For many families, a trip to Disney World is the stuff of dreams—a magical day out, memories made, and a chance to experience the so-called 'happiest place on Earth.' But for one Florida dad, the reality of a single day at the iconic theme park left him feeling more shocked than spellbound, after the bill for his family’s visit soared to a staggering A$2,180.


Craig Stowell, a small business owner and father of three, recently shared his experience online, and it quickly struck a chord with families around the world. What was meant to be a fun day out with his wife and three children turned into a lesson in just how expensive family entertainment has become.


'It started with the ticket purchase, and then it ran right into the parking, and then it just was like a cash cow for the rest of the day,' Craig explained in a viral video. The breakdown? A$46 for parking, A$1,516 for five tickets (even with a resident discount!), and A$380 for dinner. And that’s before you even consider the cost of snacks, souvenirs, or those tempting extras that seem to pop up at every turn.


But the expenses didn’t stop there. Like many parents, Craig wanted to make the most of the day, so he considered purchasing Disney’s 'Lightning Lane' passes—an extra A$622 for the family—to skip the notoriously long lines. 'If you do the average of cost per ride, it probably isn’t really worth it,' he admitted.

It’s a sentiment that’s becoming increasingly common. Over the past few years, Disney has steadily increased its prices. In 2024, the cost of a single-day, single-park ticket for the 2025 season rose again, with some 2026 dates now costing up to A$309 per person for a single day at the Magic Kingdom. And if you want to skip the queues? That’s another A$60 per person for the Lightning Lane Multi Pass, which only covers a handful of rides.


Craig’s story has sparked a wider conversation about whether Disney is still accessible for the average family. 'Unfortunately, I don’t think those day-trippers are what Disney wants,' he said. 'They want you to never leave the park. They want you there for five days, and they want you to drop 10 grand. So, I think that one-day trip—I’m actually being punished for it.'


He’s not alone in his concerns. According to reports from The Wall Street Journal, even some Disney insiders are worried that the company has become 'addicted' to raising prices, and that they may be reaching the limit of what middle-class families can afford. Internal surveys have shown a decline in the number of guests planning return visits to both Walt Disney World and Disneyland since late 2023.

It’s not just Disney, either. Theme parks around the world have been steadily increasing their prices, adding new 'premium' experiences, and charging extra for things that used to be included in the ticket price. For many families, what was once a relatively affordable day out is now a major financial commitment.


For Australian families, the story is all too familiar. Whether it’s a trip to the Gold Coast’s theme parks, a day at the Royal Show, or even just a visit to the local zoo, the costs can quickly add up—especially when you factor in food, parking, and those irresistible gift shop purchases.

If you’re planning a big day out with the grandkids, here are a few tips to help keep costs under control:

• Look for discounts: Many theme parks offer special deals for seniors, locals, or if you book online in advance.
• Bring your own snacks: Check the park’s policy, but bringing your own water and snacks can save a small fortune.
• Set a souvenir budget: Give the grandkids a set amount to spend in the gift shop to avoid any surprises at the checkout.
• Plan your day: Make a list of must-see attractions and shows to get the most value from your visit.
• Consider off-peak times: Visiting during quieter periods can mean cheaper tickets and shorter lines.

For many, the magic of Disney and other theme parks is still worth the price—at least once in a lifetime. But as costs continue to rise, more families are questioning whether the experience lives up to the hype, or if it’s time to look for more affordable ways to make memories together.

Have you ever been shocked by the cost of a family day out? Do you think theme parks are still worth it, or are they pricing out ordinary families? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear your stories!