Hi Jill,
Thanks for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel. I'm happy to see you are beginning to plan a visit to Walt Disney World Resort.
Any guest wanting to purchase Theme Park Tickets may do so
online or at a Ticket Window at any of the Theme Parks at Walt Disney World Resort. You do not need to stay at Walt Disney World Resort to purchase Theme Park Tickets.
As for the Disney Dining Plan, guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort are able to purchase the Disney Dining Plan as part of a package when you book a resort stay and purchase tickets as well. So unfortunately, if you aren't staying onsite, you cannot purchase the Disney Dining Plan.
I hope you have a wonderful time at Walt Disney World Resort, Jill. Please let us know if you have any other questions, we are always happy to help.
Stephanie