Let’s be honest—Disney World has made some great moves lately, but something still feels a little… off.
Sure, new shows are rolling out, the parades are making a comeback, and there are even some decent summer ticket deals floating around. But longtime fans? We know this isn’t quite the same Disney magic we grew up loving. And while it’s great to see the company trying to compete with Universal’s new Epic Universe, there’s still a gap between what Disney used to feel like and what it feels like now.
If Disney really wants to recapture that spark—the kind that makes you feel like a kid again the second you step onto Main Street USA—here are five things they should seriously consider.
1. Make It Easier on the Wallet
A day at Disney has become a serious investment. With ticket prices, food, Lighting Lane add-ons, and transportation, it’s no wonder some families are skipping out. But the recent $99 hotel deal for Disney+ subscribers and discounted tickets for kids gave us a glimpse of what could be.
If Disney made these kinds of offers more regular—like not just in the off-season or when crowd levels are low—it would go a long way in helping families feel like they belong again. Nobody’s asking for 1990s pricing, but even a few consistent, creative offers could make the experience more accessible for guests who’ve felt left behind.
2. Respect the Past While Building the Future
There’s a fine line between innovation and erasure. Disney’s always evolving—that’s part of its charm. But when you close down nostalgic rides like Splash Mountain or Muppet*Vision 3-D, or make plans to remove whole sections like Rivers of America, fans start to wonder if the past even matters anymore.
A healthy balance is the key. Pay tribute to what came before—whether that’s through seasonal overlays, subtle references in new attractions, or even just commemorative signage. Disney is at its best when it can make room for both progress and tradition. The heart of the parks lies in their history as much as their future.
3. Bring Back Complimentary Airport Transportation
People are still talking about the Magical Express—and not in a good way. Taking away that free airport shuttle service might’ve made sense on a spreadsheet, but to guests, it was a huge blow. It kicked off their vacation with convenience, comfort, and a little bit of magic.
Replacing that experience with paid shuttles or rideshare stress just doesn’t cut it. Even a simplified version of that original offering would be a welcome return. The arrival experience at Disney should feel seamless—not like an obstacle course of options.
4. Keep the Parks Open Later
Magic Kingdom closing at 10 p.m. most nights? That’s just not what we’re used to. Guests want more time—especially in the evenings. An extra hour or two can make all the difference, whether you’re catching a nighttime show or finally getting to ride a popular attraction without the massive crowds.
And let’s not forget Animal Kingdom. It often shuts down before the sun even sets, which means guests miss out on the glow of Pandora at night—a genuinely stunning experience. No one’s asking for midnight closings across the board, but giving guests the option to explore just a little longer would add major value to their day.
5. Stay Focused on Magic, Not Messaging
This one’s touchy, but it’s been a major conversation among fans. Whether you’re red, blue, or somewhere in between, most guests visit Disney World to escape the real world—not to be reminded of it.
The last few years have brought a wave of headlines, controversy, and commentary tied to Disney’s decisions and public stances. But many guests are simply craving fantasy over friction. They want to step into immersive lands and forget about the stress outside those gates. Steering the spotlight back to world-class storytelling and imaginative experiences would be a welcome shift.
Final Thoughts
There’s no doubt that Disney is working on it. You can see signs of change—more entertainment, better seasonal offerings, and renewed focus on what fans care about. But bringing the magic back fully? That takes more than shiny new rides and shows.
It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, where the past is appreciated, and where families don’t feel priced out before they’ve even arrived. Disney already has the blueprint—they just need to bring the pieces back together.
