Conquer Your Disney Dining: When to Snag Those Reservations!

So, you’re dreaming of churros on Main Street, feasting with royalty, or maybe even battling Kylo Ren over a galactic dessert. Fantastic! But before you pack your Mickey ears, there’s a crucial step: Disney dining reservations. Knowing when you can make these reservations is the key to unlocking a truly magical (and deliciously satisfying) vacation.

The magic number you need to remember is 60 days. That’s right, you can begin making your Disney dining reservations 60 days prior to your arrival date, starting at approximately 6:00 AM Eastern Time (ET). However, if you are staying at a Disney Resort hotel, the situation is even more advantageous for you. Then you can book dining for the entire length of your stay (up to 10 days) 60 days before your check-in date! This is a HUGE advantage.

Understanding the 60-Day Window

This 60-day booking window is crucial because the most popular restaurants, like Be Our Guest Restaurant, Cinderella’s Royal Table, and Space 220 Restaurant, often fill up quickly. If you wait too long, you risk missing out on these coveted dining experiences.

Let’s break down why this system is in place and how to make the most of it. Disney uses this advanced booking system to manage restaurant capacity, minimize wait times, and ensure a smooth dining experience for all guests. It allows them to predict demand and staff accordingly, leading to better service and less frustration for everyone.

Maximizing Your Booking Advantage

While 60 days might seem like a long time, it flies by when you’re planning a Disney vacation. Here’s how to maximize your chances of securing those must-have reservations:

• Plan Ahead: Start researching restaurants well in advance. Read reviews, check menus, and decide which dining experiences are most important to you. Create a priority list.
• Know the Time: Mark your calendar for 6:00 AM ET exactly 60 days before your arrival (or check-in date, if staying on property). Be prepared to log in to your My Disney Experience account promptly.
• Stay On-Site: This is where the biggest advantage comes in. Staying at a Disney Resort allows you to book dining for your entire trip (up to 10 days) at the 60-day mark. This gives you a massive head start over guests who are not staying on property.
• Use the My Disney Experience App or Website: These are the official channels for making dining reservations. Familiarize yourself with the interface beforehand.
• Be Flexible: Have a backup plan. If your first choice isn’t available, be ready to consider alternative restaurants or dining times.
• Check for Availability Regularly: Even if you don’t find what you’re looking for initially, keep checking! Cancellations happen, and availability can change.
• Consider Joining a Waitlist (if available): Some restaurants offer a walk-up waitlist through the My Disney Experience app. This can be a good option if you’re unable to secure a reservation in advance.

Essential Tools for Success

Beyond the My Disney Experience app and website, a few other tools can help you navigate the dining reservation process:

• Disney Dining Blogs and Forums: These are excellent resources for getting tips, reviews, and up-to-date information on dining options.
• Reservation Finders: Some third-party websites offer reservation finders that can automatically search for available reservations and notify you when they become available. Note: Use these with caution and ensure they are reputable.
• Travel Agents: A knowledgeable travel agent specializing in Disney vacations can be a valuable asset in planning your dining experiences.

By understanding the 60-day booking window and utilizing these strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer the Disney dining scene and create a truly unforgettable culinary adventure. Now, let’s dive into those frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When exactly does the 60-day window open each day?

The 60-day window opens at approximately 6:00 AM Eastern Time (ET) each day. It’s crucial to be online and ready to book at this time, especially for the most popular restaurants.

Does staying at a Disney Resort really give me an advantage?

Absolutely! As mentioned above, Disney Resort guests can book dining for their entire length of stay (up to 10 days) 60 days before their check-in date. This is a significant advantage over off-site guests who can only book one day at a time.

What happens if I miss the 60-day mark?

Don’t panic! While it’s best to book as early as possible, availability can still open up closer to your trip. Keep checking the My Disney Experience app and website regularly for cancellations.

Can I modify or cancel a dining reservation?

Yes, you can modify or cancel most dining reservations through the My Disney Experience app or website. However, be sure to check the cancellation policy for each restaurant, as some may charge a fee for late cancellations or no-shows. It’s generally best to cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What if the restaurant I want is fully booked?

Don’t give up hope! Keep checking for cancellations, and consider joining the walk-up waitlist (if available) on the day of. You can also try calling Disney Dining at (407) WDW-DINE, though online booking is usually more efficient.

Are there any restaurants that don’t require reservations?

Yes, many quick-service restaurants and food kiosks do not require reservations. These are great options for casual meals and snacks. You can also find seating at lounges and bars, which often don’t require reservations.

What is a dining plan, and is it worth it?

Disney Dining Plans offer pre-paid meals and snacks for a set price per day. They are temporarily unavailable at the time of this writing, but historically some guests found them convenient, while others found them restrictive. Evaluate your dining habits and budget to determine if a dining plan would be beneficial for you when they return.

How do I make dining reservations for a large group?

Making reservations for a large group can be challenging. It’s best to book well in advance and consider splitting your group into smaller parties, then requesting to be seated near each other. You may also need to call Disney Dining for assistance.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?

Disney is very accommodating to guests with dietary restrictions and allergies. When making your reservation, note any special needs. You can also speak to a chef or server at the restaurant to discuss your options.

What is a Mobile Order, and how does it work?

Mobile Order allows you to order and pay for food and beverages through the My Disney Experience app at select quick-service restaurants. This can save you time and avoid waiting in line. Simply select your items, customize your order, and choose a pick-up time.

Can I use Disney Gift Cards to pay for my meals?

Yes, Disney Gift Cards are widely accepted at restaurants throughout Walt Disney World. They can be a convenient way to budget for your meals.

Are character dining experiences worth the cost?

Character dining experiences can be a lot of fun, especially for families with young children. They offer a chance to meet beloved Disney characters while enjoying a meal. However, they tend to be more expensive than other dining options. Consider your budget and preferences when deciding if a character dining experience is right for you.

By keeping these FAQs in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the world of Disney dining reservations and create a magical culinary experience for your next trip! Happy planning, and bon appétit!