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Walt Disney World prices are a constant topic of debate among fans, especially considering that the inaccessibility of the Parks has become one big reason that long-loyal fans are now saying goodbye to the Disney Resort. But more and more off-late, this topic has gained popularity simply because of how many fans feel that the Disney experience has dropped in quality. In addition, Guests are finding fewer complimentary amenities—though it appears Disney is trying to assuage those worries.
Disney characters Mickey and friends in front of Cinderella Castle, Magic Kingdom Park, Walt Disney World Resort/Courtesy of Disney
Meanwhile, fans have taken to discussing Disney’s prices, and this time, they brought receipts. The discussion began when Disney Guest u/fairycoreee inquired as to why fellow fans complained about the Parks when “Disney has always been expensive.”
The OP continued, “I was born in the 90s and in the 00s Disney was expensive then, many I knew couldn’t afford to go. I grew up right next to the Disneyland resort and many of my friends never had the chance to go, and that is without staying in a hotel, just tickets and a 10 minute drive.”
Tusker House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom/Courtesy of Disney
The post became quite popular, resulting in over 100 comments, with fans sharing their experiences. Disney Guest u/Silver-Study brought up the ever-present argument that the quality of the Disney Park and Disney vacation experience was no longer what it once was, elaborating that the staff are “treated poorly,” “food quality has gone down,” “live entertainment has been slashed,” and shows are “low-budget.” Despite this, the Guest called Walt Disney World a “top-tier vacation spot.”
Another fan, u/popeboy, shared the exact prices they paid since 2012—they purchased from Undercover Tourist—for a Walt Disney World ticket, and the numbers are enlightening,
2012: 6 day park hoppers, 2 adults, 2 child – $1,265.80
2014: 7 day park hoppers, 2 adults, 2 child – $1,523.12
2016: 8 day park hoppers, 3 adults, 1 child – $1,650.80
2019: 6 day park hoppers, 4 adults – $2,006.76
2021: 6 day park hoppers, 4 adults – $2,205.56
2023: 6 day park hoppers, 4 adults (at child prices) – $2,708.56
Sorcerer Mickey meet ‘n’ greet at Disney’s Hollywood Studios/Courtesy of DVC Shop
When one fan, u/dukatdidnothingbad, exclaimed, “Holy s**t, prices nearly doubled from 5 years ago,” another commenter chimed in recalling services like the Disney Genie suite and more, “On top of it you now have to pay for many of the things that used to be included 5 years ago (transportation, magic bands, genie plus, etc).”
While a lot seemingly changed both during former Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Chapek’s time and post the COVID-19 pandemic, it appears Disney is putting in the effort to try and bring back some of these beloved amenities for fans. How these frustrations will affect the Disney Parks, and the Mouse House is questionable because, as many fans pointed out, the Parks are still as crowded as ever. In fact, the Walt Disney Company’s Disney Parks sector has constantly posted profits.
Disney After Hours at EPCOT/Courtesy of Disney Parks Blog
Considering all of this data, unfortunately, it doesn’t appear that Disney World prices will drop anytime soon. Walt Disney World Resort prices aren’t the only ones that Guests have shared this sentiment about. In the past, Guests have expressed similar feelings about the Disneyland Resort (with it’s two Theme Parks, Disneyland Park, and Disney California Adventure Park).
More on Walt Disney World
The Disney Resort is home to four Disney Parks and two Water Parks as well. Each Theme Park has a variety of offerings for Guests to take in the Disney experience, and a Disney Water Park—think Typhoon Lagoon Water Park or Blizzard Beach—adds to the experience.
