Disneyland Resort has quietly rolled out a sweeping increase in food and beverage prices across its parks — and for frequent guests and annual passholders, this is far from surprising.
On July 15, 2025, Disney implemented what’s become a semi-annual tradition: raising the prices on food, beverages, and novelty items across Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. According to Theme Park IQ, who shared a detailed chart on X, the latest price hikes affected more than 1,200 items. The publication noted, “Disney increased food, beverage and novelty prices across the Disneyland Resort beginning July 15th. They typically increase prices twice per year. Over 1,200 items saw price increases. Here are some notable increases…”
Disney increased food, beverage and novelty prices across the Disneyland Resort beginning July 15th. They typically increase prices twice per year. Over 1,200 items saw price increases.
Here are some notable increases… pic.twitter.com/bP5zsTDoKE
— Theme Park IQ (@ThemeParkIQ) July 20, 2025
Here’s a full breakdown of the biggest jumps — and how they fit into a much larger trend of rising costs at the Disneyland Resort.
The Disneyland Food & Drink Price Increases: July 2025
These aren’t one-off adjustments. Across quick service, snacks, and beverages, prices have shifted significantly, sometimes in ways that will catch budget-conscious families off guard. Here’s a detailed look:
Classic Theme Park Snacks
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Popcorn: +$0.50 → now $6.50
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Pickles: +$0.30 → now $4.79
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Pretzels: +$0.25 → varies by style, but typically $6.00–$7.50
Beverage Staples
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Dasani Bottled Water: +$0.40 → now $4.79
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Fountain Soda: +$0.40 → now $5.69
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Bottled Soda or Cans: +$0.25 → now $5.50
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Milk/Juice Boxes: +$0.50 → now $3.49
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Coffee: +$0.50 → now $4.79
Signature Treats
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DOLE Whip: +$0.80 → now $7.29
Quick Service Favorites
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Chicken Tenders: +$1.50 → now $13.49
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Turkey Leg: +$1.50 → now $14.49
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General Quick Service Meals: +$0.50 → varies, most entrees now exceed $13–$15
Specialty Beverages & Novelties
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Quick Service Cocktails: +$1.00 → now $14–$18+ depending on item
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Novelty Sippers (e.g. character cups): +$1.00 → varies, often $13.99–$16.99
Why Are Prices Going Up Again?
The most recent price increases are part of a broader pattern at Disney parks globally, especially at Disneyland Resort in California. While some guests argue these hikes reflect general inflation and rising operational costs, others are sounding the alarm that the cost of a Disney day is creeping toward unsustainable territory.
The Twice-Per-Year Tradition
Price hikes at Disneyland have become routine — typically landing in February/March and July/August each year. In the past five years, Disney has raised prices on food, tickets, Genie+/Lightning Lane systems, and hotel stays with near clockwork precision.
The July 2025 update mirrors past increases from:
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January 2024, when food prices rose before Spring Break.
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October 2023, when Disney ticket prices increased across the board.
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Summer 2022, when specialty snacks and collectibles saw steep jumps.
Food Isn’t the Only Thing Getting More Expensive
Disney’s price increases aren’t limited to what you eat. Virtually every component of a Disney vacation has become more expensive in recent years.
Tickets
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In 2019, a 1-day Park Hopper ticket started at $154.
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In 2024, the same ticket can reach $194–$209 during peak days.
Genie+ / Lightning Lane
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Originally launched in 2021 at $20/day, Genie+ surged to $30–$35/day depending on crowd levels.
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In 2025, Genie+ has been replaced by Lightning Lane Multi Pass, which can run up to $45/day.
Hotels
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Disneyland Hotel room rates, once available for $350/night, now hover near $500–$700/night during peak seasons.
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Paradise Pier’s rebrand to Pixar Place came with a pricing upgrade as well.
How Guests Are Reacting
Fan communities and Disney influencers were quick to comment on the latest wave of increases.
Many fans noted that $6.50 for popcorn or nearly $15 for a turkey leg pushes Disney’s dining experience further into “luxury pricing” territory.
What This Means for Future Trips
For travelers planning their next Disneyland visit, it’s increasingly important to budget realistically. A family of four grabbing water, popcorn, and a meal each could easily spend over $150 just on one quick-service lunch with snacks.
Many guests are beginning to bring their own snacks, take advantage of free water cups, or dine off-property to save money — strategies once used sparingly are now becoming necessary for many.
Disneyland’s July 2025 price hikes are part of a long-term pattern that’s likely here to stay. With operational costs rising, demand for immersive experiences growing, and no shortage of visitors, Disney seems confident that guests will continue to pay — even if they grumble.
But as popcorn hits $6.50, DOLE Whip nears $7.30, and even water climbs toward $5.00, it’s fair to ask: How much magic can the average wallet afford?
