Hi Aeron! I know it's frustrating when you've got your heart set on dining at a particular restaurant and it's booked up during your trip. Don't give up hope on dining at Chef Mickey's. Reservations may come available as you get closer to your trip; people do sometimes cancel their dining reservations as they firm up their plans.
To dine at a restaurant located inside one of the Disney parks, you do need park admission. If you're family doesn't want to visit Epcot, you won't be able to eat at the Garden Grill unfortunately. However, if you're looking for a character meal, there are other options outside of theme parks. The
Cape May Cafe in the Beach Club offers a character breakfast that's similar to Chef Mickey's. If you prefer to have a character dinner,
1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian hosts Cinderella's Happily Ever After dinner. If you're visiting the Magic Kingdom, the
Crystal Palace has a character dinner with Pooh and friends; the food is really tasty here.
Hope you have a magical vacation! Come visit us again at the Moms Panel if you have more questions! We're happy to help!