The non-attraction entertainment that used to distribute crowds need to return. For instance, at one time there were lots of different shows at MK all day - one in Mickey's birthday land, one in Tomorrowland, and one in front of Pinocchio' s Village House. Plus a Castle Show and the Diamond Horseshoe Review. Epcot had the Fab 5 in spacesuits, plus a kite show, a Dragon Boat show and the character bus. MGM had the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, then later Power Rangers. Remember the Lawn Guys band who rode in on their truck? There was a lot more street performers and parades at AK, MK & DHS.
The shopping is generic vs specialty shops like the magic store at MK. I used to love watching the peanut brittle being made. The candy lady in Japan was fun too.
Now we are funelled to the same limited number of attractions, so we're condensed. Run all attractions at peak so wait times are reasonable. Add more staff so I don’t have to wait 20 minutes for ice cream. Guaranteed I will spend more, buy more stuff if I don't have to wait forever.
I also think Disney needs to promote the resort experience more. When we stay, we use resort amenities just as much as theme parks. I have told newcomers that if you put most of the Disney resorts away from the parks and make them a "destination" you could be hbusy all day and never leave the grounds. Pools, activities, games, pool bar, restaurants, entertainment and theming. The first time my DD sang in public was at OKW Disney karaoke. We played family bingo, did crafts, played games in the pool, Wii tournament. Spent all day at the pool and Community Hall.
DH and I started visiting in 1986, usually twice a year. We are coming again in February but after that, not sure. That is really sad.