Walt Disney World Resort offers a wide variety of dining experiences, catering to every taste, dietary need, and preference. Whether you’re looking for quick bites or sit-down meals, there’s something for everyone.
But with so many options, it’s easy to make a mistake. Here’s how to avoid common rookie dining missteps to ensure your meals are as magical as the rest of your Disney Parks vacation.
10. Not Making Reservations Early Enough
Walt Disney World Resort can get packed, especially during peak times like the summer and December holidays. Without a reservation, securing a spot at your favorite restaurant can be a challenge.
Book Early:
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Book Up to 60 Days in Advance: Disney allows reservations up to 60 days in advance. This gives you the best chance to get the dining experience you’re after.
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Popular Dining Experiences: If you’re aiming for character dining or signature meals, book early to avoid missing out.
To make reservations, use the My Disney Experience app, visit Walt Disney World Resort’s website, or call (407) WDW-DINE. Plan ahead!
9. Not Making Reservations at All
During the busiest seasons, it’s nearly impossible to walk into most Table Service restaurants without a reservation. With so many visitors at the parks, waiting for a table can take hours.
The Solution:
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Always Make a Reservation: Even if you don’t plan months in advance, securing a reservation ensures you avoid waiting and guarantees a better dining experience.
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No Stress, No Wait: With a reservation, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the park.
Check the My Disney Experience app for last-minute reservations or walk-up availability during your visit.
8. Forgetting to Note Allergies or Dietary Needs
Walt Disney World Resort is known for accommodating food allergies and dietary restrictions, but you must communicate these in advance. Whether you need gluten-free, vegetarian, or other specialty meals, it’s important to notify Disney when booking.
Why It’s Important:
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Preparation for Special Diets: When you notify the restaurant about allergies or preferences, they can prepare for your visit.
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More Options: Disney chefs are willing to make accommodations, ensuring everyone can enjoy their meals.
Please note any dietary needs when booking your reservation.
7. Failing to Cancel Reservations in Time
Plans change, but failing to cancel a reservation is a pricey mistake you won’t soon forget. Disney charges a $10 no-show fee per person for reservations not canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
What You Need to Know:
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Cancel 24 Hours Ahead: Disney’s policy allows you to cancel within 24 hours of your reservation without a penalty.
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Avoid the Fee: Make sure you update your plans if you’re not going to make it.
Use the My Disney Experience app to easily manage or cancel reservations.
6. Booking Dinner at a Different Park
It’s easy to get excited and book dinner at a restaurant in the wrong park. If you’re not using Park Hopper tickets, this can cause issues.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
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Double-Check Your Park Plans: Always make sure your restaurant is in the park you’ll be visiting that day.
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Check Your Lightning Lane Selections: Align your restaurant reservation with your Lightning Lane selections to avoid unnecessary travel time.
Planning ahead can save you from the stress of last-minute changes.
5. Not Checking the Menu Beforehand
It’s tempting to book a reservation based solely on reviews or the restaurant’s reputation, but if you don’t check the menu first, you might be disappointed by the choices.
Why You Should Review Menus:
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Ensure It’s Right for You: Check that the restaurant serves dishes that align with your tastes.
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Avoid Price Shock: Disney dining can be pricey, so understanding the menu beforehand can help you budget for the meal.
Menus are available online at Walt Disney World Resort’s official website, so make sure to look them over before booking.
4. Arriving Too Late (or Too Early)
Arriving too early or too late at your dining reservation can disrupt the restaurant’s flow. To avoid this, Disney recommends arriving around 15 minutes before your reservation time.
Why It’s Important:
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Avoid Delays: Arriving early ensures you won’t disrupt seating arrangements.
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Allow Extra Time for Transportation: Disney’s transportation can take time, so plan ahead to ensure you arrive with plenty of time to spare. Give yourself at least an hour to travel between parks and resorts.
Arriving on time makes everything smoother for both you and the restaurant staff.
3. Not Bringing Your Camera
There are so many magical moments at Walt Disney World Resort, especially during character dining experiences. Make sure to bring a camera (or your smartphone) to capture the magic.
The Solution:
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Capture the Magic: Whether it’s a meal with Mickey or a princess dining experience, don’t miss out on photos.
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Don’t Miss a Moment: Be ready to snap pictures of your delicious meals and fun moments with characters.
You’ll want these photos as mementos, so don’t forget your camera!
2. Forgetting the Autograph Book
Autograph books are an essential part of the Disney character dining experience. Don’t forget to bring one along to capture the autographs of your favorite Disney friends.
Why You Need an Autograph Book:
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Create Lasting Memories: Characters love to sign autograph books, and little ones will love flipping through them to remember their Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
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A Great Keepsake: The autograph book allows you to preserve these magical moments for years to come.
Autograph books are available near the checkout area at most merchandise locations throughout the Disney parks and Disney Resort hotels.
1. Skipping Dessert
Walt Disney World Resort is known for its delicious desserts, and skipping them is a mistake! From churros to cupcakes, there’s always something sweet to enjoy.
You Can’t Miss Dessert:
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Irresistible Sweets: Disney offers some of the best desserts, from Mickey-shaped treats to decadent desserts.
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Calories Don’t Count at Disney: You’re on vacation—treat yourself to something sweet and magical.
Save room for dessert! It’s part of the magic.
What are your tips for dining at Walt Disney World Resort? Disney Dining would love to hear them in the comments!
