeous
Why? I thought all the subscribers were paying for it
Tink no more
The magic is gone. It’s that simple.
Ray
As a past 15 year AP I have finally had enough with the price increases, and feeling like a customer. I feel I used to be treated like quest. So I’ve put Disney on the back burner and may not return
Jim
Same here, Ray. We’ve been annual pass holders for the past six years, ever since we moved here, but this year, we’re giving them up. The price for our pass doubled, we can’t really go whenever we want as the reservation system is in place, and the in-park prices have increased dramatically.
Finally, like you, we always used to feel like guests. But in the last couple years we feel like we’re imposing on them every time we show up. We’ve noticed a big change in attitude.
beautiful gorgeous
They are raising the prices of everything to cover their losses during the parks’ closings. Florida’s WDW did not have to close. They chose to close. Annual passholders and DVCs would have still come. And what about the cruise line? They are requiring vaccinations of everyone age 5 and up. The Star Wars “cruise” looks like it was designed by Paramount (Star Trek). Critics are saying the imagineers have obviously never seen a Star Wars film. All the resorts are going to have to carry this monstrosity until it develops a fan base (it won’t get one with that price tag). The 1% don’t usually go to comi-cons. Disney is simply making bad decisions. Tone-deaf
Gregg
The prices have skyrocketed lately. I was in the parks about 8 years ago and we chose to stay offsite. Just outside WDW. This trip we spent 3 nights at Caribbean Beach. About 10 days before Christmas. I could not believe that the room rate. We purchased tickets to Magic Kingdom & Hollywood Studios in addition to Genie plus and Memorymaker which cost us over $2000 not including meals plus one day of pictures at $69.99. We also purchased Lightning Lane for Space Mountain at $14.00 plus tax.
And according to Disney our accommodations are moderately priced. In my opinion that is not moderate for 2 Retired teachers. I’m a Senior
I would like to come back with my grandchildren but I don’t think that we can afford that it 2 years. Good luck to all young parents who will be bringing their children to the parks. Are we so brainwashed by the “New Disney” that we must make these sacrifices for our kids?
Methinks Not. This guy is not going to be a sucker once more 🤬
Mousefan
I have been to Disney at least once a year since it opened. Has the experience changed? Of course it has. When the park first opened you paid to get in and then bought ticket books to ride the rides. If you wanted to ride all the big rides, you had to buy extra E tickets.
Next came the world passport. You could get in for multiple days for one price. The people complained then that the price was too high, why should we pay for rides we don’t want to ride etc.
As Disney added more parks and more rides of course the price went up. The food and drinks are priced on par with most other parks in the country.
My home park is Cedar Point. The lines in the summer are always over an hour wait for anything. If you want a fast lane plus to skip the lines on a Saturday they cost at least $200 per person per day after you’ve paid to get in. Even then you usually have to wait at least 15 minutes for smaller rides and up to an hour for the big ones.
My point in all this is yes Disney is expensive. Did it used to be better? I don’t think so. I think the I want it and I want it right now crowd has made it worse and during the lockdowns a lot of people have forgotten how to behave around others. No matter where you go prices are up and it’s up to each person to decide what’s worth it to them. I don’t think steak is worth $25 but that doesn’t mean I have to complain it costs too much. I just quietly don’t eat it.
Like the song says these days will be the good old days our kids remember. Humans tend to remember all the good stuff and forget all the bad stuff. Disney of yesterday is no different.
Sara M
This. Exactly. Cost is relative. People will pay for what they want to do. No one’s forcing people to max out credit cards.
Hadenoughofthemouse
My issue is with the service. I agree with you – I would not go if I could not afford it. But to be treated like dirt when I arrive is unacceptable after paying all the money. I don’t need their attitude. I can go to Universal or Seaworld and not get attitude and rudeness. Does it cost more? Yep. But the service is now way better than Disney. After 40 years, I won’t go anymore of the service is going to be that bad.
Bilbo Bigguns
SeaWorld is 1000% better… and if you really want to meet awesome people and pay almost nothing check out Gatorland.
