• On Oct 18, 2016
    Julie from ME 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.

    If we tried making a dining reservation at a restaurant in the Disney parks, but no availability, can we show up to the restaurant & request to be seated without a reservation (knowing we will have to wait)? Are reservations mandatory to be seated?

    Welcome Julie! Thanks for visiting us at the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
    Advanced Dining Reservations for restaurants at Disney Theme Parks are not mandatory but are strongly recommended. If you are considering a Character Dining Experience or a very popular restaurant, such as Be Our Guest Restaurant for example, I encourage you to make a reservation.
    You can always show up to the restaurant and try to be seated without a reservation, but it is a very difficult situation. Usually you won’t be able to enter, unless there was a last minute cancellation. I know people who would wait for three hours to be able to have a meal at a desired restaurant, but it is absolutely not my option. I always try to make my dining reservations prior to my visit, and when the restaurant I want doesn’t have availability I try another one. You can have a pleasant surprise!
    Hope this helps your planning. Let us know if you have further questions.
    Have a magical day!
    Gina V.
thumbnail image for Gina

Meet the Panelist: Gina, Brazil

I am totally a Disney maniac! Since childhood, I have been a big fan of all things Disney, especially the theme parks. I have never visited any other place that gives me the same feeling that I get at the Walt Disney World Resort. You can become a child again there! With so much to explore, I would love to help you plan your next Walt Disney World vacation and discover all the fantasy and magic this special place has to offer. Learn More About Gina

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