From quick bites like fresh fruit and snack stands offering warm pretzels to quick-service spots serving unique dishes like Cheeseburger Pods, and full-service restaurants with unforgettable, mouthwatering menus, the choices are endless.
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With such a wide array of options, there’s no shortage of choices to fit nearly any budget.
Yet, recent discussions online suggest that rising costs may be steering guests away from the table-service restaurants that were once in high demand.
Marathon Weekend, one of Disney’s most crowded annual events, has revealed an unexpected trend: surprising availability at typically hard-to-book dining locations. With the cost of a Disney trip climbing higher each year, fans are starting to ask: are Disney dining prices too steep?
Marathon Weekend Reservations Shock Guests
Marathon Weekend is a signature event at Walt Disney World, drawing runners and spectators from across the globe. Historically, securing a dining reservation during this busy time required careful planning and often involved a dash of pixie dust. However, this year tells a different story.
Twitter user @disneytipsguy shared a snapshot of the startling availability, sparking debate among Disney fans:
“Has Disney pricing killed table service dining?
Look at all the availability for next Sunday on a RACE weekend!
Remember how hard it was to get reservations 60 days in advance in the past? Wow!”
Has Disney pricing killed table service dining?
Look at all the availability for next Sunday on a RACE weekend!
Remember how hard it was to get reservations 60 days in advance in the past? Wow! pic.twitter.com/I8anSfbOr3
— Disney Clips Guy (@disneytipsguy) January 4, 2025
The post quickly went viral, with fans expressing surprise at how easy it was to book coveted dining experiences during one of the busiest weekends of the year. This prompted speculation about whether rising prices are discouraging guests from indulging in sit-down meals.
Dining Costs Soar as Quality Falters?
Over the years, Disney dining has faced criticism for increasing prices without delivering a corresponding improvement in quality. Many fans point to a controversial statement by former Disney CFO Christine McCarthy, who admitted to reducing portion sizes and opting for less expensive ingredients as cost-saving measures.
This admission didn’t sit well with many, with critics arguing that guests are paying more but getting less.
One fan responded to the tweet, pointing out how unusual it is to see this level of availability during such a high-traffic time:
“We visit during Marathon Weekend every year, and I’ve never seen dining reservations this easy to find. Even last-minute options are wide open—it’s strange.”
Related: Sky-High Prices of New Disney World Restaurant Leaves Guests Shocked
Others noted that between park admission, resort stays, and extras like Lightning Lane, sit-down meals have become a lower priority for many families.
The Changing Face of Disney Dining
For some guests, the cost of table-service dining no longer justifies the experience. While signature restaurants like California Grill and Le Cellier still draw diners, others find themselves turning to more affordable quick-service options or even dining off-property.
“Dining at Disney used to feel special, but now it feels overpriced. We stick to snacks or quick meals and use the savings for other parts of our trip.”
This growing sentiment is echoed by others who believe that Disney needs to reevaluate its dining strategy to balance cost with value. Guests want the magic of a sit-down meal to match the price they’re paying—and many feel that’s no longer the case.
The unexpected availability during Marathon Weekend raises broader questions about Disney’s approach to dining. Are rising prices discouraging guests from booking table-service meals, or is this simply a one-off anomaly tied to other factors?
Whatever the cause, it’s clear that guests are paying close attention to the value they receive at Disney restaurants. As conversations about affordability grow louder, Disney may need to consider adjustments to ensure its dining experiences remain a beloved part of the park experience.
What do you think? Have Disney dining prices become too high, or is the magic of a meal at Walt Disney World still worth it? Let us know in the comments!
