Amazed and Disappointed

[Angel Ariel]

Disneyland has a less spread out "high season" possibly? They can't do fireworks every night during school year, anyway. And Florida parks also want to spread around profits more; while DLR and DCA's main shot at mailing money is in 2 parks.

I don't know how much comparison you can really do between CA and FL. They're very different models. CA is much less about the resorts, and it's more of a day destination while FL has a lot more to do out of the actual parks. Lot more food, Disney Springs is so much bigger than DTD, waterparks, mini golf, resort hopping. It's much more of an destination than DLR, and I think their profit sources are quite different. I'm done after 2.5 days at DLR; I probably wouldn't got to FL for less than 5 full days.

We've gone to DLR the past 2 years, and spent 5 days in the parks each year and still had things we would have liked to do. DLR can absolutely be a destination in that way.

 

[jdisnut]

Just for context, people have been accusing Disney of "slipping" for decades. My uncle was a cast member in the 90s can tell you that since Disney internet boards existed (and even before), people have had the exact same complaints about cutbacks, greed, maintenance, and standards. I think people have rosier views of how things used to be, because it cannot be true that every year Disney is getting worse.

Goodness, I can't applaud this comment enough. It's so accurate. People have been bemoaning the decline of Walt Disney World for decades and will continue to predict the coming apocalypse for decades to come. There's definitely a heavy dose of nostalgia involved. It's impossible for the parks of today to live up to our memories. That will never change. I think it's important to keep this in mind when critiquing the parks now. Sure, some things are worse than they were in the past. Some things in better. In general, the state of affairs ebbs and flows.

But on the whole, it's unfair to make the blanket statement that things are in steady decline. It's just not accurate.

 

[starstruck93]

We have been going to Disney on a regular basis now for over 10 years and I am totally staggered by the closing times of MK in July. I was certain they would change the hours and close at 12/1.00am or even 2.00am as they have in previous years, but I have never known such a consistent period of 10.00pm closing as is posted for this July. It just does not make sense, all the prices are sky high and they shut MK at 10.00pm in July!! And they compensate us by opening 2 rides at AK instead.

Very disappointed.

ITA with you! It really disappoints me.... when we started going in 2009 the MK would stay open so much later; it was great. Gradually over the years It seems like the prices are going up and you're getting less for your money.

 

[kagmypts]

I am still disappointed that MK doesn't have a nighttime parade. I don't think that they ever will. It makes me so sad.

 

[Planogirl]

I am still disappointed that MK doesn't have a nighttime parade. I don't think that they ever will. It makes me so sad.

This! I really miss the parades in general. Just one isn't enough.

Also, for those who claim that people have said that Disney has been declining for many years, I haven't. I used to be unable to see any flaws but I see things slipping in the last few years. Actually, people are all over the place when it comes to this topic with some still unable to see any flaws.

 

[bryanb]

I am still disappointed that MK doesn't have a nighttime parade. I don't think that they ever will. It makes me so sad.

Please don't be so sad. You don't think they "ever will" but that's too confident of a prediction; I wouldn't be willing to make that statement. In Disney history, nighttime parades have rested for a while but they do come back.

Also, for those who claim that people have said that Disney has been declining for many years, I haven't. I used to be unable to see any flaws but I see things slipping in the last few years. Actually, people are all over the place when it comes to this topic with some still unable to see any flaws.

I can see plenty of flaws, but I guess my point is there's always a number of people who are absolutely certain they've seen things slipping for the last few years. What I'm trying to point out is a general pessimism that always exists, and there has been no year in the history of DISBoards where there isn't a protest of the exact same sort. It's a bit of a trap, unless some people are wrong during some years and other people are right during other years.

 

[Nancyg56]

With the spate of recent upcharges, abridged park hours, and novelties such as foregoing mousekeeping, Disney does seem pretty chintzy. Probably not the image they would like to project, but I'm sure it all strategically helps the profitability ahead of the possible coming merger/takeover.

