Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Feb 8, 2009
    Janelle from CO 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 going to WDW in June for 7 days. We did not purchase any Dining Plan because I figured we could get by cheaper on our own (we don't eat a lot of sit down meals). However, I keep seeing that the dining plans offer a % discount. How does that work?

    Hi Janelle --

    I think you may be looking at two different dining programs when you see that the dining plan offers a discount.

    Tables in Wonderland used to be called the Disney Dining Experience.  It is a discount program offered to Florida Residents and Annual Passholders.  Eligible guests pay a membership fee and are offered 20 percent off of their total bill at many Walt Disney World restaurants.

    Although the Dining Plan that is available to guests purchasing a resort package doesn't offer a discount, it can save you 30 percent off of your daily dining.  The character meals that are so popular in Walt Disney World are included as restaurant options in this package.  One of those meals can cost almost as much as the dining plan for a day, so once you add a quick service meal and snack, you definitely exceed the cost of the plan.  It's also nice to have your entire meal package paid for ahead of time, so that you are free to just enjoy your vacation without having to reach into your pockets at every meal.

    However, for families who don't plan on eating a lot of sit down meals, it is an unnecessary expense.  Although you may want to consider the Quick Service Dining Plan.  You get 2 Quick Service Meals, 2 Snacks, and One refillable drink mug per person.  The cost (subject to change) is $29.99 per person per night and $8.99 per child per night.

    Hope this helps.  Have a magical vacation!
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Meet the Panelist: Diane, Georgia

After spending 25 years in RI, my husband and I relocated to GA with our youngest, who is now in high school. I took my first trip to Walt Disney World when I was 11 and I have traveled many times since then with all different party sizes. From creating our first itinerary as a honeymooner to later creating magical experiences for our multigenerational family gatherings, every aspect of planning a vacation has been pure joy to me.  Learn More About Diane

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