Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Our family loves the Disney Dining Plan! We make sure to include it in our vacation package every Walt Disney World trip. With so many delicious dining options, having a plan helps us enjoy the experience to the fullest. But is the dining plan the right choice for you?
Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding how the Disney Dining Plan works, what’s included, and how it can enhance your Disney experience.
1. Is the Disney Dining Plan Right for Your Family?
The Disney Dining Plan offers a great way to manage dining expenses, but it’s not ideal for every family. Take a moment to review the different plans and compare them to your family’s dining habits. By calculating the costs and benefits, you can decide if the plan adds value to your experience.
2. Dining Plans Require a Disney Vacation Package
The Disney Dining Plan can only be added to a Walt Disney World vacation package that includes a stay at a Disney Resort hotel and park tickets. This requirement makes it available exclusively to guests staying on the property. You can add a dining plan when booking or just a few days before arrival.
Credit: Disney
3. Dining Plan Availability for DVC Members and Annual Passholders
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Members and Annual Passholders can also purchase a dining plan. Even if you’re not booking a typical package, you can still add a dining plan to your resort stay as a DVC Member or Annual Passholder.
4. Types of Disney Dining Plans
Disney currently offers a couple of dining plan options:
Quick-Service Dining Plan
The Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan offers a convenient and flexible meal option perfect for families on the go. With this plan, guests ages 3 and up receive 2 Quick-Service meals and 1 snack or nonalcoholic drink per night of stay, plus a resort-refillable drink mug for unlimited refills at Disney Resort hotel Quick-Service locations.
Meals can be redeemed anytime during your stay and do not require reservations—simply order at the counter and find a seat. Beverages are included with each meal, and guests 21 and older can choose alcoholic options. The plan must be purchased for the entire length of stay for all members of your party (ages 3 and up).
Credit: Disney
Disney Dining Plan
The Disney Dining Plan is perfect for families wanting to enjoy both convenience and special sit-down meals, including Character Dining experiences. Each guest (ages 3 and up) receives 1 Quick-Service meal, 1 Table-Service meal, and 1 snack or nonalcoholic drink per night of stay, plus a resort-refillable drink mug.
This plan offers flexibility, allowing guests to enjoy quick meals when on the go and savor moments with Table-Service dining. Beverages are included with meals, and adults 21+ can choose alcoholic options. The plan must be purchased for the full length of stay for the entire party, and reservations for Table-Service meals are highly recommended.
5. What’s Included in Each Meal Entitlement?
Each dining entitlement provides a complete meal, with some variations. A quick-service meal includes a main course and a drink (either non-alcoholic or alcoholic for guests 21+). Table-service meals are more substantial, including an entrée, starter, dessert (for lunch and dinner), and a drink. Buffets are covered in full by table-service entitlements, making them a great value choice for families.
6. Dining Plan Details for Children
The Disney Dining Plan includes options for children ages 3 to 9, who will order from the kid’s menu where available. Children under 3 aren’t eligible for the dining plan, but they’re welcome to share meals with family members if you don’t wish to order them a separate plate.
7. Gratuities and Tipping
While the dining plan covers the cost of meals, gratuities for table-service restaurants are not included. Be prepared to tip your server unless you’re dining at locations where gratuities are included, like Wish Makers Enchanted Dining. You can pay tips via cash, credit, gift cards, or charge them to your room.
8. What Snacks Are Included?
Snack entitlements cover a wide range of treats, from sweet and savory bites to refreshing drinks. Look for the Dining Plan logo on menus throughout Walt Disney World to see eligible snacks. Options vary widely, allowing you to enjoy everything from iconic Mickey-shaped treats to refreshing fruit or hearty snacks.
Credit: Disney Eats
9. Alcoholic Beverages Are Now Included
For guests over 21, the dining plan includes one alcoholic beverage with meal entitlements. Whether you’re enjoying a quick-service or table-service meal, you have the option to select a beer, wine, or cocktail. Non-drinkers or underage guests can choose from specialty beverages like milkshakes, smoothies, or mocktails, making every meal memorable.
10. Free Dining Plan Promotions
Disney occasionally offers free dining plan promotions, which allow guests to add a dining plan to their vacation package at no extra cost. These promotions are often seasonal, so keep an eye out for these limited-time deals. Note that the type of dining plan offered usually depends on the Disney Resort hotel you book, with the option to upgrade to a different plan if desired.
11. Multi-Entitlement Dining Options
Some Disney dining locations, such as Signature Dining, and dinner shows require two meal entitlements per guest. These special dining experiences are a great way to enjoy a memorable meal, but be sure to plan your entitlements accordingly.
12. Cashing Out Remaining Entitlements
If you have meal entitlements left at the end of your stay, you can exchange each meal for three snack entitlements. This is a fantastic way to stock up on Disney snacks and treats to take home as souvenirs. From pre-packaged sweets to unique Disney-themed snacks, there are plenty of options for using up any remaining entitlements and bringing a taste of Disney back with you.
Making the Most of the Disney Dining Plan
The Disney Dining Plan offers value and convenience, but it’s essential to weigh the options and determine if it aligns with your vacation plans. By understanding the details of each dining plan, you can make an informed decision that best suits your family’s needs and budget.
So, as you prepare for your magical Disney adventure, remember to review these options and select the one that will make your Disney dining experience unforgettable!
