When Can You Make Disney World Dining Reservations?
Planning a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to deciding where to eat. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is when to book your Disney World dining reservations. While it’s true that tables at popular restaurants can fill up quickly, it’s still possible to secure a spot. But, when is the best time to make your dining reservations? In this article, we’ll explore the best times to book your Disney World dining reservations, along with some tips and tricks to help you get the best deal.
When to Book Reservations:
There are several factors to consider when deciding when to book your Disney World dining reservations. Booking early is key to securing the best table, especially for popular restaurants. However, bookings can start as early as 180 days before your trip, with some restaurants taking reservations up to 8 months in advance. Considering off-peak seasons can also help you get a better deal on dining reservations.
- Peak seasons: Summer, holidays, and special events like Epcot International Food & Wine Festival can be extremely busy, with many restaurants filling up quickly.
- Off-peak seasons: December, January, and February are generally less busy, making them ideal times to book your dining reservations.
- Vacation periods: School breaks, spring breaks, and summer breaks can also be busy times, so it’s best to book your dining reservations during off-peak periods.
Tips for Booking Reservations:
To increase your chances of getting a great table at Disney World restaurants, follow these tips:
- Use the My Disney Experience app to check availability and make reservations online.
- Check the restaurant’s website for special promotions and discounts.
- Look for waitlists to see if a table is still available, even if you’re booking online.
- Be flexible with your dining plans and consider making reservations for off-peak days.
Popular Dining Reservations:
Certain Disney World restaurants are more popular than others, so make sure to book reservations for these popular spots. Be sure to book reservations for:
- The Hollywood Brown Derby: This upscale restaurant is a popular spot for breakfast and dinner.
- The Boathouse: Located on the Walt Disney World Resort Water Taxi, this restaurant is a great spot for seafood and waterfront dining.
- The Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room: This British-inspired pub is a popular spot for lunch and dinner.
- Emma’s Hideaway: This cozy restaurant is a great spot for breakfast and brunch.
| Restaurant | Peak Season | Off-Peak Season | Restaurant Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Hollywood Brown Derby | Summer | January-February | $30-$50 per entree |
| The Boathouse | Summer | December-February | $25-$40 per entree |
| The Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room | Winter | September-November | $20-$35 per entree |
| Emma’s Hideaway | Winter | May-October | $15-$25 per entree |
Reservations at Other Disney World Restaurants:
While the popular restaurants mentioned above are often busy, other Disney World restaurants can be more accessible during off-peak periods. Some popular alternative dining options include:
- Tony’s Town Square Restaurant: This Italian restaurant is a great spot for breakfast and lunch.
- Flagship Prime Steakhouse: Located in the BoardWalk, this steakhouse is a popular spot for dinner.
- Columbia Harbour House: This seafood restaurant is a great spot for lunch and dinner.
| Restaurant | Peak Season | Off-Peak Season | Restaurant Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tony’s Town Square Restaurant | Summer | January-February | $20-$35 per entree |
| Flagship Prime Steakhouse | Winter | May-October | $30-$50 per entree |
| Columbia Harbour House | Winter | May-October | $20-$35 per entree |
Special Dining Events:
Some Disney World restaurants offer special dining events, like Early Release Dining or Happy Hour. These events can be a great way to get a table at a popular restaurant without a long wait. Check the restaurant’s website for more information on these events.
| Restaurant | Early Release Dining | Happy Hour | Off-Peak Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Hollywood Brown Derby | Sunday-Thursday | Monday-Saturday | Friday-Sunday |
| The Boathouse | Monday-Thursday | Friday-Sunday | Monday-Sunday |
| The Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room | Sunday-Thursday | Monday-Saturday | Friday-Sunday |
| Emma’s Hideaway | Sunday-Thursday | Monday-Saturday | Friday-Sunday |
Conclusion:
Booking Disney World dining reservations can be a challenge, but by following these tips and staying informed, you can increase your chances of getting a great table at a popular restaurant. Off-peak seasons and alternative dining options can also help you save money and avoid long wait times. Be sure to book reservations for popular restaurants, and consider making reservations for off-peak days. With a little planning and research, you can enjoy a magical dining experience at Disney World.