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Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Apr 22, 2009
    Jami from OH 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.

    1st trip to WDW. Sept 26-Oct 3. DH, myself, DS 10 and DD 7. Can't decide between DDP or DDDP. Is the Deluxe plan worth the extra money and time spent on meals? Please help!! Thanks

    Jami:

    I feel very strongly that the regular Disney Dining Plan is the best option for families with children versus the Deluxe Dining Plan.  You've already mentioned two reasons: cost and, one that most guests never think about: TIME.

    The Deluxe Plan gives you three table service meals per day compared to one on the regular plan.  The average table-service meal takes about 1 1/2 hours.  With kids, it's a bit much.  Even if you doubled up two meals each day for a signature dining experience or dinner show, you'd still be spending time not only on eating but getting to those restaurants because most are not in the parks but at the resorts.  By the end of the week, you may find yourself opting to "dumb" down the plan and use those table service credits at counter service restaurants and you lose the value of what you paid for....

    In addition, Disney offers a lot of food, even with its economical Quick Service Dining Plan.  With the regular dining plan, our family usually doubles up two table credits for one of the nicer dining experiences during our trip and doesn't miss the meal! 

    The Deluxe Dining Plan fits the bill if you plan on eating solely at buffets (for time) or have a team of football players (for food).  It's best, though, for those who are going to Disney more for the dining than the parks, and this usually doesn't include families with children.

    If you've got any more questions about the Disney Dining Plan, feel free to contact me via my bio page!

    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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