Yes sell it…………the CEO doesn’t care about the price of the disney stock ! As its going now it will be 25.00 per share at christmas !! I remember when it top 200.00 per share a while back in march 2021 but like the rides there now it has has fallen apart ?
I have been going to Disney World since I was a kid and now taking my grandchildren. We are all Disney fans for life. Yes the prices have gone up but we understand how much it costs to run things. People are going to complain because they have nothing better to do.
That’s right be stupid as your probably rich and have nothing better to do but throw your money away! Disney years ago cared more about people having a great experience especially customer service they took complaints as a very serious matter now it’s all about the money. I’ll never go back it’s too commercilized and not anymore fun!
I’ve been to Disney World only once , in 2007 and it was a dream come true magical experience for me. We want to go back but probably won’t as
they have priced out most middle class f amilies out witj all of the price increase s. Further,who wants to be tied to their phone every minute and have to pretty much micromanage their vacation? Not much fun or magic in that. Sadly , I’ve become disappointed in Disney. It makes me sad, because I’ve been a life long Disney fan..
Hmmm, not sure where you have those facts from James. However WDW doesn’t employ 80,000 in Florida. Before the pandemic it was 74,000. Now they are extremely short staffed.
Kind of nit picky don’t you think? 74,000 is almost 80,000. Also, there’s more than just WDW to Disney in FL. It takes several thousand to run the Cruises out of Port Canaveral.
Disney has traditionally been professional and had outstanding service. But I think Bob Chepeck & current management have been resting on their laurals & allowed woke politics to distract from what’s important to guests. Recent comments about poor quality, long lines, confusing options (genie+, key card bands) combined with trying to immediately makeup for covid losses has us second-guessing our next trip. But we cancelled our week at Beach Club mainly because of the unsettling “woke” politics & pissing match with the state of FL. Divisive politics is no fun for anyone; and when Disney doubles down publically on political divisiveness it taints thae whole experience. Also postponing buying into DVC again for the same resaon. Maybe in a year or two they’ll get their act back together & focus FIRST on guest experiences–like they did years ago. And avoid divisive politics.
The CEO needs to be fired he ruined Disney World he ruined the magic I’m done spending over $20,000 on a vacation for a week and not get in the perks of $20,000 vacation now we don’t even have shuttle rides to the park when you stay there there’s no fast passes there’s no dining plan I can go to great adventure in New Jersey and be quite okay with it there’s no charm and that needs to change
I can’t believe the price jumped so much and they don’t care about the people they way they use to the kids use to be amazed no my grandchildren was like this is boring can we leave and go to king’s Island
That is sooooo true. It really was Magical. Customer Service was a thing, now not so much. The cost for just 2 adults moderate resort and tickets is over 4k.
Thats great for you that you actually have money to throw around like that 🙂 My inlaws took all of the family’s on vacation. 15 people, cost nearly 30 thousand dollars! Something is seriously wrong! Walt would roll over in his grave if he knew what happened to his park. If you think the employees are getting that money? Lol funny. I seen a thing in the news that one of the main cast members was homeless sleeping in her car. There’s some seriously bad greed issues. I will not ever go back, which about breaks my heart! They ruined my once in a lifetime trip with their pricing and over crowding! 2 hours+ per wait for Most rides. And that was my first and only experience. Luckily my 7 year old daughter had more fun and didn’t realize the many issues. Even though the wait lines were absurd to wait in 100 degree weather. What is wrong with these greedy idiots? Going to take heat stroke to see, ohh maybe there’s too many people in here!
You’re right. We went with most of our family years ago- 11 people and it wasn’t anywhere as expensive! We stayed in the resorts too. But, today the lines are so long, plus there’s far more exciting places to visit. Or if you want to visit one Disney attraction, that’s about all we’d do anymore. The whole trip then was great, now they’re censoring rides, can’t hug the mickey mouse people, etc. It’s a joke.
I agree. Same happened to me. I’m such a Disney fan. This past March we were finally able to take our Disney World trip. My husband doesn’t care much for it but he went with me and my 8yo son to join the experience. I left the trip utterly disappointed. Never want to go back again. Like you said, the wait time for rides are hours long. We bought the Lightning pass but that is the biggest scam. It’s expensive and you can only “reserve” one ride at a time. And even with lightning pass you still wait hours. I hated it. My son hate it. It was awful and it makes me sad. I regret ever spending our money to go to Disney.
Or maybe it really has gone downhill and the thousands of people, myself included, have legitimate gripes about rising prices and reduced services. What is it with you corporate bootlickers everywhere? The place has gone way downhill. Customers have a right to complain when service doesn’t meet expectations
So true people just want to argue about anything, just like everything else prices go up, I’m planning a week long trip to DW with my grandkids after Christmas I can’t wait
I’ve been going since they opened and I do have better things to do. When you spend $600.00+ a night for a room and it’s not clean that is disgusting. To go into the MK and sit at a table outdoors for a quick service meal and all you can smell is garbage that is also disgusting! To have rides constantly breaking down and they keep upping the price of tickets doesn’t make for an enjoyable experience. Years ago the parks were open from 8 AM to 11/12 at night with parades twice at night. Now your lucky to get maybe 6/7 hours. I don’t know when you started going but it couldn’t of been when the Disney’s ran it. They made you feel special and truly appreciated. I’m giving serious thought to selling my DVC.
we are great fans too, BUT if I had to make a long trip every year or two and put up with what the original person put up with ,…………..and with the breakdowns and closures that my husband and I have to deal with every time, I dont blame him or her…….We have the option of coming back another day but still see it as a waste of time at times…..Usually we just walk around when this happens, find a ride that is working and get in line.( dont use genie or LL) and sit and people watch and have a snack ( that we usually bring with us) enjoy the day as much as we can and then go home…………this person didnt have the option of coming back a different day and is very frustrated…….
My family had a disney timeshare from1995 to 2016 and loved it soo much BUT IT WAS GETTING WAY TO EXPENSIVE AND GETTING TO CROWDED AND WE FOUND THE MAGIC WE HAD FOR ALL THOSE YEARS HAD GONE!!!!,WE SOLD OUR TIMESHARE AND HAVE NEVER LOOK BACK,IT IS A TERRIBLE SHAME IT CAMEVTO THIS.
We had been Pass holders for 15 years and was going to Disneyland 3-4 times a year until they got so greedy and the cast members were unfriendly and the cost of everything just skyrocketed that they make it virtually impossible for people with children to go. Walt would be so disappointed in the rundown look of things and the rudeness of the cast members. When we do encounter a friendly cast member we so appreciate them. Disney do better!!!
Never had the experience of a rude cast member once, and I’ve been several times post-pandemic. Maybe it’s because of how I dress and treat them with the same smiles and courtesy that is expected of them, knowing how difficult their job is in these trying times, especially with the apparent increase of Karen-like customers.
We all have difficult jobs in these “trying times” as you people put it, with Karens and all. That’s no excuse just because you worship anything Disney
I also did not have a ride cast member but I could tell they didn’t want to do their job when I needed help. It is hard to be courteous but I guarantee if Disney added tips in their app for your favorite most helpful cast member. Everyone would be smiling ear to ear.
I’ve been very curious to hear if Disney rides are still having the issues they had when I went a little before the pandemic. So many rides stalled. We even sat on one for 45 minutes to an hour before finally being helped out by the cars being manually moved to some stairs. It was basically 12:30 am when we finally escaped. They didn’t even offer to call us a cab.
My husband and I went to Disney World this past January and stayed in a Disney resort for 7 days. Masks were still required and although some guests were jerks about the mask rule, we never came across any Disney cast members or staff of any kind who were not courteous. We went on every single ride that we wanted and our trip was absolutely magical. Everyone at the resort was helpful, pleasant and smiling. We road Disney buses, golf carts, and boats. We had no problems with anything or anyone. When we were on a Disney bus to go back to the airport, a lady was freaking out because the taxi she called didn’t show up. The Disney bus driver loaded her family and all their luggage onto the bus FOR FREE because tickets needed to be purchased online ahead of time. He saved their day. Maybe if people look for the magic, instead of looking for things to complain about, they would have a better time.
Got to be kidding! Sounds like to me Disney is promising chicken salad, delivering chicken s#%^* these days. Have not been in years and it will be years before I purchase another ticket.
January and February are two of the lowest attendance months. We always try to go in February. That may help keep the experience magical. The last time I went in a prime month, I also said never again.
Disagree. Ran into one of the nastiest acting cast members ever at Splash Mtn during our 10 day Oct trip. My teenagers even commented on the less than stellar customer service at most food and wine booths. The trip was finally enough to cement selling my DVC contract that I have had since 1997. Anyone who does not see the OBVious change has on blinders. It’s Europe for my group next summer- BYE Mouse!
We had some wonderful experiences when it was less crowded, 20 and 30 years ago. Pricing was simple with the Florida Resident discount. I wouldn’t go back now because of the crowding. I am almost afraid of the overly crowded conditions.
The service has definitely not been the same. They might not be rude but they definitely aren’t as friendly as they used to be. I could always count on them smiling but many are not now. 😔
I believe that ,maybe, before you label someone a “Karen” you might consider that the writer may be an honest, courteous person relating an actual unfortunate experience.
Yes! We have been disney vacationers since 1962 and are now unlikely to return as frequently if ever again do to our last September trip to Disneyland. We do not like the way Genie + and extra ride fees are dividing the haves from the have nots. The continual increases are changing the crowds attitudes of others around them. It is no longer a place where everyone was having fun on the same plane of experiences together. There was something magical about that. Now it’s being ruined by greed and entitlement. We are DVC owners and the new Interval Exchange program that has replaced the non-Disney Resort travel stays is terrible (not worth the points for the type of exchanges that are doable). On top of that I have had some very rude and ignorant responses from cast members via phone regarding the Interval Exchange. I have become increasingly discouraged by the direction Disney is headed.
Exactly!! Thank u for reminding me about this. What a crazy way to bring magic than to split up the classes! And Disney movies aren’t biased!!??!! Haha
You could not pay me to go to Disney now. I used to love the magic of Disney and I have very fond memories. But this “woke” crap is just too depressing.
Sorry Mickey.
100% in have only encountered one rude cast member in the 10 years I’ve been going to Disney. 99% of the time when they are rude it is because guests are acting entitled.
a Long time ago, maybe 15 yrs ago we had a rude cast member, but thats the only time. I find if I greet them kindly and wish them a good day , I have no problems at all and it doesnt hurt to tell someone to have a good day
I agree with you 100%. We have been Disney fans for many years. Our parents began taking us to Disneyland beginning in 1959 until 1969, when my sister and I were old enough to get jobs, and vacation plans changed. After my father passed away, my Mother decided we would all go a vacation to Walt Disney World, and to our amazement, it was like traveling back in time to our love of Disneyland, and we have been visiting Walt Disney World now with our children and my Mom. Unfortunately, since Chapek took over, Walt Disney World has lost its magic, and has become a woke theme park, and one of Walt Disney’s greatest policies about Disneyland is that for the short time you were there, the outside world was left where it should be “outside”. Now the outside world has invaded Disneyland and Walt Disney World, and we will not return until the magic returns.
I thought he made an excellent point about keeping the outside outside and the inside inside. Disney Magic requires you to suspend reality and exist in the world of friendly 6 foot mice. Anything that breaks the fourth wall is going to screw this up, and that includes anything that removes the Mayberry RFD character. Disney has become absorbed and controlled by today’s world which destroys the magic.
Welcome to the Chapek regime. During the pandemic, Disney laid off staff and now Chapek doesn’t want to hire them back, hoping that by raising the prices and having fewer people in the parks, he can make more money and reduce overhead. Those still there were offered $1.00 an hour raise while he is making millions. It’s been reported that Chapek wants Disney as a place for the rich. You seriously miscalculated, Bob, Disney isn’t their kind of place. Worse than that, you have forgotten Walt’s mission: to create a place for families. Not rich families. I hope that the stock sinks so low that the Board is forced to do something. Shame on you Bob. I hope that Walt’s ghost haunts you for the rest of your days
Your unsubstantiated stories you use as hit pieces make me wonder exactly what your beef with the Disney Corporation is. WY family of 4 was in the park Saturday November 5th and road all the rides you mentioned with no issues. I’m not saying that some didn’t have technical difficulties but we certainly did not. Traveling with an elderly Mother and a young grandchild.
Another member of the cult of Disney. Reality check for you. Prices have skyrocketed. Quality and service has gone down. Rides break all the time. Just navigating the miserable overpriced Genie+ system makes the vacation misery.
We also have been A.P. holders for decades. 109 WDW vacations, As many a 5 weeks in a year. Faughters wedding and reception there. The magic is gone. Yes have come across a few rude cast members, but also some great ones. We even have a couple come to Pennsylvania and stay with us. We are done with Disney until they learn to put the quests first.
Disney parks are no longer fun. The cost is crazy, long lines and super over priced just for an ice cream bar in the park. I’m sure they’ll be charging to use restrooms soon.
Greed nothing but greed. Went twice last year and both times was very disappointed. Food, merchandise, and lack of customer service was horrible. They took away Magical Express and many other perks that Disney was noted for. I just came back from the Magic cruise (been 10 times) and could not believe it. We all (8) came home very sick. Not cleaning or disinfecting and a very warm (lack of ac) ship. Not enough space to really vent but NEVER AGAIN either on land or sea. GREED nothing but GREED
The last time we went was pre-pandemic. I still have a bad feeling left over from that visit. The park was absolutely crowded–you could only move a couple steps at a time. This may be better since the park reservation system was put in place. However, the continued price increases are keeping me away. I can spend my vacation dollars elsewhere and have a much better experience for less money.
visited in sept 2022 . genie plus worked well at magic kingdom . a huge waste of $110 /day at animal kingdom . the person in charge of navigating Genie+ with the phone app will absolutely get zero joy out of the visit . I would have rather been working at my job . truly horrific day over $1000 with our group of 8
I am an avid Disney fan from Australia and desperate to return! These comments are all so logical for me as how can the magic remain with everyone on their phones checking Genie? The only time I have ever seen a phone in the park is for photography! Walt would be disgusted in this change as his vision was for magic for all. Not having to pay extra for Genie or lightening lane. Never have I experienced bad service but I have not returned since the pandemic. Service was always what I loved as EVERYONE was so helpful and kind. When the CEO and board remove all the extra costs I will return. Disney staff are probably all disgusted at management which could add to them not feeling as happy as they once did. I miss the magic but can’t return until the magic does!!