Lexi
I’m sorry, treated like dirt? Disney cannot cater to every single guest who walks through the gates and feels entitled to have their way. Just because some policies have changed due to being exploited by “treasured guests” and your request is denied or your complaint no longer nets the expected outcome does not mean you are being treated poorly. Cast Members go out of their way to make each interaction with a guest pleasant and even magical but the faces you see in the parks, restaurants, resorts, and transportation as well as the voices you hear when you call to book or get information or figure out how to use the new reservation system are not in positions of leadership. They do not influence policy and are not empowered to override it. Additionally, they are human beings who work long hours, not always in the best conditions (ie inside in the air conditioning or shade), and deal with abuse from the public as well as micromanagement from their leadership. Add in the severe understaffing and required overtime and sometimes you might not get them when they are at their best but to say you are being treated like dirt is a stretch. Not to say there aren’t bad CMs and experiences but overall, those of us who choose to work for the Mouse usually do so because we love the legacy and the magic and making people happy.
Disney is, and will remain, the gold standard in guest service because the majority of us who make it our livelihood actually do care.
Inflation
Inflation is everywhere. Disney is no different.
Julian H
There is inflation I agree, but there is also Disney’s blatant ripping off its Customers. Definitely the most Expensive Place in the World, CERTAINLY NOT the most magical anymore.
Carol Banker
I completely agree with the Reddick article. I have said it before & will say it again Mr Walt Disney is rolling in his grave. This definitely was not what he wanted. I love WDW but due to the current cost I will not be back. We can all thank the new CEO for that. As the old saying goes “THE MORE THEY GET THE MORE THEY WANT”. In the past you never saw a day the parks empty due way less people coming. Mickey I will miss you!!!!
Dfan
As a Canadian Disney fan it became extremely expensive now considering the us dollar value. We have been to wdw in 2011 2013 2017 and now it would cost more than 50% extra. We were thinking of going this year but not sure anymore. They only care it seems about rich people or Florida residents.
Bob
I went last week and the tram driver told me we had to pay him $5 in cash just to get out of the parking lot?!
Randy W
With the right airfare deal, it’s actually cheaper to go to Tokyo Disney than it is WDW for a week.
SCOTT lee-ross
Price is not a function of “worth” or “perceived value” but rather of Supply and Demand. Right now the Demand exceeds the Supply to the price will continue to rise. As the price rises, Demand will decrease until it reaches an equilibrium price. The parks are full, the resorts are full so the price must continue. Disney is underpriced right now.
Just like no one complains that Ferrari is overpriced and should lower the price so more people can buy them, Disney is under no obligation to lower prices so more people can afford to attend.
Julian H
Disney under priced – In what World are you in?
SCOTT lee-ross
One that understands the law of supply and demand. Basic Economics. Fair market value is the price that both a willing buyer and seller are willing to do business.
Emmicah
That’s a fair point. I can also see prices rising until they become too high, and then demand falls ways down and they’re lowering prices and begging people to come to the parks (i.e. 2008 recession). We’ll just have to wait and see.
N1111Z
It’s very simple Einstein. Until crowds thin out the price is too low. So far no sign of that.
Guest
Yeah, the simple fact is Disneyland/World is too cheap right now. It is a luxury and should be priced as such. I would happily save and only go every few years if all the lines were 15-20 mins cause the parks were less crowded. Think of all you could do in 2 days at Disneyland if the crowds were 20% of “capacity”. The simple fact is we have overcrowded this planet and our cities, and everyone thinks they are entitled to everything.
WLinMT
This. I would pay more and go less often for a better experience.
rich wontor
Scott has it right, and the proof is when “capacity-controlled” pricing happened some time ago, it was meant to ease overcrowding that was a growing problem. But capacity simply kept up with demand, and here we are. And to “Guest”, as a pass holder, we go frequently, and I can describe with glee how when they opened after the Covid closure, we were treated to no lines, walk ins everywhere. Avatar in MK was no wait, after lines of 6 hours and more previously. The trips we took during the reopening remain as the most memorable ever.
