Hi Jean!
You are correct, the Disney Dining Plan is only for guests staying at a Walt Disney World resort. Anyone can make dining reservations by calling (407) WDW-DINE or you can make them
online, which is what I prefer to do.
I highly recommend a character restaurant. Most of them are buffet style, so there is something for everyone, even picky eaters. My favorite is
Chef Mickey's because it has the classic characters like Mickey, Goofy, Donald and more. They are open for breakfast and dinner.
My absolute favorite restaurant at Walt Disney World is
'Ohana in the Polynesian resort. The food is soooooo delicious and it's such a fun restaurant. Throughout dinner, the kids can participate in coconut races and hula lessons. This is an all-you-care-to-eat restaurant where the food is brought right to your table. If you get lucky, you can get a table with a view of the Magic Kingdom!
If you're looking for a dinner show, I think the Moms Panel would agree that the
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is the best. The food is also delicious, but the show is hilarious and very interactive! You will be laughing all night long.
Take a look at all of the restaurant choices. You can filter by location and meal. Choose the ones that you think your family would enjoy the most. You can start making reservations 180 days in advance, which I suggest marking on your calendar. The most popular restaurants fill up fast!
Have a magical day!
Leslie