Attendance dropped to a new low at Walt Disney World last month.
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Walt Disney World has recently experienced a significant drop in attendance, reaching record low numbers. According to various reports, September witnessed the slowest visitor turnout for the resort since 2021. Analytics from Disney Tourist Blog and Thrill-Data indicate that average wait times for rides have plummeted to roughly 24 minutes, suggesting that the parks are not just less crowded, but may even feel like “ghost towns.”
Guests have expressed their surprise at the current state of the parks, with many observing an extraordinary lack of visitors. One quoted guest noted, “There is literally nobody here.” This sentiment has become increasingly common as more individuals share their experiences online. The stark contrast between low crowd levels and Disney’s booming profits has raised eyebrows, leading some to question what could be causing this disconnect.
Impact of Ride Closures on Guests
Related: Disney World President Challenges Opinions on MuppetVision and DinoLand Closures
The impact of ride closures on Disney World is undeniable, as iconic attractions that have stood for decades are no longer available to guests. Recent closures include beloved experiences such as Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat, alongside classic shows like Muppet*Vision 3D and It’s Tough to Be a Bug. In a swift manner, Disney World continues to change, with attractions like the DINOSAUR ride at Animal Kingdom set to close next year.
This ongoing construction and closure of fan-favorite locations has greatly influenced guest satisfaction. Visitors often arrive with expectations based on previous experiences, only to find key attractions unavailable. This shift can lead to disappointment and contributes to the perception that Disney parks are not as magical or exciting as they used to be.
In addition to ride closures, the rising costs of visiting Disney World have significantly influenced visitor decisions. In 2025, a single-day pass can cost guests up to $200, which is considerably higher than in previous years. This increase in ticket prices, combined with the escalating costs of food, drinks, and hotel stays, discourages many from planning trips to the parks.
Add-ons such as the Lightning Lane system have further inflated the overall expense of a Disney vacation, causing families to reconsider their plans. This financial strain has become a topic of conversation among potential visitors, with many citing it as a primary reason for avoiding Disney World during this time of decline.
Despite the current challenges, Disney has announced exciting plans for the future. One of the most anticipated additions is the Tropical Americas area, set to take the place of DinoLand U.S.A. at Animal Kingdom. This transition aims to create a fresh, engaging environment for visitors, with expectations that new rides and experiences may draw back guests.
Additionally, ongoing renovations have been hinted at for existing attractions. As Disney continues to invest in enhancing the guest experience, it will be interesting to see how these changes affect overall attendance in the long run. While the current state of declining numbers presents a challenge, the potential for revitalized attractions could prove beneficial in encouraging visitors to return.
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