Greetings, Jeffrey, and welcome to planDisney! So, you have a dream of dining at
Blue Bayou as part of your 50th anniversary celebration? I love that! I'll share some information that might help you make it happen.
First of all, I love Blue Bayou. The atmosphere can't be beat, especially if you happen to be seated along the water. In my experience, this is one of the harder dining reservations to get, since so many Guests want to experience it. However, there are a few things you can try.
I notice that part of your visit is still a little more than 60 days out at the time of writing this. Dining reservations don't typically become available earlier than that, and it's possible they won't be released right at the 60-day mark. Over the next few days, I suggest
checking for reservations often, especially early in the morning. Make sure you're signed into your MyDisney account ahead of time. You might also check with different party sizes to see what's available. And just so you know, you can usually add or remove up to one Guest on your reservation when checking in.
Reservations can be released even up to the day before, since other Guests may modify or cancel their reservations, so it may just be a matter of persistence paying off. And if it doesn't, consider joining the walk-up list. I've done this quite a few times. I like to head to Blue Bayou around 15 minutes before they open (usually 11 a.m.). With your whole party present, ask the Cast Member if you can join the list. It might be harder to do with a large group or during peak dining times, but it's always worked out well for me. All this to say, don't give up hope if you can't get a reservation – just be a little flexible.
There are some other dining options that can provide a memorable experience, in case you want some backups (or additions)! Here are some of my favorites:
- Fantasmic! Dining Package: Pair a meal with a great spot to watch this amazing nighttime spectacular. There are a few different locations and meal times to choose from. For most, you'll receive a voucher to access a reserved viewing area later that day. For a celebration as special as yours, I'd suggest trying for the premium option to watch the show while seated for dinner at River Belle Terrace.
- World of Color Dessert Party: You'd be seated at a table with a great view of Paradise Bay in California Adventure, and you'd each receive an assortment of tasty desserts, as well as a little keepsake. I did this with my mom and sister, and it was extremely special watching the show this way.
I have one more option for you –
Napa Rose just reopened following an extensive refurbishment. It's the ultimate romantic and luxurious restaurant at the Disneyland Resort, but it's definitely on the pricier side. This is another location that can be difficult to get a reservation for, but I just checked and saw a few options available.
Jeffrey, I hope these tips and ideas have provided you with a path forward for your special trip. One final tip for today: Don't forget to pick up a "Happily Ever After" button at the start of your trip – ask a Cast Member for one at City Hall or at a retail location. On behalf of all of us at planDisney, happy anniversary. If you think of any other questions as you continue planning, please reach out – we're always happy to help!
Wishing you magic,
Kriss