My family has been going to DisneyWorld since my oldest daughter was 3 and she is 24 and we still love Disney. The changes have been substantial and the costs are getting astronomical for a family vacation but some of my happiest memories with my daughters are there. I agree that things have changed more than we all would like but the world has been rocked by Covid and people are broken. I know it’s hard and I myself need to work on it but patience goes a long way. My hope is in time that Disney (when back fully staffed) will return to a joyous place for everyone to make the same memories that our family has made and will continue to make. I will continue to find joy in the parks with my children as long as they want to go and I hope you can as well!
It’s a shame, real shame that an institution like Disney Parks has sunk to such a low. We’ve gone for nearly 50 years and the experience has improved over the years yet declined drastically in the last 2 years.
Hoping for a better experience for our upcoming 2023 trip than we had during our 2021 trip. I’m not holding my breath based on recent “reports”.
I’ve reported issues to Disney’s website in the past. Seems lately, they just don’t care as long as the $$$ are still rolling in. Paycheck and his minions need to go, as do the current board! Disney parks/resorts are in a downward spiral and they are turning a blind eye and deaf ears.
I have to agree with John. Why go back? Our last trip was in 21 and the magic was definitely lacking. We won’t be back anytime soon. Disney won’t miss us but if you continue to pay for an inferior product it’s your own fault.
I have been to Disney once with my family in mid 2000s. We got to experience Disney as adults together. It was expensive. The heat was almost to much for me. We stayed in a nearby hotel after leaving a reunion many miles away. The bed was so hard that
I thought that we were sleeping on bottom mattresses. It is as if the owners wanted people to pay for not renting their expensive rooms. I also understand why people are upset. Disney doesnt sound like the fairytale fun place that everyone envisions from their childhood. Adults who finally make it to Disney and families that make Disney a tradition are losing those feel good feelings because Disney is showing it colors. They are showing that it’s all about the almighty dollar and not about the Disney experience. If they want the dollars, they have to make the people feel special again. My opinions.
Totally agree! My whole family a party of 12 just went this October since I had gone for the 25th wanted to celebrate for the 50th! Now grown adults my children paid their own way. My daughter that 4 children and spent the most has definitely decided not to return unless she sees some changes. We all agree. Each year Halloween gets less exciting and things are more complicated and expensive to take children. If I am not mistaken, Walt built this for children and families to enjoy not be exhausted and feel they spent their life savings. Cast members also we agree are much less accommodating and have been rude. Changes will have to be made to return. So many other vacations to go on that bring joy and fun rather than disappointment and stress.
I’ll add my personal experience with WDW ride breakdowns and Genie+. On my recent trip on a visit to Hollywood Studios, I purchased Genie+ and made a reservation on Mickey’s Runaway Railway. The ride broke down early into it and after about 20 minutes restarted but half the rooms still had no animation or sound. Back in the days of free Fast Pass guests were always given a paper universal Fast Pass if a ride broke down while riding. I went to guest services and was told “We are sorry the experience did not meet your expectations”. That was all they had to say. So I insisted upon a reride. The response was “We will make a one time special concession and let you ride again, but we will not do this again ever for any reason.” “Even if the ride breaks down again?” I asked. “Yes.” We received more respect and better service when Fast Pass was free than now when we are paying for it.
We have been stockholders for close to 40 years. I have gone to Disney parks for 65. We have never voted during the stockholders meeting, but I believe that will change. Disney is going in the wrong direction, unfortunately, in my opinion. Their “woke” inclusion doesn’t include families. And they are pricing families out, which isn’t at all what the whole idea was back in Walt’s day. He wanted a place where families could go together. Now only the wealthy can afford it, and those that DO save up to go feel angry when they spend all their money and don’t get what they paid for. Understandable!
The market begs to differ. The stock dropped off in 2000 and took almost 12 years to get back to where it was. To be fair 305 years ago it was just shy of $5 and now it’s almost $90
More and more people want to go to Disney, but the parks only have so much capacity. Park reservations can help with those limits, but then you need to be lucky you can get a reservation. Increasing prices lowers demand, so unfortunately pricing people out is how it has to go.
What “woke” policies are impacting park experience?
I was just there at the end of October and experienced some longer lines then when I was a kid, but otherwise had a fantastic time. I was also at Universal Studios and both my wife and I commented about how the overall experience was much better within the Disney bubble.
Yeah kinda tired of people citing “woke” ideology as to why Disney is awful. I’ve personally never had a bad experience there in all my years going but that’s just me. Times change, so does the operating costs of the world busiest theme park. The fact that attendance continues to increase shows that Disney is not pricing families out of going. If people want to go they will make it happen and spend the money.
I’ve been to WDW five times over the years and at all times except the last one things were expensive but affordable if you saved. The last time we couldn’t reserve restaurants and the food put us in debt. Our neighbors just returned from WDW and they did nothing but gripe about the costs and the long waits. Under fast pass things were smoother and kept ride costs in the realm of being ok. According to them they dropped hundreds in genie costs and line waits were much longer than the free fast pass of yore.
Needless to say we cannot afford to ever return and would rather spend our hard earned money elsewhere. NJ residents always paid the most to go there because so many from here went WDW. You get much better deals if you come from Great Britain! This new CEO has politicized his parks, run up prices and has done more to destroy Mr. Disney’s dream than all the prior CEOs combined.
Sad since now I have grandchildren and we’d rather take them someplace that has more family value.
Here’s the Bottom line period !!!
Disney’s Demise has been going on now for a couple of decades now , it’s only been in the last 4-5 yrs were it been stepped up to the point it’s adversity affecting guest and starts at there core ,
There upper management the ones that make the decisions on what direction the company is going , they take the ideals from lower management that have the most contact with the cast members that are increasingly more and more towards political woke agendas, which results in less productive, less and poorer quality employees that is reflected in jobs performance in maintaining the once prestige parks . The hospitality industry is all inclusive and political, race, sexual orientation, has no business there when a company gets involved in these agendas the business will suffer and that will ultimately chase away the customers that frequent the business. And that’s exactly what happening at Disney .
The longer Disney stays entrenched in these ideologies the harder it is for them to see what actually happening. And the deterioration will continue.
If it’s too crowded, it’s not expensive enough. I’m sorry, but those are just the laws of supply and demand. They’re iron-clad laws that don’t have anything to do with wokeness.
So, yes, it’s sad that we can’t enjoy the Disney experience we knew in the past, but there are many more people clammoring to get in. The only fair thing is for them to jack up the prices even more. It’s not happy news, but it’s reality.
Bob everyone knows economics 101 supply and demand but the article is about Value for the cost and that in there decisions making as Disney’s agenda’s are in woke Politics ideology that’s influenced but there cast members with these ideologies pride in work ethics decreased that reflected in the park operations. When you’re more concerned over political correctness then maintaining your business people begin to notice . I realize you looking at this though a naïve perspective but when you look at park operations and financials your see a different picture.
So you think changing a ride theme to make it inclusive to all and not offend a whole race is a bad thing? To include everyone is not what Disney is about? I’m not going back due to the pricing, the crowds and the declining customer service, and nickel and diming everything. But I don’t fault them for trying to help everyone see someone that represents them – black, Hispanic, gay, straight, everyone deserves to enjoy the parks.
If you’re that offended by the theme of a ride that has been in existence for decades and clearly has not been offensive until recently, then don’t go on that ride. That’s a much simpler solution to a non-problem, and it doesn’t ruin it for everyone else who enjoys it. I loved Splash Mountain just the way it was; its theming was outstanding. I am personally 100% uninterested in its new theming and won’t be riding it.
My family of 11 were there from October 2-7 and I feel much like the man mentioned in the article. The ride lines were crazy long and the kids didn’t get to ride their favorites. Epcot has changed so much, it used to be so much fun to talk with the people working from other countries. Now they are all Hispanic and many don’t speak English. I’ve never seen such rude employees in the Disney atmosphere. It’s all so sad and my family won’t be back any time soon. We usually go a couple times a year. We were leaning against a fountain at Disney Springs and the fountain burst in a great roar. It scared us so badly that I kept away and hurt my back. It’s just not Disney anymore!
I have promised my youngest grandson that I would take him to Walt Disney World. Because I have took the other two and not him yet. We’re going early December 2022. After this trip. I’m done with Disney. This will be my 11th trip to WDW. And it was outrageously expensive this time around just to book for me and my grandson. Not to mention the flight and now having to pay for a shuttle from the airport to the Resort. Plus, I have lost interest in being a Disney fan because they have gone woke and because of greed. All I care about is that my grandson has a good time and I hope to see what any magic may be left through his eyes.
After reading these and other questions I have only one question…why do people keep subjecting themselves to this torture. I wouldn’t step foot onto any Disney property even if it was free. Keep going and wasting your time and money but quit complaining about the crappy experience
I agree, if an overwhelming number of people who have been to Disney parks feel that it’s not worth it, why are the parks still so overwhelmingly packed ???? Instead of just complaining about things and then booking your next Disney trip, DON’T GO TO DISNEY PARKS FOR AWHILE. Maybe after a year or two of drastically reduced attendance, Disney will get the hint and make an attempt and try to fix some of the problems. Money talks and if the parks start to lose money due to greatly reduced crowds, they might take the hint and start to address these issues.
What’s an overwhelming number of people who feel it’s not worth it? They have averaged almost 50 million visitors this year in Disney World alone. It’s a global destination. 50 people on a message board saying it’s not worth it doesn’t even begin to remotely have an impact on Disney
Stop writing articles like this. Some random guy has a pissy attitude about spending $600.00 in one day? That’s laughable. I’ve dropped 450.00 on a dinner for my family of four. Disney is expensive. Anyone who has been there knows this. It doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways to save or go on a budget. But cheap it isn’t.
Honestly, genie plus isn’t hard to use at all. It’s not exactly convenient having to be awake past midnight to purchase it for the next days activities and it sucks having to wake up at 7:00am to book those sought after reservations for popular rides. But outside of that, actually navigating it is simple. We rode tons of rides on our most recent trip. Hardly waited in any long ques. Just have to be flexible on what you want to do.
Giving one person a whole article is just stupid. Let him revoke his fan status. More room for those of us not so sensitive.
So, you admit how inconvenient Genie+ is, how you have to bury your head in a phone, be up with the sun, when a better service used to be free. Disney’s cost increases have outpaced inflation by 309 to 400 percent, quality decreased, they openly insult fans, yet you still brownnose them
Reading these comments saddens me so much,my parents have been taking my siblings and I on vacations to WDW since I was like 4or5 and I’m now 37. I’ve never experienced anything like it anywhere else. I’ve visited several other theme parks and they have all in no way shape or form been able to even partially compete. Although I haven’t visited since 2006, I have immediate family in the Orlando,Fl area who have kept season passes for a decade now and I just can’t imagine a vacation in the Florida area that didn’t include a stay in the Magic Kingdom.Call me sentimental, but I’ll take quality over quantity any day of the week.
I just went to Disney in October I Loved it myself but I do go at the park differently I went to Hollywood Disney for the star wars everything after was bonus I ordered all my food on the app didn’t have to wait in a line an employee told me about it and helped get set up fast it was great I got breakfast there 1st than got all my spending out of the way took it to a locker for safe keeping than hit up the 2 rides I was aways looking at wait times to see which one to do than hit up the cantina for my reservation time the people there were great the bartender was awesome after that hit up the raise of the resistance ride it had the longest line but was awear of it and planed for it hit the indy show got to do everything I wanted to I did it all without the fast pass thing or what ever it’s called now I find that it’s good to know the layout of the park your at and how to get to wear your trying to go and I spent about 500 on everything and got all kinds of collectibles I wanted
I stopped going 2 years ago. It’s very easy to do! But these people who crowd the parks to overpay for everything must be masochists because it’s just not fun anymore. Universal is such a better experience right now.
Feb 2021-Hollywood Studios. We were lured to the low capacity messaging we heard. We were irritated by not being able to see new attractions with eligibility twice a day for less than 5 maddening minutes. Now showings going on due to Covid. I walked up to customer service and got my money back and we were escorted to the exit.
Was at WDW last week and had been dreading it but even though was busy we didn’t pay for Genie+ Lightning lane & managed to do every ride / show we wanted. Stayed on property & took advantage of the rope drop early mornings twice & extended hrs at Epcot & MK to literally walk on many of the big rides (Remy & Frozen twice and 16 rides in MK between 8:30pm-midnight).
Food ordering via ap works really well. We had breakfast in hotel (did an instacart order a couple of days before flew) &
had one meal & a snack each day in parks as too hot to want more.
Was expensive overall but definitely still Magical & all cast members we interacted with were friendly & helpful.
Very happy with our trip overall
In the 70’s Snow White took my older sister on the teacup ride without asking my parents. Frantically looking for her snow white giggled it off. My Dad angry about.taking his 4 year old, dopey kicked him in the shin. He said the prices were outrageous long lines and really not the happiest place on Earth. Solitude is my best vacation and I look to my left and there are about 100 others with the same.goal. fun when your a kid a nuisance when your.adult.
Our last trip to Disney in 2016 may have been our last. After spending a fortune on tickets, we too experienced multiple ride break-downs, after waiting FOREVER in line. That’s not a magical vacation to me. That’s a nightmare! Disney better get their act together before the bottom falls out.
I spent $1500 for 6 of us at Epcot and $1500 at Universal. Both EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED!
Didn’t spend the extra $170 per person per Fast Past to skip lines WTF?!
F ORLANDO
Unfortunate series of events. But absolutely agree on the out-of-reach cost of tickets, long lines even with Ginie+ we had.
You have to reserve the park in advance, hence the number of people is known so why Disney allows the park to be overcrowded? You feel disappointment when you see kids 3,4,5 years old standing in line for 50 mins per ride.
