Hey there Karen!
Planning a magical ten-day autumn getaway, huh? I think you’re in for a great experience! Visiting during October is one of my favorite times to visit. The weather has typically been kind to us and it is still very warm, so mid-day pool breaks are a must. The Halloween decorations are up in Magic Kingdom Park and extra special events like
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are in full swing.
Let’s talk about those
Disney Dining Plans. They're like the VIP pass to all of the culinary delights the Walt Disney World Resort has to offer. Since they're part of a total vacation package, you’ll be purchasing one of the dining plans for the entire length of your stay if you're parked at the same resort for the whole ten days. However, if you are planning to move to a new
Disney Resorts Collection hotel at some point, that would be considered a new booking and therefore you could opt to not purchase the dining plan. I do see though that you are from “across the pond” so I would suggest looking out for special offers as sometimes those of you over in the UK have some pretty sweet deals.
Now, let's talk dining specifics! If you're aiming for the full feast experience, the
Disney Dining Plan is your golden ticket. With this plan, you’ll find yourself savoring delectable meals at table-service restaurants across the Walt Disney World Resort. It's like a foodie's dream come true! We recently got to experience the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant in Hollywood Studios and it was truly a neat experience. Another dining location that I highly recommend is Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
If you're more of a quick-bites adventurer, the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan might be your jam. Think of it as a whirlwind tour of flavor, where you can grab delicious eats on the go at various spots around the parks. Pro tip: hit up Flame Tree Barbecue in Animal Kingdom for some finger-licking-good ribs!
Since you’ll be visiting in October, we can’t forget to talk about the
Epcot International Food and Wine Festival – where global flavors collide in a symphony of taste and culture! As you stroll through World Showcase, prepare to have your senses tantalized by the aromas of sizzling cuisine, the melodies of live entertainment, and the vibrant tapestry of international culture.
Let's start with the stars of the show – the food booths. These culinary gems each offer an array of small plates and beverages representing countries from around the world. From savory dishes like Brazilian cheese bread and Canadian cheddar cheese soup to sweet treats like Belgian waffles with chocolate ganache and Irish cream liqueur-infused desserts, every booth is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Menus are updated each year, and you can pick up a festival guide at many locations throughout EPCOT. And don't forget to pair your bites with a refreshing selection of wines, beers, and cocktails for the ultimate tasting experience! The best thing about having one of the dining plans is that you can use snack credits for many of these dishes!
Whichever plan you choose, get ready to embark on a culinary journey that's as unforgettable as the rides themselves. Bon appétit and happy travels!
~Heather