Hi Vincent!
I absolutely recommend purchasing the Disney Dining Package. I think that it saves money, time and stress.
Many of the character meals are included in the plan. Some of the character meals are one table service (TS) credit from your plan, while others may require two TS. For example, Chef Mickey's is an excellent character dining experience where you can enjoy an all-you-care-to-eat buffet while meeting Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Pluto. This awesome experience only requires one TS from your plan! The Cinderella Royal Table meal requires two TS credits from your plan, but it includes a picture with the princess, a meal, wishing star, wand (or sword for boys) and of course, meeting with the princesses. You don't have to pay anything extra for either of these experiences, the only thing that varies is the number of credits it uses from your plan. Some experiences are not included in the Disney Dining Plan, such as My Disney Girl's Perfectly Princess Tea Party.
Review the
Disney Dining Plan site more information on the restaurants included in the Disney Dining Plan.
I hope you have a magical vacation!
Magically,
Stacy