The cost of a Disney vacation has skyrocketed; the quality has decreased; the parks ard trashy; the rides are poorly maintained and unreliable. You can take the same money and do multiple better vacations at other sites than just a few days at Disney, the most miserable place on earth
I took my family there in 88. I spent way more there than I thought I should as the very first ride (the tea cups) we waited in the hot sun for over an hour. After we got to the head of the line they closed it down due to technical issues. Needless to say I was a lot hotter after that. I’ve had no desire to ever go there again.
None of this is new! I had a premier pass for 18 years and Disney priced me out of continuing. Their rides have always broken down and there have been delays. But, it didn’t matter because you loved being there and it was a fair value. Disney doesn’t need to change because they can limp on like this for twenty more years and still exist. Everything has changed and it’s disappointing. Sea World and Universal are learning from Disney’s arrogance and are offering great value!
My family and I just went to Disney World last week. November 1-2 2022. It was exactly as people have been complaining.
Staying up until midnight to try and purchase the Genie+, getting up at 6am to try to get in the cue for Guardians, and rides (Ratatouille, Test Track, and even the Guardians) breaking down. The Guardian ride has no lines so you have to try to get in the cue at 7am. If you miss that you have to try again at 1pm, but to try for that you have to be in the Epcot park.
If you are park hopping you cannot change parks until 2pm. So if you want to get on Guardians you have to sign up to start everyday in the Epcot park.
Navigating the Genie+ is a nightmare. You need a Disney World Master’s Degree to figure it out. You also need to bring a phone charger, because of all the time you spend on it trying to figure out the Genie / Genie+. Disney does not have charging stations in the park.
They also do not have water fountains or water bottle refill stations that are easily accessible.
We had not been to Disney in about 15 years and I only went to Disney, because I was recently diagnosed with cancer. I really don’t have the disposable income to go and had to credit card it the entire way. It was so very crazy expensive for everything, and the experience was quite stressful and disappointing. Too bad it will probably be my last time going and I will only have those memories of Disney.
I used to take my son every year, he has autism and cannot stand in a line for more than 15 minutes. They used to allow him a special pass so he would not have to wait long in line. Then they changed that and he had to wait for all the rides but not “stand” in the line. So I would take him to a ride and they would say come back in one hour at this time approximately (you couldn’t use any app, or wait for more than one ride at a time) so then you just do nothing except shop or eat for an hour between every ride. We stopped going after that, they have gotten greedier and greedier over the years. A money grabbing machine aimed at your kids. Pass on Disney, just not worth it anymore. They should limit park admission, and make people feel special again.
Disney gas really dipped in customer service. It’s no fun spending all that money just to stand in line no matter where u go, rides, food, customer care…I’m telling u it sucks big time.
The they jam their woke agenda down your throat!!! Enough already!!!
Here for the week went to Hollywood studios yesterday what a joke definitely no magic left which is sad for the kids. Way to many people and not enough food or seating for guest. Food and drinks way over priced payed 15.00 for a beer that was flat. Payed 20 for a burger that was probably a crappy frozen bubba burger. Workers are not friendly there is no order to anything had multiple guest take my food from a funnel cake stand they give you a receipt with a order number on it but fail to use there own system they just hand it out to who they feel like. Super long lines. The place is nasty and dirty. I go to magic kingdom today with my family in this hurricane Nicole wish us luck.
We went in May 2022,a family of eight! It was so hot and crowded,we spent so much time in line and bought the fast passes and still didn’t get on things.My 8 and 11 year old Grandchildren,were not impressed! I am glad I went for the family time together,but I am done with the place!
I went to Epcot during off season and experienced the breakdown of rides I traveled to be on. I also wasted money on a Genini+ after then needing to purchase a ++ for one ride that was broken. Not a lot of attractions there, not as many characters as I’d expected and the one ride my kids were to enjoy, Ratatouille was a 3 hour wait. So I left to get a plus plus genie pass and they didn’t expect it because it was 3:55 and done with fast past. Luckily the supervisor saw everything and let us through. An extra $90 after recommend to leave the line and then the time passes to let on!
They outpriced the average family. So much pride in being a cast member back in the day. I can’t afford to go now, rather take a trip to Alaska, Hawaii etc..it’s cheaper, more relaxing, and you get more for your money now. It’s so sad
Our multi generation family of 7 just got home last night from a not so heartwarming experience at WDW. My husband and I have been at least 6 times prior to this trip and it was our first big vacation since my kidney transplant and Covid. We also had niece, nephew and their children, ages 3 and 8. The lines in MK were atrocious. After 6 hours, the kids were on 3 rides. The cost of refreshments was scandalous. We won’t be going back at our age 70+ but I hope after all the Covid losses, rules, etc calms down, the kids might have a better experience. Right now all they talked about was the pool at the hotel.
Once upon a time we were like many, Avid Fans. This past years visit marked an end of an era for our family.
I can not say anything unpleasant about cast members especially when they make a pittance compared to the grotesque profits made by the parent company.
I like making money so I do not begrudge Disney making money but the product simply no longer reflects a reasonable value. I am grateful for those Magical memories but we have sadly packed up our Disney days permanently.
It’s really hard to enjoy the parks now. The price is prohibitive but I spent hours on my phone trying to navigate everything you have to do now and I had a lot of issues with everything from trying to get on rides or get food. I miss fast pass
Went to Disney for a 4 day vacation. I spent hours waiting in line for rides only to be told that they were no longer working. One time they did that and we were next in line and15 mins later it was working and the line had filled back up. Also one of those days the employees sent me on a goose chase for a jesse doll I was looking for, just not in the park but even at the hotels. They checked there machines and would say that this place had it. I spent the entire day riding the buses everywhere and no one had it. I wasted a day that I could have spent with my family. Also the rooms in the All Star Hotels are terrrible now. They use to be nice but now if more than 2 people stays in a room you cant move around. They use to do sweet things for the kids with the towels, self care items and phone calls but all that is out as well. But price has definitely went up. We went during the HALLOWEEN BASH. We got a very small bag to recieve candy in and didnt even get 1/4 of the bag full because of standing in line. Also the rides were just as bad at night as they were during the day. Lines took forever and we even got stuck on the same ride twice. It definitely wasnt worth the extra money and we had heard so much about how wonderful it was.
I will never go back!!!! they say they care about serious
medical conditions , they absolutely DO NOT!!! we were harassed and treated so very poorly to the point where I had a major seizure in front of hundreds of people also having a brain tumor this can be very dangerous for me and all they did was say sorry and gave my two sons a small stuffed animal worth 40 bux each as compensation for the issues that were caused by them….4
WE have gone to Disney everyother for 35 years ,however I will never go again . The staff and rides are fine ,but they nickle and dime you. We save for two years to go and this time was definitly not worth it. It was the most stress full vacation I ever had. With what the week cost us we could have taken the family to the Carribean. Now I know Disney is not about family anymore . Walt Disney would be rolling over in his grave if he saw his park today
We are not going this year after going at least once every year for the past 18 years. We had a horrible experience last year with crowds, genie+ overcharges, closed rides. Not worth the cost, stress. We will be going to FL but spending our money at Universal instead.
Add my name to the list of disappointed customers who will not be going back anytime soon. We went oct for our granddaughters 13th birthday celebration. She had never been but we had been several times many years ago when it was magical. We spent thousands of dollars and in 3 days only got to ride about 7 rides. Same issues others are reporting. Excessive lines and marketing prices. Crowds and strollers are overwhelming. Genie pass and fast lane process is a joke. Reservations to theme park is restrictive. Cell phone required use is distracting. No theme characters at all to take pictures with. Staff though nice are on 24-7 crowd control mode. Get um through, load the next bunch…… Felt like cattle. English is a foreign language. Rides are watered down. Mechanical troubles on some rides. Lots and lots of walking. No easy way to get to parks other than walking. Hot hot, even in late oct. But the biggest problem was the kids I saw were NOT having fun. Not much excitement in them. Saw a lot of miserable crying kids and arguing parents. Sorry Disney. Your greed has surpassed your mission. Walt would not be happy. He was ALL about making kids smile. My granddaughter was miserable, disappointed and never wants to go back. Thanks for the Memory.
We were huge Disney World and Disneyland fans but after our day at Disney World on Monday, November 7, we are done with Disney World forever. We got to the ferry at 8:30 but didn’t get on our first ride until after eleven!! In the entire day, we managed five rides, none were what I’d call ‘A’ rides. The waits were at least an hour, the park was packed, and we felt like we were being gouged for every cent we had. Very, very frustrated with the new replacement for the Fast Pass. We had several rides we wanted to go on but the waits were horrible. Shame on you Disney. These parks have become untenable to attend, particularly if one has a family.
Just returned last week from Disney Florida, stayed at a very over crowded All Star Movies, our room wasn’t ready on time, grumpy service at the resort and at the parks, everything seems to be an upcharge, and the food quality isn’t great now either. This was our 9th and last trip to Disney.
Well…… We have been Platinum passholders for the past 9 years and recently “downgraded” to their most expensive pass…. We only live about and hour and a half away, so we make reservations and head over as often as possible.
During our most recent 6 night stay, it was apparent that Disney has lost that “Welcome to OUR Home” approach and is definitely becoming toxic and greedy within their park manifestos.
Everything is more expensive… they have taken away almost all perks for passholders…and guests.. Let’s see..
Magical Express to and from the Airport leaves guests having to spend cash, on top of an already inflated no frills resort cost, just to get into the parks…
There used to be passholder coins, badges, shirts, and even the little plastic band keepers have all but disappeared…
It seems that cleanliness and kindness have become replaced with complicity and an inept attitude of just ushering as many people inside the 4 walls as possible….
The new Guardians ride is amazing, but it isn’t enough to reflect the cost increases but, Chappick said…. I will continue to raise prices until you stop coming….then we will know the limit people are willing to pay… This past weekend, the same one as the main body of this article discusses, was a complete bust… and the abhorrent amount of people was overwhelming …
So here’s a great way to save money, anyway you visit Disney World… Disney World sit luckily in a bowl..and it rains…downpours almost every day… yesterday at Animal Kingdom the rain began…. and out came the $2.00 Walmart style cheap vinyl rain poncho’s that sold for $12 each…. that’s $12 for about a 50 cent piece of plastic…
Remember… Have a Disney Day!!!
Long time fan but no longer. Wait lines, prices and the new wokeness are ridiculous, as is how long it takes security to throw unruly people out. No thanks! Remove the CEO.
This is the norm now at DISNEY! I remember 25 years ago going to Disney was fun and enjoyable; now going to Disney is work!!!! Save your money go to a relaxing beach .
We were just there 3 days end of October. Very disappointed. Long wait for attractions.. bad attitudes of cast.. spent all day there waiting for dark for the light show. That’s when cast members told us to move to another location I thought was beneficial for us. My mistake, they sent hundreds of us down and around. Ended up herding us behind trees. We couldn’t see the castle anymore, couldn’t see lights couldn’t see fireworks. And when we started to move back they got crappy with us. What a waist of time and money. I would advise anyone thinking of going there to seriously reconsider that plan. My group spent three days there, one day each in magic kingdom, epcot, and universal.
I echo every thing the author posted. Got up early for rope drop to beat crows at MK only to be first in line for a broken down 7 Drawrfs Mine Train. Waited 90 minutes for it to finally open. Seriously, how are you broke down before the day starts? But then after hopping to Epcot we found even the bottles water line ridiculously lengthy. Walt would be mortified by the decay in service. Lastly, the bathrooms…. Disney was KNOWN for always having clean bathrooms. Unfortunately, that too is a thing of the past. I’m agreeance with many other sentiments, Disney, do better. The culture of change needs to start at the top.
Yup, went to Disneyland/CA Adventure beginning of Oct 2022 and plan to never go back. Definitely not the happiest place on earth. Most frustrating, crowded, and expensive is more like it. The employees all seem miserable too.
We went in December of 2021 to Disneyland for Christmas and had the best time ever, was so beautiful and amazing just couldn’t wait to go back.
We went for Halloween 2022 and it was totally a different experience. I was at mainstreet candy store and was browsing around for cool Halloween type cookies & candy treats after I decided I was gunna get some stuff the rude lady in the store said the line is here and pointed, ok np I got in line there were just a few ahead of me as it was fairly late. I stepped up just a bit as I was next and the lady said in a not nice voice do not cross the blue line ty :/, I said I wasn’t going to. Geez
The next day we went to California adventure to ride cars it was 9:30 am 90 minute wait. We too also had genie plus but didn’t pay extra Supreme ride fee $20 per person so we waited in normal line ( what’s point of genie plus ) well we watched as all the ppl got on 100’s going on as we stood. We waited 4 hours and 20 minutes to finally ride. How so unfair :((. We just didn’t enjoy our 9 days this time.very sad last year was amazing
All these articles are very concerning as we are headed to DW in January. Between the hurricanes and so many negatives being posted, should we even go? It’s so much money!
My children are grown and my grands are too young. Disney has also out priced me from visiting. Back when I took my children I could get a Florida pass for around 40 dollars.
After spending vacations twice a year at WDW, 2022 was a disaster.
Broken rides. Long lines. ADRs conflicting with attraction reservations. I spent $500 per day at each of the four parks and went on one ride and ate at one TS restaurant.
I live a short distance away. And have a small child they have raised prices and raised them. Average person can’t afford a day there. And to make it worse the food omg lets just say McDonalds is much much better.
Los precios de las entradas son una locura cuando voy a orlando desde Puerto Rico a visitar a mi hijo tengo que pensarlo para ir a un parque y termino regresando sin haber ido a ninguno. Se le ha faltado el respeto al dinero. Hay miles de familias que no pueden ir como yo por lo mismo por el costo….. es demasiado.
Lightening lane ruined it for us! I think everyone should be equal and stand on the same line as everyone else. Charge one price reasonable price for everyone. We are not there for the merchandise crap or high priced food. We bring food and try to enjoy the attractions.
The cast members were understanding and polite. I don’t think corporate Disney cares anymore about the guest experience, let them stand on a 2 hour line while watching 500 lightening lane guests go before you.
The prices should not vary by demand! Now parks follow airline pricing? OMG, our stress was high at Hollywood Studios on the 7th, Epcot was a little better on the 8th, only compared to our misery the day before.
Rides broke down all day both days! Disney compensated us a little, but the magic is gone!
