Big news, Disney fans—free dining is making a comeback at Walt Disney World in 2025! Let’s dive into why this deal might just be the cherry on top of your magical vacation.
Feeding your family at Disney can feel overwhelming. Between all the food options and those tempting treats (hello, Mickey pretzels and Dole Whips!), costs can add up fast. But that’s where Disney dining plans come in—they take the guesswork out of meals, letting you enjoy prepaid dining without stressing over daily expenses.
With so many restaurants to choose from, the dining possibilities are practically endless. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or sitting down for an epic themed dinner, there’s a plan to fit your family’s needs. Let’s break it all down.
What’s a Disney Dining Plan?
Disney dining plans let you prepay for meal credits that you can use throughout your stay. The best part? These credits roll over, so you don’t have to stick to a strict schedule. Use them when and where you want until your checkout day! Here’s what’s included:
- Table Service Credits: Covers an entrée, dessert, and a drink (alcoholic or nonalcoholic).
- Quick Service Credits: Covers an entrée and drink (alcoholic or nonalcoholic).
- Snack Credits: Perfect for goodies like popcorn, ice cream, or bottled drinks.
A heads-up—some premium experiences, like Cinderella’s Royal Table or Hoop De Doo Revue, require two Table Service credits.
Your Dining Plan Options
Disney Quick Service Dining Plan
If your family’s always on the move, this is the plan for you. It’s easy, flexible, and perfect for casual meals with no reservations required. Just walk up, order, and enjoy!
What’s Included:
- 2 Quick Service meals per night of your stay
- 1 Snack or Nonalcoholic drink per night of your stay
- 1 Resort-Refillable Mug
Disney Dining Plan
This one’s great if you want a mix of sit-down meals and grab-and-go options. It’s also perfect for those special dining experiences, like dinner shows or themed restaurants.
What’s Included:
- 1 Quick Service meal per night of your stay
- 1 Table Service meal per night of your stay
- 1 Snack per night of your stay
- 1 Resort-Refillable Mug
What’s Not Included?
While dining plans cover a lot, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Gratuities: These aren’t included, so plan to tip at Table Service meals.
- Souvenir containers: Popcorn buckets or specialty cups aren’t covered.
- Oversized items: Think jars of peanut butter or big snacks meant to share.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Plan
1. Go for Character Meals
If you’ve got little ones (or just love meeting characters), this is the way to go. Character dining is one of the priciest options on property, so using your Table Service credits here gives you the most bang for your buck. Plus, you can meet several characters at once—no long lines required!
2. Take Advantage of Adult Drinks
If you’re 21 or older, your Table Service meals include an alcoholic beverage. You can even pair it with a nonalcoholic drink like soda or coffee for extra value. Just know that not all Quick Service spots offer alcohol, so double-check menus if you’re craving a drink on the go.
3. Schedule Midday Breaks
Plan your Table Service meals for the middle of the day. It’s the perfect time to escape the crowds, rest, and refuel before jumping back into the magic.
4. Be Smart with Mobile Ordering
Mobile ordering is super convenient, but keep an eye on how credits are applied. For example, using a snack credit for something small (like a side of cheese) isn’t the best use of your plan. The app shows you how credits are being used, so you can adjust if needed.
Why Add a Dining Plan?
Dining plans make life so much easier. They take the stress out of budgeting for meals and let you focus on what really matters—enjoying your Disney trip! From iconic snacks to unforgettable dining experiences, these plans ensure you get the most out of your vacation without any unexpected costs.
Not sure where to start? I can help! I am getting set to release a new guide in 2025 that will provide insight on getting the most value from your dining plans! I have been scouring menus, and have spent 2024 trying out to dining plan multiple times so I am able to provide the best guidance and recommendations! The best part…this extensive guide will be complimentary to all who book and plan their Walt Disney World vacations with me! Let’s chat about how to add a dining plan to your vacation package—it’s a simple way to make your trip even more magical!
Magic of the Mouse 