Disney Raises Prices for Theme Park Passes
The "Happiest Place on Earth" is now also one of the most expensive places to visit, as reports indicate Disneyland has decided to increase the price of its annual passes.
According to the LA Times, the iconic Disneyland theme parks in Anaheim, California have raised the price of their Premium pass from $779 to $1049 USD. The pass allows for unlimited access to both Disneyland and California Adventure parks year-round with no blackout dates. Visitors also receive discounts on food and souvenirs.
The new Signature Plus pass, though more expensive, gives added bonuses like parking and downloads from the park's PhotoPass program. A cheaper alternative costs just $849 and is virtually identical, except for two weeks of blackout days around the Christmas and New Years holiday season.
Other annual passes at Disneyland also received a 10 to 12 percent bump in price, including the Deluxe and Southern Californian passes, which grant visitors access on select dates throughout the year.
Disney World's annual pass price was raised as well. According to CNN Money, the popular vacation spot in Orlando, Florida now charges $829 for its most expensive pass, up from $654.
Disney is also reportedly looking to alter its pricing based on peak hours. Similar to the pricing method employed by Uber, Disney would charge more on busier days and less on slower days.
These changes may be motivated by Disneyland's recurrent struggle with overcrowding. The park was forced to shut its gates during its 60th anniversary celebration, when an estimated 80,000 guests brought the park pass capacity.
"We continue to evolve the way we think about managing demand -- particularly during our busiest seasons -- in order to deliver a world-class experience for our guests," said Disney spokesperson Jacquee Wahler to NBC News.
The new pricing changes aim to increase visitation during weekdays and the off-season, while shrinking crowds during the summer weekends and holidays. Disneyland currently charges a flat rate of $99 for single day visits.
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