Visited Disney in 2017. Our last visit was 1990 on our honeymoon. Waited 4 + hours to ride Advitar (2 hrs from park entrance to the ride entry gate to start another 2 hr ascend into the Tree). As we ascended up to the tree entry, there was not way to get out of line if an emergency aride, gontonthe bathroom or leave to get beverages to keep hydrated while waiting in the HOT sun since there aren’t any water fountains along the trail. There are garbage cans every few feet and no place to sit unless you can sit on the uncomfortable ground getting up every few minutes to move 2 to 5 steps and wait some more. Same situation inside the tree, long wait, no seats, mostly hot due to the packed lines, a/c barely cooling us down. I actually found A water fountain but no bathroom. Then the ride broke down.for 30 mins. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride but the waiting was miserable. I’ve witnessed at another ride fast pass moving like a marathon for 15 to 20 minutes and only 10 to 30 regulars in line move into the ride, then the cycle started again. Also, one water fountain at the ride entrance after waiting over 1.5 hrs in line before we approached it and the water was warm!! All 4 parks we witnessed Fast pass line Constantly moving for 20+ minutes before the regular line released 20 to 30 people on to the ride. Hence the long wait time problem with no seating available, no water fountains throughout the waiting line area and the lack of regular line vs Fast pass equality
Here is the reason behind charging for each & every little thing at Disney & doing away with things that worked! ☆☆☆ Disney CEO Bob Chapek and his predecessor Bob Iger more than doubled their salaries in 2021. Chapek earned $32.5 million, while Iger took home $45.9 million.Jan 21, 2022!!!! NOW…LET THAT SINK IN!
I was on the Ratatouille Ride on Saturday November 5, 2022 when it broke down too! Took them forever to get us out. But I still had an amazing experience at this park, sometimes rides break down, they were just trying to keep us all safe and apologized profusely. They also gave everyone who was on the ride when it stopped a free lightning lane pass that worked all day after the ride got fixed so it’s not like they didn’t try to make it better… There was a person who would tap your magic band or card or app to make sure you could ride again. I would say that’s good customer service. My family and I also kind of enjoyed walking through the Ratatouille set with the lights on it was interesting to see how it worked and the set. “Giant oranges daddy!”
Disney has become way too expensive. I have ALWAYS loved Disney my whole life. I grew up 45min away, my family would splurge on Xmas to buy the passes….. I LOVED Disney world. But all these issues like price gouging for tickets and food (it should NOT cost $15 for a lousy hotdog with chips) but the biggest kicker where Disney lost me was the mandatory masks despite the governor saying NO. Not to mention the horrid wait times for a 5min thrill…… nothing and I mean nothing is less enjoyable than having to stand for over 1.5hrs in a hot, crowded place with kids in tow. Disney is losing its magic and won’t be getting my money anytime soon. Also, can’t forget to mention that Disney+ content has become misaligned with values. They are promoting inappropriate things to children! Children don’t need to learn about sexuality or gender confusion at such a young age. Disney should be promoting kids to be KIDS not puppets for some crazy political war that’s going on between ADULTS! Disney supports speech suppression too! They fired an amazing cast member bc she simply beloved differently from what the company told her to believe or to show. They wanted her to hide her beliefs and she said NO! So she got removed. These aren’t the only examples, just a few off the top of head. NEVER will my family return to something so jaded until they (a theme park ) steps back from politics! Be a theme park, NOT a political pawn. Do better Disney!
I’ve got a 7-step plan: 1) Fire Cheapek. 2) Remove the park reservation system and return to first come, first served like Universal still is. 3) Return to the free FastPass system. 4) Charge whatever you need to for room rates and park entry in order to pay the cast members a decent wage (that’ll be the most unpopular step with many readers I’d imagine). 5) Sell all the annual passes by the categories as they existed in March 2020. 6) Follow up the 50th Anniversary flop by announcing a return to a ‘Year of a Million Dreams’ campaign. Empower your cast members to make guests the priority (by deed, not just lip service), and make their dreams come true in both small and even bigger ways, every day. 7) And finally, stop focusing on culture war issues and mind your business as your number 1 priority. Full stop.
OMG… these are exactly sentiments from my experience at Animal Kingdom just 2 weeks ago (Oct. 31). The waits times were ridiculous. Disney Genie is purposeless for reservations times. You have to stay or be in a surroundings area. Making reservations doesn’t allow you to get through park enjoyably because you have this since of rushing to beat a clock. The attendants we not helpful. Halloween was on a Monday and it was PACKED! I was there 10+ years ago with my daughters. This time it was a son and granddaughter. I was so irritated by the end of the day with the rides, reservations and prices I am not interested in ever returning.
Truly have been a Disney fan all of my life. But my recent experience with going to the park and prepaying for everything yet they still tried to bang away on my credit card for almost $700 in charges for incidentals. When I had prepaid my entire vacation and brought cash with me they wanted to charge me for $700 worth of incidentals. They tried over 27 times to take the money out of my account I was forced to have to lock my credit card. And at the end of my vacation I never did wind up needing that $700 hold for incidentals. Quite disgusting little practice there what they hold the money for the incidentals hoping you spend it give me a break Disney you make enough. And for the price the experience should be flawless.
When I tried to do our first Genie+ it would only let me book for 2 out of 6 of our party. I immediately went to customer service. They said only two of us had park reservations and we were out of luck for Magic Kingdom. Thank goodness we had used a travel agent. IT WAS A GLITCH IN THE DISNEY SYTEM and she was able to fix it. A person should not have to spend tons of time on Facebook and Youtube to figure out how to manage a theme park. Universal is proving to be a breeze to use.
Disney has Chosen to not care about the welfare of the children or their parents that come to Disney. We use to go there quite often. We will never come back after hearing what Disney has said about the children. Let them go broke for the choice they have made.
I’m glad I experienced Disneyland in the early 70s and got to take my own kids in the the late 80s it was still great. My daughter just took a trip to Disneyland she and the kiddos hated it the lines were way to long she said it was sad looking around at mad crying kids do to long waits for rides this is supposed to be the happiest place hopefully it gets better.
Total rip-off. Husband & I were at Magic Kingdom (reluctantly) in Feb. Three rides took 3 hours; i was not forking over more $ for Genie, FastPass, or whatever. Best thing was the ferry ride out of the park! Never again. Just smh seeing ALL the people there, matching shirts, ears thinking “how much $$$$$$ do they take in, in a day?” It’s obscene and not for me.
We went to Disney World every other year. We did this because the value it was and feeling rides were safe. Now we do not trust ride safety. We do not think it a value for our dollar. We also feel Disney is to woke for our family. They also are changing things we like to do.
Yes. The parks are poorly maintained. Yes the food is gross and low quality after the shut down. Yes the lines are long. No – I don’t have to spend my vacation enriching shareholders
The CEO needs to be fired he had ruined Disney World magic so I’m done spending over $20,000 on a vacation for a week and not get the perks of $20,000 vacation which now we don’t even have shuttle rides to the park (epect too pay)when you stay there there’s no fast passes or no dining plan!! So why even stay at a Disney Resort you’re not getting any perks only an hour extra to spend 400 to 800 a night for what? lol
I’ve been going to Disney since I was 4 months old in 1957..my wife and went as much as possible..then the kids came along and we all went….Disney clearly no longer cares about family..theyve priced it so much. A regular family can’t go anymore….my family..my in laws and friends..all long time Disney lovers..will never waste another dollar at Disney until they wake up and stop pushing their agenda of ani family
I spent 1 week disneyland even though I live close still stayed at d hotel 3500 no I’m not rich but this was the last time after 40 years and 3 generations and 100s of thousands of dollars this is the saddest most expensive place on earth in three days I counted only 22,26,and 18 black visitors that is sad and should be known
As a long time annual passholder we have elected to not renew. Not only have the prices soared, but the experience has soured. The Genie is a joke. Why should I have to pay more when I already paid to get in. Additionally, even with a Lightning Lane, you are NOT GUARANTEED to get on the ride.
Maintenance overall is suffering and I suspect that is behind the consistent ride breakdowns. We have been to Disney many many times and have never experienced the number of ride breakdowns we have seen in the last several months.
Additionally, the used to be pristine restrooms are a mess, customer service varies from great to awful(it was always great before) and it’s just not magical anymore . We are sad about leaving but it’s just not worth the hassle and the cost.
We have no idea how a family affords it anymore….
WOW!!! Lots of negativity here. I was at Disneyland many years ago & enjoyed it immensely. Since then, I have visited DisneyWorld 3 times….my last visit 8 years ago when I was 71. I have never had a bad experience & do not understand why so many people are disgruntled. Everyone knows prior to their arrival that it is expensive so that should be a non-issue. You signed up for it & paid for it so what is the real complaint? Just got out on the wrong side of the bed? For heavens sake, lighten up. Of all the great vacations I have experienced, my most memorable ones will always be DisneyWorld.
We have been going to Disney for years. We’ve always been able to get a good deal, including the meal plan, fast passes, etc. This trip was WAY more expensive than any other Disney trip we had. We went in November and this was the first time we felt that we did not get our monies worth. There were several rides down, several that were on and off throughout the day, long lines for rides and food, etc. Also noted that the park was dirtier than usual. There was one day there was only one security gate going into Epcot for the WDW resort people. It took us 40 minutes just to enter the park. That’s unacceptable when you are paying that much money. We have decided that we won’t be going back anytime soon. We’ve been going at least once a year for at least 15 years. We were definitely disappointed this trip.
We were there in November, Visited all 4 parks (During tropical storm Nicole) lines were average of 90-120 minutes. Parks were packed with people at curtain points almost could not move. It was expensive however some of the cost is expected as what they provide. The waits and packed parks it was hard to explore and see things. Cast members were fantastic and extremely friendly. With the price point, overcrowding, long waits for everything, and having to be glued to the geeni+ app to try to beat some waits occasionally we will probably not return anytime soon.
WOW – it’s been a lot of years since I went to a Disney park and from the way it sounds, it’s going to be a lot more. Somewhere along the line, the company has lost the vision Walt started the parks with – to make a magical experience for folks – I know it’s pretty expensive these days, and for most people it has become too expensive to pack up the kiddies and take a vacation there. Maybe Disney needs a dose of reality.
Comments for Guest Spends Over $600 at Disney World In One Day, Claims “Never Going Back” After Huge Problems Arise
George
Yes sell it…………the CEO doesn’t care about the price of the disney stock ! As its going now it will be 25.00 per share at christmas !! I remember when it top 200.00 per share a while back in march 2021 but like the rides there now it has has fallen apart ?
Sharon
I have been going to Disney World since I was a kid and now taking my grandchildren. We are all Disney fans for life. Yes the prices have gone up but we understand how much it costs to run things. People are going to complain because they have nothing better to do.
Rick fox
That’s right be stupid as your probably rich and have nothing better to do but throw your money away! Disney years ago cared more about people having a great experience especially customer service they took complaints as a very serious matter now it’s all about the money. I’ll never go back it’s too commercilized and not anymore fun!
Chris Kinney
No need to insult someone for enjoying the parks, dude.
Sam
How is calling someone ‘rich’ and insult?
Sh
Calling someone stupid is
SeaPea
True. No need for insults.
L
Let’s face it…there is NOTHiNG magical about the magic kingdom anymore 🙁
Tanya Mayberry
I’ve been to Disney World only once , in 2007 and it was a dream come true magical experience for me. We want to go back but probably won’t as
they have priced out most middle class f amilies out witj all of the price increase s. Further,who wants to be tied to their phone every minute and have to pretty much micromanage their vacation? Not much fun or magic in that. Sadly , I’ve become disappointed in Disney. It makes me sad, because I’ve been a life long Disney fan..
James Goldberg
Disney employs almost 80,000 people in Florida. Their salaries are where a lot of that gate money is going.
Nicole
Understood. Then Disney should make sure the experience is worth every hard-earned dollar that people spend there.
Wdw2010
Hmmm, not sure where you have those facts from James. However WDW doesn’t employ 80,000 in Florida. Before the pandemic it was 74,000. Now they are extremely short staffed.
Sam
And they definitely are not spending on their employees.
Bruton Gaster
Kind of nit picky don’t you think? 74,000 is almost 80,000. Also, there’s more than just WDW to Disney in FL. It takes several thousand to run the Cruises out of Port Canaveral.
Kathy
A worthwhile experience is very subjective. To me, it is worth every dime. Is it perfect? No.But an amazing time, nonetheless.
Sea Pea
“be stupid” is an insult. “probably rich & have nothing better to do but throw money away” is also an insult
Sea Pea
Disney has traditionally been professional and had outstanding service. But I think Bob Chepeck & current management have been resting on their laurals & allowed woke politics to distract from what’s important to guests. Recent comments about poor quality, long lines, confusing options (genie+, key card bands) combined with trying to immediately makeup for covid losses has us second-guessing our next trip. But we cancelled our week at Beach Club mainly because of the unsettling “woke” politics & pissing match with the state of FL. Divisive politics is no fun for anyone; and when Disney doubles down publically on political divisiveness it taints thae whole experience. Also postponing buying into DVC again for the same resaon. Maybe in a year or two they’ll get their act back together & focus FIRST on guest experiences–like they did years ago. And avoid divisive politics.
John
We recently returned from Disneyland and yes I agree, unless I hear things have changed back to how they used to be, I will never go back either.
Rachal
The CEO needs to be fired he ruined Disney World he ruined the magic I’m done spending over $20,000 on a vacation for a week and not get in the perks of $20,000 vacation now we don’t even have shuttle rides to the park when you stay there there’s no fast passes there’s no dining plan I can go to great adventure in New Jersey and be quite okay with it there’s no charm and that needs to change
Cherry
I can’t believe the price jumped so much and they don’t care about the people they way they use to the kids use to be amazed no my grandchildren was like this is boring can we leave and go to king’s Island
Walt
Correction: That’s right *,* be stupid as *you’re* probably rich.
C-
Cheryl
That is sooooo true. It really was Magical. Customer Service was a thing, now not so much. The cost for just 2 adults moderate resort and tickets is over 4k.
