Hi Bobbie,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel and thank you for asking us a question!
The answer to your question is a definite… “it depends”. If I remember correctly, you can just purchase the souvenir cups at several Walt Disney World Resort restaurants, without needing to purchase the drink that comes with them.
However, there may be some dining locations where either you’ll have to purchase the “full” drink in order to get the cup, or where the cup costs the same filled or unfilled. At
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, for example, you can only get the souvenir tiki mugs if you purchase the corresponding drink (if you don’t want the cup, your drink will be significantly cheaper). But, you will get a brand new and boxed mug when you leave Trader Sam’s, which is great for packing your souvenirs to take them home.
If you dine in a place where you would like to purchase a souvenir cup, I would definitely recommend discussing what options are available to you with your waiter. You should be able to ask your waiter to bring you the cup and drink at the end of the meal so that you can take it with you as you tour the Theme Park or Resort that you’ll be visiting, provided the drink in question is non-alcoholic.
I hope my answer helps you plan your upcoming vacation. Please don’t hesitate to come back and see us if you have any other questions!
Have a Magical Day,
Lynne