Welcome to planDisney, Cassandra!
Oh, I love so many things about your question! A multi-generational trip to
Walt Disney World, the
Disney Dining Plan, and a magical meal at
Cinderella's Royal Table? That's practically perfect in every way!
I have great news about your dining reservation strategy: the answer is yes! When the window opens for guests to book
Advanced Dining Reservations at a WDW restaurant, they can book that experience for anyone who may be joining them. In addition, when that window opens for guests staying at a
Walt Disney World Resort hotel, they may make reservations for the length of their stay--up to ten nights.
We frequently dine in WDW with family and friends who are local, so I'll include them in our dining reservations when making our plans. Just last month, my husband and I dined with cousins at
Yachtsman Steakhouse; we explained to our server that just the two of us would be using the Disney Dining Plan and the others would be paying out of pocket. Not a problem at all.
Cassandra, your family is going to love the experience of entering that beautiful castle, being greeted by royalty, enjoying a spectacular meal, and getting a glimpse of that Disney magic throughout your visit. On our first breakfast there, my little one lit up at the sight of each royal visitor--and, watching that, my mother-in-law cried. It was a magical core memory, for sure. I'm so excited for yours, too!
As you put together all of the details for your visit to The Most Magical Place on Earth, be sure to send additional questions our way. We love to help!
Andrea H