Happy New Year a little early, Debra, and welcome to planDisney! How exciting to start 2024 with your family at
Disneyland Resort. Visiting with a large group is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the theme parks, so let's talk about that essential aspect of any vacation: food!
You must be a fabulous planner to already have your
Theme Park Tickets and hotel reservations for January. Let's take a moment to appreciate the feeling of checking those off your list!
As you probably know, you can start making
dining reservations 60 days before arrival. Although the exact time bookings open can vary, I suggest setting your alarm and trying early. I always have my Mickey mug full of steaming coffee so that I can log in with the sunrise!
I'm not sure how large your group is, but when I'm planning a visit with eight or more people, I usually recruit another person in my party to help secure our dining reservations. It's much easier to find tables for four than eight, so if you can ask others to make reservations, you'll have a better chance of getting what you want. Remember, each guest can only have one dining reservation per meal period.
My tip is to choose your top restaurants and determine the table sizes you'll need. You can try booking reservations as close together as possible and then check in at the restaurant early to request seating near each other. I've found that they will do their best to accommodate you, but remember that could vary depending on how busy they are.
Another tip is to be on a live chat or phone call when making those dining reservations. I recently did this with three other friends, and being able to make quick decisions was imperative.
My pal
Aena recently answered a similar question and offered some restaurant options for large groups.
Check out her suggestions, and I hope you find some fabulous food for your family!
Debra, I'm sprinkling pixie dust and alarm clocks so you will secure some delectable dining for your New Year's visit. Please
stop by planDisney anytime. I'll be counting down the seconds!
Magic awaits,
Elaine