Adam
Thats great for you that you actually have money to throw around like that 🙂 My inlaws took all of the family’s on vacation. 15 people, cost nearly 30 thousand dollars! Something is seriously wrong! Walt would roll over in his grave if he knew what happened to his park. If you think the employees are getting that money? Lol funny. I seen a thing in the news that one of the main cast members was homeless sleeping in her car. There’s some seriously bad greed issues. I will not ever go back, which about breaks my heart! They ruined my once in a lifetime trip with their pricing and over crowding! 2 hours+ per wait for Most rides. And that was my first and only experience. Luckily my 7 year old daughter had more fun and didn’t realize the many issues. Even though the wait lines were absurd to wait in 100 degree weather. What is wrong with these greedy idiots? Going to take heat stroke to see, ohh maybe there’s too many people in here!
Mo
You’re right. We went with most of our family years ago- 11 people and it wasn’t anywhere as expensive! We stayed in the resorts too. But, today the lines are so long, plus there’s far more exciting places to visit. Or if you want to visit one Disney attraction, that’s about all we’d do anymore. The whole trip then was great, now they’re censoring rides, can’t hug the mickey mouse people, etc. It’s a joke.
Nicole
Agreed!
Alex
I agree. Same happened to me. I’m such a Disney fan. This past March we were finally able to take our Disney World trip. My husband doesn’t care much for it but he went with me and my 8yo son to join the experience. I left the trip utterly disappointed. Never want to go back again. Like you said, the wait time for rides are hours long. We bought the Lightning pass but that is the biggest scam. It’s expensive and you can only “reserve” one ride at a time. And even with lightning pass you still wait hours. I hated it. My son hate it. It was awful and it makes me sad. I regret ever spending our money to go to Disney.
Josh
Or maybe it really has gone downhill and the thousands of people, myself included, have legitimate gripes about rising prices and reduced services. What is it with you corporate bootlickers everywhere? The place has gone way downhill. Customers have a right to complain when service doesn’t meet expectations
Janine Hamilton
I live in Celebration and agree that WDW has gone downhill massively. I’ve had an annual pass for about 8 years but won’t be renewing.
Laura
So true people just want to argue about anything, just like everything else prices go up, I’m planning a week long trip to DW with my grandkids after Christmas I can’t wait
Snicker
I’ve been going since they opened and I do have better things to do. When you spend $600.00+ a night for a room and it’s not clean that is disgusting. To go into the MK and sit at a table outdoors for a quick service meal and all you can smell is garbage that is also disgusting! To have rides constantly breaking down and they keep upping the price of tickets doesn’t make for an enjoyable experience. Years ago the parks were open from 8 AM to 11/12 at night with parades twice at night. Now your lucky to get maybe 6/7 hours. I don’t know when you started going but it couldn’t of been when the Disney’s ran it. They made you feel special and truly appreciated. I’m giving serious thought to selling my DVC.
lorraine
we are great fans too, BUT if I had to make a long trip every year or two and put up with what the original person put up with ,…………..and with the breakdowns and closures that my husband and I have to deal with every time, I dont blame him or her…….We have the option of coming back another day but still see it as a waste of time at times…..Usually we just walk around when this happens, find a ride that is working and get in line.( dont use genie or LL) and sit and people watch and have a snack ( that we usually bring with us) enjoy the day as much as we can and then go home…………this person didnt have the option of coming back a different day and is very frustrated…….
Patricia E Thompson
My family had a disney timeshare from1995 to 2016 and loved it soo much BUT IT WAS GETTING WAY TO EXPENSIVE AND GETTING TO CROWDED AND WE FOUND THE MAGIC WE HAD FOR ALL THOSE YEARS HAD GONE!!!!,WE SOLD OUR TIMESHARE AND HAVE NEVER LOOK BACK,IT IS A TERRIBLE SHAME IT CAMEVTO THIS.
Deborah Horrick
We had been Pass holders for 15 years and was going to Disneyland 3-4 times a year until they got so greedy and the cast members were unfriendly and the cost of everything just skyrocketed that they make it virtually impossible for people with children to go. Walt would be so disappointed in the rundown look of things and the rudeness of the cast members. When we do encounter a friendly cast member we so appreciate them. Disney do better!!!
Paul W
Never had the experience of a rude cast member once, and I’ve been several times post-pandemic. Maybe it’s because of how I dress and treat them with the same smiles and courtesy that is expected of them, knowing how difficult their job is in these trying times, especially with the apparent increase of Karen-like customers.
asdf
We all have difficult jobs in these “trying times” as you people put it, with Karens and all. That’s no excuse just because you worship anything Disney
Chris Kinney
No excuse for what? Having a good time? What are you even talking about?
Mu Gutter
I also did not have a ride cast member but I could tell they didn’t want to do their job when I needed help. It is hard to be courteous but I guarantee if Disney added tips in their app for your favorite most helpful cast member. Everyone would be smiling ear to ear.
JF
I’ve been very curious to hear if Disney rides are still having the issues they had when I went a little before the pandemic. So many rides stalled. We even sat on one for 45 minutes to an hour before finally being helped out by the cars being manually moved to some stairs. It was basically 12:30 am when we finally escaped. They didn’t even offer to call us a cab.
Sandra Blakley
My husband and I went to Disney World this past January and stayed in a Disney resort for 7 days. Masks were still required and although some guests were jerks about the mask rule, we never came across any Disney cast members or staff of any kind who were not courteous. We went on every single ride that we wanted and our trip was absolutely magical. Everyone at the resort was helpful, pleasant and smiling. We road Disney buses, golf carts, and boats. We had no problems with anything or anyone. When we were on a Disney bus to go back to the airport, a lady was freaking out because the taxi she called didn’t show up. The Disney bus driver loaded her family and all their luggage onto the bus FOR FREE because tickets needed to be purchased online ahead of time. He saved their day. Maybe if people look for the magic, instead of looking for things to complain about, they would have a better time.
Steve
What a shocker a D-Defender is also a mask cultist.
Bert
Don’t be a baby Stevala!
Bert
Don’t be a baby, Stevala
Bertie Boy
So easily triggered…. lol!
Yabster
Got to be kidding! Sounds like to me Disney is promising chicken salad, delivering chicken s#%^* these days. Have not been in years and it will be years before I purchase another ticket.
Sandy
January and February are two of the lowest attendance months. We always try to go in February. That may help keep the experience magical. The last time I went in a prime month, I also said never again.
J. J.
Love this review ❤️
People are so synical
These days!
Angela
Disagree. Ran into one of the nastiest acting cast members ever at Splash Mtn during our 10 day Oct trip. My teenagers even commented on the less than stellar customer service at most food and wine booths. The trip was finally enough to cement selling my DVC contract that I have had since 1997. Anyone who does not see the OBVious change has on blinders. It’s Europe for my group next summer- BYE Mouse!
Buddy Buder
Disney hasn’t paid dividends on their stock since about ten years ago!
Donna
No it’s just been 2 years
Linda
We had some wonderful experiences when it was less crowded, 20 and 30 years ago. Pricing was simple with the Florida Resident discount. I wouldn’t go back now because of the crowding. I am almost afraid of the overly crowded conditions.
Michelle
The service has definitely not been the same. They might not be rude but they definitely aren’t as friendly as they used to be. I could always count on them smiling but many are not now. 😔
L
Oh no! Minnie in PANTS!!?
GIRLS MAY THINK THEY CAN WEAR PANTS NOW?! THE HORROR
Joanna
I believe that ,maybe, before you label someone a “Karen” you might consider that the writer may be an honest, courteous person relating an actual unfortunate experience.
Elizabeth
Yes! We have been disney vacationers since 1962 and are now unlikely to return as frequently if ever again do to our last September trip to Disneyland. We do not like the way Genie + and extra ride fees are dividing the haves from the have nots. The continual increases are changing the crowds attitudes of others around them. It is no longer a place where everyone was having fun on the same plane of experiences together. There was something magical about that. Now it’s being ruined by greed and entitlement. We are DVC owners and the new Interval Exchange program that has replaced the non-Disney Resort travel stays is terrible (not worth the points for the type of exchanges that are doable). On top of that I have had some very rude and ignorant responses from cast members via phone regarding the Interval Exchange. I have become increasingly discouraged by the direction Disney is headed.
M
Exactly!! Thank u for reminding me about this. What a crazy way to bring magic than to split up the classes! And Disney movies aren’t biased!!??!! Haha
Carole J Duran
You could not pay me to go to Disney now. I used to love the magic of Disney and I have very fond memories. But this “woke” crap is just too depressing.
Sorry Mickey.
Chris
Lol! My ENTIRE family is never going again! Been there done that! Rather have family time on an island somewhere then EVER DO DISNEY AGAIN!
Chris
P.S. Not Castaway Cove “the Disney cruise Island.
Matt
100% in have only encountered one rude cast member in the 10 years I’ve been going to Disney. 99% of the time when they are rude it is because guests are acting entitled.
lorraine
a Long time ago, maybe 15 yrs ago we had a rude cast member, but thats the only time. I find if I greet them kindly and wish them a good day , I have no problems at all and it doesnt hurt to tell someone to have a good day
Rose
I agree with you 100%. We have been Disney fans for many years. Our parents began taking us to Disneyland beginning in 1959 until 1969, when my sister and I were old enough to get jobs, and vacation plans changed. After my father passed away, my Mother decided we would all go a vacation to Walt Disney World, and to our amazement, it was like traveling back in time to our love of Disneyland, and we have been visiting Walt Disney World now with our children and my Mom. Unfortunately, since Chapek took over, Walt Disney World has lost its magic, and has become a woke theme park, and one of Walt Disney’s greatest policies about Disneyland is that for the short time you were there, the outside world was left where it should be “outside”. Now the outside world has invaded Disneyland and Walt Disney World, and we will not return until the magic returns.
MK
Not disagreeing about the diminishing magic, but what “woke” policy is ruining it for you?
Karl N
I thought he made an excellent point about keeping the outside outside and the inside inside. Disney Magic requires you to suspend reality and exist in the world of friendly 6 foot mice. Anything that breaks the fourth wall is going to screw this up, and that includes anything that removes the Mayberry RFD character. Disney has become absorbed and controlled by today’s world which destroys the magic.
Jane
I think she must be talking about the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill in Florida that Disney opposed.
lorraine
its not called a “dont say gay bill” people need to read it………..
Carole J Duran
Minnie in a pant suit. Refusing to acknowledge boys and girls. Charging more for less. Its just ridiculous
L
Oh no! Minnie in PANTS!!?
GIRLS MAY THINK THEY CAN WEAR PANTS NOW?! THE HORROR
Allan
Get a clue people. The is Corporate America. Who do you think is fueling inflation. Politics? No, It’s greedy corporations!
DHC
Welcome to the Chapek regime. During the pandemic, Disney laid off staff and now Chapek doesn’t want to hire them back, hoping that by raising the prices and having fewer people in the parks, he can make more money and reduce overhead. Those still there were offered $1.00 an hour raise while he is making millions. It’s been reported that Chapek wants Disney as a place for the rich. You seriously miscalculated, Bob, Disney isn’t their kind of place. Worse than that, you have forgotten Walt’s mission: to create a place for families. Not rich families. I hope that the stock sinks so low that the Board is forced to do something. Shame on you Bob. I hope that Walt’s ghost haunts you for the rest of your days
Eric
Your unsubstantiated stories you use as hit pieces make me wonder exactly what your beef with the Disney Corporation is. WY family of 4 was in the park Saturday November 5th and road all the rides you mentioned with no issues. I’m not saying that some didn’t have technical difficulties but we certainly did not. Traveling with an elderly Mother and a young grandchild.
Ren
This! Exactly, author writes hit pieces then only asks for responses about bad experiences.
Deadmagic
Another member of the cult of Disney. Reality check for you. Prices have skyrocketed. Quality and service has gone down. Rides break all the time. Just navigating the miserable overpriced Genie+ system makes the vacation misery.
Al
We also have been A.P. holders for decades. 109 WDW vacations, As many a 5 weeks in a year. Faughters wedding and reception there. The magic is gone. Yes have come across a few rude cast members, but also some great ones. We even have a couple come to Pennsylvania and stay with us. We are done with Disney until they learn to put the quests first.
Lee
Disney parks are no longer fun. The cost is crazy, long lines and super over priced just for an ice cream bar in the park. I’m sure they’ll be charging to use restrooms soon.
Marie
Greed nothing but greed. Went twice last year and both times was very disappointed. Food, merchandise, and lack of customer service was horrible. They took away Magical Express and many other perks that Disney was noted for. I just came back from the Magic cruise (been 10 times) and could not believe it. We all (8) came home very sick. Not cleaning or disinfecting and a very warm (lack of ac) ship. Not enough space to really vent but NEVER AGAIN either on land or sea. GREED nothing but GREED
NJ
Which Disney ship were you on? It would help others to avoid it. Thank you.
Tina
The last time we went was pre-pandemic. I still have a bad feeling left over from that visit. The park was absolutely crowded–you could only move a couple steps at a time. This may be better since the park reservation system was put in place. However, the continued price increases are keeping me away. I can spend my vacation dollars elsewhere and have a much better experience for less money.
rchahnfl
I will never, ever go again on or near a holiday… way too crowded.
dannielle
visited in sept 2022 . genie plus worked well at magic kingdom . a huge waste of $110 /day at animal kingdom . the person in charge of navigating Genie+ with the phone app will absolutely get zero joy out of the visit . I would have rather been working at my job . truly horrific day over $1000 with our group of 8
Julianna Campbell
I am an avid Disney fan from Australia and desperate to return! These comments are all so logical for me as how can the magic remain with everyone on their phones checking Genie? The only time I have ever seen a phone in the park is for photography! Walt would be disgusted in this change as his vision was for magic for all. Not having to pay extra for Genie or lightening lane. Never have I experienced bad service but I have not returned since the pandemic. Service was always what I loved as EVERYONE was so helpful and kind. When the CEO and board remove all the extra costs I will return. Disney staff are probably all disgusted at management which could add to them not feeling as happy as they once did. I miss the magic but can’t return until the magic does!!
