Hi there, Catherine, and welcome back to planDisney!
As much as I love snacking around the Disney theme parks all day, there's nothing like kicking off the day or taking a break at a table-service restaurant. Some of my family's favorite restaurants on property, like the
Yak & Yeti Restaurant at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, are inside the theme parks among the thrilling attractions. From meeting Winnie the Pooh at
The Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom Park to hanging out with Minnie Mouse at
Hollywood & Vine at Disney's Hollywood Studios, this is also a fun way to meet fun characters while eating a yummy meal.
Catherine, I recommend that you make a
theme park reservation, or at least check the availability calendar, before making an
advance dining reservation. But you can absolutely make an advance dining reservation before making a theme park reservation. The website will remind you to make sure you have a park reservation, but it won't block you from getting that coveted dining experience without one.
I am a bonafide planner, but sometimes I like to take chances. For example, when the new Toy Story Land restaurant
Roundup Rodeo BBQ's dining reservations opened, I jumped at the opportunity to book one for my family. However, I most definitely did not already have a theme park reservation for Disney's Hollywood Studios. As soon as I scored a reservation (yes!), I made a reservation right away because a dining reservation does not guarantee entry into the theme park. You'll still need a valid theme park admission and park reservation.
If you have any other questions about your upcoming summer vacation, I'd be more than happy to help, Catherine. Just
give me a holler here at planDisney.
Magic always,
LeAndra