Higher Prices Find Way Into Magic Kingdom

After more than a year of admission discounts, Disneyland said it plans to raise prices by up to 4.5% today, hoping to capitalize on the success of its new “Fantasmic!” special effects show.

The price hike had been rumored for weeks, but the move is expected to catch competitors off guard because it comes amid predictions that Southland tourism will be hurt this summer because of the April riots in Los Angeles. The price of a Disneyland adult admission is now $28.75, up from $27.50. For children ages 3 to 11, the new price is $23, up from $22.50. The daily entry fee is good for all rides and attractions.

“The new prices recognize the entertainment value of the new entertainment additions to Disneyland,” spokesman Greg Albrecht said.

The theme park introduced a “Beauty and the Beast” stage show this spring and plans a new summer parade on Main Street, but the park’s biggest draw this year is the “Fantasmic!” water and pyrotechnics show, which reportedly cost between $30 million and $70 million.

Albrecht said that the nighttime show has been quite popular since being unveiled last month. The subject of a massive print, radio and television ad campaign, the show has had audiences lining up hours in advance to get prime viewing spots.

For the amusement park industry, the Disneyland price increases come at an opportune time. Other parks typically follow Disney’s lead in raising or lowering prices, although no Southland parks disclosed plans to follow suit.