Scottie
My family has been going to DisneyWorld since my oldest daughter was 3 and she is 24 and we still love Disney. The changes have been substantial and the costs are getting astronomical for a family vacation but some of my happiest memories with my daughters are there. I agree that things have changed more than we all would like but the world has been rocked by Covid and people are broken. I know it’s hard and I myself need to work on it but patience goes a long way. My hope is in time that Disney (when back fully staffed) will return to a joyous place for everyone to make the same memories that our family has made and will continue to make. I will continue to find joy in the parks with my children as long as they want to go and I hope you can as well!
Deadmagic
Sucker. Paying more for a miserable vacation because it used to be good. Disney cultists.
CHRIS
Why are you even here?
JanH
It’s a shame, real shame that an institution like Disney Parks has sunk to such a low. We’ve gone for nearly 50 years and the experience has improved over the years yet declined drastically in the last 2 years.
Mickeymouse3
Hoping for a better experience for our upcoming 2023 trip than we had during our 2021 trip. I’m not holding my breath based on recent “reports”.
I’ve reported issues to Disney’s website in the past. Seems lately, they just don’t care as long as the $$$ are still rolling in. Paycheck and his minions need to go, as do the current board! Disney parks/resorts are in a downward spiral and they are turning a blind eye and deaf ears.
John
So why are you going back?
Drew
I have to agree with John. Why go back? Our last trip was in 21 and the magic was definitely lacking. We won’t be back anytime soon. Disney won’t miss us but if you continue to pay for an inferior product it’s your own fault.
Laura
Hope he tested guest services too. Most likely they would have refunded or provided additional free passes & food.
Gary
You reading these posts you top leadership you better wise up and start making changes to go back to Walter Elias Disney’s DISNEY.
C.richardson
I have been to Disney once with my family in mid 2000s. We got to experience Disney as adults together. It was expensive. The heat was almost to much for me. We stayed in a nearby hotel after leaving a reunion many miles away. The bed was so hard that
I thought that we were sleeping on bottom mattresses. It is as if the owners wanted people to pay for not renting their expensive rooms. I also understand why people are upset. Disney doesnt sound like the fairytale fun place that everyone envisions from their childhood. Adults who finally make it to Disney and families that make Disney a tradition are losing those feel good feelings because Disney is showing it colors. They are showing that it’s all about the almighty dollar and not about the Disney experience. If they want the dollars, they have to make the people feel special again. My opinions.
Shareen
Totally agree! My whole family a party of 12 just went this October since I had gone for the 25th wanted to celebrate for the 50th! Now grown adults my children paid their own way. My daughter that 4 children and spent the most has definitely decided not to return unless she sees some changes. We all agree. Each year Halloween gets less exciting and things are more complicated and expensive to take children. If I am not mistaken, Walt built this for children and families to enjoy not be exhausted and feel they spent their life savings. Cast members also we agree are much less accommodating and have been rude. Changes will have to be made to return. So many other vacations to go on that bring joy and fun rather than disappointment and stress.
Jean
Was there last week of October,lines for rides was crazy. Guardians of the galaxy had no more availability and it wasn’t even noon!!
Larry
I’ll add my personal experience with WDW ride breakdowns and Genie+. On my recent trip on a visit to Hollywood Studios, I purchased Genie+ and made a reservation on Mickey’s Runaway Railway. The ride broke down early into it and after about 20 minutes restarted but half the rooms still had no animation or sound. Back in the days of free Fast Pass guests were always given a paper universal Fast Pass if a ride broke down while riding. I went to guest services and was told “We are sorry the experience did not meet your expectations”. That was all they had to say. So I insisted upon a reride. The response was “We will make a one time special concession and let you ride again, but we will not do this again ever for any reason.” “Even if the ride breaks down again?” I asked. “Yes.” We received more respect and better service when Fast Pass was free than now when we are paying for it.
Disappointed
We have been stockholders for close to 40 years. I have gone to Disney parks for 65. We have never voted during the stockholders meeting, but I believe that will change. Disney is going in the wrong direction, unfortunately, in my opinion. Their “woke” inclusion doesn’t include families. And they are pricing families out, which isn’t at all what the whole idea was back in Walt’s day. He wanted a place where families could go together. Now only the wealthy can afford it, and those that DO save up to go feel angry when they spend all their money and don’t get what they paid for. Understandable!
Michael
We’re stockholders too and totally agree!
Michael
And, our stock value continues to decline! That’s never happened in 35 years!
That guy
The market begs to differ. The stock dropped off in 2000 and took almost 12 years to get back to where it was. To be fair 305 years ago it was just shy of $5 and now it’s almost $90
George
A year ago 2021 in March it was a shade over 200.00 per share. Political involvement is costing Disney money !
Matt
More and more people want to go to Disney, but the parks only have so much capacity. Park reservations can help with those limits, but then you need to be lucky you can get a reservation. Increasing prices lowers demand, so unfortunately pricing people out is how it has to go.
What “woke” policies are impacting park experience?
I was just there at the end of October and experienced some longer lines then when I was a kid, but otherwise had a fantastic time. I was also at Universal Studios and both my wife and I commented about how the overall experience was much better within the Disney bubble.
Also Matt
Yeah kinda tired of people citing “woke” ideology as to why Disney is awful. I’ve personally never had a bad experience there in all my years going but that’s just me. Times change, so does the operating costs of the world busiest theme park. The fact that attendance continues to increase shows that Disney is not pricing families out of going. If people want to go they will make it happen and spend the money.
George
Look at some of their recent movies…involvement in politics..losing the mickey mouse trademark..
Keith M
I’ve been to WDW five times over the years and at all times except the last one things were expensive but affordable if you saved. The last time we couldn’t reserve restaurants and the food put us in debt. Our neighbors just returned from WDW and they did nothing but gripe about the costs and the long waits. Under fast pass things were smoother and kept ride costs in the realm of being ok. According to them they dropped hundreds in genie costs and line waits were much longer than the free fast pass of yore.
Needless to say we cannot afford to ever return and would rather spend our hard earned money elsewhere. NJ residents always paid the most to go there because so many from here went WDW. You get much better deals if you come from Great Britain! This new CEO has politicized his parks, run up prices and has done more to destroy Mr. Disney’s dream than all the prior CEOs combined.
Sad since now I have grandchildren and we’d rather take them someplace that has more family value.
KMAN
Here’s the Bottom line period !!!
Disney’s Demise has been going on now for a couple of decades now , it’s only been in the last 4-5 yrs were it been stepped up to the point it’s adversity affecting guest and starts at there core ,
There upper management the ones that make the decisions on what direction the company is going , they take the ideals from lower management that have the most contact with the cast members that are increasingly more and more towards political woke agendas, which results in less productive, less and poorer quality employees that is reflected in jobs performance in maintaining the once prestige parks . The hospitality industry is all inclusive and political, race, sexual orientation, has no business there when a company gets involved in these agendas the business will suffer and that will ultimately chase away the customers that frequent the business. And that’s exactly what happening at Disney .
The longer Disney stays entrenched in these ideologies the harder it is for them to see what actually happening. And the deterioration will continue.
bob
If it’s too crowded, it’s not expensive enough. I’m sorry, but those are just the laws of supply and demand. They’re iron-clad laws that don’t have anything to do with wokeness.
So, yes, it’s sad that we can’t enjoy the Disney experience we knew in the past, but there are many more people clammoring to get in. The only fair thing is for them to jack up the prices even more. It’s not happy news, but it’s reality.
Chris
Exactly.
KMAN
Bob everyone knows economics 101 supply and demand but the article is about Value for the cost and that in there decisions making as Disney’s agenda’s are in woke Politics ideology that’s influenced but there cast members with these ideologies pride in work ethics decreased that reflected in the park operations. When you’re more concerned over political correctness then maintaining your business people begin to notice . I realize you looking at this though a naïve perspective but when you look at park operations and financials your see a different picture.
S. B.
So you think changing a ride theme to make it inclusive to all and not offend a whole race is a bad thing? To include everyone is not what Disney is about? I’m not going back due to the pricing, the crowds and the declining customer service, and nickel and diming everything. But I don’t fault them for trying to help everyone see someone that represents them – black, Hispanic, gay, straight, everyone deserves to enjoy the parks.
Andrea
I don’t take my family on vacation to see gays and trans Alphabet freaks. The upper levels need to hold onto Walt’s vision, and cut the woke crap!
Cindi
Andrea, i am thrilled to not see you at WDW with your close minded attitude.
Condi
Andrea I am thrilled to not see you and your close minded attitude when I visit. Have a wonderful day!
Scott Lee-Ross
And this my friends is the definition of Bigotry. Wear your Bigot label with pride Kman.
Jane
If you’re that offended by the theme of a ride that has been in existence for decades and clearly has not been offensive until recently, then don’t go on that ride. That’s a much simpler solution to a non-problem, and it doesn’t ruin it for everyone else who enjoys it. I loved Splash Mountain just the way it was; its theming was outstanding. I am personally 100% uninterested in its new theming and won’t be riding it.
Scott Lee-Ross
The theme of the ride has been offensive since it was created. Maybe not offensive to bigots, but offensive just the same.
Steve
As long as they agree with your ideology, right? Otherwise they should be removed.
Steve
Increase supply.
Alene K Yocum
My family of 11 were there from October 2-7 and I feel much like the man mentioned in the article. The ride lines were crazy long and the kids didn’t get to ride their favorites. Epcot has changed so much, it used to be so much fun to talk with the people working from other countries. Now they are all Hispanic and many don’t speak English. I’ve never seen such rude employees in the Disney atmosphere. It’s all so sad and my family won’t be back any time soon. We usually go a couple times a year. We were leaning against a fountain at Disney Springs and the fountain burst in a great roar. It scared us so badly that I kept away and hurt my back. It’s just not Disney anymore!
Christy Miller
I have promised my youngest grandson that I would take him to Walt Disney World. Because I have took the other two and not him yet. We’re going early December 2022. After this trip. I’m done with Disney. This will be my 11th trip to WDW. And it was outrageously expensive this time around just to book for me and my grandson. Not to mention the flight and now having to pay for a shuttle from the airport to the Resort. Plus, I have lost interest in being a Disney fan because they have gone woke and because of greed. All I care about is that my grandson has a good time and I hope to see what any magic may be left through his eyes.
John
After reading these and other questions I have only one question…why do people keep subjecting themselves to this torture. I wouldn’t step foot onto any Disney property even if it was free. Keep going and wasting your time and money but quit complaining about the crappy experience
Bruce Katzenbergzenberg Katzenberg
I agree, if an overwhelming number of people who have been to Disney parks feel that it’s not worth it, why are the parks still so overwhelmingly packed ???? Instead of just complaining about things and then booking your next Disney trip, DON’T GO TO DISNEY PARKS FOR AWHILE. Maybe after a year or two of drastically reduced attendance, Disney will get the hint and make an attempt and try to fix some of the problems. Money talks and if the parks start to lose money due to greatly reduced crowds, they might take the hint and start to address these issues.
Matty
What’s an overwhelming number of people who feel it’s not worth it? They have averaged almost 50 million visitors this year in Disney World alone. It’s a global destination. 50 people on a message board saying it’s not worth it doesn’t even begin to remotely have an impact on Disney
SW
Stop writing articles like this. Some random guy has a pissy attitude about spending $600.00 in one day? That’s laughable. I’ve dropped 450.00 on a dinner for my family of four. Disney is expensive. Anyone who has been there knows this. It doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways to save or go on a budget. But cheap it isn’t.
Honestly, genie plus isn’t hard to use at all. It’s not exactly convenient having to be awake past midnight to purchase it for the next days activities and it sucks having to wake up at 7:00am to book those sought after reservations for popular rides. But outside of that, actually navigating it is simple. We rode tons of rides on our most recent trip. Hardly waited in any long ques. Just have to be flexible on what you want to do.
Giving one person a whole article is just stupid. Let him revoke his fan status. More room for those of us not so sensitive.
Steve
Yes, lap up that Disney sludge. You aren’t smart enough to know better. Bob depends on you.
Bert
Bob doesn’t need me or you Stevala.
Deadmagic
So, you admit how inconvenient Genie+ is, how you have to bury your head in a phone, be up with the sun, when a better service used to be free. Disney’s cost increases have outpaced inflation by 309 to 400 percent, quality decreased, they openly insult fans, yet you still brownnose them
Chris
Reverend!
Christian woodward
Reading these comments saddens me so much,my parents have been taking my siblings and I on vacations to WDW since I was like 4or5 and I’m now 37. I’ve never experienced anything like it anywhere else. I’ve visited several other theme parks and they have all in no way shape or form been able to even partially compete. Although I haven’t visited since 2006, I have immediate family in the Orlando,Fl area who have kept season passes for a decade now and I just can’t imagine a vacation in the Florida area that didn’t include a stay in the Magic Kingdom.Call me sentimental, but I’ll take quality over quantity any day of the week.
Oyf
What quality? If you haven’t been in 16 years, you don’t know the current state of the parks. It’s awful.
Deadmagic
I laughed at the person who hasn’t been since 2006 defending Disney
Dennis Elliott
I just went to Disney in October I Loved it myself but I do go at the park differently I went to Hollywood Disney for the star wars everything after was bonus I ordered all my food on the app didn’t have to wait in a line an employee told me about it and helped get set up fast it was great I got breakfast there 1st than got all my spending out of the way took it to a locker for safe keeping than hit up the 2 rides I was aways looking at wait times to see which one to do than hit up the cantina for my reservation time the people there were great the bartender was awesome after that hit up the raise of the resistance ride it had the longest line but was awear of it and planed for it hit the indy show got to do everything I wanted to I did it all without the fast pass thing or what ever it’s called now I find that it’s good to know the layout of the park your at and how to get to wear your trying to go and I spent about 500 on everything and got all kinds of collectibles I wanted
Oyf
I stopped going 2 years ago. It’s very easy to do! But these people who crowd the parks to overpay for everything must be masochists because it’s just not fun anymore. Universal is such a better experience right now.
Wisc Mom
Feb 2021-Hollywood Studios. We were lured to the low capacity messaging we heard. We were irritated by not being able to see new attractions with eligibility twice a day for less than 5 maddening minutes. Now showings going on due to Covid. I walked up to customer service and got my money back and we were escorted to the exit.
