It’s not just Disney, it is all of Florida, we got a bigot as governor and he shouts his hateful rhetoric anywhere and everywhere, there are travel advisory warning about coming to Florida…so all the go women people need to shhhhh
Cancelled our trip to Disney world because of the state of affairs in Florida don’t feel safe sending my family there went to Disney land on California and had a great time
Desantis has done nothing to stop free thinking people from going to Disneyworld. Disney shot themselves in the foot by raising prices and going woke. They are paying the price at parks and movies. In 2022, the US Census Bureau reported that Florida was the fastest growing state.
Wow, those pics make Disney look as empty as some of the commenters heads. Folks, it’s not “go woke, go broke” it’s “Too hot, Disney not”. This website has turned to such trash articles and they know that there’s a certain group of people who won’t even read before commenting. If you don’t like Disney because of politics you should go to Universal. Universal, you know, the company that owns MSNBC. 🤣
Disney is hurting itself by shooting itself in the foot with all its involvement in woke and cancel culture, and child grooming. Disney is too attached to the Democratic Party and the news media. I believe millions of fans are migrating away from it. The leaders of Disney should be held accountable by stockholders.
No it’s deserted because any decent American will not put a dime into that Satanist Governor’s state. I am done with visiting Florida because of his hateful policies. Disney needs to find a new home
We have been to Disney about 6 times in 10 years. The last time we went was last February. Some of the staff was rude, some rides were closed and the fast passes and the genie pass were awful. It is not nearly as magical as it was and the prices went up considerably
Oh just stop with the “woke” bs. It’s simply too hot and humid to do anything in a theme park. Even in AC here in FL, it’s just gross. As a life long Floridian, I’ve seen plenty of July-Sept months that aren’t tolerable to do anything, including a trip to the beach. Don’t be ignorant!
I wish this would reflect when trying to make dining reservations. Most places are booked at Disney. So how can that be if attendance is down? I’ll let ya all know the real story when I get back from my Disney World adventure. Also you all are using the word woke wrong. It means to be aware of your surroundings not being polite to people who are different than you.
In case you’ve been under a rock lately, we’re on our 43rd consecutive day of a heatwave with temperatures staying in real feel of the 100’s, which has actually never happened before. So, yeah, it’s hot, and people don’t want to walk around outside if they have any sense.
Besides that, Disneyland is priced for the rich. To take my grand kids it would cost me well over 10,000. So I guess they’ll see Disneyland in my life time. So sad!!!
Wrong! I live here too & the parks are always crowded. July & August are miserably hot plus Florida is NOT viewed positively nationally, thanks to the Governor & the far right. There may be a few that won’t go to Disney because they think it’s too “ woke”, but the pull of the mouse is too strong for the majority of Disney lovers to stay away. So sick of the overuse of “woke”!!
I love trips to Disney but lately its just been so hard to do it, on my phone for everything and hard to get food no lids for my drink it felt a survival experience my last trip. Im going to Vegas next few trips staying at the Cosmo where I can actually feel luxuriously pampered.
Cue the go woke go broke crowd. To me it’s just that it’s hotter than hot right now and nobody has extra money for things like disney with the economy/inflation. A small % may be due to the “woke” thing but I think most of it is heat and economics.
Um – its July in Florida – I went to Disney in the 90’s 00’s and 10’s – guess what it was hotter than H then too AND PEOPLE CAME! Yes the economy might have some impact – but keep thinking Disney spitting in the face of 50% of their customer base has nothing to do with it – to support your world view.
There you go again… not letting facts get in the way of your delusions. Given it’s the hottest summer on record, your theory is probably wrong. Majority of folk don’t base economic decisions on politics. If they did, places like Amazon and Walmart would be hurting.
The heat reasonings are ridiculous. People plan Disney trips months if not years in advance. People just don’t decide to take a trip on a weeks notice. As a DVC member, I’m definitely disappointed in their identity politics and agenda push. Deny the truth and ignore the facts, but all DeSantis did was defend parent’s rights and kids from something that schools have no buisiness teaching them.
Its about money, pure and simple. Has nothing to do with “woke” or any other political thing. People just simply can’t afford much in the way of leisure activities these days.
Since you can’t wrap your head around why parks are empty. There are several factors to consider. The economy is not strong and prices have grown on everything making entertainment less affordable. The surge from the post-pandemic has finally subsided, resulting in guests waiting for the walls to come down on all the new attractions. In Disney’s case, the expected issue with reservations is finally showing, locals with annual passes are booking reservations and then deciding the heat is too high to actually go, resulting in lower counts of guests actually going to parks than reservations allow. Florida is experiencing higher temperatures than normal. The political climate isn’t pleasant in Florida either, resulting in some people avoiding Florida. These are all reasons that attendance has been lower than expected.
Disney wants to cater to the elite by creating a system that takes away benefits for those with limited means and gives them to the wealthy. Iger again created a failed strategy and is now paying the price. Universal Studios attendance is strong with reasonable park ticket and annual pass pricing that’s attainable regarding of economic means and no reservations. Iger needs to go soon than later. The longer he stays and continues to destroy the Walt Disney Company the harder it will be to recover.
Haven’t been there in years and will never be back. Reasons? Service has gone severely South while prices have gone considerably North. That’s a lose, lose scenario. They no longer cater to kids or the family structure either. Pricing has far outpaced average wages making this the land of the wealthy and that’s why you observe the lack of patronage. This is only the beginning.
The family structure? What does that even mean. Disney has catered to non-traditional families for decades. There is a famous commercial starring Felisha Rashad and Malcom Warner and whatever Rudy’s name is…. It was as much geared towards single parents as anything… how do I know this… cause DISNEY SAID SO.
Disney gave the baptists the middle finger when they protested against Gay Days which weren’t even a Disney event.
Disney parks are for everyone to enjoy. What gives you the right to define ANYONE’S family?
No Disney is not for everyone and when I take it over, the parks will be private members-only clubs for the purists and traditionalists. Like the Augusta National Golf Club, home of The Masters
I totally agree. Disney has priced out individuals and especially families. It used to be a family place now you need to have 10k just for a week visit. My son wants to go but it is just too expensive
A lot of people both on the US and internationally have canceled trips to Florida because of Ron DeSantis. He’s put in place laws that are severly harming the tourism industry the state is based on. He’s made it clear Florida is not welcoming to people who aren’t white Christians.
It’s not just Disney, it is all of Florida, we got a bigot as governor and he shouts his hateful rhetoric anywhere and everywhere, there are travel advisory warning about coming to Florida…so all the “go woke, go broke” people need to shhh…all tourism is down, we are the only state whose inflation has gone up, etc…we are all going broke here
Nope, it’s all true, maybe if you focused on reality instead of a few issues that really don’t matter in the large scheme of things we here in Florida would ne in a better place.
Disney crossed the line when they decided it was okay to teach Pre-K through 3rd sexual content and called those who were against it against gays. People don’t want to support an organization that is supposed to be about children when it agrees with exploiting them. DeSantis stood up for our children and most parents are thankful for that! It’s hot and I am sure the heat is a small part of it, but I don’t think it’s the main reason! Those who hate DeSantis would be flooding Disney except that some actually care about their children!
We won’t be giving any of our money to Florida until DeSantis is gone and the political climate changes. Even though we live on the East Coast, Disneyland is the only park we’d consider visiting right now. Even if conditions in Florida change, whether or not we go to Disney will depend on costs. The base costs are very high for a family of 5, and now things that used to be included have additional charges. We’re upper middle class and still consider ourselves priced out of the parks.
