Welcome back Karen!
I share in your excitement. You're going to have so much fun exploring Walt Disney World. No matter how many times I visit, I always find something new to discover.
Now, as for your question, you most certainly may choose where you dine when you have the Disney Dining Plan. Most restaurants on Walt Disney World property do accept the Plan. You can see a comprehensive list of the participating restaurants by clicking on any of the plans listed under "Related Resources" at
this page. Restaurants that are classified as quick service restaurants do not require advance dining reservations. However, it is advisable to call (407) WDW-DINE up to 180 days in advance of your arrival to make reservations at any of the table service restaurants where you'd like to dine. This is especially true for character dining experiences. These are incredibly popular and fill up fast. Do plan to include at least one
character dining experience in your vacation plans. If you would like some suggestions as to which ones to choose, just click
here and drop me another question. (I love Disney dining questions!)
As for a lovely place to dine for adults, consider The California Grill atop Disney's Contemporary Resort, The Grand Floridian Cafe at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, or any of the sophisticated dining options at Downtown Disney. If there's a particular kind of cuisine you seek, just let me know and I can help you by suggesting some options.
Thanks again for a great question!
Jill