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Mom And Son Running through park; RunDisney; incredibles shirt
  • On Jun 20, 2011
    Jennifer 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.

    Looking at advice for dining, I keep reading that we should "dine in off hours" but I can't find anywhere what is considered "off hours" please help :)

    Hi Jennifer,

    "Off hours" typically are the times that people on vacation aren't yet thinking about eating.  For instance, if you want to find short lines and abundant seating at Disney's quick service restaurants, have lunch at 11 am.  While visiting the Magic Kingdom, for instance, we always stroll into the Columbia Harbour House for an early lunch at 11 am.  The place is practically deserted then so we have no wait to order our food and we have our choice of tables.  A mere 30-40 minutes later and the place is packed. 

    The same is true of dinner at table service restaurants.  If you have an early dinner (between 5 and 5:30 pm, for example), then you are likely to find the restaurants sparsely populated.  In fact, even though advance dining reservations are always recommended for table service restaurants, you may even be lucky enough to find a table available without a reservation if you go soon after they start seating guests for dinner.  My son and I were lucky enough to score a table at The Wave in Disney's Contemporary Resort last month when we showed up at 5:30 pm on a weeknight.  We felt so lucky to have gotten a table at this hip, new restaurant on such short notice. 

    The other option you might pursue if you are looking to book a meal during "off hours" is to dine late.  Often people don't want reservations during fireworks or parades so you might be able to book a table during those times.  If you're willing to dine after 9 pm, that may open some options for you.  Parties with small children often prefer not to dine this late.

    Good luck getting your most desired dining reservations, Jennifer!

    Jill
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Meet the Panelist: Jill, New Jersey

Lesson plans, college plans, vacation plans...as a teacher, college counselor, and incurable Disney fan I find myself constantly planning.  I love to share advice with friends who have yet to experience all that Walt Disney World has to offer! Learn More About Jill

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