Mom and Daughter at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Room
  • On Jul 19, 2014
    Charissa from IL Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We are in the process of planning our first family trip to Disney. Dining plan or pay as you go? Our children will be 6 and 3. Is it cost effective with kids this young? Thanks!

    Charissa:

    The Disney Dining Plan makes "cents" for some families and for others, it's more of a convenience than a budget help. 

    In your case, though, I really feel it would be cost-effective if you are considering Character Meals for your children. Because the Basic Dining Plan provides one table service meal a day along with a quick service meal, spending your table service credit on a Character Meal alone can more than pay for the price of your child's dining plan for the entire day which also includes a snack and a refillable mug.

    TIP: I suggest getting the most value out of the plan by making reservations for Character Meals for dinner. These are much pricier. For example, a dinner at Akershus where you'll meet many of the princesses costs more than two times as much as the breakfast Character Meal at 'Ohana to meet Stitch and Mickey.

    Wishing y'all a magical vacation!
    Whitney
thumbnail image for Whitney

Meet the Panelist: Whitney, Mississippi

My family of 6 appreciates Disney's value! Although Ft. Wilderness is our second home, we've enjoyed the resorts for business, reunions and romantic getaways. For me, Disney also means dining: last count, I'd eaten at 55 restaurants around the World! Learn More About Whitney

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