Walt Disney World to raise annual pass prices

Walt Disney World announced an increase in annual pass prices Monday night, just under three months before the highly-anticipated opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Out-of-state visitors with a Platinum Plus Pass will see an increase from $994 to $1,219. This pass gives holders admission to all four theme parks and both water parks, the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course. The pass will also offer up to 20 percent off at select dining and merchandise vendors on the property.

Disney's Platinum Annual Pass also increased by $225. The only difference between the Platinum Plus and Platinum passes is access to the ESPN complex and the golf course.

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios will feature two new Star Wars-themed attractions, one opening on Aug. 29 and the other coming later this year, Star Wars restaurants and merchandise.

Disney World announced in a press release Monday that their passholders will be able to experience the brand-new Star Wars area before it is open to the general public. The theme parks said that more information on the sneak peek will be released at a later date.

Passholders will also be able to purchase one-day tickets as part of their Bring-a-Friend offer for a discounted price of $89 from June 18 to Aug. 8. Additionally, the Summer Splash Pass, available only to passholders, will give them access to Disney's water parks throughout the summer for the same price as a one-day ticket, according to the press release. The $69 ticket will go into effect on July 5.

Disney said the price increase is one of the ways it has tried to manage theme park crowds, as reported by the Orlando Sentinel.

Disney previously increased the annual price passes by $20 in October.