Hi Judy!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
I love using the
Disney Dining Plan, it offers so much convenience, and value across the whole of the Walt Disney World Resort - the theme parks, the Disney Resort hotels and select restaurants at
Disney Springs. When making your dining reservations (up to 180 days in advance, online, or by using your My Disney Experience account) you do not need to select a method of payment - it is only when you speak with your server at the table that they will ask if you have any Disney dining plans. At that time you can then explain that your family will be using your dining plan, and your other two families will be paying by their own dining plans. It's as simple as that! Your server will scan one
MagicBand from each party, and you'll be set. If you order any items that are not included in the Disney Dining Plans these will be paid for separately, with credit card, cash or as a room charge, and you can also ask for three dining receipts, one for each of your parties, if you wish. You can also choose to pay by cash, and not use your dining plan, even if everyone else is using theirs. Your dining credits can be used in whichever way you want to use them - maybe using more on one day and less on another - as long as you have the credits available, it's up to you. You can check your balance on
My Disney Experience, or just ask your server. It will also be shown on any of your dining receipts.
If you would like to see which restaurants will accept the Disney Dining Plans, and also how many entitlements they require,
have a look through this list. Click on any location, and then click on 'Some Dining Plans Accepted' for full details.
Please come back and visit us if you have any further questions. We will be happy to help you plan your magical vacation. Keep your eye on the
Disney Parks Blog for all the official news, and latest updates on events happening at Walt Disney World during your visit.
~ Sue