Local Dad’s Disney World Experience Sparks Online Outrage Over Costs
Craig Stowell, a father of three from Florida, has gone viral on TikTok after sharing his jaw-dropping experience at Walt Disney World, costing nearly $1,400 for a single day. His candid assessment, which has garnered millions of views, highlights the exorbitant prices that families face at the iconic theme park.
In the video, Stowell details the staggering expenses, including $974 spent on five single-day tickets—granted at a discounted rate for Florida residents—and an additional $30 for parking. Dining at the park also took a bite out of the family’s budget, with a dinner costing over $245. “If you do the average cost per ride, it probably isn’t really worth it,” he lamented, pointing to the endless lines that left them feeling shortchanged on enjoyment.
Had Stowell opted for Lightning Passes to skip the lengthy queues, it would have set him back another $400. He expressed frustration that Disney appears to favor multi-day guests rather than day-trippers, stating, “I think that one-day trip I’m actually being punished for it.” This concern aligns with recent reports indicating a decline in guests planning return visits to Disney parks.
Disney has been under scrutiny for consistent price hikes, with 2025 single-day tickets ranging from $119 to $199. Stowell’s story sheds light on the increasing financial strain on families hoping to create memorable experiences at the park.
Despite the disheartening experience, Stowell is pleased that his video resonated with many online, bringing attention to the challenges families face when trying to enjoy a day at Disney. “It’s very relatable… and we’re all trying to pinch pennies,” he remarked, acknowledging the broader struggle to make family memories amid rising costs.
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