There are no comments posted that I can see, so sorry if this was said already, but the reason the parks are empty is no one can figure out how to make all the reservations necessary to go on vacation. You have to make the reservation and then find a hotel and make a park reservation for every day that you’re there and then you don’t know what you’re gonna ride because you can’t make advance reservations and you can’t make advanced genie plus choices but then there’s lightning Lane and then there’s virtual l cues…oh and don’t forget you can’t park hop unti some arbitrary time of 2:00pm! Come on Disney. Do better. Please
Bingo. I miss the days of no reservations and paper fast passes. You need to be a computer scientist to figure it out now. And God help you if you are a first timer and don’t know which rides are best to reserve or how to get around.
Exactly, I am on vacation and do not have the time to be bothered with all of that, I just want to sit back relax and just ride the rides and see the shows. Not to mention, your phone battery dies before the end of the day with all the reservations and interaction needed. Just to complicated for most people that ARE NOT computer literate.
Perhaps Disney is too “woke” for many families! Disney should stay out of politics and focus on clean family entertainment and stop pushing the woke agenda
Yea ok, Tell that to Budweiser. The last several Disney movies have lost over 900 million dollars, is that because its too hot in the theaters’ or the movies are WOKE?
You not only went WOKE but most of the rides I favored you got rid of. I secretly think you’ve got something to do with the huge park fixing to go up in Oklahoma. Take them for parts you need. I can’t wait for you to leave Florida. We’ll be fine without you.
You have to be out of your mind to go there in the summer. The heat and (usual) lines are too much. You can spend 10 miserable hours waiting in line to ride 5 rides in 95 degree July, or you can pull your kids out of school and hit 5 rides before noon in 75 degree January.
Disney pricing has been outpacing inflation for many years. They are a business with a fixed supply and traditionally very high demand, so as long as the demand is there, prices will rise. Prices are roughly double what they were 10 years ago when I would buy 3 day passes for $99. Maybe they passed the sweet spot in their last price hike. It’s disgusting, it excludes all but wealthy families, or those able/willing to go into debt to experience Disney, but the alternative is 3 hour lines becoming the norm.
Same experience here, parks were far from empty last week! Also, woke theory is ridiculous and not supported by facts/data. The abnormal heat combined with navigating Igers reservation system, genie plus foolishness, and pricing are the main factors reducing attendance during prime months. Nothing approaching “empty” in any stretch of the imagination though.
My daughter and I were there last Thursday (7/20) and it wasn’t anything like that. Animal Kingdom nor Epcot. Ride wait times were still pretty high at most of the popular attractions at Epcot. Our Guardians of the Galaxy wait was into early afternoon from the virtual cue. I’m not sure what part of the park these people were in.
Now’s the time to go. I hope Disney survives Desantis. He’s destroying that state. Disney along with the hotels and restaurants surrounding it, employees a lot of people.
I’ve been saying this since the beginning of his term…Ron DiSantes is ruining our beloved Florida. Native Floridian here and you best believe I didn’t vote for this clown and never will. Vote him out. Let’s get back to our welcoming Fla attitude .
Maybe your Christo-fascist, hetero-normative, church-indoctrinated, abusive “family values”. Good thing your kind is dying off 😁 Meanwhile, the rest of us appreciate a vision of family that doesn’t unhome or attempt to “convert” their kids for not toeing some archaic 3000 year old line. Y’know, actual family values, that teaches people they’re worth being accepted no matter what they look like or who they fall in love with. Ohana family values. Have fun sitting in your basement raging online that the paradigm that encouraged your parents to beat you into submission is fading 😉
as aresident . soemone who is used to the hot weather. I am saying its way too hot to visit anywhere outside right now. its so hot it makes me sick just walking outside. not saying this is the the whole reason . I must say it definitely has an impact
The mere fact that the heat index in Central Florida has been hovering in excess of 100°- it is not surprising that folks do not want to be walking around a theme park.
I used to go every year for nine years in a row staying at Disney for 21 nights. It was my favourite place on earth. Now I’m priced out thanks to the sheer greed and miss management at Disney. A £80 per night room now £220. No way! And paying for fast passes! What a joke! Walt is spinning in his grave!
Ohhhhhhhh maybe it’s because these extremely high temperatures 🥵 🌡️ of 98 degrees and upwards to 103 degrees outside, but I’m no genius 🤷🏽♀️🙄 Ya’ll bloggers be acting so surprised 😲 😂 lol, when this literally happens every year !!!!!!
Was there this last week 7/16 and the crowds seem just as busy as always. Annual passholder/Florida resident, so we see crowds on a regular basis, higher I thought at all the parks
People are sick of the high prices, too complicated system for making reservations at the park for rides, Disney going woke and alienating their base consumer, Disney lost its magic. People are finding cheaper alternatives. Disney better rethink their marketing.
When were these photos taken? I’m guessing first thing in the morning when the park opened. How do we even know if they were taken recently? I’m asking because I was just there….and every park was crowded every day of my trip. So I’m calling BS and shame on you for it.
The fun of planning rides and getting fast pass is gone. Planning meals isn’t easy as you can only pick from rides that morning and you have to wake up at 7 am. NOPE Park reservations don’t allow for changing your mind of what park. It’s just not fun anymore. Having a drink is a no there isn’t a smoking section. I can with hold from smoking but I won’t have a drink.
I predict crowds will pick up in the fall. October is becoming the most popular month to go to DW because the weather is SO much better and many school kids get a fall break around that time.
Disney needs to revert back to walts original dream, not hollywood or online or social media. remake epcot truly into the experience it was inteded to be bring back what people miss and loved in the right way.
Stop trying to influence and start inspiring people again!.
It use to be such fun to go to Disney with family. Fast Pass was easy, just put in your park ticket and get a ticket when to come back to go on the ride.
Really no limitations, but now so many limitations and you pay more to get way less.
Shame on Disney for making it so difficult to Enjoy the parks.
We were at Hollywood Studios last week and it definitely was empty despite the 100 degree temperature. Wait times at most rides were still over 60 minutes. The parks may not be full to the brim but Disney is still making money.
There are many factors, many of them mentioned, but another is–and I have been saying this for years–the Disney Parks didn’t show any respect for the die-hard fans that were keeping them afloat. The systems are too complex to use, they started nickel-and-diming, and they instituted all sorts of other classless policies and charges; they also took away Magical Express, which was a huge draw. I was one of those people who visited two – three times a year, but I’ve watched these parks go downhill since 2018 and I’m no longer interested (2018 was my last visit). I said it back then: they’re not going to understand that they have basically dumped where they ate, but it was going to take a few years to see the result of that. They had no understanding of who was actually paying their bills. I am not alone in this. There are legions of die-hard park fans who will not go back, and that adds up. The thing about putting someone who only knows marketing in charge is that they think, ‘we’ll make big changes and sure, we’ll lose a few people, but it’ll get made up over time.’ That’s normal, if you have any understanding of marketing practice. The issue is that DISNEY PARKS DON’T WORK THAT WAY. Disney Parks are selling NOSTALGIA. Which means if you don’t cater to the die-hards, the die-hards stop bringing the younger generations, and then the younger generations don’t build nostalgia with their kids in turn down the line. They absolutely had no understanding of what their brand actually was. I’m not shocked to see the numbers dropping at all. I have been sitting here waiting for the result of their poor decisions to start showing up, and here it is.
I was just there and IT WAS CROWDED! What time was this photo taken?? Sometimes you hit areas that people have ducked inside for a rain shower or the HEAT is blistering and need a reprieve. I WISH it was this empty. Been an AP for almost 10 years now and the only time I have seen it partially empty was right after they opened after COVID.
Bring back the original annual passes for Florida residents. Make things the way they used to be and lower the prices for Florida residents. We live here and want to support our theme parks but the higher ups have become money hungry and making it impossible with today’s economy
Last year my wife told me that our trip to Disney was not a vacation but a job. No fun. Up early to use an app to see if you might get on a ride. We wanted to sleep in like we used to during Fastpass reservations. Luggage used to go to and from the room. Food service used to be better. I can go other places and enjoy a vacation for a lot less. I’m not even going to start on the loss of Walt’s original vision for the company.
no money here in Florida. between the cost of rent, food, home and auto insurance. very little left over for locals to go and take their children. just too expensive.
