There are several different plans to choose from but the basics are the same. With the Disney Dining Plan you receive one table service meal (a buffet or one entrée, dessert, and beverage), one quick service meal (entrée or combo, dessert, and drink), and one snack (ice-cream novelty, popcorn, a piece of fruit, bottled water, etc.) per day. After your server swipes your "Key to the World" card, you will receive a receipt that tells you how many meals and snacks you have left on your plan. You don't have to use one of each every day, if you have two snacks on one day but skip a full service restaurant your ticket will reflect what you have and haven't used. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the plan, and in most cases gratuities are also not included.
Use at least one of your full service meals for a character meal. The kids will love the chance to spend some time with their favorite characters and grab some autographs, and you won't have to spend extra since it's included in the Disney Dining Plan. Make sure you call (407) WDW-DINE at least 90 days in advance to make your reservation, many of the popular character dining options fill up quickly. Due to its popularity, Cinderella's Royal Table will count as two table service meals, not one.
Take a look at what restaurants interest you before leaving on your trip. Menus for most of the restaurants on the Disney Dining Plan are available on the WDW Info website. Know ahead of time where you want to use your meals and on what day. Call (407) WDW-DINE at least 90 days in advance to make a reservation at the full service restaurants. A little bit of planning ahead of time will save time in the parks.
Just because you've spent extra money for the Disney Dining Plan doesn't mean that your entire vacation should be about food. Eat as you would normally eat. If you don't usually eat dessert twice a day ask if you can exchange one for a bottle of water; some counter service restaurants will allow it. Remember that an overly stuffed stomach will not do well on thrill rides. Eat until you're satisfied, and no more.
Sometimes Walt Disney World will offer a free Disney Dining Plan included with their onsite vacation packages. Keep your eyes open for them, they're well advertised on the internet. Sign up for the free email newsletter at Mouse Savers, they will let their readers know when the free Disney Dining Plan is available.