Leroy
My mother lived next door to Walt Disney’s right hand man when she was in high school, and his daughter was my mom’s best friend. Because of this she was an attendee at Disneylands grand opening and hated it. I went for the first time in 1968, and again at 18 & 21. Pricing was expensive, but affordable. I went last month and was shocked at the prices. No longer affordable for most families, and food isn’t as good. I’ll never return to a Disney park because I can’t see the value for the buck.
Candace Long
Disney is going down hill on so many levels. We used to be AP and loved it. However, between the insane prices and lack of benefits for passes, we purchased Universal passes. Disney is suffering thru the prices, food, and seemingly more ride break downs and disrespectful guest issues . The company as a whole is getting super ridiculous and politically motivated. It’s no longer a magical place for families. It seems to be just a front.
Don C
I really will miss the luggage transfers…. Drop off at departing airport and have them “magically” end up in our room. This was really the beginning of a vacation that would be care free.
As DVC owner and annual pass holder we haven’t been back since early 2019. We will go in March 2022 and really evaluate for ourselves all the changes.
Kate
Prices will rise the more million dollar attractions they add. That’s how it works. You want Star cruiser, Remi’s, Guardians, and Tron? You have to pay for them. Sure it’s frustrating when stuff is expensive. But inflation is causing everything in the country to rise faster. Universal also has the same kind of “buy your fast pass” kind of system and has for years. It works. Because the fast pass lines at Disney got to the point where they were just as long as the regular lines. So now that they aren’t free, they’re shorter and actually a fast line. People seem to be forgetting that Disney is a business. Not a magical fairy land. They’re in it to make money. And when you go to universal and then to Disney you see the difference in quality and cleanliness and yes, you’re paying for it. If you want to see the parks get increasingly overfilled and the wait times to rise even more, then keep the price low. You want to be able to get on more rides and not have to be pressed up against a sweaty dad and his popcorn bucket? You’re going to see more price increases until crowds start to thin out.
Joem
There’s no noticable difference between the quality and cleanliness of Universal Orlando and WDW. At least not in the past few years.
rich wontor
Tim, wwwaaaiiiittttt a minute. …you can’t get away with “projecting” your guesses at revenue and ending with “hefty profits” and lining the Ceo’s pockets. Business of entertainment (in park management) is certainly far more involved, and without factoring operating expenses, its pure folly. ( how about $300M in property taxes? how about $100M in ad-valorem sales taxes?How about liability insurance?) When you add all that up, you get what’s listed in the earnings report and
K-1. Who’s paying all the design, engineering, construction, and upkeep on all the new additions in the last three/four years?
Sorry, your “projections ” just dont add up.
Rickey Rifton
You’re right, they don’t add up. They will probably make double that per cruise.
Allison
For the first time in a decade, we’re letting our passes lapse. It was a sad feeling, but I can’t justify paying more for less. We’ve never had universal passes and recently bought them and going to enjoy that for the year.
Kim
Absolutely true. Sometimes we would just go eat at a country! The food has gotten bad and you can’t get on rides. How many homes and expensive cars does the board need? They are touting being inclusive but they are catering to the very group they came out against to begin with. The top 10% of people. Go look at the parks now.., it’s truly sad.
chris
As a family that went at least once a year for the past decade and truly use to love going to Disney (got engaged there) we cancelled our latest trip. We went in Nov 2021, and the general lack of everything with huge increases in pricing everything, removing Magical Express (we would have paid for it) were the final straw. Tried to use the Genie+ and epic failed, the virtual queues filled moments after they opened. It was very frustrating and added stress to a vacation, the opposite of what our family wanted. I understand the supply and demand but I think when the Pent up demand wanes, Disney might have an attendance problem. We have been to universal many times and this might be our go to park, the express pass is way easier to use (no idea why Disney did not go that route) and is less stressful.
Guy Paul
My family HADenjoyed Disney for several years. My oldest son even went through 2 hitches with their college program while becoming a chef. Fast forward to 2009, we moved to Florida and the Kissimmee area. Since living here we have been to the park ONCE, just ONCE. They have become so money driven their out of control and you can stop a runaway train.
Price increase almost every year, with more in the near future.
They’ve simply lost the entire dream of Walt.