I too traveled to Disney 5 weeks a year back when rooms at value resorts were $65 -$89 per night and one sit down meal was enought to fill you until having a sunday following the fireworks. We do buy annual passes but had to drop to Pixie Pass as our former passes were just over $850 prior to Covid. We won’t miss weekend crowds where folks pay higher ticket prices. To save money we stay off property not in a small room like a Value or Moderate Resort but in a full Deluxe condo for $139 per night. Check out Westgate Resorts!!! We skip meals in the park now and drive to resturants on Rt192 having a full meal for the price of a Disney burger or turkey leg! We still pay the overpriced Disney merch prices because WE LOVE DISNEY, are stock holders and Winter in Florida. We try to make the under appreciated cast members feel they really are appreciated but when they attend the parks in groups as guests even they can be the unruly annoying guests when they mimic the sound tracks out loud during shows.
To help guests who drive to the parks for more than 16 days per year its pays you to buy an annual Pixie Pass for one person in your group. This pass offers free parking at the parks and gives discounts on food, drinks and merchandise by showing it to cashiers. Adults are allowed to order kids meals too for those liking smaller portions or light meals. Also iced water is free at any location serving drinks in cups. You can refill your water bottle with the free water rather than paying $4+ for bottled water. Hope you come to the parks and enjoy the magic only Disney can make.
The liberals here want you to think it’s the heat…it’s not. I am very familiar with these parks and it’s no hotter this year. It’s absolutely the result of pushing your liberal commie agenda on people. Period. There are FAR more Conservative people in this country try than liberal which further proves how ridiculous it is that Biden is in office.
Um, we’ve stayed away because Florida has become a joke. There are vastly more liberals and they can spend their money in a state that isn’t full of hate.
Listen people. I was at all the parks this summer. Plenty crowded. The problem is that people aren’t spending money anywhere, movies, vacations etc. when you have to drop so much money for groceries and essentials.
Walt Disney World’s prices have gotten so high, that it is impossible for people to visit. You have to pay a lot for just one park. I remember when a decent price allowed me to visit at least 3 parks.
Republicans lol I know people that work there and ever day it’s pack so haha try again all that is a joke … Or it’s been so Hot feeling like 103 how will you feel being out in that temperature ( heat stroke ) so think what you want Disney has been packed either when it is cooler or in the afternoon but not when it’s super hot …. Grow Up ..
High prices, lower amenities, (they have to pay Iger some how). Stop blaming Chapek – Iger sucks too. And guess what its Florida in the summer – ITS ALWAYS HOT AND HUMID. What the left does not want to admit is that Disney has spit on half their customer base. I have been to Disney too many times to count and worked for them – I’ll never go back until it changes DRASTICALLY.
We have been here 10 days and it was plenty busy… At the moment Hollywood has waits of 160, 130, 110, 95, 95, and 85 for the big rides.. and even 50+ for smaller ones. Other parks also have waits of 90 or 120+.
Anyone can find a pic or two of a less crowded time or area… that doesn’t make it news.
Native Floridian? What a joke! If you actually were for Florida, you would know that Desantis has done nothing but strengthen the economy and improve schools. You need to move to California and experience your wokeness firsthand…in other words, PLEASE LEAVE!
Everyone spent their savings in the rush to get out and travel in 2022, plus there was a lot of over-spending in 2022 on homes, cars, etc. It’s mostly economics. During this year’s ski season, we had record snowfall in the west (in Colorado, Utah and California) but attendance was down 33% from the rush of 2022, go figure?
To the owners of walt disney I’ve got 4 words for you “Go Woke Go Broke” that’s what you’ve accomplished. To those saying it’s the heat it’s always hot and humid in Florida it wouldn’t make any difference for water rides
THE ADMISSION IS ABSOLUTLEY RIDICULOUS AND OUT OF LINE. IN TODAYS WORLD OF INFLATION, WHO CAN AFFORD TO VISIT? COME ON “WALT” LETS BRING THOSE PRICES MORE INTO LINE.
It’s because we’ve had the hottest daily temps and “feels like” temperatures that we’ve had in a long time for at least the last 7 weeks. I’m sitting here right now 25 minutes from Disney, it’s 9pm, and it’s 81°F with a feels like temp of 86°F. It has been so much hotter than normal and high humidity but REALLY HIGH dew point making it so hard to be outside. It’s been almost a daily feels like temp of about 105 for these past 7 weeks. And that temp is that high by 11:00am. It is finally starting to get better. But really, it’s been so bad, my family has annual passes to both Disney and Universal Studios and we’ve only been to Disney 3 times in the last 2 months because of the heat. It’s too hot to even sit on my pool deck without getting into the pool at 8pm. We even stayed on property at universal studios with fast passes for a whole week and we went to the park (hubby, me and son) one half day before we were going to die from heat, then I tried taking just my son another day and we only made it maybe 3 hours? We spent the rest of the time at the hotel pool. The heat this year has been real. And I am not one to complain about heat trust me! I agree that the have been many changes in the way Disney is being run, but the heat this summer has really just made it dangerous and completely inhospitable to try to be at these parks.
Currently staying in the Disney World resort and have gone to Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Magic Kingdom these past several days. Epcot tomorrow. No idea what the author is talking about but it has been packed. The lightening lanes we going out well past (30-50 yards beyond) where you scan your ticket for Peter Pan and the Haunted Mansion. Crowds extremely thick where pushing a stroller and sticking with you party is a nightmare. Most lines are 60 plus minutes wait.
Maybe the author should write about the 100+ degree heat index instead. That has been brutal.
I’m not bringing my family to Florida any time soon. Way better places to spend our money and time. When y’all come to yer senses and stop bashing innocent kids who are different maybe we’ll come back. Until then we’ll go to Disneyland instead.
That’s BS. We were at both Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom last week and the lines were horrendous. And it was hot AF. People are still flocking to the parks. Go there for yourself and see.
It comes down to the tickets are two high half the rides are not working due to mechanical issues, even the value hotels are out of reach for most. Just came back from a visit after going for 30plus years will not be going back anytime soon if at all very disappointing.
What do you mean there is no explanation as to why the the parks were so empty? Like if the woke agenda didn’t have anything to do with it. People are speaking against this agenda with their money and Disney is seeing it, like Target and Bud Light. Is the author of this article really that blind and unable to see what is happening or is he just trying to hide the facts and distract us from the truth like so mainstream media sources are doing.
It’s time people woke up to the true meaning of that word, and not the negative spin many Republicans have placed on the word. Woke appeared as a reference to the lack of civil rights that many miorities felt, especially black people, in the late 40’s and 50’s. That’s when the word first appeared and its reference was that (those denied their civil rights) wanted to inform others in hopes that they “woke” up to the inequalities. Today it is used to mean anything that Republicans want to attack because they disagree with it. Want to raise the minimum wage – woke, want a health care system that provides a quality health care for all – woke, allowing all citizens to vote – woke, wanting the American people to believe that the January 6th assault on the Capitol actually happened – woke. It probably has more to do with the heat and the humidity, (reduced numbers at the parks)) – if you believe that travel to the parks and see just how empty they really are, or are not. Time to use the word woke for what it was intended and that we all woke up to the inequalities that still exist and address those issues. Not led to believe that woke is a political agenda of any group.
Let’s just not mention that this has been the hottest, muggiest summer in memory – occasionally since records of outdoor temps have been logged.
Ya’ll are going to wear that “woke” bs out.
