Back to Your Answers
Mom and Daughter at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Room
  • On Apr 20, 2010
    Daniele from OH Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    This will be our first trip to WDW. We purchased the deluxe dining plan and I was wondering if it is necessary to make reservations. Also, what happens if we make reservations and do not show?

    Hi, Daniele!  You are not required to make any reservations, and there isn't any rule with the dining plan that makes it necessary.  But, some of the more popular restaurants at Walt Disney World will fill up completely, and without a reservation, you won't be able to be seated.  With the increasing popularity of the dining plan, I find it much better to make some advanced dining reservations for the meals I know my family doesn't want to miss, so we can rest assured in the knowledge that the only table we get is for a restaurant we weren't interested in late in the evening.

    If you make a reservation and can't make it, for the most part, nothing happens.  You are not penalized, and your table will be given to someone who is waiting without a reservation.  However, there are some dining experiences, like Cinderella's Royal Table, where if you do not cancel with 48 hours notice, you will be charged a penalty for not cancelling. 

    Some of the restaurants that are likely to book up in advance include Cinderella's Royal Table at the Magic Kingdom; Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary Resort; and Le Cellier at EPCOT.  If you are traveling during a busy season (like during summer vacation or spring break) or over the holidays, it is even more important to book your meals in advance so you don't miss out on some amazing meals!

    You can book your meals by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

    Have a wonderful vacation!
thumbnail image for Anna

Meet the Panelist: Anna, New Jersey

My name is Anna and I am a retired teacher with a J.D., a proud Navy wife with 30+ years of experience, mom to three daughters and a son-in-law, and grandmom to three tiny Disney fans. I have planned vacations for all sorts of special occasions and celebrations, but I really enjoy DVC vacations, helping military families, and assisting those with special dietary needs.    Learn More About Anna

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please log in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.

 

 

Internet Explorer FireFox Safari Chrome