The Magic Kingdom has lost its luster.
Before embracing woke politics, Disney ignored warning signs pointing to trouble ahead. There’s nothing magical about shelling out thousands of dollars for hotels, food, and cheap thrills that last mere hours or a few days. Who wants to be lectured about politics at an amusement park? Why is tolerating unruly crowds and draining phone batteries now considered fun?
I don’t recognize the Disney of my childhood; it’s certainly lost its way.
The Washington Post also reports regular park goers are even souring on the brand. Len Testa, co-author of the Unofficial Guides to Walt Disney World and Disneyland, warned the publication about backlash against the company and its likely effects on park attendance:
“They can continue to raise prices 5 to 10 percent a year for the foreseeable future and there are still enough American households making enough money to visit,” he said.
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The danger, he said, is if public opinion turns against the company.
“I think Disney’s worst nightmare is if Walt Disney World isn’t considered an aspirational destination for most Americans, but if it’s instead viewed as Ibiza — something that rich people go to,” Testa said.
So much for being the happiest place on Earth. Here are some alternatives that actually deliver magical moments—and at a fraction of the cost.
America’s Best Idea: National Parks
There’s nothing more enchanting than spending time in the Great Outdoors—especially time spent marveling at one of America’s National Parks.
The National Park Service (NPS) manages 400 plus national park sites, but only 63 are official National Parks.
Visiting the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton will take your breath away. And the journey to and fro will provide great family entertainment. Admiring beautiful vistas and wildlife within a comfortable distance beats a Disney perk or rollercoaster anyday. Should you choose to camp under the stars, stay in a rustic cabin or a nearby lodge, excitement awaits throughout your stay.
An average Disneyland vacation — a five-night vacation for a family of four— now amounts to a whopping $6,896. A Disney World blog similarly calculated the basic cost of a comparable vacation to be $5,731. ($8,468 for going all-out.) Ouch. With these rates, you’ll need to wish upon a star to get a refund.
In contrast, National Park tickets average $5-35 per vehicle to enter NPS lands. Per person rates average $5-20 for park entrance. An annual pass costs $80 and grants full access to most parks. There are also five Fee Free Days each year. Even factoring lodging, food, and driving expenses, costs are demonstrably cheaper. One blog estimates National Park expenses cost a person an average of $30-$50 daily. Another website shows families and individuals how to budget associated road trips for under $2,000.
Although more crowds descend to these parks and reservation fees are being added, National Parks provide wonder a Mouseketeer could only dream of.
Zoos and Aquariums
Like National Parks, zoos and aquariums are wild enough attractions that transport guests to new heights.
Unlike Disney, both of these venues encourage guests to unplug and be immersed in activities. Best of all, they aren’t so political and will leave visitors with more knowledge about species and wildlife conservation efforts.
Compared to Disneyland and Disney World, vacation packages for a family of four at the San Diego Zoo and Zoo Safari Park, for instance, cost under $1,000.
Find nearby accredited places using the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Other Places to Visit
Magical experiences sometimes are found indoors, but even outside the U.S.
Museums and historical sites are generally family-friendly and are located near most major U.S. cities. Here in the D.C. metro area, most museums are free to visit.
If you want to go off the beaten path, these family-friendly destinations are worth considering. And if Disney’s politics bother you, allocate your dollars elsewhere. Travel abroad to the Caribbean or Europe with that $5,000-$8,000 you normally spend at Disney Parks.
Trade up, spend less, and make lasting memories. Win-win!
Conclusion
Despite growing up 30 minutes from Disneyland, I never understood the obsession with it. Before the price hikes and the politics, it was fun. Now, it’s Woketopia.
Live out your wildest dreams in wild spaces. And tap into your inner child without handing your dollars to The Mouse.
It’s not a small world after all limited to Disneyland or Disney World; it’s a big world full of wonder and real-world discovery.
Good luck exploring!
