Shelsea, get ready to enjoy some delicious food! Dining at Walt Disney World is one of my favorite things to do and even outweighs some attractions for me.
Although "check-in time" is 3:00pm, this simply means your room may not be available until after 3:00pm. Once you arrive at your resort hotel, you can begin the check-in process. The cast members can even get your cell phone number and text you when your room is ready. That way you can still enjoy the parks and your dining reservations while you wait for your room. There is even
online check-in up to 60 days prior to your arrival.
Your dining plan credits begin with the first day of your vacation package and end with your check-out day. It isn't dependent upon you checking in first. Everything should be linked to your MagicBands and ready for use first thing that morning. This also means you can enter a park with the park admission included in your package prior to that 3:00pm check in time.
So, have those MagicBands on and go enjoy all the magic Walt Disney World has to offer from the moment you step on property. Have a wonderful time and don't hesitate to stop back by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with more questions prior to your trip. We're eager to help assist in any way we can.
~Allison L