Analysts Forecast 2026 Attendance Slump at Disney World

Overview

• New industry analyses reported this week point to softer 2026 traffic at Walt Disney World, reflecting a cautious booking climate.
• Universal Orlando’s 2024 pullback is cited as the analogue, with attendance down 2.6% at Universal Studios Florida and 5.5% at Islands of Adventure as guests waited for new attractions.
• Construction across three of four Disney World parks is expected to disrupt visits, with reported projects touching Frontierland at Magic Kingdom and proposed new areas for Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom.
• Rising prices for food, tickets, and services are prompting families to shorten stays or rethink trips, which could curb per-guest spending.
• Analysts also flag weaker international visitation, particularly from Canada, and emphasize these projections are reported by industry outlets rather than official Disney guidance.