Every person we know here in Kissimmee and surrounding communities avoid the park like death itself. So many people I’ve met while on vacation have not a single good word to say about their vacation. Tired, aggravated, frustrated and disappointed are words most use to discribe this Worderful Place on Earth.
Well Disney, you raised prices, charge extra for rides, over pack the parks out of greed, did you expect high praise? Not from this Floridian. My Disney days are far behind as many others living here. You suck the life and money out of people and could care less. As long as CEO’s, BOD and shareholders get their greedy bank accounts full fast.
Disney makes and control the magic. Sadly, Walt is ashamed of the monsters you’ve become I’m sure.
Glitter Fairy
We went over thirty years ago. Should have taken the boys skiing but it was my dream. Too expensive then. Too crowded.
Dao
The adding a genie +, the raising ticket price, removing the dining plan, removing the magical express. At the end of the day only 23% (roughly 77 million) of Americans on average can afford to visit Disney annually and that was pre-Covid days. After the pent up demand go home can people that defend Disney or even Disney confidently says that percentage of people will still be the average? I think not, especially considering that middle class is dwindling. Idk if Disney is just untouched with the average income of an American but it doesn’t look like myself will be visiting. The cost + perks + experience = expense Especially with universal being half the cost but all the perks taken away and with better quality (sorry but Harry Potter tops Star Wars, it’s just more immersive)
Lisa
It just seems to me that they are taking away more and more perks and raising prices. No more Magical Express, no more free Fast Passes, no more Dining Plan. GEEZ- a weeklong stay at The Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki would cost less.
Cyndi Jungwirth
I too, have come to the realization that WDW has become unaffordable. My family and I went there in August 2021, and it was fun, but most of my trip was worrying about the debt I was incurring. Our trip was 14 days, 10 at the parks. We took one day at Universal and that was the most affordable one day experience compared to one day at WDW. The lines were not as long and most rides could be done multiple times in a row. I’m sad my grandchildren will not be able to attend WDW as I did and my children did. After 50 years it’s just not affordable now.
Jacque
Recently visited for our 12th time and vowed to never return. The struggles began with the dinning reservations as most of our desired choices were not available. Our stay at the Grand Floridian was impeccable where service was outstanding. The days spent at the parks were miserable, park reservations, spending $195 per person for hopper tickets and another $75 for Genie service we couldn’t use on Star Wars. Refreshment lines an hour wait and I had to have a reservation to be in this park…never again. At least we got the last month of magical express service or we could of spent a few more hundred. Disney thanks for the memories and one memory to remind me to never return !
Tony
What’s funny as that about an hour ago I read an article that said Disney will continue to raise prices because people are still going to pay. Not the best business model I could think of.
Susie-Q
It’s the biggest business model ever. If you’re in business to make money, you choose a business where people are so attracted to the memories and joy it brought them, they’ll continue to come no matter the price. Look at all the posters who say they’ve gone for years. No one is forcing people to go to the Disney parks. Walt wouldn’t have done this if he wasn’t going to make a lot of money. He made his dream come true, creating a business that was profitable and made people happy. You can’t afford it, don’t go. There isn’t one person on the Disney board that cares whether people can afford it or not. Business is business.
Adrian
Wow this is truly the conversation to be had. Why has it never been a conversation before? Because Disney magic has changed dramatically. The expense is just a piece of it. You used to walk in the park and the quality of what you were getting matched the price. Today it’s not, I have been going to Disney my entire life and even in the past when prices went up it wasn’t great but now….! So the shows used to have fun people for preshows (Matt the juggler, Hunchback show)and 4for a Dollar at Beauty and the Beast). I’m not a fan of Genie+ I did it because there was almost no alternative except to wait for a minimum of 55 min for almost every ride. But I can tell you that Ok fine you want to charge for freaking FP then it needs to be done better especially if you now have to get up at 7 am just to book 1 and pay extra for the other ones. Ok now you have created mass lines to get in because you want to get to the park for rope drop so you can keep getting a fast pass. At least the old way you can do 3 at a time and get to the park a little later and it was done in advance. Peoples patience has become shorter just look at the fights lately. The other issues such as prices of annual passes are beyond crazy. You are getting less and paying more. I’ve been a Disney pass holder for forever I’m going to let it lapse. I’m DVC and I’m not sure if I’m selling or just using it for different trips. I know I’m ranting and all over but this conversation is a long one and everyone has their own opinions.