~woke because I am outta bed drinking my coffee and catching up on my reading
No desire to support Florida these days and indirectly support the mini dictator and the hate he spews. If I want to go to Disney I would go to California.
It’s a combination of heat, price hikes, and polarization of values on both sides of the political spectrum. Disney never should have picked sides. Now everyone is upset with them. Also butchering EPCOT theming and removing Splash Mountain. That said I have no problem getting a passport and going to Japan for Disneyland and Disney Sea.
Think it might be people avoiding FLORIDA & DeSantis and the hate filled state it has become. Disney will be fine — They will move on — as people avoid the entire state!
The entire park reservation system has backfired in Disney co. With thie class action and the decline in attendance, along with the declining value of stock, Disney needs to reevaluate and just admit they made a mistake. End park reservations completely and offer free fast passes for on site guests. Fix what is broken Disney, stop trying to reinvent the wheel. Having bob read a few blogs would also be helpful. Since he is so completely detached from the reality of us regular folks going to Disney parks.
It’s interesting, that if you look at the pictures you can see the long shadows which means that these people were in early in the morning. Not during prime time – while I’m not suggesting the pictures don’t show what they show, the kingdom is an open till 8 am.
We are in a recession and essential things are over inflated. Not everyone has the money to spend on non-essential overpriced Disney or Uni! It’s that simple!
Ha, go anti-woke go broke and go home. Anyway attendance is down across all of Florida, most people have had enough of the no name governor that can’t even hold a twitter chat without it going wrong. High heat, high interest rates, low cash levels in peoples bank accounts, and more options mean Florida is not the hot spot it once was.
Omg!! Literally just came back from there a few days ago and the heat was unbearable for my little ones! The sun was so strong and we were all drenched in sweat, literally felt so gross and very uncomfortable!!
ONE WORD “BIDENOMICS”. People can’t afford groceries, fuel, utility bills, etc rising 50-100% inflation, and still expect to pay record prices for attendance.
I’ve been to Disney world maybe 20 times in my life the last time was 4 years ago until this past weekend. I was there this last Thursday, Friday Saturday, and Sunday my complaints were it was too many people? So I’m not sure where this coming from maybe the numbers as for as finances are down but the crowds are still there.
Inflation and fear of jobs being replaced by Artificial Intelligence might be some reasons for lack of attendance. As well, some people might not be visiting due to values conflict about Disney support of the LGBTQIA+ community.
We are Disney annual pass holders and have been for years. We stopped going to Disney during the summer last year (2022) simply because of the HEAT!!! I actually over heated twice and got sick. (I won’t go into details.) This had never happened before in past summers. So we are skipping this summer (2023) and will return when the heat index returns to more comfortable temps. Also, we are Disney contractors and they are keeping us busy!!
I live nearby the parks and it’s all about the weather right now. It’s way too hot to walk around the parks. Wait until late September, they will come.
Comments for Disney World Left Empty as Park Attendance Crumbles
Jim
Go woke go broke
AB
Please 🤫
jen
It’s not just Disney, it is all of Florida, we got a bigot as governor and he shouts his hateful rhetoric anywhere and everywhere, there are travel advisory warning about coming to Florida…so all the go women people need to shhhhh
JC
👏🏼
Dwayne
Cancelled our trip to Disney world because of the state of affairs in Florida don’t feel safe sending my family there went to Disney land on California and had a great time
Les
Go woke, go broke
phyllis dezember
Ahhhhh, you are such a baby!!!
B
Desantis has done nothing to stop free thinking people from going to Disneyworld. Disney shot themselves in the foot by raising prices and going woke. They are paying the price at parks and movies. In 2022, the US Census Bureau reported that Florida was the fastest growing state.
Jeeves
So why does Universal also have a drop in attendance?
John
Its nothing like Disney. They are no longer trustworthy caretakers of our children.
Fr d Savegry
Wow, those pics make Disney look as empty as some of the commenters heads. Folks, it’s not “go woke, go broke” it’s “Too hot, Disney not”. This website has turned to such trash articles and they know that there’s a certain group of people who won’t even read before commenting. If you don’t like Disney because of politics you should go to Universal. Universal, you know, the company that owns MSNBC. 🤣
Fr d Savegry
“caretakers” ??? Dude, it’s a theme park. Try raising your own kids.
Phil
Yes Pedophile paradise Theme park
Di
Seriously? Let children be children. Let people be whoever they want to be. NYB
JC
🤣
Patti
Sorry, am a local here, and much as I wish this story was true, it simply isn’t.
Steve
At what point did you stop thinking for yourself and let right wing talk show hosts take over your mind?
Alex
Desantis
Mark
Disney is hurting itself by shooting itself in the foot with all its involvement in woke and cancel culture, and child grooming. Disney is too attached to the Democratic Party and the news media. I believe millions of fans are migrating away from it. The leaders of Disney should be held accountable by stockholders.
Fr d Savegry
You should probably grow up .
Blackcatsmatter
When Disney revealed itself to be full of woke groomer pedos, the public lost interest. Not too hard to figure out.
Lori Nickel
Agreed
Elisa Di Carlo
No it’s deserted because any decent American will not put a dime into that Satanist Governor’s state. I am done with visiting Florida because of his hateful policies. Disney needs to find a new home
Susan Bakke
Really?? It’s hot that is all!😊
Milly
It’s Orlando! It I’d always hot.
Lisa
We have been to Disney about 6 times in 10 years. The last time we went was last February. Some of the staff was rude, some rides were closed and the fast passes and the genie pass were awful. It is not nearly as magical as it was and the prices went up considerably
Pat
The price keeps going up, less offered in entertainment at each park. The average family can’t afford it!!
Ann
Always hot. People fly to Disney ..Universal is 2nd.Go woke go broke.
Starlin
Florida lives on sales tax. People from other states aren’t going to spend money in Florida. I know I’m not.
Phil
Good, FL has enough hate filled liberal already. Stay Home
Karen
You got it
Lisa
Oh just stop with the “woke” bs. It’s simply too hot and humid to do anything in a theme park. Even in AC here in FL, it’s just gross. As a life long Floridian, I’ve seen plenty of July-Sept months that aren’t tolerable to do anything, including a trip to the beach. Don’t be ignorant!
StevenG
I wish this would reflect when trying to make dining reservations. Most places are booked at Disney. So how can that be if attendance is down? I’ll let ya all know the real story when I get back from my Disney World adventure. Also you all are using the word woke wrong. It means to be aware of your surroundings not being polite to people who are different than you.
Daryl Whipple
Thank you Steven!!! They have no idea what the word means. They don’t even know what they are saying when they use it.
Kk
Thank you! Some people are so ignorant.
Lisa337
And when hasn’t it been hot?
JC
In case you’ve been under a rock lately, we’re on our 43rd consecutive day of a heatwave with temperatures staying in real feel of the 100’s, which has actually never happened before. So, yeah, it’s hot, and people don’t want to walk around outside if they have any sense.
Lois
Besides that, Disneyland is priced for the rich. To take my grand kids it would cost me well over 10,000. So I guess they’ll see Disneyland in my life time. So sad!!!
Michael
BULL… Was just there yesterday, busy as usual.
Jump on the app today, similar wait times. 95mins for space mountain and even haunted mansion.
Get a grip. It’s all lies.
Jae
And don’t be woke. Hot or not that’s not increasing any sales.
Jae
What I think is pretty great is the ticket sales for sound of freedom movie. Thanks Disney.
Bill
I think you should be more concerned about the churches in Florida being pedophile paradise. . .
D
Amen
Ann
100% Families are sick of the woke agenda. Leave our kids out of it!
Julie Wettstein
Wrong! I live here too & the parks are always crowded. July & August are miserably hot plus Florida is NOT viewed positively nationally, thanks to the Governor & the far right. There may be a few that won’t go to Disney because they think it’s too “ woke”, but the pull of the mouse is too strong for the majority of Disney lovers to stay away. So sick of the overuse of “woke”!!
