Hi Johnny!
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
I do understand how frustrating it can be when you are trying to secure
dining reservations at your favourite restaurants - I have been in the same position myself. For most locations it could always be possible to secure a walk-in, usually down to late cancellations or no-shows, as dining reservations can be cancelled as late as 24 hours in advance, without penalty. You may have to wait a while, or if you are nearby earlier in the day (ie for a restaurant at one of the theme parks) you could ask about a walk-in slot, and possibly be given a return time to save you sitting around and waiting. If you try to book direct with the restaurant in advance, they will comply to the same reservations policy of 180 days in advance.
Don't lose heart - cancellations do occur all the time - even a few days before the date - as Guests will often change their plans during their vacation, so please keep checking. I have had success when checking my own dining reservations every day, several times a day. Remember that you can check for dining reservations wherever you are, by using your My Disney Experience mobile app. Reservations can also be made online.
If you can be slightly flexible with your date, or time of reservation, you might have more chance of success. Fingers crossed for all your reservations!
For one of my trips, I was unable to get a reservation for
Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White, despite trying every day. Once I arrived at
Disney's Wilderness Lodge I visited the restaurant and was told that because character dining is very popular with young children (of course!) you would have more chance of securing a reservation or a walk-in after 8.30pm. So if you don't mind dining a little later, you could bear that in mind. It is a delightful dining experience that is definitely worth the wait.
Please come back and visit us if you have any further questions. We will be happy to help you plan your magical holiday to Walt Disney World Resort, and keep your eye on the
Disney Parks Blog for all the latest official news and updates on events that may be happening during your stay.
Sue