Is Disney World Worth Visiting Right Now? What’s Actually Better in 2026

People keep asking the same question:Is Disney World worth it right now?

Prices are higher. Crowds are steady. Expectations are huge.

So instead of vague praise, let’s look at what has actually improved compared to 2021–2023 — and whether that makes a difference for your trip.

1. Ride Downtime Is More Predictable

In 2022 and 2023, major rides often shut down for long stretches.

Rise of the Resistance.
TRON.
Guardians of the Galaxy.

Multi-hour closures were common, especially in the first year after opening.

Now, downtime still happens. But long shutdowns are less frequent. Recovery times are faster. Headliners are more likely to open on time at rope drop.

That makes your park day easier to plan.

2. EPCOT Festival Crowds Are Managed Better

Festival weekends used to feel packed wall-to-wall in certain areas.

Now Disney has:

• Spread booths out more evenly
• Added extra seating pockets
• Staggered concert times
• Improved crowd routing

You still see heavy weekends. But traffic flow feels less chaotic than it did in peak pre-2020 Food & Wine seasons.

3. Transportation Is More Reliable

In 2022, long bus waits were common. Thirty minutes was not unusual.

Now:

• Skyliner lines move faster in the morning
• Deluxe resort buses arrive more consistently
• Post-fireworks transportation clears quicker

It’s not perfect during holidays. But it’s more stable than it was during staffing shortages.

4. Seasonal Setups Are Ready on Day One

In transitional years, festivals sometimes opened before installations were fully complete.

That’s less common now.

Flower & Garden topiaries are in place early.
Easter egg displays are built before peak viewing dates.
Festival booths operate fully from launch day.

You get the full experience right away.

5. Disney Springs Dining Has Improved

Disney Springs is no longer just “good for theme park food.”

Restaurants like:

• Summer House on the Lake
• EET by Maneet Chauhan
• The Cake Bake Shop

draw steady reservation demand. Some book out more than a week in advance during peak seasons.

That’s a strong sign of guest satisfaction and repeat visits.

6. Cleanliness Has Improved

During staffing strain years, complaints about restroom upkeep and table turnover increased.

Recent guest feedback shows fewer repeated complaints in those areas.

Custodial teams are more visible. High-traffic zones feel better maintained.

It’s subtle. But it matters.

So Is Disney World Worth It in 2026?

If you compare today to 2021–2023:

• Ride reliability is steadier
• Transportation runs smoother
• Festival layouts are smarter
• Dining quality is stronger
• Seasonal execution feels polished

Prices are still high. Peak weeks are still busy.

But operational consistency is better than it was in the immediate post-reopening years.

From a planning standpoint, that makes Disney World more predictable — and easier to enjoy — right now.