Cindy
🤦♀️
Rachel Day
I love trips to Disney but lately its just been so hard to do it, on my phone for everything and hard to get food no lids for my drink it felt a survival experience my last trip. Im going to Vegas next few trips staying at the Cosmo where I can actually feel luxuriously pampered.
Kevin
Cue the go woke go broke crowd. To me it’s just that it’s hotter than hot right now and nobody has extra money for things like disney with the economy/inflation. A small % may be due to the “woke” thing but I think most of it is heat and economics.
Walt
Um – its July in Florida – I went to Disney in the 90’s 00’s and 10’s – guess what it was hotter than H then too AND PEOPLE CAME! Yes the economy might have some impact – but keep thinking Disney spitting in the face of 50% of their customer base has nothing to do with it – to support your world view.
Bob
There you go again… not letting facts get in the way of your delusions. Given it’s the hottest summer on record, your theory is probably wrong. Majority of folk don’t base economic decisions on politics. If they did, places like Amazon and Walmart would be hurting.
Who,me?
The heat reasonings are ridiculous. People plan Disney trips months if not years in advance. People just don’t decide to take a trip on a weeks notice. As a DVC member, I’m definitely disappointed in their identity politics and agenda push. Deny the truth and ignore the facts, but all DeSantis did was defend parent’s rights and kids from something that schools have no buisiness teaching them.
Drew
Pretty sure I’m not following that you think Disney needs to be political. You guys have been sucking on the Kool-Aid for too long
Lindsay
Its about money, pure and simple. Has nothing to do with “woke” or any other political thing. People just simply can’t afford much in the way of leisure activities these days.
Susan Bakke
Agree Kevin. Good reply.
Fr d Savegry
Kevin stop letting your fact get in the way of other people’s bs.
Phil
Economics? Joey said the economy is booming, oh silly me that’s just lies for his ignorant sheep to believe
Laura
Economics and people boycotting Florida in general!!!
Cheryl
People boycotting Florida? What part do you go to? I guarantee Dunedin and Clearwater are packed. It was the busiest winter and spring I remember.
Patti
We’re sick of too many people coming here. STAY HOME!
Harvey Householder
Since you can’t wrap your head around why parks are empty. There are several factors to consider. The economy is not strong and prices have grown on everything making entertainment less affordable. The surge from the post-pandemic has finally subsided, resulting in guests waiting for the walls to come down on all the new attractions. In Disney’s case, the expected issue with reservations is finally showing, locals with annual passes are booking reservations and then deciding the heat is too high to actually go, resulting in lower counts of guests actually going to parks than reservations allow. Florida is experiencing higher temperatures than normal. The political climate isn’t pleasant in Florida either, resulting in some people avoiding Florida. These are all reasons that attendance has been lower than expected.
Pocho Villa
Disney wants to cater to the elite by creating a system that takes away benefits for those with limited means and gives them to the wealthy. Iger again created a failed strategy and is now paying the price. Universal Studios attendance is strong with reasonable park ticket and annual pass pricing that’s attainable regarding of economic means and no reservations. Iger needs to go soon than later. The longer he stays and continues to destroy the Walt Disney Company the harder it will be to recover.
AB
He’s way better than Bob PAYCHECK but let me drink water and mind my business
Fr d Savegry
Or it’s hot… probably the later.
Sam
You do realize it has been 1,000 degrees in the shade recently right?
FoxyGranna
Thank you👍🏽
Leserlie
So true. I was just in Florida last week and my kid and I almost passed out from the heat. We’re used to humid hot but it’s horrible right now.
Lee
Haven’t been there in years and will never be back. Reasons? Service has gone severely South while prices have gone considerably North. That’s a lose, lose scenario. They no longer cater to kids or the family structure either. Pricing has far outpaced average wages making this the land of the wealthy and that’s why you observe the lack of patronage. This is only the beginning.
John Smith
Nobody is going to miss you, Lee.
John Smyth
I will miss you, Lee.
Bob
The family structure? What does that even mean. Disney has catered to non-traditional families for decades. There is a famous commercial starring Felisha Rashad and Malcom Warner and whatever Rudy’s name is…. It was as much geared towards single parents as anything… how do I know this… cause DISNEY SAID SO.
Disney gave the baptists the middle finger when they protested against Gay Days which weren’t even a Disney event.
Disney parks are for everyone to enjoy. What gives you the right to define ANYONE’S family?
Steve
No Disney is not for everyone and when I take it over, the parks will be private members-only clubs for the purists and traditionalists. Like the Augusta National Golf Club, home of The Masters
Dennis
I totally agree. Disney has priced out individuals and especially families. It used to be a family place now you need to have 10k just for a week visit. My son wants to go but it is just too expensive
Michael
A lot of people both on the US and internationally have canceled trips to Florida because of Ron DeSantis. He’s put in place laws that are severly harming the tourism industry the state is based on. He’s made it clear Florida is not welcoming to people who aren’t white Christians.
Not-A-Sheep
Absolute lie.
jen
It’s not just Disney, it is all of Florida, we got a bigot as governor and he shouts his hateful rhetoric anywhere and everywhere, there are travel advisory warning about coming to Florida…so all the “go woke, go broke” people need to shhh…all tourism is down, we are the only state whose inflation has gone up, etc…we are all going broke here
jen
Nope, it’s all true, maybe if you focused on reality instead of a few issues that really don’t matter in the large scheme of things we here in Florida would ne in a better place.
Starlin
True
Starlin
That’s why I will never spend a penny in Florida. Ron desaintimoneous
Phil
Good STAY HOME
Rhonda
Disney crossed the line when they decided it was okay to teach Pre-K through 3rd sexual content and called those who were against it against gays. People don’t want to support an organization that is supposed to be about children when it agrees with exploiting them. DeSantis stood up for our children and most parents are thankful for that! It’s hot and I am sure the heat is a small part of it, but I don’t think it’s the main reason! Those who hate DeSantis would be flooding Disney except that some actually care about their children!
Fr d Savegry
Yeah, you should seek help. I often worry about those that are obsessed with one topic. They are usually the ones you don’t want your children around.
jen
🙄🙄🙄🙄
Rachel
We won’t be giving any of our money to Florida until DeSantis is gone and the political climate changes. Even though we live on the East Coast, Disneyland is the only park we’d consider visiting right now. Even if conditions in Florida change, whether or not we go to Disney will depend on costs. The base costs are very high for a family of 5, and now things that used to be included have additional charges. We’re upper middle class and still consider ourselves priced out of the parks.
Phil
Great news FL doesn’t want you
Patti
That’s hilarious. You watch t oo much political crap. We are very diverse!
Ayla
There are plenty of explanations you just don’t want to say them
Andria
There are no comments posted that I can see, so sorry if this was said already, but the reason the parks are empty is no one can figure out how to make all the reservations necessary to go on vacation. You have to make the reservation and then find a hotel and make a park reservation for every day that you’re there and then you don’t know what you’re gonna ride because you can’t make advance reservations and you can’t make advanced genie plus choices but then there’s lightning Lane and then there’s virtual l cues…oh and don’t forget you can’t park hop unti some arbitrary time of 2:00pm! Come on Disney. Do better. Please
Steve
Bingo. I miss the days of no reservations and paper fast passes. You need to be a computer scientist to figure it out now. And God help you if you are a first timer and don’t know which rides are best to reserve or how to get around.
John Smith
The parks aren’t empty. Reservations are not difficult. Why do you buy into this type of false propaganda?
Bennett
I agree. These pictures must have been taken at dawn. Attendance may be lower due to economic factors but WDW is from empty.
