Walt Disney World has always inspired strong opinions, but in 2026, guests are being especially vocal about what isn’t working for them.While many visitors still walk away with great memories, online discussions, social media posts, and fan forums reveal a consistent set of frustrations that keep coming up again and again. These aren’t isolated complaints from first-time visitors — they’re often coming from repeat guests who know the resort well and can easily spot when something feels off.From rising costs to operational changes that haven’t landed smoothly, Disney World is in a transitional moment. Here are the seven issues guests are most openly complaining about in 2026.Credit: Disney1. Prices Keep Rising, but the Experience Feels ThinnerCost remains the most common complaint by far. Guests frequently point out that ticket prices, food, merchandise, and add-ons have all climbed — yet many feel they’re getting less in return. Families say it’s harder than ever to justify longer trips, and even die-hard fans are openly questioning value.For many, the frustration isn’t just that Disney is expensive — it’s that the price increases feel constant, while perks and conveniences feel increasingly limited.2. Lightning Lane Still Feels Complicated and CostlyThe Lightning Lane system continues to draw criticism in 2026. Guests often say it requires too much phone time, too much advance planning, and too much extra spending just to avoid long waits. While it can be useful on busy days, many visitors feel it adds stress rather than reducing it. Some guests also complain that paying extra doesn’t always result in meaningful time savings, especially when standby waits remain long anyway.3. Dining Plans Created Confusion and FrustrationDining plans were supposed to simplify vacation planning, but 2026 has shown that changes to what’s included can quickly upset guests.Many visitors expressed frustration when popular restaurants were initially excluded, leading to complaints about reduced flexibility and diminished value. Even after adjustments were made, the episode left some guests wary and more cautious about relying on dining plans altogether.Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort4. Too Many Rides Are Down at OnceRide closures and extended refurbishments are another major sore spot. Guests frequently say it’s frustrating to pay premium prices only to find multiple headliners unavailable. When well-known attractions close for long periods — especially during peak seasons — visitors feel shortchanged. Many complaints focus less on any single closure and more on the perception that too much is offline at the same time.5. Crowds Feel Worse, Even When Attendance Is Supposedly LowerEven during periods that were once considered “slow,” guests say the parks still feel packed. Walkways bottleneck easily, popular lands feel cramped, and wait times stretch longer than expected. Some visitors believe operational changes, entertainment reductions, and fewer open attractions are making crowds feel heavier, even when attendance numbers aren’t record-breaking.6. Disney Hotels Don’t Feel as “Full Service” as BeforeOn-property hotel guests are increasingly vocal about what they feel has changed. Complaints often mention reduced housekeeping frequency, limited late-night dining options, and fewer small conveniences that once made Disney resorts feel special. While rooms are still clean and themed, many guests say the experience no longer matches the premium price point — especially for moderate and deluxe resorts.Credit: Frank Phillips, Flickr7. Small Operational Issues Are Breaking the ImmersionBeyond the big-ticket complaints, guests are also calling out smaller but recurring annoyances. These include maintenance issues, cleanliness concerns in certain areas, pests, and inconsistent guest service interactions. Individually, these issues may seem minor — but together, they chip away at the immersive experience Disney is known for. Guests often say these moments pull them out of the “Disney bubble” more than they used to.Why These Complaints MatterWhat’s notable about 2026 isn’t just the complaints themselves — it’s how openly guests are sharing them. Visitors are more comfortable than ever saying when something doesn’t feel worth the cost or effort. That doesn’t mean Disney World is failing, but it does suggest expectations are shifting, and patience is thinner.For guests planning a trip this year, being aware of these common frustrations can help with setting realistic expectations, choosing priorities wisely, and avoiding some of the most talked-about pain points. Disney World still offers unforgettable experiences — but in 2026, many guests are making it clear they expect more clarity, more value, and fewer compromises.The post 7 Things Disney World Guests Are Openly Complaining About in 2026 appeared first on Inside the Magic.