Hey there, Richard!
Welcome back to planDisney. I'm so glad to hear you have a summer visit in the works! It seems you've already got a friend in me because I just love Character Dining experiences both in and out of the parks. I know
Cinderella's Royal Table is a hot ticket reservation, so I'm already crossing my fingers that you'll be able to secure a coveted spot for the royal banquet with your girls.
Advance dining reservations typically open around 5:45 a.m. EST at the 60-day mark. If you are a Disney Resort guest, you'll be able to book dining reservations for your length of stay (up to 10 days) at the 60-day mark as well. This can be a great benefit when it comes to securing some of the most hard-to-get dining reservations.
Though you'll be able to book dining reservations online or via the
My Disney Experience Mobile App subject to availability, unfortunately, you won't be able to use a
Disney Gift Card for the meal pre-payment online. A credit card is required to secure your reservation and you will be charged per guest for the meal plus applicable tax and gratuity at that time. I know that is likely not the information you hoped to hear, but I'm hoping you'll still be able to enjoy a magical meal with your princesses during your visit. If you decide not to dine in Cinderella's Castle, be sure to take time and say hello to Princess Tiana and the other visiting Princesses at
Princess Fairytale Hall.
If you're looking for another meal to add to your itinerary, you might also consider Princess Storybook Dining at
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in
EPCOT. Like other dining reservations at Walt Disney World Resort, this only requires a credit card guarantee instead of full pre-payment. You won't be charged as long as you arrive as scheduled for your meal or adhere to the cancellation policy, which is currently 2 hours in advance of your scheduled reservation at this time.
I hope this was helpful Richard. Feel free to stop back with more planning questions as you count down to your visit!
Magic and memories,
Amy