What’s Included in the Disney Dining Plan?
The Disney Dining Plan is a convenient and cost-effective way for families to enjoy meals and snacks throughout their Walt Disney World Resort stay. But what exactly is included in this plan, and how does it work? Let’s dive into the details.
Meal Benefits
The Disney Dining Plan is available for adults (10+ years) and children (3-9 years) and can be added to any Disney Resort hotel. The plan is designed to help guests save money on food and drinks, while also ensuring they have access to a variety of delicious meals and snacks.
Here’s what’s included in the Disney Dining Plan:
- Breakfast: $25.50 per adult, $20.50 per child (3-9 years) per person per meal, for one adult and one child in the Disney dining plan
- Lunch: $21.50 per adult, $19.50 per child (3-9 years) per meal, for one adult and one child in the Disney dining plan
- Dinner: $32.50 per adult, $30.50 per child (3-9 years) per meal, for one adult and one child in the Disney dining plan
- Snacks: $10.50 per adult, $9.50 per child (3-9 years) per snack, for one adult and one child in the Disney dining plan
- Moderate Restaurant Meals: 18 meals or snacks are included per person, per day
- Fast Food and Quick Service Meals: 2 meals or snacks are included per person, per day
- Special Diets: 2 meals or snacks are included per person, per day for guests with special dietary needs
- Phone Orders: Guests can order meals and snacks online or by phone, which are then delivered to their hotel or the designated pick-up location
Entertainment Options
In addition to the meals and snacks, the Disney Dining Plan also includes entertainment options, including:
- Special Events: Some Disney events, such as character meet-and-greets and fireworks displays, may require an additional meal or snack
- Early Park Admission: Guests can enjoy an early park admission to the theme parks for a fee, but this will require an additional meal or snack
- Character Dining: Character dining is a special type of meal that allows guests to dine with Disney characters while enjoying meals and snacks
- Disney Character Warnings: Some meals and snacks may be subject to Disney character warnings, which are messages from Disney characters that advise guests to enjoy their meal and snack responsibly
Other Perks
In addition to the meals and snacks, the Disney Dining Plan also includes other perks, such as:
- Free Breakfast: Many Disney hotels offer a free breakfast buffet for guests who participate in the Disney Dining Plan
- Free Wi-Fi: Some Disney hotels offer free Wi-Fi for guests who participate in the Disney Dining Plan
- Immersive Dining: Some Disney restaurants offer immersive dining experiences, such as table-service meals that are designed to feel like a special event
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks for using the Disney Dining Plan effectively:
- Make Dining Reservations: Make dining reservations up to 60 days in advance, especially for popular restaurants
- Use the My Disney Experience App: The My Disney Experience app allows guests to make dining reservations, check wait times, and even order meals and snacks from their phones
- Pack Snacks: Pack snacks, such as fruit or granola bars, for guests who are traveling with younger children
- Consider a Flex Dining Plan: A flex dining plan allows guests to make up to 4 extra dining reservations, which can be useful for families or guests with special dietary needs
Common Misconceptions
Here are some common misconceptions about the Disney Dining Plan:
- No Beer: The Disney Dining Plan does not include beer, wine, or other beverages with an alcohol content
- No Special Requests: The Disney Dining Plan is not flexible in the way some other dining plans are, so guests should be sure to request special requests in advance
- No Fine Dining: The Disney Dining Plan is not designed for fine dining, and some guests may find that it is too casual or basic
Conclusion
The Disney Dining Plan is a convenient and cost-effective way for families to enjoy meals and snacks throughout their Walt Disney World Resort stay. With its wide range of meal options, entertainment options, and other perks, the Disney Dining Plan is an excellent choice for families with children, special diets, or those who just want to save money on food and drinks. By understanding what’s included in the Disney Dining Plan and following the tips and tricks outlined above, guests can enjoy a magical vacation experience without breaking the bank.