JC
As a local I’ve turned off Disney a couple years back when they canceled passes for residents and gave no refund for being closed during COVID-19. Definitely a money grab and sad.
jo
greedy man chapek at this best. Bleed you dry as long as he gets richer. If everyone would find someplace else to vacation and greedy man made no money for a couple of week things might go back to normal pre chapek days. Americans are to spoiled. They will continue to go and whine and complain. Hit the board where is hurts, in the wallet, and go somewhere else this year. America has lots of places to see. Six flags is a blast. Best coasters ever. Grand canyon, New York City, Washington D/C.
Drake
I agree with increasing the prices. It keeps the riff raff out.
Cindy
Thanks for calling me riff raff. Disney has always been my favorite place on Earth. I was at the grand opening in 1971. Stayed at the Contemporary. My son was just born. I loved it so much. I was 21. When my daughter was born she also grew up loving Disney. When my grandchildren came along they were brought up loving Disney. We live in Florida. Bought annual passes for years. Stayed several days in on-site hotels twice a year and came for daily visits often. As the years went on and the kids got older and I have 5 grandchildren I began to bring them all – entire family as their Christmas gift. I loved it. I am now 72 years old and a widow. I worked hard all my life in a good job and really enjoyed being able to splurge on my favorite place. I have spent thousands of dollars. My favorite character is Eeyore and I have met him every time. Now that I am widowed, on social security and have medical problems, I can no longer afford to come – plus the last time I came it was so crowded I could not even enjoy it. My last wish is to make one more trip to my favorite place on Earth. The magical place that brings me joy. The problem is – I can’t afford it – and no, I am not riff raff. I don’t drink, smoke or do drugs. I am a normal person that just doesn’t have the money. Bless those that do.
Drake's Mom
Due to the recent number of fights I would say it’s bringing more riff raff in.
N
Keeps middle class out too.
Tracy
I believe they are making it too hard for the working class to come and enjoy Disney, the higher ups have become money hungry and are making it to expensive!!! I have no desire to go to Disney now that the prices are so high and the food is sub par, hopefully they see these complaints and do something to make it better!!! But I doubt it!!
Bob
The entire experience is all messed up now. Kids loved the express . Gone . Pay for parking now . What’s next ? Pay for toilet paper ? Just sick too death of paying a fortune for this .
Disney_mom
I’ve gone to WDW over 23 times in the past 24 years. We’ve had 6 children we have taken along the way with friends and family. We use to spend 7-14 nights and it was the vacation we l loved and looked forward to. Some years we even went 2-3 times within a calendar year. But yes the prices keep soaring, the amenities are decreasing, fees increasing, etc. Guest services is lacking as well. We went this last summer and as much as I love the place I can’t say when we will return. We went to FL and stayed in Orlando for all of Christmas break but didn’t even try to go to a park, it’s just not worth it anymore. I miss WDW like it use to be. We use to go and it was like we were in another world for that time, it was magical. Expensive but not this outrageously expensive.
Jennifer
I absolutely agree. I was there on October 1st (in magic kingdom) and the week leading up to the first. It was a huge disappointment and disaster. The souvenir shops were like Walmart on Black Friday. In addition, I’ve never experienced rude cast members like I did on this trip. If it were 5-10 years ago, they would have been fired on the spot! I won’t be going back. It’s a shame
Maryann
Good to know I am not alone in my perception of the place I used to love. I was an Annual Passholder for 32 years and they have crushed me.
Susan
High prices ,fist fights, not a kids place anymore.
Scott
Long time AP’er. Disney has priced me out and not provided enough to support it’s price. Tired of constant construction as well. Something dear to the heart is always being refurbed and/or changed. At Disney time is money and for what you pay there should be more. Currently I can go to Vegas a dozen times for the cost of a WDW vacation for 2 and that just seems to be the better deal. I think the straw that broke the camels back was the loss of daily housekeeping. For $600. a night somebody should at least make the bed and provide clean towels. Until then, adios Disney.
