Hi Erica,
For years of visits to WDW without the dining plan, we gave a try last year. And.....we are doing it again this year because we liked it so much!
There are several types of dining plans that are described
here. We like this
plan; it allows us one table service, one counter service, and one snack for each night we stay. The meal credits can be used all in one day or spread out. I like that I don't have to think about the cost of each entree/meal. The freedom is quite liberating for a penny-pincher like myself.
If you prefer, there is a Quick Service dining plan explained
here, which includes two counter service meals and two snacks a day
www.mousesavers.com has a great write up about the pros and cons of the dining plan that may help you to make your decision - just do a search for
Disney Dining Plan Pros & Cons. www.allearsnet.com also has information about it as well as other guest's reviews of the plan -- just search for
Dining Plan.