Ryan
Was at WDW last week and had been dreading it but even though was busy we didn’t pay for Genie+ Lightning lane & managed to do every ride / show we wanted. Stayed on property & took advantage of the rope drop early mornings twice & extended hrs at Epcot & MK to literally walk on many of the big rides (Remy & Frozen twice and 16 rides in MK between 8:30pm-midnight).
Food ordering via ap works really well. We had breakfast in hotel (did an instacart order a couple of days before flew) &
had one meal & a snack each day in parks as too hot to want more.
Was expensive overall but definitely still Magical & all cast members we interacted with were friendly & helpful.
Very happy with our trip overall
AnAnonymousSausage
Bye Felicia. We won’t miss you. Don’t like it, don’t like it, don’t go. More room for us!
Anonymous
In the 70’s Snow White took my older sister on the teacup ride without asking my parents. Frantically looking for her snow white giggled it off. My Dad angry about.taking his 4 year old, dopey kicked him in the shin. He said the prices were outrageous long lines and really not the happiest place on Earth. Solitude is my best vacation and I look to my left and there are about 100 others with the same.goal. fun when your a kid a nuisance when your.adult.
Annette
Our last trip to Disney in 2016 may have been our last. After spending a fortune on tickets, we too experienced multiple ride break-downs, after waiting FOREVER in line. That’s not a magical vacation to me. That’s a nightmare! Disney better get their act together before the bottom falls out.
Jay Pazik
I spent $1500 for 6 of us at Epcot and $1500 at Universal. Both EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED!
Didn’t spend the extra $170 per person per Fast Past to skip lines WTF?!
F ORLANDO
Purav
Unfortunate series of events. But absolutely agree on the out-of-reach cost of tickets, long lines even with Ginie+ we had.
You have to reserve the park in advance, hence the number of people is known so why Disney allows the park to be overcrowded? You feel disappointment when you see kids 3,4,5 years old standing in line for 50 mins per ride.
Deadmagic
The cost of a Disney vacation has skyrocketed; the quality has decreased; the parks ard trashy; the rides are poorly maintained and unreliable. You can take the same money and do multiple better vacations at other sites than just a few days at Disney, the most miserable place on earth
Mark P
I took my family there in 88. I spent way more there than I thought I should as the very first ride (the tea cups) we waited in the hot sun for over an hour. After we got to the head of the line they closed it down due to technical issues. Needless to say I was a lot hotter after that. I’ve had no desire to ever go there again.
Christopher
None of this is new! I had a premier pass for 18 years and Disney priced me out of continuing. Their rides have always broken down and there have been delays. But, it didn’t matter because you loved being there and it was a fair value. Disney doesn’t need to change because they can limp on like this for twenty more years and still exist. Everything has changed and it’s disappointing. Sea World and Universal are learning from Disney’s arrogance and are offering great value!
Kim Katowsky
My family and I just went to Disney World last week. November 1-2 2022. It was exactly as people have been complaining.
Staying up until midnight to try and purchase the Genie+, getting up at 6am to try to get in the cue for Guardians, and rides (Ratatouille, Test Track, and even the Guardians) breaking down. The Guardian ride has no lines so you have to try to get in the cue at 7am. If you miss that you have to try again at 1pm, but to try for that you have to be in the Epcot park.
If you are park hopping you cannot change parks until 2pm. So if you want to get on Guardians you have to sign up to start everyday in the Epcot park.
Navigating the Genie+ is a nightmare. You need a Disney World Master’s Degree to figure it out. You also need to bring a phone charger, because of all the time you spend on it trying to figure out the Genie / Genie+. Disney does not have charging stations in the park.
They also do not have water fountains or water bottle refill stations that are easily accessible.
We had not been to Disney in about 15 years and I only went to Disney, because I was recently diagnosed with cancer. I really don’t have the disposable income to go and had to credit card it the entire way. It was so very crazy expensive for everything, and the experience was quite stressful and disappointing. Too bad it will probably be my last time going and I will only have those memories of Disney.
TeeKay
I used to take my son every year, he has autism and cannot stand in a line for more than 15 minutes. They used to allow him a special pass so he would not have to wait long in line. Then they changed that and he had to wait for all the rides but not “stand” in the line. So I would take him to a ride and they would say come back in one hour at this time approximately (you couldn’t use any app, or wait for more than one ride at a time) so then you just do nothing except shop or eat for an hour between every ride. We stopped going after that, they have gotten greedier and greedier over the years. A money grabbing machine aimed at your kids. Pass on Disney, just not worth it anymore. They should limit park admission, and make people feel special again.
Tim
Disney gas really dipped in customer service. It’s no fun spending all that money just to stand in line no matter where u go, rides, food, customer care…I’m telling u it sucks big time.
The they jam their woke agenda down your throat!!! Enough already!!!
Steve
Disney is headed for a hard crash.
Jason
Here for the week went to Hollywood studios yesterday what a joke definitely no magic left which is sad for the kids. Way to many people and not enough food or seating for guest. Food and drinks way over priced payed 15.00 for a beer that was flat. Payed 20 for a burger that was probably a crappy frozen bubba burger. Workers are not friendly there is no order to anything had multiple guest take my food from a funnel cake stand they give you a receipt with a order number on it but fail to use there own system they just hand it out to who they feel like. Super long lines. The place is nasty and dirty. I go to magic kingdom today with my family in this hurricane Nicole wish us luck.
Dave
I would appreciate a couple of more ads on your site. That would make it a little bit harder to enjoy your site. Good god it’s terrible!
Wendy Heintz
We went in May 2022,a family of eight! It was so hot and crowded,we spent so much time in line and bought the fast passes and still didn’t get on things.My 8 and 11 year old Grandchildren,were not impressed! I am glad I went for the family time together,but I am done with the place!
Asia
I went to Epcot during off season and experienced the breakdown of rides I traveled to be on. I also wasted money on a Genini+ after then needing to purchase a ++ for one ride that was broken. Not a lot of attractions there, not as many characters as I’d expected and the one ride my kids were to enjoy, Ratatouille was a 3 hour wait. So I left to get a plus plus genie pass and they didn’t expect it because it was 3:55 and done with fast past. Luckily the supervisor saw everything and let us through. An extra $90 after recommend to leave the line and then the time passes to let on!
Lisa
They outpriced the average family. So much pride in being a cast member back in the day. I can’t afford to go now, rather take a trip to Alaska, Hawaii etc..it’s cheaper, more relaxing, and you get more for your money now. It’s so sad
Jean
Can all the people claiming to never go back follow through please. Parks are packed and would be great.
Julian H
Jean we have followed through, Disney just take take takes all the time, so greedy, and the up-charges are just not worth it anymore.
We have moved over to Universal, and won’t go back until Disney improves on its value for money and services are returned.
Pat
Pay more get less at the most Magical place on earth
Jacky Hilliard
Our multi generation family of 7 just got home last night from a not so heartwarming experience at WDW. My husband and I have been at least 6 times prior to this trip and it was our first big vacation since my kidney transplant and Covid. We also had niece, nephew and their children, ages 3 and 8. The lines in MK were atrocious. After 6 hours, the kids were on 3 rides. The cost of refreshments was scandalous. We won’t be going back at our age 70+ but I hope after all the Covid losses, rules, etc calms down, the kids might have a better experience. Right now all they talked about was the pool at the hotel.
Dennis
Refuse to get on my phone at 7 am to schedule our day at last minute, plus pay for it. I’m DVC member since 2001. This new crap is BS.
Lee
Once upon a time we were like many, Avid Fans. This past years visit marked an end of an era for our family.
I can not say anything unpleasant about cast members especially when they make a pittance compared to the grotesque profits made by the parent company.
I like making money so I do not begrudge Disney making money but the product simply no longer reflects a reasonable value. I am grateful for those Magical memories but we have sadly packed up our Disney days permanently.
Robert Glospie
It’s really hard to enjoy the parks now. The price is prohibitive but I spent hours on my phone trying to navigate everything you have to do now and I had a lot of issues with everything from trying to get on rides or get food. I miss fast pass
Pamela
Went to Disney for a 4 day vacation. I spent hours waiting in line for rides only to be told that they were no longer working. One time they did that and we were next in line and15 mins later it was working and the line had filled back up. Also one of those days the employees sent me on a goose chase for a jesse doll I was looking for, just not in the park but even at the hotels. They checked there machines and would say that this place had it. I spent the entire day riding the buses everywhere and no one had it. I wasted a day that I could have spent with my family. Also the rooms in the All Star Hotels are terrrible now. They use to be nice but now if more than 2 people stays in a room you cant move around. They use to do sweet things for the kids with the towels, self care items and phone calls but all that is out as well. But price has definitely went up. We went during the HALLOWEEN BASH. We got a very small bag to recieve candy in and didnt even get 1/4 of the bag full because of standing in line. Also the rides were just as bad at night as they were during the day. Lines took forever and we even got stuck on the same ride twice. It definitely wasnt worth the extra money and we had heard so much about how wonderful it was.
Theresa
I will never go back!!!! they say they care about serious
medical conditions , they absolutely DO NOT!!! we were harassed and treated so very poorly to the point where I had a major seizure in front of hundreds of people also having a brain tumor this can be very dangerous for me and all they did was say sorry and gave my two sons a small stuffed animal worth 40 bux each as compensation for the issues that were caused by them….4
donna cousineau
WE have gone to Disney everyother for 35 years ,however I will never go again . The staff and rides are fine ,but they nickle and dime you. We save for two years to go and this time was definitly not worth it. It was the most stress full vacation I ever had. With what the week cost us we could have taken the family to the Carribean. Now I know Disney is not about family anymore . Walt Disney would be rolling over in his grave if he saw his park today
DF
We are not going this year after going at least once every year for the past 18 years. We had a horrible experience last year with crowds, genie+ overcharges, closed rides. Not worth the cost, stress. We will be going to FL but spending our money at Universal instead.
Cindy allison
Add my name to the list of disappointed customers who will not be going back anytime soon. We went oct for our granddaughters 13th birthday celebration. She had never been but we had been several times many years ago when it was magical. We spent thousands of dollars and in 3 days only got to ride about 7 rides. Same issues others are reporting. Excessive lines and marketing prices. Crowds and strollers are overwhelming. Genie pass and fast lane process is a joke. Reservations to theme park is restrictive. Cell phone required use is distracting. No theme characters at all to take pictures with. Staff though nice are on 24-7 crowd control mode. Get um through, load the next bunch…… Felt like cattle. English is a foreign language. Rides are watered down. Mechanical troubles on some rides. Lots and lots of walking. No easy way to get to parks other than walking. Hot hot, even in late oct. But the biggest problem was the kids I saw were NOT having fun. Not much excitement in them. Saw a lot of miserable crying kids and arguing parents. Sorry Disney. Your greed has surpassed your mission. Walt would not be happy. He was ALL about making kids smile. My granddaughter was miserable, disappointed and never wants to go back. Thanks for the Memory.
Mary
We were huge Disney World and Disneyland fans but after our day at Disney World on Monday, November 7, we are done with Disney World forever. We got to the ferry at 8:30 but didn’t get on our first ride until after eleven!! In the entire day, we managed five rides, none were what I’d call ‘A’ rides. The waits were at least an hour, the park was packed, and we felt like we were being gouged for every cent we had. Very, very frustrated with the new replacement for the Fast Pass. We had several rides we wanted to go on but the waits were horrible. Shame on you Disney. These parks have become untenable to attend, particularly if one has a family.
Jamie Shannon
Just returned last week from Disney Florida, stayed at a very over crowded All Star Movies, our room wasn’t ready on time, grumpy service at the resort and at the parks, everything seems to be an upcharge, and the food quality isn’t great now either. This was our 9th and last trip to Disney.
Devil Doc
Well…… We have been Platinum passholders for the past 9 years and recently “downgraded” to their most expensive pass…. We only live about and hour and a half away, so we make reservations and head over as often as possible.
During our most recent 6 night stay, it was apparent that Disney has lost that “Welcome to OUR Home” approach and is definitely becoming toxic and greedy within their park manifestos.
Everything is more expensive… they have taken away almost all perks for passholders…and guests.. Let’s see..
Magical Express to and from the Airport leaves guests having to spend cash, on top of an already inflated no frills resort cost, just to get into the parks…
There used to be passholder coins, badges, shirts, and even the little plastic band keepers have all but disappeared…
It seems that cleanliness and kindness have become replaced with complicity and an inept attitude of just ushering as many people inside the 4 walls as possible….
The new Guardians ride is amazing, but it isn’t enough to reflect the cost increases but, Chappick said…. I will continue to raise prices until you stop coming….then we will know the limit people are willing to pay… This past weekend, the same one as the main body of this article discusses, was a complete bust… and the abhorrent amount of people was overwhelming …
So here’s a great way to save money, anyway you visit Disney World… Disney World sit luckily in a bowl..and it rains…downpours almost every day… yesterday at Animal Kingdom the rain began…. and out came the $2.00 Walmart style cheap vinyl rain poncho’s that sold for $12 each…. that’s $12 for about a 50 cent piece of plastic…
Remember… Have a Disney Day!!!
MAXX
Long time fan but no longer. Wait lines, prices and the new wokeness are ridiculous, as is how long it takes security to throw unruly people out. No thanks! Remove the CEO.
Sharin
Agree
Sharin
This is the norm now at DISNEY! I remember 25 years ago going to Disney was fun and enjoyable; now going to Disney is work!!!! Save your money go to a relaxing beach .
Md
We were just there 3 days end of October. Very disappointed. Long wait for attractions.. bad attitudes of cast.. spent all day there waiting for dark for the light show. That’s when cast members told us to move to another location I thought was beneficial for us. My mistake, they sent hundreds of us down and around. Ended up herding us behind trees. We couldn’t see the castle anymore, couldn’t see lights couldn’t see fireworks. And when we started to move back they got crappy with us. What a waist of time and money. I would advise anyone thinking of going there to seriously reconsider that plan. My group spent three days there, one day each in magic kingdom, epcot, and universal.
