• On Feb 16, 2020
    Georgia from Kent Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    If I cannot get a reservation for a restaurant at a particular time, does that mean the restaurant is full, or can we walk up and just wait?

    Hi Georgia!

    Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    It's always a pleasure to see questions arriving from my fellow Guests in the UK!   I understand how frustrating it can be when you are trying to secure dining reservations at your favourite restaurants.  For most locations it could always be possible to secure a walk-in, usually down to late cancellations or no-shows, as dining reservations can be cancelled as late as 24 hours in advance, without penalty.  You may have to wait a while, or if you are nearby earlier in the day (ie for a restaurant at one of the theme parks) you could ask about a walk-in slot, and possibly be given a return time to save you sitting around and waiting.   

    Don't lose heart - cancellations do occur all the time - even a few days before the date - as Guests will often change their plans during their vacation, so please keep checking. I have had success when checking my own dining reservations every day, several times a day. Remember that you can check for dining reservations wherever you are, by using your My Disney Experience mobile app.  Reservations can also be made online.

    If you can be slightly flexible with your date, or time of reservation, you might have more chance of success.  Fingers crossed for all your reservations!

    Something to consider, especially if you are trying to book a character dining experience.  I was unable to get a reservation for Storybook Dining with Snow White at Artist Point, despite trying every day.  Once I arrived at Disney's Wilderness Lodge I visited the restaurant and was told that because character dining is very popular with young children (of course!) you would have more chance of securing a reservation or a walk-in after 8.30pm.  So if you don't mind dining a little later, you could bear that in mind.

    Please come back and visit us if you have any further questions. We will be happy to help you plan your magical holiday to Walt Disney World Resort, and keep your eye on the Disney Parks Blog for all the latest official news and updates on events that may be happening during your stay.

    Sue
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Meet the Panelist: Susan, United Kingdom

Hi, I'm Sue from England. I am very proud to represent the UK as a member of planDisney since 2012. Walt Disney World is my happy place, and I look forward to answering your questions when you are planning your magical vacation at Walt Disney World Resort. Learn More About Susan

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