AB
Toooo many reservations for everything
Cate58
Exactly, I am on vacation and do not have the time to be bothered with all of that, I just want to sit back relax and just ride the rides and see the shows. Not to mention, your phone battery dies before the end of the day with all the reservations and interaction needed. Just to complicated for most people that ARE NOT computer literate.
Annie H
Perhaps Disney is too “woke” for many families! Disney should stay out of politics and focus on clean family entertainment and stop pushing the woke agenda
John Smith
Perhaps you are clueless if you believe in Go Woke, Go Broke.
Doug
Yeah, Mike Lindell is the most unwokenist and he’s quickly becoming the most brokeist.
Phil
Yea ok, Tell that to Budweiser. The last several Disney movies have lost over 900 million dollars, is that because its too hot in the theaters’ or the movies are WOKE?
SW
Just there for a week. It was packed the entire time. I do not know where you get this
Betty Harper
The comment Disney is empty is a lie
You’re a DeSantis supporter
Irresponsible to use your platform lying
Joe Mac
Wow
MargieT
You not only went WOKE but most of the rides I favored you got rid of. I secretly think you’ve got something to do with the huge park fixing to go up in Oklahoma. Take them for parts you need. I can’t wait for you to leave Florida. We’ll be fine without you.
Bob
What are you even talking about? Is this seriously what Florida public schools produce? You’re a Q anon nutter aren’t you?
Steve
You have to be out of your mind to go there in the summer. The heat and (usual) lines are too much. You can spend 10 miserable hours waiting in line to ride 5 rides in 95 degree July, or you can pull your kids out of school and hit 5 rides before noon in 75 degree January.
Dawn
Isn’t it 1000 degrees and humid in Florida right now?
AB
Yesssssssssssssssss hot 🥵
Steve
Disney pricing has been outpacing inflation for many years. They are a business with a fixed supply and traditionally very high demand, so as long as the demand is there, prices will rise. Prices are roughly double what they were 10 years ago when I would buy 3 day passes for $99. Maybe they passed the sweet spot in their last price hike. It’s disgusting, it excludes all but wealthy families, or those able/willing to go into debt to experience Disney, but the alternative is 3 hour lines becoming the norm.
Deborah Beck
Was just at WDW last week. It was NOT empty even with rain everyday. We saw rides with wait times up to 2+ hours.
Dr. Bruner
Same experience here, parks were far from empty last week! Also, woke theory is ridiculous and not supported by facts/data. The abnormal heat combined with navigating Igers reservation system, genie plus foolishness, and pricing are the main factors reducing attendance during prime months. Nothing approaching “empty” in any stretch of the imagination though.
Fr d Savegry
Yeah, you should seek help. I often worry about those that are obsessed with one topic. They are usually the ones you don’t want your children around.
MicSin
My daughter and I were there last Thursday (7/20) and it wasn’t anything like that. Animal Kingdom nor Epcot. Ride wait times were still pretty high at most of the popular attractions at Epcot. Our Guardians of the Galaxy wait was into early afternoon from the virtual cue. I’m not sure what part of the park these people were in.
Tammy
Now’s the time to go. I hope Disney survives Desantis. He’s destroying that state. Disney along with the hotels and restaurants surrounding it, employees a lot of people.
Laura
I’ve been saying this since the beginning of his term…Ron DiSantes is ruining our beloved Florida. Native Floridian here and you best believe I didn’t vote for this clown and never will. Vote him out. Let’s get back to our welcoming Fla attitude .
Jen
Good the company needs to suffer
Christopher Ducey
Why would somebody want to visit Florida? Disney should move someplace where they’re appreciated.
RAP
Disney abandoned the family values. People are going elsewhere.
Nunya
Maybe your Christo-fascist, hetero-normative, church-indoctrinated, abusive “family values”. Good thing your kind is dying off 😁 Meanwhile, the rest of us appreciate a vision of family that doesn’t unhome or attempt to “convert” their kids for not toeing some archaic 3000 year old line. Y’know, actual family values, that teaches people they’re worth being accepted no matter what they look like or who they fall in love with. Ohana family values. Have fun sitting in your basement raging online that the paradigm that encouraged your parents to beat you into submission is fading 😉
Cindy
Good, Maybe now they can drop the Parking Cees!!
crazyhot
as aresident . soemone who is used to the hot weather. I am saying its way too hot to visit anywhere outside right now. its so hot it makes me sick just walking outside. not saying this is the the whole reason . I must say it definitely has an impact
JC Mills
The mere fact that the heat index in Central Florida has been hovering in excess of 100°- it is not surprising that folks do not want to be walking around a theme park.
Michelle
Maybe it has something to do with their ticket price increase! How is that not mentioned in anything? Seems logical.
Mike
I used to go every year for nine years in a row staying at Disney for 21 nights. It was my favourite place on earth. Now I’m priced out thanks to the sheer greed and miss management at Disney. A £80 per night room now £220. No way! And paying for fast passes! What a joke! Walt is spinning in his grave!
AB
Ohhhhhhhh maybe it’s because these extremely high temperatures 🥵 🌡️ of 98 degrees and upwards to 103 degrees outside, but I’m no genius 🤷🏽♀️🙄 Ya’ll bloggers be acting so surprised 😲 😂 lol, when this literally happens every year !!!!!!
Dawn
Was there this last week 7/16 and the crowds seem just as busy as always. Annual passholder/Florida resident, so we see crowds on a regular basis, higher I thought at all the parks
Stephanie
People are sick of the high prices, too complicated system for making reservations at the park for rides, Disney going woke and alienating their base consumer, Disney lost its magic. People are finding cheaper alternatives. Disney better rethink their marketing.
Jane
When were these photos taken? I’m guessing first thing in the morning when the park opened. How do we even know if they were taken recently? I’m asking because I was just there….and every park was crowded every day of my trip. So I’m calling BS and shame on you for it.
Barbars
The fun of planning rides and getting fast pass is gone. Planning meals isn’t easy as you can only pick from rides that morning and you have to wake up at 7 am. NOPE Park reservations don’t allow for changing your mind of what park. It’s just not fun anymore. Having a drink is a no there isn’t a smoking section. I can with hold from smoking but I won’t have a drink.
Eugenia Fleisher
I predict crowds will pick up in the fall. October is becoming the most popular month to go to DW because the weather is SO much better and many school kids get a fall break around that time.
Reo
Wasn’t it over a 100 degrees?
E
Not true. I was at Disney all of last week. It was hot and it was packed.
Willowbane
Disney needs to revert back to walts original dream, not hollywood or online or social media. remake epcot truly into the experience it was inteded to be bring back what people miss and loved in the right way.
Stop trying to influence and start inspiring people again!.
Rosie
It use to be such fun to go to Disney with family. Fast Pass was easy, just put in your park ticket and get a ticket when to come back to go on the ride.
Really no limitations, but now so many limitations and you pay more to get way less.
Shame on Disney for making it so difficult to Enjoy the parks.
James Conn
We were at Hollywood Studios last week and it definitely was empty despite the 100 degree temperature. Wait times at most rides were still over 60 minutes. The parks may not be full to the brim but Disney is still making money.
Kristi Petersen Schoonover
There are many factors, many of them mentioned, but another is–and I have been saying this for years–the Disney Parks didn’t show any respect for the die-hard fans that were keeping them afloat. The systems are too complex to use, they started nickel-and-diming, and they instituted all sorts of other classless policies and charges; they also took away Magical Express, which was a huge draw. I was one of those people who visited two – three times a year, but I’ve watched these parks go downhill since 2018 and I’m no longer interested (2018 was my last visit). I said it back then: they’re not going to understand that they have basically dumped where they ate, but it was going to take a few years to see the result of that. They had no understanding of who was actually paying their bills. I am not alone in this. There are legions of die-hard park fans who will not go back, and that adds up. The thing about putting someone who only knows marketing in charge is that they think, ‘we’ll make big changes and sure, we’ll lose a few people, but it’ll get made up over time.’ That’s normal, if you have any understanding of marketing practice. The issue is that DISNEY PARKS DON’T WORK THAT WAY. Disney Parks are selling NOSTALGIA. Which means if you don’t cater to the die-hards, the die-hards stop bringing the younger generations, and then the younger generations don’t build nostalgia with their kids in turn down the line. They absolutely had no understanding of what their brand actually was. I’m not shocked to see the numbers dropping at all. I have been sitting here waiting for the result of their poor decisions to start showing up, and here it is.
