Hello Catherine!
Welcome to planDisney! Taking large groups to Walt Disney World is my specialty! As a family of 6, we are already a large party, but we usually add family or friends to our trip too. Next month we will also be going as a party of 11, and I just went through the process of making our
Advance Dining Reservations so I can share some tips and tricks with you!
Right now, with
social distancing measures in place in restaurants, the vast majority of Disney dining locations will not make a reservation for a group larger than 6. You should plan to divide your group into two tables of 6. Additionally,
My Disney Experience will not let one person double book. This means you cannot reserve two tables at the same time with a single My Disney Experience Account. You should have two adults with separate accounts attempt to reserve tables at approximately the same time. I recommend no more than 15 minutes apart. If you can book two tables at similar times, plan to arrive early, and inquire at the podium if it would be possible for your tables to be near one another. Cast Members will do their very best but know that your request may not be accommodated, so you should be prepared to sit at opposite ends of the restaurant.
If you are struggling to find reservations, I do have a few tips. You can always book one table, and then continue to check back for cancelations. Many Guests cancel in the days leading up to their reservation. Also, third-party locations at Disney Springs may have more availability, and you may also find reservations on Open Table that you won’t see on the Walt Disney World Website.
I hope this helps as you make your plans, Catherine. Sending you pixie dust for those perfect reservations!
- Kate