Wait Times Shorten at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Parks as Attendance Slows in Florida

Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando parks in Central Florida are experiencing shorter wait times and smaller crowds this summer season, according to theme park analysts. The reasons for the decline in attendance are unclear, but experts suggest extreme weather conditions, the waning post-pandemic travel boom, and a tense political climate in Florida as potential factors. Disney CEO Bob Iger attributes the decline in wait times to increased competition from other states that have since opened up for tourism. Experts also note that the decrease in attendance has led to open reservations for park entry, steeper discounts, and faster lines for visitors compared to last year. The shorter wait times for rides and attractions at the parks have been observed since February for Disney and since March for Universal, according to Thrill Data. Overall, the decrease in attendance at the parks this summer has surprised both parkgoers and industry experts alike. Some speculate that the extreme heat in Florida may be deterring locals from visiting the parks, while others suggest that the tense political climate in the state has led to a decline in tourism. However, there is no significant evidence to support these claims. Despite the decline in attendance, Disney and Universal parks have implemented measures to manage daily attendance, such as the park reservation system, and are not operating at maximum capacity for the rest of the year.