Greetings, Diane!
I really love using the
Disney Dining Plan, and I add it to my family's vacation package almost every time we travel to Walt Disney World Resort. We love how easy and convenient it is to enjoy our favorite snacks and also some new ones, but it really comes down to how much money it saves us every time. The Dining Plan is a great deal, but there are definitely some ways for you to maximize the value of your credits and get more bang for your buck, as you say, and I'm happy to share a few of my favorites!
Every time I've used the Dining Plan, I've found that there isn't a formula or even really a dollar limit or a top cost for what is included as a Snack credit. The snacks will be marked clearly on the menu with the Disney Dining Plan logo, but the price isn't necessarily the determining factor for what you can get for your credit. For instance, at this year's
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival you can get a Lobster Tail with Meyer Lemon Emulsion and Grilled Lemon at
The Citrus Blossom for a snack credit, and it's around eight dollars. That would be a great way to use your Disney Dining Plan on a higher price-point snack! Another great value snack is the Pineapple Upside Down Cake at
Aloha Isle, and also any of the delicious and beautiful specialty cupcakes that can be found around Walt Disney World Resort. Of course, prices and availability are always subject to change, so be sure to ask a Cast Member if you have any questions.
Have a magical day, Diane!
Jessica