Is the Disney Dining Plan Worth It? What You Need to Know Before Your Next Disney Trip
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The Disney Dining Plan (DDP) is a prepaid meal option that allows you to bundle the cost of your food into your Disney Resort Package, offering both flexibility and peace of mind. Think of it as a way to make your Disney trip a bit more “all-inclusive”, since you’ll be paying for your dining credits prior to your trip.
The DDP is not a "one size fits all" solution, but it is an excellent fit for specific types of travelers:
The "All-Inclusive" Planner: If you prefer to have your vacation expenses paid for before you even leave home, the DDP provides a seamless, stress-free experience.
The Character Dining Enthusiast: Families planning several character meals will find high value here, as these are often the most expensive single-credit options.
The Big Eater: If your party enjoys high-ticket menu items like steak and seafood, you are more likely to see a return on the investment.
Cocktail and Specialty Drink Fans: Since alcohol (for guests 21+) and specialty non-alcoholic drinks are included with every meal, those who usually order these items see significant savings.
Note: If your family prefers sharing small meals or mostly snacking, paying "a la carte" may be more cost-effective. It’s always best to talk it through with your AMAAB travel advisor to see which options make the most sense for your trip!
To ensure you get the maximum "bang for your buck," keep these strategies in mind:
Plan ahead and make reservations! This one is huge - most of the restaurants that will give you the most value on your dining plan dollars will also be the ones that book up the quickest. Work with your AMAAB advisor to make your dining reservations 60 days before your check in date for the length of your trip.
Order the specialty drinks - this is the time to try the specialty cocktails, milkshakes or fancy coffees! They are included in the dining plan so order them.
Need to stretch your credits? Choose the right snack or quick service option and you’ll have plenty of food to share.
Insider tip: Polite Pig has massive portions and is the best overall restaurant for maximizing your quick service credits.
Pick the beef or seafood - they cost the most, so this is the time to order them!
Use some of your snack credits to eat around the world at Epcot - especially helpful during festival seasons!
Try character meals - you can knock out meeting some fan favorite characters by having a visit right at your table, while also using your credits towards some of the highest cost meals on property.
Insider tip: 1 Table Service credit meals that maximize your budget and time: Tusker House, Chef Mickey’s, Cape May Cafe, Ohana and Topolino’s Terrace. I suggest skipping 2 Table Service credit meals, like Cinderella’s Royal Table, if your goal is to “beat the DDP”.
Don’t skip the resorts! Some of the best uses of your dining plan credits can be found at the Walt Disney World hotels. Can you hear the noodles at ‘Ohana calling??
Eat quick service for breakfast (or go to a character meal) and save the Table Service credits for lunch and dinner since they are typically more expensive.
Try the Fantasmic Dining Package!! Not only will you get the same meal you would get without the dining package, but it also comes with tickets for the preferred seating area at Fantasmic. This is a huge way to get the most value out of your credits.
Need a little caffeine to power your trip? Snack credits can be used at Starbucks, including a Venti handcrafted drink with all the add-ins! I love to grab a lavender protein matcha after hitting a few rides at rope drop.
Things to remember:
Gratuities are Extra: Remember that gratuities are not included in the plan. Budget for an 18-20% tip for Table Service meals. You can pay this using cash, credit card or charging to your Magic Band.
Toddlers Eat for Free: Guests under the age of 3 do not need a dining plan; they are welcome to share from an adult's plate at no extra charge.
Roll-Over Credits: Your credits are based on the number of nights you stay, but they don't expire until midnight on your checkout day. You can use multiple credits in one day if you choose.
Mobile Ordering: You can use the My Disney Experience app to mobile order your Quick Service meals using your dining plan credits, saving you time in line.
AMAAB Travel Advisor
Thinking about taking advantage of the Disney Dining Plan? Make an appointment with your favorite AMAAB advisor today - they will be happy to help guide you through the decision.
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