Jeeves
As I write this the line for Rocknroller Coaster is 85 minutes and Tower of terror is 90 minutes. Doesn’t sound empty to me.
Becky
I was just there and IT WAS CROWDED! What time was this photo taken?? Sometimes you hit areas that people have ducked inside for a rain shower or the HEAT is blistering and need a reprieve. I WISH it was this empty. Been an AP for almost 10 years now and the only time I have seen it partially empty was right after they opened after COVID.
Brenda Mares
Bring back the original annual passes for Florida residents. Make things the way they used to be and lower the prices for Florida residents
Brenda Mares
Bring back the original annual passes for Florida residents. Make things the way they used to be and lower the prices for Florida residents. We live here and want to support our theme parks but the higher ups have become money hungry and making it impossible with today’s economy
RAP
Disney abandoned the family values. People are going elsewhere.
Richard
Last year my wife told me that our trip to Disney was not a vacation but a job. No fun. Up early to use an app to see if you might get on a ride. We wanted to sleep in like we used to during Fastpass reservations. Luggage used to go to and from the room. Food service used to be better. I can go other places and enjoy a vacation for a lot less. I’m not even going to start on the loss of Walt’s original vision for the company.
jn
no money here in Florida. between the cost of rent, food, home and auto insurance. very little left over for locals to go and take their children. just too expensive.
Paul and Bob
I too traveled to Disney 5 weeks a year back when rooms at value resorts were $65 -$89 per night and one sit down meal was enought to fill you until having a sunday following the fireworks. We do buy annual passes but had to drop to Pixie Pass as our former passes were just over $850 prior to Covid. We won’t miss weekend crowds where folks pay higher ticket prices. To save money we stay off property not in a small room like a Value or Moderate Resort but in a full Deluxe condo for $139 per night. Check out Westgate Resorts!!! We skip meals in the park now and drive to resturants on Rt192 having a full meal for the price of a Disney burger or turkey leg! We still pay the overpriced Disney merch prices because WE LOVE DISNEY, are stock holders and Winter in Florida. We try to make the under appreciated cast members feel they really are appreciated but when they attend the parks in groups as guests even they can be the unruly annoying guests when they mimic the sound tracks out loud during shows.
To help guests who drive to the parks for more than 16 days per year its pays you to buy an annual Pixie Pass for one person in your group. This pass offers free parking at the parks and gives discounts on food, drinks and merchandise by showing it to cashiers. Adults are allowed to order kids meals too for those liking smaller portions or light meals. Also iced water is free at any location serving drinks in cups. You can refill your water bottle with the free water rather than paying $4+ for bottled water. Hope you come to the parks and enjoy the magic only Disney can make.
Joe
The liberals here want you to think it’s the heat…it’s not. I am very familiar with these parks and it’s no hotter this year. It’s absolutely the result of pushing your liberal commie agenda on people. Period. There are FAR more Conservative people in this country try than liberal which further proves how ridiculous it is that Biden is in office.
Brian V
Um, we’ve stayed away because Florida has become a joke. There are vastly more liberals and they can spend their money in a state that isn’t full of hate.
Tink
Listen people. I was at all the parks this summer. Plenty crowded. The problem is that people aren’t spending money anywhere, movies, vacations etc. when you have to drop so much money for groceries and essentials.
Mom
The problem is that people aren’t spending money anywhere, movies, vacations etc. when you have to drop so much money for groceries and essentials.
Weezy
Restore to families the free perks and stop bowing to the woke agenda and people will return.
Randy Hodo
It’s hot as Hell there. And, the humidity only makes it worse.
Trenton Wilkins
I would imagine the heat is the main reason. I’m an annual passholder and FL resident. EPCOT was packed during the late afternoon on the 15th.
JW
Walt Disney World’s prices have gotten so high, that it is impossible for people to visit. You have to pay a lot for just one park. I remember when a decent price allowed me to visit at least 3 parks.
Michelle
Republicans lol I know people that work there and ever day it’s pack so haha try again all that is a joke … Or it’s been so Hot feeling like 103 how will you feel being out in that temperature ( heat stroke ) so think what you want Disney has been packed either when it is cooler or in the afternoon but not when it’s super hot …. Grow Up ..
Walt
High prices, lower amenities, (they have to pay Iger some how). Stop blaming Chapek – Iger sucks too. And guess what its Florida in the summer – ITS ALWAYS HOT AND HUMID. What the left does not want to admit is that Disney has spit on half their customer base. I have been to Disney too many times to count and worked for them – I’ll never go back until it changes DRASTICALLY.
Micah
The parks are not empty.
We have been here 10 days and it was plenty busy… At the moment Hollywood has waits of 160, 130, 110, 95, 95, and 85 for the big rides.. and even 50+ for smaller ones. Other parks also have waits of 90 or 120+.
Anyone can find a pic or two of a less crowded time or area… that doesn’t make it news.
Micah
And now Tower of Terror is up to a 210 min wait (3.5 hours)… on a Monday by the way. Not busy?
Vicki Anderson
Why do people wait so long in this heat for rides? Obviously I’m not a DW fan.
ＪＰＫ
“There’s truly no explanation as to why the theme parks were so empty.”
And then, in light of Disney’s latent sociopolitical decisions, let’s say that again 𝘴𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘺.
Actual Floridian
Native Floridian? What a joke! If you actually were for Florida, you would know that Desantis has done nothing but strengthen the economy and improve schools. You need to move to California and experience your wokeness firsthand…in other words, PLEASE LEAVE!
Sunny
OK boomer
.
No
Sunny
Everyone spent their savings in the rush to get out and travel in 2022, plus there was a lot of over-spending in 2022 on homes, cars, etc. It’s mostly economics. During this year’s ski season, we had record snowfall in the west (in Colorado, Utah and California) but attendance was down 33% from the rush of 2022, go figure?
Darrel
To the owners of walt disney I’ve got 4 words for you “Go Woke Go Broke” that’s what you’ve accomplished. To those saying it’s the heat it’s always hot and humid in Florida it wouldn’t make any difference for water rides
WALT
THE ADMISSION IS ABSOLUTLEY RIDICULOUS AND OUT OF LINE. IN TODAYS WORLD OF INFLATION, WHO CAN AFFORD TO VISIT? COME ON “WALT” LETS BRING THOSE PRICES MORE INTO LINE.
Rachel
It’s because we’ve had the hottest daily temps and “feels like” temperatures that we’ve had in a long time for at least the last 7 weeks. I’m sitting here right now 25 minutes from Disney, it’s 9pm, and it’s 81°F with a feels like temp of 86°F. It has been so much hotter than normal and high humidity but REALLY HIGH dew point making it so hard to be outside. It’s been almost a daily feels like temp of about 105 for these past 7 weeks. And that temp is that high by 11:00am. It is finally starting to get better. But really, it’s been so bad, my family has annual passes to both Disney and Universal Studios and we’ve only been to Disney 3 times in the last 2 months because of the heat. It’s too hot to even sit on my pool deck without getting into the pool at 8pm. We even stayed on property at universal studios with fast passes for a whole week and we went to the park (hubby, me and son) one half day before we were going to die from heat, then I tried taking just my son another day and we only made it maybe 3 hours? We spent the rest of the time at the hotel pool. The heat this year has been real. And I am not one to complain about heat trust me! I agree that the have been many changes in the way Disney is being run, but the heat this summer has really just made it dangerous and completely inhospitable to try to be at these parks.
