Disney Dining Plan-What You Need to Know

In a previous post I’ve already outlined the different dining plans and what they include, but what else do you need to know before you can put your dining plan to work for you?

• Understand your plan: Remember that you are given a total number of dining “credits” based on the number of people in your travel party and the number of nights of your stay. The credits are pooled, so you can use them however you choose (you could have no meal and eat all snacks one day, or use 2 credits for a signature dining, etc.) Be sure to keep track of your credits and use them all up, if you don’t use them...you lose them!

• Understand the policies: Be sure to double check your dining plan brochure to see how many credits your desired restaurant requires. Dinner shows and other signature dining experiences are 2 credits. Other policies include:
• Theme park admission is required (where applicable)
• If you’re using the Disney transportation system allow 1-1.5 hours to arrive at your location
• Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your reservation time. 
• Gratuities are not included unless otherwise indicated. An automatic 18% gratuity will be added to parties of 6 or more
• Menu items, pricing and hours are subject to change without notice. Characters are subject to change without notice. 
• Some restaurants require a 1-day cancellation policy and require a credit card to hold the reservation. Reservations not cancelled 24 hours prior to the start of your reservation time will incur a $10 per person fee. To cancel your dining reservation call (407) WDW-CNCL.

• Research the menus-There is no sense dining in places you won’t eat. Look up the menus for the restaurants you’re considering to be sure there is something there everyone can enjoy.

• Plan ahead-Even if you are new to the wonderful world of Disney, you need to understand that Advanced Dining Reservations open at 180 days for resort guests. Don’t expect to just be able to walk into a restaurant on Disney property and ask to eat. Dining reservations are practically essential and you can bet that the people who have previously tried the walk up and eat approach on their last trip are the same one’s who are anxiously awaiting their 180 day mark for dining reservations for this trip.

There is a learning curve to the dining plan, so don't get discouraged if you feel overwhelmed or confused. Anyone who books with me is guaranteed my personal services which include dining reservations, itinerary planning and more. Feel free to ask as many questions as you want. As a frequent WDW traveler I can give you first hand feedback on virtually all of the restaurants on property. There is no reason your vacation should be stressful so let's make it magical!