Hi Tina!
What a generous and Magical gift to offer a family!
The good news is, you can absolutely use Disney Gift Cards at most restaurants and merchandise locations at the
Disneyland Resort.
I say
most because in the Downtown Disney District, Disney Gift Cards are only accepted at the
ESPN Zone since that's a Disney-owned property. But any other quick service or table service restaurants inside the Parks will gladly accept Disney Gift Cards.
As far as the the snack carts inside the Parks, those operate differently. Although some snack carts, like the fruit cart on Main Street, U.S.A. next to Starbucks takes cards, most others, like the churro, pretzel and popcorn carts only accept cash.
Your question about
how much really depends on the type of experience you want the family to have.
For example, if you think they'll be better off with a quick service meal, like burgers and fries, then I would budget an average of $15 per person, per meal. If you want them to experience an unforgettable dinner at the Blue Bayou Restaurant with preferred seating vouchers to the nighttime spectacular, Fantasmic!, then you should budget about $70 per adult and $30 per child for the
Fantasmic! Dining Package.
Also, consider whether they'll want smaller souvenirs, like Mickey pens and key chains or bigger gifts like toy sets and sweaters, which can range in price from $29.95 to $150.
Keep in mind Disney Gift Cards can be purchased in multiples of up to $500.
I hope this helps!
Thanks for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Have a Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious day!
-Anabel M.