Amy
We were at HS uesterday and it was definitely NOT empty…wait times were over an hour for almost everything…even higher for several ridea.
Hunter
Currently staying in the Disney World resort and have gone to Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Magic Kingdom these past several days. Epcot tomorrow. No idea what the author is talking about but it has been packed. The lightening lanes we going out well past (30-50 yards beyond) where you scan your ticket for Peter Pan and the Haunted Mansion. Crowds extremely thick where pushing a stroller and sticking with you party is a nightmare. Most lines are 60 plus minutes wait.
Maybe the author should write about the 100+ degree heat index instead. That has been brutal.
J. Mela
+1. Had the same experience last week. Lines and heat.
Robin McDaniel
It’s elementary Dear Watson, It’s the FREAKING HEAT!
STOP PUTTING A POLITICAL SPIN ON EVERYTHING.
We are roasting under a heat dome across the south, who wants to go out and play in that?
Summer is coming to a close and parents are spending money on back to school.
Brent S
I’m not bringing my family to Florida any time soon. Way better places to spend our money and time. When y’all come to yer senses and stop bashing innocent kids who are different maybe we’ll come back. Until then we’ll go to Disneyland instead.
Brian V
This! Won’t go back as long as Florida is a banana republic.
J. Mela
That’s BS. We were at both Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom last week and the lines were horrendous. And it was hot AF. People are still flocking to the parks. Go there for yourself and see.
Deba
It comes down to the tickets are two high half the rides are not working due to mechanical issues, even the value hotels are out of reach for most. Just came back from a visit after going for 30plus years will not be going back anytime soon if at all very disappointing.
Kari
This is Ron DeSantis and I approve this message 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Stephanie
F around and find out ! Keeping woke bs away from our kids !!
.
No
Scarlett
And Disney stock is still at $86. Says it all
Sharon
All it takes is one crazy wayward governor to bring down a whole industry/economy. Get him out of office!
Gloria
What do you mean there is no explanation as to why the the parks were so empty? Like if the woke agenda didn’t have anything to do with it. People are speaking against this agenda with their money and Disney is seeing it, like Target and Bud Light. Is the author of this article really that blind and unable to see what is happening or is he just trying to hide the facts and distract us from the truth like so mainstream media sources are doing.
Dan
It’s time people woke up to the true meaning of that word, and not the negative spin many Republicans have placed on the word. Woke appeared as a reference to the lack of civil rights that many miorities felt, especially black people, in the late 40’s and 50’s. That’s when the word first appeared and its reference was that (those denied their civil rights) wanted to inform others in hopes that they “woke” up to the inequalities. Today it is used to mean anything that Republicans want to attack because they disagree with it. Want to raise the minimum wage – woke, want a health care system that provides a quality health care for all – woke, allowing all citizens to vote – woke, wanting the American people to believe that the January 6th assault on the Capitol actually happened – woke. It probably has more to do with the heat and the humidity, (reduced numbers at the parks)) – if you believe that travel to the parks and see just how empty they really are, or are not. Time to use the word woke for what it was intended and that we all woke up to the inequalities that still exist and address those issues. Not led to believe that woke is a political agenda of any group.
Rick
Too hot for the theme park??? Movie theaters are air conditioned. How are Disney movies doing??? People are just protecting their children. Wake up!
JayB
Let’s just not mention that this has been the hottest, muggiest summer in memory – occasionally since records of outdoor temps have been logged.
Ya’ll are going to wear that “woke” bs out.
~woke because I am outta bed drinking my coffee and catching up on my reading
Synjunsmythe
It’s always Too Hot in July, August, in Florida, it’s not political Disney gives Florida residents discount only at this time.🤡✌️
Brian V
No desire to support Florida these days and indirectly support the mini dictator and the hate he spews. If I want to go to Disney I would go to California.
Pikachu
It’s a combination of heat, price hikes, and polarization of values on both sides of the political spectrum. Disney never should have picked sides. Now everyone is upset with them. Also butchering EPCOT theming and removing Splash Mountain. That said I have no problem getting a passport and going to Japan for Disneyland and Disney Sea.
Cindy
Think it might be people avoiding FLORIDA & DeSantis and the hate filled state it has become. Disney will be fine — They will move on — as people avoid the entire state!
John
Inflation.
Nobody has disposable income.
Savings is dead.
Ann
The entire park reservation system has backfired in Disney co. With thie class action and the decline in attendance, along with the declining value of stock, Disney needs to reevaluate and just admit they made a mistake. End park reservations completely and offer free fast passes for on site guests. Fix what is broken Disney, stop trying to reinvent the wheel. Having bob read a few blogs would also be helpful. Since he is so completely detached from the reality of us regular folks going to Disney parks.
Drew
It’s interesting, that if you look at the pictures you can see the long shadows which means that these people were in early in the morning. Not during prime time – while I’m not suggesting the pictures don’t show what they show, the kingdom is an open till 8 am.
Hc LABROCK
What a BS story Parks are as busy as ever. Just check the Wait times on the Disney app.
I go every month and it’s as busy as ever.
Sherry
Too damn expensive
John De
We are in a recession and essential things are over inflated. Not everyone has the money to spend on non-essential overpriced Disney or Uni! It’s that simple!
Ron Saints
Ha, go anti-woke go broke and go home. Anyway attendance is down across all of Florida, most people have had enough of the no name governor that can’t even hold a twitter chat without it going wrong. High heat, high interest rates, low cash levels in peoples bank accounts, and more options mean Florida is not the hot spot it once was.
Diana
Omg!! Literally just came back from there a few days ago and the heat was unbearable for my little ones! The sun was so strong and we were all drenched in sweat, literally felt so gross and very uncomfortable!!
It's me
ONE WORD “BIDENOMICS”. People can’t afford groceries, fuel, utility bills, etc rising 50-100% inflation, and still expect to pay record prices for attendance.
Lorraine
It’s just too hot pribly 140′ degrees in the pavement. Not safe. I live here you stay in AC.
Rod
I’ve been to Disney world maybe 20 times in my life the last time was 4 years ago until this past weekend. I was there this last Thursday, Friday Saturday, and Sunday my complaints were it was too many people? So I’m not sure where this coming from maybe the numbers as for as finances are down but the crowds are still there.
Craig
This is a lie. My dad just came back from Disney world for a week and a half. He waited in lines for 2-3 hours to get on rides.
Rose
It’s 110 degrees outside. No one wants to stand in line for hours. Forget that. I don’t like people that much.
Jack
Inflation and fear of jobs being replaced by Artificial Intelligence might be some reasons for lack of attendance. As well, some people might not be visiting due to values conflict about Disney support of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Kathi
I was just at Disney World 2 weeks ago, I still had to wait 90 minutes or more to get on some of the rides!
Rebecca Wittenmyer
I was just at Disney World on Monday July 24 and it was NOT EMPTY AT ALL!! Space Mountain was supposed to be a 90 minute wait…it was 2.5 hours!!
Kathryn
We are Disney annual pass holders and have been for years. We stopped going to Disney during the summer last year (2022) simply because of the HEAT!!! I actually over heated twice and got sick. (I won’t go into details.) This had never happened before in past summers. So we are skipping this summer (2023) and will return when the heat index returns to more comfortable temps. Also, we are Disney contractors and they are keeping us busy!!
Walt
hahahahhaa satanist governors state? I think you better check the scriptures ad see what types of behavior are associated with satan.
D
I live nearby the parks and it’s all about the weather right now. It’s way too hot to walk around the parks. Wait until late September, they will come.
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