Ed Kelemen
I’ve been to Disney World over 30 times over the years. But, WDW is no longer “magical” for me. Between having my vacation ruled by computer programs, the constant cancellation of live entertainment, the rising prices, Genie +, and the elimination of the Magical Express, I’m done.
Sad Disney Mom
Been a huge Disney fan for decades. We have visited Disneyland and WDW every year. We were in Disneyland for the holidays as we’ve done in past years. We were so excited for our first trip back since covid. It was so disappointing! The price increases on everything is outrageous. I resent being charged for every single item. It is stressful and ruins the point of a ‘magical’ vacation. I also despise the fact that Disney wants me stuck in my phone all day in order to ‘experience’ the parks. It has the exact opposite effect. I miss all the magical small details that Disney is known for when I’m constantly in my phone ordering food, selecting our next ride on Genie+ etc. Hate the LL and Genie+ system! We were also treated badly by several different cast members. That is probably the most disappointing of all. I used to feel welcome and valued in the parks. Disney was the benchmark for exceptional customer service. My how things have changed. Now I feel like a walking dollar sign. The magic is gone for us…and I’m crushed. I don’t think Walt envisioned his parks like this.
Bop Bop
Had been taking our granddaughter since she was 4. We stayed on average 7 to 9 nights until covid hit. We were really excited to get back this Christmas. I had known of the price increases the past times we had attended but was able to justify the cost based on our memories and experiences. I call to make reservations and was really taken back by the cost based on what we have done in the past. Last week they increased prices on ALOT of meals, snacks and beverages. I too suffered from nostalgia when it comes to the mouse. We went to Universal Studios and had a fantastic time at almost half the cost. We stayed in same level resort and actually had more park access. We now have new memories and are planning our next trip. Sad to say we can no longer afford the mouse.
Cory
I’m sure Chapek will raise prices just for this article existing.
Otter
Literally THE only way you’re going to lower the crowds is to put a lower cap on how many people are allowed in. Sure, there are plenty of people who are honest enough about their finances to realize they can no longer afford it; but there will always be plenty of people more than willing to go into credit card debt to swing vacations. Setting a lower capacity and sticking to it is the best way to keep these ridiculous crowds down…but then people would be complaining that they can’t get in when they want to.
As far as prices themselves go, however…yeah, it’s ridiculous. I honestly can’t knock the Genie+ idea, because if it was free then Lightning Lane lines would be just as long as standby lines, as we usually saw with Fastpass. But otherwise yeah, ticket prices and food prices are out of hand.
N1111Z
Yeah that’s gonna happen. Disney going to put a cap on how much money the parks make, going to make the shareholders real happy.
M
I REFUSE!!! I can’t stomach it. Pay ALL that $ to go wait in line in the heat surrounded by all those people and deal with all of that? Absolutely not!!! I would rather take my kids overseas and spend the money on a beach instead of Disney.
Huxley
Since the beginning, there has ALWAYS been a demographic group of people that even just a day at Disney was financially out of reach. It amuses me to see the angry entitlement of people who are now experiencing what others have simply accepted for well over 60 years, but they didn’t care then because it didn’t affect them. Now that they have been moved to the group on the outside looking in, it so “unfortunate” and “not what Walt wanted”. What a bunch of crybabies.
JB
They keep raising prices, but the parks are still full of people. Until the crowds stop coming they will continue to keep the prices high.
Zack
I know my experience will differ from most, likely due to how my experience went as a disabled person utilizing the DAS system to be able to get on rides, but I wouldn’t say it’s any more expensive now than it was when we went in 2018. Both times we’ve managed to take a family of 5+ for just under $3000 which included accommodations, food, gas to drive from Kentucky to Florida and back, souvenirs and everything else. I think it largely just depends on expectations. It’s always been a fairly expensive destination for most folks, and honestly complaining about the lack of free fast pass is just silly when you look at parks like Kings Island near me or Cedar Point where the fast pass can run you a small fortune just for one day.
