Food costs rose an average of 8% across Disneyland Resort dining locations. Here’s what changed, how much it could add to your vacation, and practical ways to reduce your food bill.
Disneyland food prices increased on more than 800 menu items across 178 dining locations at the Disneyland Resort, according to Mickey Visit.
The average food and beverage price increase was 8%, with individual menu items rising between 1.5% and 23%.
Popular snacks including churros, popcorn, soft-serve ice cream, funnel cakes and Mickey beignets increased between 7% and 15%. Bakery and dessert items increased an average of 9%.
Bottled beverages increased about 25 cents per item. Coffee, tea and other hot beverages increased about 75 cents. Cocktail prices increased between $1 and $2 per drink. Many menu price increases totaled $1 or less per item.
Disneyland did not increase prices on any kids meals as part of the latest menu updates, according to Mickey Visit.
For a family of four spending about $200 on food and beverages during a day at Disneyland, the average 8% increase would add about $16 to the daily dining bill. Over a three-day visit, the additional cost would total about $48.
Disney does not publicly release the racial or ethnic breakdown of Disneyland Resort visitors. Industry estimates have suggested that Hispanic and Latino guests represent roughly one-quarter of Disneyland visitors, although the figure has not been confirmed by Disney.
Latino families are expected to face the same menu price increases as other Disneyland guests. However, rising vacation costs may have a greater impact on some budget-conscious households. U.S. Census Bureau data shows Hispanic households have lower median household incomes on average compared with non-Hispanic white households, meaning higher food, beverage, ticket and travel costs can represent a larger share of discretionary spending for some families.
Restaurant menu prices nationwide increased 3.5% over the past year and 35% since 2020, according to the National Restaurant Association. The association said restaurant operators continue to face inflation-driven cost increases, with food costs up 35% and labor costs up 39% compared with pre-pandemic levels.
HOW TO SAVE
Here are some of the best strategies:
Bring your own snacks and drinks. Disneyland allows guests to bring outside food and nonalcoholic beverages, as long as they aren’t in glass containers (except small baby food jars) and don’t require heating. Granola bars, fruit, sandwiches, and refillable water bottles can save a significant amount over the course of the day.
Eat one big meal instead of three. Consider having a filling breakfast before entering the park, then enjoying one table-service or quick-service meal inside and relying on snacks for the rest of the day.
Share large portions. Many Disneyland entrees are large enough for two people to split, especially if you pair them with a snack or side.
Use free water refills. Any quick-service restaurant that serves fountain drinks will typically provide complimentary cups of ice water. Carry a reusable bottle and refill it throughout the day instead of buying bottled water.
Order kids’ meals when appropriate. If you’re not very hungry, kids’ meals often provide a complete meal at a noticeably lower price.
Check the menus before your trip. Looking at menus and prices in advance helps you budget and decide where you want to eat instead of making expensive impulse purchases.
Limit specialty treats. Iconic snacks like churros, popcorn, and themed desserts are part of the experience, but choosing one or two favorites rather than trying everything can save quite a bit.
Stay at a hotel with free breakfast or a kitchenette. Eating breakfast at your hotel and preparing some meals yourself can reduce daily food costs.
Bring reusable utensils and napkins. This makes it easier to enjoy the food you bring from outside without extra hassle.
For a family of four, following these strategies can easily reduce food spending by $50–$100 or more in a single day, depending on how many meals you replace with food brought from home and whether you share entrees.
