Disney Tests Pricing Power at Theme Parks

Issuing pricey tickets for ‘sneak peek’ events is the latest move by Disney to use fares to control crowds

LOS ANGELES—After raising some ticket prices for its theme parks by more than 20% over the past five years, Walt Disney Co. will set a new benchmark this week when it offers die-hard fans the chance to attend a six-hour preview of a new attraction at Disneyland—for $299.

Even for fans used to high prices, the $50-an-hour sneak peek at Pixar Pier on Friday, a day before the attraction officially opens, breaks new ground.

“Being...