Disney Dining: How Far in Advance to Book
Planning a Disney vacation can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to booking dining reservations. With so many great options to choose from, it’s essential to know how far in advance to book your Disney dining experiences. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your Disney dining experience bybooking in advance.
How Far in Advance to Book Disney Dining?
The answer to this question is not a straightforward one, as it depends on the time of year, the type of restaurant, and your party size. However, here are some general guidelines to help you plan ahead:
- 60-120 days in advance: This is the general rule of thumb for most table-service restaurants, character dining experiences, and special occasions like birthday celebrations. Booking at 60-120 days in advance gives you the best chance of securing a reservation at popular restaurants like:
- Be Our Guest Restaurant (breakfast and lunch)
- Cinderella’s Royal Table
- Chef Mickey’s
- Ohana
- Boma – Flavors of Africa
- 30-60 days in advance: For most quick-service restaurants and casual dining experiences, booking 30-60 days in advance is usually sufficient. This includes:
- Quick-service restaurants like Pizzafari, ABC Commissary, and Flame Tree Barbecue
- Flatbread and Pours (at the BoardWalk)
- Less than 30 days in advance: For last-minute dining reservations, you can usually book less than 30 days in advance. This includes:
- Some quick-service restaurants, like gas stations and food trucks
- Slotting for walk-up tables at some restaurants
Timing is Everything
It’s essential to note that:
- Special events and holidays: Booking during special events or holidays (like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Disney World’s 50th Anniversary celebrations) may require booking up to 180 days in advance. These events often draw large crowds and popular restaurants may fill up quickly.
- Peak seasons: During peak periods, like summer, holidays, and school breaks, it’s a good idea to book up to 120 days in advance, as popular restaurants tend to fill up more quickly.
Tips for Booking Disney Dining
Here are some additional tips to help you book your Disney dining experiences successfully:
- Create a My Disney Experience account: This allows you to make reservations, modify existing ones, and receive updates on availability.
- Be flexible: Consider dining at off-peak hours or having a backup plan in case your preferred restaurant isn’t available.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: The app allows you to book reservations, check wait times, and even make mobile ordering for quick-service meals.
- Book multiple reservations: Each person in your party can hold a maximum of 2, 3, or 4 reservations (depending on the restaurant), making it essential to coordinate with your group.
Conclusion
Booking Disney dining can be a daunting task, but by understanding when to book and how to navigate the system, you’ll be well-prepared for a magical culinary adventure. Remember to book 60-120 days in advance for table-service restaurants, 30-60 days in advance for quick-service restaurants, and less than 30 days in advance for last-minute options. With these tips, you’ll be sure to enjoy unforgettable dining experiences at the Happiest Place on Earth.
Additional Resources
- official Walt Disney World website: For more information on Disney dining, including reservation guidelines, menus, and hours of operation.
- My Disney Experience app: For mobile booking, modifications, and updates on reservation availability.
- Disney’s Current Refurbishment and Closures: For the latest information on restaurant closures and refurbishments, which may affect your dining plans.