Hi Shannah, and welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Two trips to Walt Disney World in one year sounds perfectly magical to me!
Specialty beverages such as artisanal milkshakes, smoothies, hot chocolate, and lemonade are included as the beverage with meals on the
2018 Disney Dining Plan. I’m so sorry to hear you had trouble finding these beverages for your son on your recent visit. Not every location offers specialty beverages, so sometimes the options are more limited. Also, while specialty beverages are allowed, if they are served in a souvenir cup or include glow cubes or other novelties, those souvenir items will cost extra, but you should be able to get the drink in a regular cup. Finally, not every drink item is eligible; this can be confusing, so I always ask our server to help me understand what items are included so we can choose from those. You’re also welcome to contact a Disney Dining Cast Member at (407) WDW-DINE; they can help you figure out how to make the most of every meal.
Shannah, here are a few suggestions to get you started on your quest for specialty beverages:
-Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort has a great assortment of smoothies
-The PB&J milkshake from 50’s Prime Time Café
-Mango Lassi at Sanaa
-The mint julep lemonade at Casey’s Corner is one of many specialty lemonades around the parks
-My daughter loves a Shirley Temple, and we have found that many Table-Service restaurants will make one for her even if it’s not on the menu; her favorite was at The Hollywood Brown Derby.
I hope that helps! Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for announcements about holiday offerings in the parks, including new drinks and festive treats that will be perfect uses of your snack entitlements.
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Robyn