Boogieman
I echo every thing the author posted. Got up early for rope drop to beat crows at MK only to be first in line for a broken down 7 Drawrfs Mine Train. Waited 90 minutes for it to finally open. Seriously, how are you broke down before the day starts? But then after hopping to Epcot we found even the bottles water line ridiculously lengthy. Walt would be mortified by the decay in service. Lastly, the bathrooms…. Disney was KNOWN for always having clean bathrooms. Unfortunately, that too is a thing of the past. I’m agreeance with many other sentiments, Disney, do better. The culture of change needs to start at the top.
Valerie
Yup, went to Disneyland/CA Adventure beginning of Oct 2022 and plan to never go back. Definitely not the happiest place on earth. Most frustrating, crowded, and expensive is more like it. The employees all seem miserable too.
Leya
We went in December of 2021 to Disneyland for Christmas and had the best time ever, was so beautiful and amazing just couldn’t wait to go back.
We went for Halloween 2022 and it was totally a different experience. I was at mainstreet candy store and was browsing around for cool Halloween type cookies & candy treats after I decided I was gunna get some stuff the rude lady in the store said the line is here and pointed, ok np I got in line there were just a few ahead of me as it was fairly late. I stepped up just a bit as I was next and the lady said in a not nice voice do not cross the blue line ty :/, I said I wasn’t going to. Geez
The next day we went to California adventure to ride cars it was 9:30 am 90 minute wait. We too also had genie plus but didn’t pay extra Supreme ride fee $20 per person so we waited in normal line ( what’s point of genie plus ) well we watched as all the ppl got on 100’s going on as we stood. We waited 4 hours and 20 minutes to finally ride. How so unfair :((. We just didn’t enjoy our 9 days this time.very sad last year was amazing
Kellie Barton
All these articles are very concerning as we are headed to DW in January. Between the hurricanes and so many negatives being posted, should we even go? It’s so much money!
r u kidding
wait✋️ ,
so $600 in 1 day is considered a lot?
omg, I spend at least that every time i go. lol
Deborah
My children are grown and my grands are too young. Disney has also out priced me from visiting. Back when I took my children I could get a Florida pass for around 40 dollars.
Don Lutz
After spending vacations twice a year at WDW, 2022 was a disaster.
Broken rides. Long lines. ADRs conflicting with attraction reservations. I spent $500 per day at each of the four parks and went on one ride and ate at one TS restaurant.
Next year I’m vacationing in the Caribbean.
John Easterday
I live a short distance away. And have a small child they have raised prices and raised them. Average person can’t afford a day there. And to make it worse the food omg lets just say McDonalds is much much better.
Eric
If you don’t like it then don’t go. You don’t have to announce it to everyone. The entitlement in this country (read Millennials) is ridiculous.
Sary M. Ramos Silva
Los precios de las entradas son una locura cuando voy a orlando desde Puerto Rico a visitar a mi hijo tengo que pensarlo para ir a un parque y termino regresando sin haber ido a ninguno. Se le ha faltado el respeto al dinero. Hay miles de familias que no pueden ir como yo por lo mismo por el costo….. es demasiado.
Bob
Lightening lane ruined it for us! I think everyone should be equal and stand on the same line as everyone else. Charge one price reasonable price for everyone. We are not there for the merchandise crap or high priced food. We bring food and try to enjoy the attractions.
The cast members were understanding and polite. I don’t think corporate Disney cares anymore about the guest experience, let them stand on a 2 hour line while watching 500 lightening lane guests go before you.
The prices should not vary by demand! Now parks follow airline pricing? OMG, our stress was high at Hollywood Studios on the 7th, Epcot was a little better on the 8th, only compared to our misery the day before.
Rides broke down all day both days! Disney compensated us a little, but the magic is gone!
Jackie Gordon
Visited Disney in 2017. Our last visit was 1990 on our honeymoon. Waited 4 + hours to ride Advitar (2 hrs from park entrance to the ride entry gate to start another 2 hr ascend into the Tree). As we ascended up to the tree entry, there was not way to get out of line if an emergency aride, gontonthe bathroom or leave to get beverages to keep hydrated while waiting in the HOT sun since there aren’t any water fountains along the trail. There are garbage cans every few feet and no place to sit unless you can sit on the uncomfortable ground getting up every few minutes to move 2 to 5 steps and wait some more. Same situation inside the tree, long wait, no seats, mostly hot due to the packed lines, a/c barely cooling us down. I actually found A water fountain but no bathroom. Then the ride broke down.for 30 mins. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride but the waiting was miserable. I’ve witnessed at another ride fast pass moving like a marathon for 15 to 20 minutes and only 10 to 30 regulars in line move into the ride, then the cycle started again. Also, one water fountain at the ride entrance after waiting over 1.5 hrs in line before we approached it and the water was warm!! All 4 parks we witnessed Fast pass line Constantly moving for 20+ minutes before the regular line released 20 to 30 people on to the ride. Hence the long wait time problem with no seating available, no water fountains throughout the waiting line area and the lack of regular line vs Fast pass equality
S. G.
Here is the reason behind charging for each & every little thing at Disney & doing away with things that worked! ☆☆☆ Disney CEO Bob Chapek and his predecessor Bob Iger more than doubled their salaries in 2021. Chapek earned $32.5 million, while Iger took home $45.9 million.Jan 21, 2022!!!! NOW…LET THAT SINK IN!
Brendan
I was on the Ratatouille Ride on Saturday November 5, 2022 when it broke down too! Took them forever to get us out. But I still had an amazing experience at this park, sometimes rides break down, they were just trying to keep us all safe and apologized profusely. They also gave everyone who was on the ride when it stopped a free lightning lane pass that worked all day after the ride got fixed so it’s not like they didn’t try to make it better… There was a person who would tap your magic band or card or app to make sure you could ride again. I would say that’s good customer service. My family and I also kind of enjoyed walking through the Ratatouille set with the lights on it was interesting to see how it worked and the set. “Giant oranges daddy!”
Brendan
I was also there for a week and that was the only problem that arose.
Sophie
Disney has become way too expensive. I have ALWAYS loved Disney my whole life. I grew up 45min away, my family would splurge on Xmas to buy the passes….. I LOVED Disney world. But all these issues like price gouging for tickets and food (it should NOT cost $15 for a lousy hotdog with chips) but the biggest kicker where Disney lost me was the mandatory masks despite the governor saying NO. Not to mention the horrid wait times for a 5min thrill…… nothing and I mean nothing is less enjoyable than having to stand for over 1.5hrs in a hot, crowded place with kids in tow. Disney is losing its magic and won’t be getting my money anytime soon. Also, can’t forget to mention that Disney+ content has become misaligned with values. They are promoting inappropriate things to children! Children don’t need to learn about sexuality or gender confusion at such a young age. Disney should be promoting kids to be KIDS not puppets for some crazy political war that’s going on between ADULTS! Disney supports speech suppression too! They fired an amazing cast member bc she simply beloved differently from what the company told her to believe or to show. They wanted her to hide her beliefs and she said NO! So she got removed. These aren’t the only examples, just a few off the top of head. NEVER will my family return to something so jaded until they (a theme park ) steps back from politics! Be a theme park, NOT a political pawn. Do better Disney!
Michael Shimer
I’ve got a 7-step plan: 1) Fire Cheapek. 2) Remove the park reservation system and return to first come, first served like Universal still is. 3) Return to the free FastPass system. 4) Charge whatever you need to for room rates and park entry in order to pay the cast members a decent wage (that’ll be the most unpopular step with many readers I’d imagine). 5) Sell all the annual passes by the categories as they existed in March 2020. 6) Follow up the 50th Anniversary flop by announcing a return to a ‘Year of a Million Dreams’ campaign. Empower your cast members to make guests the priority (by deed, not just lip service), and make their dreams come true in both small and even bigger ways, every day. 7) And finally, stop focusing on culture war issues and mind your business as your number 1 priority. Full stop.
Antionette Matthews
OMG… these are exactly sentiments from my experience at Animal Kingdom just 2 weeks ago (Oct. 31). The waits times were ridiculous. Disney Genie is purposeless for reservations times. You have to stay or be in a surroundings area. Making reservations doesn’t allow you to get through park enjoyably because you have this since of rushing to beat a clock. The attendants we not helpful. Halloween was on a Monday and it was PACKED! I was there 10+ years ago with my daughters. This time it was a son and granddaughter. I was so irritated by the end of the day with the rides, reservations and prices I am not interested in ever returning.
weeads
Truly have been a Disney fan all of my life. But my recent experience with going to the park and prepaying for everything yet they still tried to bang away on my credit card for almost $700 in charges for incidentals. When I had prepaid my entire vacation and brought cash with me they wanted to charge me for $700 worth of incidentals. They tried over 27 times to take the money out of my account I was forced to have to lock my credit card. And at the end of my vacation I never did wind up needing that $700 hold for incidentals. Quite disgusting little practice there what they hold the money for the incidentals hoping you spend it give me a break Disney you make enough. And for the price the experience should be flawless.
Donna
When I tried to do our first Genie+ it would only let me book for 2 out of 6 of our party. I immediately went to customer service. They said only two of us had park reservations and we were out of luck for Magic Kingdom. Thank goodness we had used a travel agent. IT WAS A GLITCH IN THE DISNEY SYTEM and she was able to fix it. A person should not have to spend tons of time on Facebook and Youtube to figure out how to manage a theme park. Universal is proving to be a breeze to use.
Deborah
Disney has Chosen to not care about the welfare of the children or their parents that come to Disney. We use to go there quite often. We will never come back after hearing what Disney has said about the children. Let them go broke for the choice they have made.
Reena
I’m glad I experienced Disneyland in the early 70s and got to take my own kids in the the late 80s it was still great. My daughter just took a trip to Disneyland she and the kiddos hated it the lines were way to long she said it was sad looking around at mad crying kids do to long waits for rides this is supposed to be the happiest place hopefully it gets better.
Cheryl lukasiewicz
Total rip-off. Husband & I were at Magic Kingdom (reluctantly) in Feb. Three rides took 3 hours; i was not forking over more $ for Genie, FastPass, or whatever. Best thing was the ferry ride out of the park! Never again. Just smh seeing ALL the people there, matching shirts, ears thinking “how much $$$$$$ do they take in, in a day?” It’s obscene and not for me.
James
We went to Disney World every other year. We did this because the value it was and feeling rides were safe. Now we do not trust ride safety. We do not think it a value for our dollar. We also feel Disney is to woke for our family. They also are changing things we like to do.
Gary
I’ve always had a great time, and have been going every year for 60 years, whether it’s expensive or crowded makes no difference to me
Rachel
Yes. The parks are poorly maintained. Yes the food is gross and low quality after the shut down. Yes the lines are long. No – I don’t have to spend my vacation enriching shareholders
Kathy
A worthwhile experience is very subjective. To me, it is worth every dime. Is it perfect? No.But an amazing time, nonetheless.
Rachal
The CEO needs to be fired he had ruined Disney World magic so I’m done spending over $20,000 on a vacation for a week and not get the perks of $20,000 vacation which now we don’t even have shuttle rides to the park (epect too pay)when you stay there there’s no fast passes or no dining plan!! So why even stay at a Disney Resort you’re not getting any perks only an hour extra to spend 400 to 800 a night for what? lol
Brian
I’ve been going to Disney since I was 4 months old in 1957..my wife and went as much as possible..then the kids came along and we all went….Disney clearly no longer cares about family..theyve priced it so much. A regular family can’t go anymore….my family..my in laws and friends..all long time Disney lovers..will never waste another dollar at Disney until they wake up and stop pushing their agenda of ani family
bob Johnson
I spent 1 week disneyland even though I live close still stayed at d hotel 3500 no I’m not rich but this was the last time after 40 years and 3 generations and 100s of thousands of dollars this is the saddest most expensive place on earth in three days I counted only 22,26,and 18 black visitors that is sad and should be known
Elaine G
As a long time annual passholder we have elected to not renew. Not only have the prices soared, but the experience has soured. The Genie is a joke. Why should I have to pay more when I already paid to get in. Additionally, even with a Lightning Lane, you are NOT GUARANTEED to get on the ride.
Maintenance overall is suffering and I suspect that is behind the consistent ride breakdowns. We have been to Disney many many times and have never experienced the number of ride breakdowns we have seen in the last several months.
Additionally, the used to be pristine restrooms are a mess, customer service varies from great to awful(it was always great before) and it’s just not magical anymore . We are sad about leaving but it’s just not worth the hassle and the cost.
We have no idea how a family affords it anymore….
Barbara
WOW!!! Lots of negativity here. I was at Disneyland many years ago & enjoyed it immensely. Since then, I have visited DisneyWorld 3 times….my last visit 8 years ago when I was 71. I have never had a bad experience & do not understand why so many people are disgruntled. Everyone knows prior to their arrival that it is expensive so that should be a non-issue. You signed up for it & paid for it so what is the real complaint? Just got out on the wrong side of the bed? For heavens sake, lighten up. Of all the great vacations I have experienced, my most memorable ones will always be DisneyWorld.
Jackie
We have been going to Disney for years. We’ve always been able to get a good deal, including the meal plan, fast passes, etc. This trip was WAY more expensive than any other Disney trip we had. We went in November and this was the first time we felt that we did not get our monies worth. There were several rides down, several that were on and off throughout the day, long lines for rides and food, etc. Also noted that the park was dirtier than usual. There was one day there was only one security gate going into Epcot for the WDW resort people. It took us 40 minutes just to enter the park. That’s unacceptable when you are paying that much money. We have decided that we won’t be going back anytime soon. We’ve been going at least once a year for at least 15 years. We were definitely disappointed this trip.
Kenny
We were there in November, Visited all 4 parks (During tropical storm Nicole) lines were average of 90-120 minutes. Parks were packed with people at curtain points almost could not move. It was expensive however some of the cost is expected as what they provide. The waits and packed parks it was hard to explore and see things. Cast members were fantastic and extremely friendly. With the price point, overcrowding, long waits for everything, and having to be glued to the geeni+ app to try to beat some waits occasionally we will probably not return anytime soon.
Wolfie
WOW – it’s been a lot of years since I went to a Disney park and from the way it sounds, it’s going to be a lot more. Somewhere along the line, the company has lost the vision Walt started the parks with – to make a magical experience for folks – I know it’s pretty expensive these days, and for most people it has become too expensive to pack up the kiddies and take a vacation there. Maybe Disney needs a dose of reality.
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