• 28 Sep

In the gleaming reflection of the Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle, the anticipation of many Disney enthusiasts might be tinged with a hint of surprise. A recent shift in pricing and policies means your Disney adventure might cost a tad more.

Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland recently updated their pricing structures. This includes adjustments in parking rates, annual passes, and some other related costs.

Disney’s representative explained, “Our aim has always been to constantly evolve and provide fresh, immersive experiences for our visitors. Our price structures offer a spectrum of choices, ensuring guests get value for the distinct, magical experiences only available at Disney.”

Interestingly, these price shifts coincide with the awaited update on park hopping protocols at Walt Disney World. Let’s delve into what visitors need to know:

Updated Disney World Park Hopping Schedule

Beginning from January 9th, Disney World will be reintroducing unrestricted park hopping during park hours, based on the park’s capacity, a significant departure from the previous 2 p.m. restriction. This change will be complemented by two other notable updates: the removal of reservation requirements for a majority of Disney World guests and the re-introduction of the prepaid Disney Dining Plan.

Parking Rates at Disney World

The new standard parking rate at Disney World’s theme parks is now set at $30, marking a $5 increase. This price is in alignment with starting parking rates at other popular attractions like SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Orlando Resort.

For guests who opt to stay at Disney’s resort hotels or visit the vibrant Disney Springs, parking remains complimentary.

Adjustments in Disney World Annual Pass Rates

All four annual passes have experienced a rise:

1. The premier Disney Incredi-Pass is now priced at $1,449, marking a $50 jump.
2. The Disney Sorcerer Pass, reserved exclusively for Florida residents and Disney Vacation Club members, is now available at $999, a $30 increase.
3. The Disney Pirate Pass for Floridians stands at $799, up by $50.
4. The Disney Pixie Pass, again for Floridians, now comes at $439, reflecting a $40 surge.

Fortunately, existing pass holders are offered renewals at special discounted prices.

Disney World is also rolling out “good-to-go” dates from January, allowing specific ticket holders to visit without reservations.

Price Tweaks at Disneyland

Although the starting cost for a one-day, one-park adult ticket remains $104, there have been hikes in the prices of higher-tier tickets, with some seeing increases between $5 to $15. For perspective, the costliest one-day, one-park ticket at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom stands at $189.

Furthermore, multi-day tickets now come at:

• Two-day tickets at $310 (a $25 raise)
• Three-day tickets for $390 (a $30 increment)
• Four-day tickets priced at $445 (up by $50)
• Five-day tickets at $480 (a rise of $65)

 

Magic Key Updates at Disneyland

Disneyland’s annual pass equivalent, the Magic Keys, have also seen price revisions. For instance, the top-tier Inspire Key now stands at $1649, up by $50. Other Keys have seen hikes ranging from $50 to $150.

For maximizing the benefits of Magic Keys, holders can explore the newly launched Magic Keys Extra Unlocked segment on Disneyland’s platforms, which promises exclusive perks.

Additional Changes at Disneyland

Visitors will note a $5 rise in theme park and hotel parking rates. However, rates remain constant for those visiting Downtown Disney exclusively.

The cost of the Genie+ pre-purchase has been bumped to $30 from $25, equating it with the starting price on the day of a park visit. This service aids visitors in efficiently managing their time at the park and includes unlimited PhotoPass downloads. As a bonus, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway has been added to Genie+ attractions, with Ariel’s Undersea Adventure joining the list soon.