How Far in Advance Should You Book Disney Dining?
When planning your trip to the Happiest Place on Earth, dining is often a crucial aspect to consider. With so many options to choose from, it’s essential to know when to book your Disney dining reservations to avoid disappointment. In this article, we’ll answer the question how far in advance should you book Disney dining? and provide valuable tips to help you make the most of your mealtime experience.
Understanding Disney’s Dining Reservation System
Before we dive into the specifics of booking Disney dining, it’s crucial to understand the park’s reservation system. Disney offers a digital reservation system, allowing guests to book table-service dining experiences, such as character meals, buffets, and signature restaurants, up to 180 days in advance. Guests can make reservations online or by calling the Disney Reservations Center at (407) W-DINE (934-6334).
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
While you can book Disney dining up to 180 days in advance, it’s not always necessary to do so. In general, booking 30-60 days in advance is a good rule of thumb, especially for busy restaurants or during peak seasons (e.g., holidays, summer, or special events). Here are some exception cases:
- Special Dining Experiences: If you’re interested in unique experiences, such as character dining or specialiaty restaurants, consider booking 90-180 days in advance to increase your chances of securing a spot.
- Disney’s Signature Restaurants: If you’re looking to dine at signature restaurants like Victoria & Albert’s or Le Cellier, book as early as possible, ideally 180 days in advance, as these restaurants tend to fill up quickly.
- Cruella’s Treat: For character dining at 1900 Park Fare, book up to 180 days in advance to ensure availability.
Tips for Booking Success
- Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans or compromise on dining times if your first choices are unavailable.
- Check the Disney Dining App: Take advantage of the official Disney Dining app, which allows you to book reservations on the go and receive updates.
- Monitor Availability: Keep an eye on availability and make changes to your reservations as needed to avoid missing out on your preferred dining options.
- Multi-Day Visits: If you’re staying at a Disney hotel, consider booking reservations for multiple days at once, allowing you to schedule breaks and revisit favorite spots.
Booking Disney Dining for Large Groups and Special Diets
- Large Groups: For group reservations, book as early as possible to ensure availability. Consider dividing the group into smaller parties to increase the chances of securing a reservation.
- Special Diets: If you have specific dietary requirements, be sure to notify your server or reservation agent to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I book Disney dining for the same day?
A: Yes, but availability is limited. Call the Disney Reservations Center or check the Disney Dining app to see what’s available.
Q: Can I cancel or modify my reservation?
A: Yes, but with some restrictions. Cancellations or changes to reservations can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Be aware of any fees and potential changes to availability.
Q: Can I make reservations using a travel agent or online travel agent?
A: No, only authorized travel agents or online travel agencies licensed by Disney can make reservations. Book directly with Disney to ensure accuracy and availability.
Conclusion
Booking Disney dining can be intimidating, but with the right strategy, you can enjoy a magical mealtime experience. By understanding the reservation system, knowing how far in advance to book, and following these tips for success, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free dining adventure. Remember to be flexible, monitor availability, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from the Disney Reservations Center or your travels agent. Happy dining!