Mike
People now days just buy everything with no regard. When I grew up if my parents didn’t have the cash we didn’t buy it. People need to vote with their pocketbooks. Younger people think it cost what it costs. It doesn’t, don’t pay the money and they will be forced to lower the price. We live in a society where no one can save up or wait for anything. Just charge it and worry about it later. The day of reckoning is coming. I am ready, I hope you are.
Debra
Too Expensive!!!
DVCfromSeattle
What’s perplexing is that WDW is increasing prices while decreasing service & value.
The changes they’ve implemented are objectively worse experiences for the Guests who pay the most: no more free & convenient transport from airport to hotel. No more free Fastpasses or Magic Hours. More complicated dinner reservations.
Worst of all is the elimination of the Fastpass system. Previously, you could book Fast Passes well in advance, making it possible to plan out a day that coordinates with your dinner reservations. That’s gone. Now, you have to wake up at 5:00am each day—during your vacation!—and take whatever the park is able to give.
It’s a chaotic mess. Raising prices is fine, but raising prices while delivering a worse experience doesn’t make sense.
Tony
They blame the pandemic
But they r WOKE GREETY LIBERIALS tha dont care about the working familys period!
Dale
There are so many things in life that people have to accept the high price of, gas, groceries, utilities ect.. Disney is one of the things people can make their displeasure heard. Boycott all things Disney, until they hear us and stop the greed. We can make a stand. BOYCOTT DISNEY !
Elle
We have trip planned on February and are thinking of cancelling. Paying for parking, dining, every little thing…charge me up front and get it over with. Tell me my all in with food…that way we can budget or not. I agree with most on board that Universal is looking more and more appealing for family trips for less cost. Still have 3 days to decide but if we do go, this will be last trip. As a parent I am one looking for memories, happy memories; not memories of dreading cost of meals and unexpected or unnecessary costs from park visits. My daughter could care less if we were at universal, Busch gardens, six flags, as long as we are having fun together.
My parents and my sisters family have all been boycotting Disney due to rising costs for years, my sister won’t even allow Disney channel or Disney plus in her house and are letting their money speak.
This upcoming trip has had me in more duress than it is worth and would not be surprised if we decide to cancel and go to universal instead. Still time to cancel!
N1111Z
Raise the prices X4 I say. Keep raising until crowds are cut in half. Maybe then the millennials will get a clue and stop mortgaging their kids’ future for 3 days of “fun”.
Bill M.
With respect to supply/demand curve, just raise the price and provide the quality as previously provided. In other words, there is a quality control issue which people are beginning to experience. The ones who are frustrated are frustrated at a product which has lost value. Raising prices on little things here and there, smaller portion sizes, a genie system which more people than not believe detracts from the experience, and more, make the value less than what it was. People are going and finding this out after the fact. I myself went in November and felt this way. Just raise the ticket price. I am canceling my next scheduled trip there. I decided against buying a season pass too. As long as wait times are so long, I don’t want to go either. My guess is that the quality will again improve at some point, when they realize what used to be a Lexus is now more like a Tercel. That may be a bit of an exaggeration. Maybe it is more like a Lexus which is being serviced with off brand parts to save money. It just doesn’t seem the same. Just take it to the better service station. In the meantime, I will go buy a Honda.
Bill M.
You are correct. There is more riffraff. I have noticed that too. I am sure it is the Florida residents who are buying the cheap season passes. Maybe by making all season passes equally priced (and expensive) regardless of the state you live in could help take care of that. On a weekend, EPCOT is filled with this riffraff stuff. Another idea would not be popular, but it would take care of the problem. And that is, do what Walt did and eliminate alchohol.
Lloyd Bonified
I couldn’t agree more.
Margrit Wilson
I told my grandkids that Disney World burned down.. I’ll be dead before they learn the truth.
Tiler Scott
They need to start asking to see drivers licenses from everyone buying a ticket and not allow in New Yorkers, that would fix most of the things you listed.
mickeymouse3#
I can’t help but wonder if Disney has CM’s assigned to read comments from articles like this, social media and other sources. If they do, then Disney has proven they don’t care about ANY of the patrons. There are too many people posting negative comments for Disney not to be concerned. Unless…they just don’t care, which certainly seems the case since Bob Paycheck took over.
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