4 Problems Plaguing Disney World Right Now

If you’re going to Disney World soon, you may encounter some problems in the parks.

No, we don’t mean the usuals like crowds or bad weather…we’re here to get into the nitty-gritty! What are some specific issues you could face on your vacation? I polled our in-park reporters, and I’m sharing their responses.

Construction

First up, CONSTRUCTION. It’s all over the place in Disney World these days. Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom are all working on brand-new lands and attraction overhauls, so navigating those parks can be tricky business.

The construction walls can make things confusing and maze-like as pathways are rerouted and sightlines are blocked. Top it all off with the construction noise during the daytime, and you may find yourself overstimulated and nostalgic for the old lands and attractions.

But the good news? All these walls mean that new and exciting additions are coming! In the next few years, we’ll have rides themed to Indiana Jones and Encanto, homages to animation back in Hollywood Studios, and an entire Villain-themed land in Magic Kingdom. Doesn’t that sound great?!

All the Expansions. Lands, and Rides Announced by Disney

Alcohol Is Everywhere

Alcohol has been a part of the Disney World experience for decades now, but in recent times, that seems to have amped up a bit. EPCOT has long been known as the park to “drink around the world,” but now we’re seeing bars and lounges pop up with increasing frequency.

In recent months, the adults-only GEO-82 was added inside Spaceship Earth, the Grand Floridian lobby added The Perch lounge, and The Beak and Barrel opened in Magic Kingdom, a park that was “dry” for many years before table service restaurants began serving alcohol. If you’re hoping to avoid the presence of alcohol, it’s a bit harder to do these days.

And even if you are planning on drinking in Disney World, it can feel like the list of must-try spots is growing ever longer. Those bar bills will add up FAST when everything is “Disney-priced!” Of course, we encourage you to drink responsibly and know your limits if you choose to do any kind of bar crawls in Disney World.

But it’s not all bad news for non-drinkers. In recent years, Disney World has really stepped up its mocktail game, so even these new spots are including interesting and fun alcohol-free beverages to try. Plus, who doesn’t love a new place to sit down and relax in the middle of a long park day?!

The BEST Mocktails to Drink Around the World in EPCOT

Bees Are Busy

One smaller-scale problem we’ve seen in recent years that might still affect your trip is the bee infestations! Joffrey’s Coffee stands have had this problem in particular difficulty, as bees flock to their stands where the sweet beverage syrups and pastries are on display. We’ve even seen signs out that address the problem in the past!

You may also run into bees at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, due to the influx of plant life in the park at that time. If you’re allergic to bees, we suggest coming to the parks prepared, particularly in the springtime. There’s not much to be done about this problem from our end — just nature doing its thing!

Learn More About the Bee Problem Here!

Merchandise Quality vs. Merchandise Prices

Finally, the last thing our reporters noticed in the parks recently is that there seems to be a disconnect between merchandise quality and merchandise prices. We’ve seen some “shrinkflation” in recent months with smaller-sized products costing the same amount as their larger counterparts.

On top of that, some things just aren’t “as good as they used to be.” One reporter mentioned that she hasn’t been able to wash a Spirit Jersey after purchasing it without ruining it, and we’ve experienced similar problems with apparel shrinking in the wash easily. Some of the items just aren’t quite as sturdy anymore.

So if you’re interested in doing some souvenir shopping in Disney World, take care to note product materials and care instructions, then ask yourself — is it really worth it to buy this? It’s easy to get caught up in the magic and make lots of impulse purchases. We’ve done it before!

The 4 Best Disney World Souvenirs of 2025

There, you have our list of problems we’ve noticed in Disney World recently. Some are bigger than others, but all are possible to navigate if you’re just aware of them ahead of time. Go forth and enjoy your Disney trip!