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Mom And Son Giraffe
  • On May 1, 2012
    Christy from VA 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.

    My parents are taking us to Disney World in 2 weeks. We are staying on property and getting 4 day passes. I have 5 children ages 7.5, 6, 4, 2, and 4 mo. Should we get dining plans or bring our own food? Any other helpful tips? I'm late planning!

    Christy,

    I would tell you that with younger children the dining plan typically is harder to cost justify.

    First, your 2 and 4 month olds can't even be on the plan. As for your other three, it just always seems like more food than they could ever get through to be cost effective. I think you would be better off paying as you go, even if you don't get the convenience.

    As for other planning, I would pick a few table service meals that you really want to have, and try to book those immediately. You can try online, but calling (407-WDW-DINE) might be better, as they can steer you to what restaurants have openings. While many may be fully booked up by now, here are a few that might work out. These are buffets, which can make feeding all those different aged kids easier;

    1900 Park Fare (breakfast, dinner if you have all girls)
    Tusker House (any meal, though breakfast may be booked up)
    Biergarten (dinner)

    Chef Mickey's and Crystal Palace are two other great buffet's, but are probably all booked up, but those would be great if you can get them.

    Other dining that, if available, could be fun include Whispering Canyon Cafe, 'Ohana, and the Hoop Dee Doo Review.

    Finally, yes you can bring your own food. We like to bring breakfast bars so that we get some food in everyone's stomach at the start of the day, and avoid a lot of whining!

    Write me back if you want more suggestions. Let me know if you have some character experience interests, cuisine likes/dislikes, or need suggestions of good counter service selections!

    Have a magical (and delicious) vacation!
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Meet the Panelist: Doug, Indiana

I am one of the Dads on the planDisney Panel, and I love to help parents plan their vacation, with a focus on showing them how it can be fun for them too. I am also here to help Dads plan some nice surprises for the Moms in their life (they deserve it!). Learn More About Doug

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