• On Mar 26, 2022
    Emily from MD Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Headed to Walt Disney World Resort in June with 24 people. Looking for some current tips on scoring advance dining reservations for such a large group - restaurants that might hold us, how to split the group when booking, anything else helpful. Thanks!

    Hiya Emily - welcome back to planDisney!

    It's been a while since you've stopped by and I'm so glad you're back with another question! Dining is one of my favorite parts of a Walt Disney World Resort vacation, so I can definitely understand wanting to ensure your big crew has a magical experience with some advance reservations.

    Vacationing with a large family can take some extra planning, but even with a large crew, you'll still have great options. In my experience, being more flexible with the location and timing of our dining reservations is important, especially as groups get larger. If having table-service meals together as a large group is very important, you might want to consider planning your other activities (e.g., Park Pass Reservations) around the dining plans you are able to secure. Off the top of my head, there are a few dining locations that you should definitely be checking out. A couple of my favorites when traveling with a larger group include Boma - Flavors of Africa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, The Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom Park, and Biergarten Restaurant at EPCOT's Germany Pavilion.

    I usually have the best luck calling Disney Dining at 407-939-3463 for larger reservations. You are able to start making advance dining reservations 60 days prior to arrival - I suggest putting a reminder on your calendar for the corresponding date in April for your June trip, and calling early! The Cast Members on the reservation line can help you identify the best options for your group and may be able to help split the group into multiple smaller reservations at around the same time if needed. If that's the best fit, when you arrive for your reservation you'll just want to let the Cast Member at the host stand know that you'd like to sit near each other - they will do their best to grant your wish! I've also had great experiences booking meals for larger groups at some of the fantastic Disney Springs restaurants by contacting them directly - The Edison, STK Orlando, The BOATHOUSE, and Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' are all great options to consider.

    Another great option to consider, at least for one of your meals, is to enjoy all the Outdoor Kitchens as part of the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival! Your crew can explore all the fantastic options throughout EPCOT, and grab bites and sips along the way. I really like this option, especially with larger groups, because you can spread out and find those special offerings that sound delicious to you!

    I hope this information is helpful as you continue planning for your crew. Please let me know if other questions pop up that we can help you with!

    Ryan J.
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Meet the Panelist: Ryan, Ohio

Hi, everyone! I’m Ryan from Ohio and am so happy that you’re here! By day (and most nights and weekends), I'm a business professor mentoring the next generation of leaders. In my free time I love outdoor activities and traveling with my family and friends, scarfing down ice cream, and, of course, all things Disney! I can’t wait to help your crew plan a magical Walt Disney World Resort vacation! Learn More About Ryan

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