I cannot say that the upcharges coupled with the additional cuts will make a difference in regards to the possible merger, but I do think they make a difference when we look at attendance. When we plan a DIsney vacation I am prepared for sticker shock, but even this seasoned Disney guest has a breaking point. I know tha tlast July my daughter was able to get a great discount for the Poly that she never thought would be offered, and I believe that was indicative of the decreased Summer census in at least the Deluxe resorts. There is a reason for that, and I am willing to bet that there is more in play than short term increases in costs, cuts in services and hours, and reductions in staffing, than trying to increase a bottom line so that the company is a attractive future partner.

I think that DIsney crossed the "sweet spot" line for more families than they anticipated.

Such a classic display of "it's all about me"....rant/whine because the parks aren't open as late as YOU want. The fact that they're open for 14 or 15 hours out of the day isn't enough, we're going to whine because it's not open 18 or 20 hours.

Oh...right...the fact that the park hours of AK have been extended dramatically over the past 18 months doesn't count. Remember...it used to close around 5 or 6pm.

Okay, I think this is a little harsh. We all have different touring styles, and when it comes to Summer, different tolerance for heat and crowds. I am not a late night person, but I remember the later hours that we all used to see in July, and if I was planning a July trip, ( after my last August trip in triple H conditions that will be never) I would expect that the MK would remain open later on more days than not. I think we are all entitled to complain when the hours we had last trip are no longer available, yet my ticket has increased exponentially when compared to what I got for that cost the last time.

The problem with discounting the "whiners and complainers" is that when folks look at the cost of their trip in total, add in what they expect to receive for that amount of money, and then compare that experience to what why expect to experience on this trip, find that they will get a lot less for a lot more money, they go to Rydin HY Ranch, or anywhere else. Now a few families may not make a difference, and we all say that Disney has planned well. Maintained revenue while decreasing crowds. That reasoning does not seem to hold water lately, and everyone pays the price.

I am happy that finally DAK has some attention, it has needed that for years. Finally DHS is getting some upgrades. YAY! But years of neglect and apathy for these two parks, as well as relying on "events" to boost Epcot takes time to rectify. Refusing to increase MK hours, and taking away evening entertainment does not make up for Pandora finally opening. It is long overdue. In the meantime DIsney being penny wise seems to be turning out to be dollar foolish. This affects everyone.

Maybe I'm just old, but I'm ready for bed by 11...haven't stayed out past that in years. I couldn't fathom wanting to ride roller coasters at midnight, but each to their own, I guess!

I don't want that experience either, but I remember when I was a spring chicken with kids whose energy level was a 10 out of 10. WE would often close down our local theme park. The thought of that now exhausts me, but I imagine there are a lot of families who would welcome the magical experience of MK til midnight.

For my itinerary I have all shows except Disney Jr as well but no character meet & greets. And it all fits in 1/2 day with some re-rides. Those character meet & greets must take lots of time.

*Edit to add half a day plus 2 more hours

I think that if you can accomplish this you should patent your strategy. I rarely say a plan is impossible, and wont say this one is, but I think it is going to prove to be incredibly stressful.

 

[piccolopat]

Just curious - for those of you who are disappointed at the earlier closing times, do you eat quick service or are you also part of the group of people constantly on the search for ADRs? We usually do two table service meals now since we're getting a little older and like to relax and rest a bit. We also know that means we are losing almost 3 hours of park time each day while we eat.

 

[piccolopat]

I am still disappointed that MK doesn't have a nighttime parade. I don't think that they ever will. It makes me so sad.

We love the parades but mostly because it means less people on line for rides during those times.

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

Just curious - for those of you who are disappointed at the earlier closing times, do you eat quick service or are you also part of the group of people constantly on the search for ADRs? We usually do two table service meals now since we're getting a little older and like to relax and rest a bit. We also know that means we are losing almost 3 hours of park time each day while we eat.

I don't think the answer is to have to give up table service in order to have more park time. The late hours are about having park time in the summer that is 1) during COOLER hours, 2) during LESS CROWDED hours.

 

[bettybooplove]

I cannot say that the upcharges coupled with the additional cuts will make a difference in regards to the possible merger, but I do think they make a difference when we look at attendance. When we plan a DIsney vacation I am prepared for sticker shock, but even this seasoned Disney guest has a breaking point. I know tha tlast July my daughter was able to get a great discount for the Poly that she never thought would be offered, and I believe that was indicative of the decreased Summer census in at least the Deluxe resorts. There is a reason for that, and I am willing to bet that there is more in play than short term increases in costs, cuts in services and hours, and reductions in staffing, than trying to increase a bottom line so that the company is a attractive future partner.

