Tips For Making the Most of Disney Dining Plans in 2024

roundup rodeo dining plan cover
roundup rodeo dining plan cover

Howdy fellow Disney fans! 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year for all of us who love the magic of Disney. New attractions are on the horizon, all-day park hopping is coming back, and the beloved Disney Dining Plans are returning after a long wait since COVID (there’s even a fantastic new “Free Dining” promotion coming just for Disney+ subscribers)!

Whether you’re a quick-service diner or love sitting down for a table-service meal, these plans are a great way to enjoy your meals at the Walt Disney World Resort. We have compiled everything you need to know about the Disney Dining Plans available this year to help you make the most out of your next Walt Disney World vacation.

Related: Indulge in a FREE Dining Plan at Walt Disney World for Disney+ Subscribers

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Breaking down the two Dining Plans available in 2024

Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan

  • What You Get: 2 Quick-Service meals and 1 snack or nonalcoholic beverage per night of stay, plus a refillable mug.
  • Cost: $57.01 per adult/day, $23.83 per child/day.
  • Best For: Those who are always on the move and prefer a fast, casual meal without needing to make reservations.

Disney Dining Plan

  • What You Get: 1 Quick-Service meal, 1 Table-Service meal, and 1 snack or nonalcoholic beverage per night, plus a refillable mug.
  • Cost: $94.28 per adult/day, $29.69 per child/day.
  • Best For: If you enjoy a mix of quick and leisurely dining experiences, including character dining and fine dining options.
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Tips to Maximize Your Dining Plan

  1. Plan Ahead: Table-service restaurants need reservations, so book early via the My Disney Experience app. You can book dining reservations up to 60 days in advance.
  2. Mix and Match: Use your quick-service meals for lunch and save table-service meals for a relaxing dinner.
  3. Don’t Miss Out on Snacks: From popcorn to ice cream, use your snack credits for those mid-day hunger pangs!
  4. Refillable Mug: Make the most of your mug with unlimited refills at any Disney Resort hotel beverage refill station.
  5. Track Your Credits: Keep an eye on your remaining meals and snacks using the My Disney Experience app. Note ALL of your credits are available on check-in, so you do not have to stick to using the allotted credits each day!
Tips For Making the Most of Disney Dining Plans in 2024 1

Special Dining Experiences

Disney Dining Plans also offer access to unique dining experiences:

  • Character Dining: Dine with Disney characters, great for kids! Most character dining experiences are included in the Disney Dining Plan!
  • Fine/Signature Dining: For those seeking an upscale dining experience. Note many of these experiences can be covered via the Disney Dining Plan, but will need 2 credits per person.
  • Dinner Shows and Private In-Room Dining: Perfect for special occasions. Note dinner shows may require 2 credits per person.

Important to Know

  • Gratuities Not Included: Remember to budget for tips for those table-service meals! Gratuity is typically not included in the Disney Dining Plan meals.
  • Advance Reservations: Highly recommended to ensure you get a spot at your desired restaurant.
  • Unused Meals Expire: Use all your meal credits before midnight on your package reservation checkout date. Pro Tip: you can use unused snack credits to purchase packaged snacks to bring home to extend the magic past the end of your vacation!

Related: What’s New with Disney Dining Plans in 2024?

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Keep An Eye Out For Promotions

The new Free Dining promotion is an extra treat! If you’re a Disney+ subscriber, look out for special deals and offers that can add even more value to your dining plan. The Free Dining offer is available for booking on January 3, 2024, for most stays July 1 through Sept. 30, 2024. You will need a 4-night (minimum) stay and 4-day tickets with park hopper (minimum) per person. Guests staying at Value and Moderate Resorts will get the Quick Service Dining Plan, and guests of Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts will get the Disney Dining Plan.

Disney Dining Plans are a fantastic way to enjoy diverse dining options at Walt Disney World® Resort. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a fancy meal, there’s something for everyone. Remember, planning is key, and with these tips, you’re all set for a magical dining experience!


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Chris B