Disney parks attract more visitors as rivals see declines

A series of price cuts and special promotions have driven a noticeable rise in attendance at Disney's theme parks, the biggest increase the company has seen since 2023. The growth occurs during a seasonal dip in Florida tourism, when extreme heat usually deters visitors. In contrast, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld have each reported lower guest counts, attributing the drop to expensive gas, airline fares and unfavorable July weather.

Universal's CFO Jason Armstrong noted that the opening of Epic Universe may shift some travel plans to later years. Disney's chief financial officer Hugh Johnson emphasized that lower prices are intended to attract more U.S. families, and the parks have expanded the Cool Kids’ Summer program and introduced free park-hopping for young children in California, as well as a year-round dining-free offer for kids staying at Disney hotels.