I think that DIsney crossed the "sweet spot" line for more families than they anticipated.



Okay, I think this is a little harsh. We all have different touring styles, and when it comes to Summer, different tolerance for heat and crowds. I am not a late night person, but I remember the later hours that we all used to see in July, and if I was planning a July trip, ( after my last August trip in triple H conditions that will be never) I would expect that the MK would remain open later on more days than not. I think we are all entitled to complain when the hours we had last trip are no longer available, yet my ticket has increased exponentially when compared to what I got for that cost the last time.

The problem with discounting the "whiners and complainers" is that when folks look at the cost of their trip in total, add in what they expect to receive for that amount of money, and then compare that experience to what why expect to experience on this trip, find that they will get a lot less for a lot more money, they go to Rydin HY Ranch, or anywhere else. Now a few families may not make a difference, and we all say that Disney has planned well. Maintained revenue while decreasing crowds. That reasoning does not seem to hold water lately, and everyone pays the price.

I am happy that finally DAK has some attention, it has needed that for years. Finally DHS is getting some upgrades. YAY! But years of neglect and apathy for these two parks, as well as relying on "events" to boost Epcot takes time to rectify. Refusing to increase MK hours, and taking away evening entertainment does not make up for Pandora finally opening. It is long overdue. In the meantime DIsney being penny wise seems to be turning out to be dollar foolish. This affects everyone.



I don't want that experience either, but I remember when I was a spring chicken with kids whose energy level was a 10 out of 10. WE would often close down our local theme park. The thought of that now exhausts me, but I imagine there are a lot of families who would welcome the magical experience of MK til midnight.



I think that if you can accomplish this you should patent your strategy. I rarely say a plan is impossible, and wont say this one is, but I think it is going to prove to be incredibly stressful.

This is an excellent post.

It really does seem some people just aren't willing to fork over the Disney Dollars, at least not as often as they have in the past. They will go every other year and cut back on souvenirs and table service meals.

To say it's selfish to want your money's worth or to comment on hours being cut is ludicrous.

I wonder if these same people would have this same perky attitude if their local grocery store doubled their prices and closed earlier.

Are they as passive in other areas of their lives and with other businesses?

The things people accept from this company in the name of Mickey Ears is incredible.

And if anything, it's selfish to assume that because you like to sleep before the sun sets then everyone else should follow that schedule.

I don't know why it's so hard to understand that keeping the parks open later will not stop you from having your early bird special bedtime.

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

I wonder if these same people would have this same perky attitude if their local grocery store doubled their prices and closed earlier.

Are they as passive in other areas of their lives and with other businesses?

The things people accept from this company in the name of Mickey Ears is incredible.

Grocery stores are everywhere. One closes early I'll go to another one -- I'll dump that business really easily. Couldn't care less.

Disney obviously offers something unique. I think it makes perfect sense that many of us who LOVE that unique thing will accept a lot of stuff that we don't love -- it's still worth it in the balance. If at some point that balance tips in the other direction, we'll take our vacation dollars elsewhere.

Seems logical to me. It's about one item being rare and one being near commodity. Consumers treat those differently.

 

[piccolopat]

I don't think the answer is to have to give up table service in order to have more park time. The late hours are about having park time in the summer that is 1) during COOLER hours, 2) during LESS CROWDED hours.

We like to have our ADRs during off peak hours. This means lunch before noon and dinner usually by 5. This way we are out of the heat during some of the hottest hours and have better access to rides when other people are eating at the more traditional lunch and dinner times. We also never go back to the hotel midday and prefer to get a cold drink and sit in the shade for a while. Everyone has their own priorities and I was just curious if people on this thread were willing to trade more ride time for ADRs, especially if Disney opts to keep the shorter hours in the future.

 

[mom2rtk]

If crowds weren't high enough to warrant later hours, I think Disney should refund the up charge for peak pricing on one day tickets.

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

If crowds weren't high enough to warrant later hours, I think Disney should refund the up charge for peak pricing on one day tickets.

It's still "peak time"... the "peak" is just lower... you're welcome!

 

[mom2rtk]

It's still "peak time"... the "peak" is just lower... you're welcome!

Then maybe the peak price should reflect that lower peak.

 

[Nancyg56]

This is an excellent post.

It really does seem some people just aren't willing to fork over the Disney Dollars, at least not as often as they have in the past. They will go every other year and cut back on souvenirs and table service meals.

To say it's selfish to want your money's worth or to comment on hours being cut is ludicrous.

I wonder if these same people would have this same perky attitude if their local grocery store doubled their prices and closed earlier.

Are they as passive in other areas of their lives and with other businesses?

The things people accept from this company in the name of Mickey Ears is incredible.

And if anything, it's selfish to assume that because you like to sleep before the sun sets then everyone else should follow that schedule.

I don't know why it's so hard to understand that keeping the parks open later will not stop you from having your early bird special bedtime.

I think that many people forget that we all have different needs and wants from a Disney vacation and so changes that do not have a negative impact to them seem immaterial in the long run.

I do not use emh, would not stay until 12 even if the park remained open, and never run rd to park close. I do understand others do so losing the hours is a lost value to them.

I would rather chew glass and die than drag my lunch and snacks into a park, never plan my days to a tee in order to maximize my attraction time, and would rather stay home than stay offsite. For me extended hours are not an issue, but paying for transportation would be a deal breaker.

I figure I should respect that others have different ideas in terms of value, and expect that my needs and wants should be as important as theirs.

As with any expenditure, I look at the total cost and determine total value for us. This year the Disney value lost out to Aruba value, and my Disney trip is going to be postponed a year.

If costs continue go up while individual value goes down I bet I will not be the only Disney fan to make changes. This decision impacts more than a Disney stay. I decided to forego a DVC purchase until I can decide Disney costs will remain within my comfort zone. How many others are going this?

For me, This reasoning is why it is foolhardy for people to be cavalier about changes that annoy some but are no issue for them.

 

[tlmadden73]

I feel any theme park's normal hours are about 12 hours. 9 - 9 or 10 - 10. Anything else is just an extra bonus. So when I go to a theme park .. that is my expectation - 12 hours. Why should someone who goes in the summer get extra hours for free as opposed to someone who goes in the winter?

In the past they probably had it open later to help disperse the crowds, but if attendance is waning (a good thing for guests) and if AK nights help disperse crowds, they don't need MK to open up later.

The problem with "bonuses" that happen frequently and "bank" on them and expect them as the norm (which they were never intended to be).

I guarantee that things like EMH and Free Dining will eventually go away. Disney no longer needs to "draw" people to its parks with promotions like that .. all the new attractions themselves over the next decade will draw people to the parks.

 

[DisneyFansInNYC]

We have been going to Disney on a regular basis now for over 10 years and I am totally staggered by the closing times of MK in July. I was certain they would change the hours and close at 12/1.00am or even 2.00am as they have in previous years, but I have never known such a consistent period of 10.00pm closing as is posted for this July. It just does not make sense, all the prices are sky high and they shut MK at 10.00pm in July!! And they compensate us by opening 2 rides at AK instead.

Very disappointed.

I agree - I felt that way last year as well. There were times in the past that we were at MK until 3am. Last year we were there the last week of August with park closures at 9pm - I couldn't believe it. Now that we have teenagers we are not rope drop people anymore. At least not regularly. We are annual passholders but if not I believe that for us park hoppers don't make sense anymore. We would do AK or EPCOT during the day and go to MK at about 7pm or 8pm and stay until midnight or later. We could do so much of the park in those hours with cooler temperatures and minimal wait times. We loved it. We had to change the way we see all the parks. We were hoping it was going to change once Shanghai opened and was profitable.

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

Why should someone who goes in the summer get extra hours for free as opposed to someone who goes in the winter?

It's not "for free". Accommodations are more expensive in the summer -- second only to Christmas and Spring Break. And some tickets have peak pricing.

Fair to expect more.

I don't share your sense that standard expectation for theme park hours is 12hrs/day... that's not my expectation... particularly after 12ish years of Disney vacations.