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Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Feb 20, 2012
    Kayla from MN 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.

    Hello, Is it worth purchasing the magic your way plus dining package? I have heard several pros and cons with the dining plan but want some insider advice. This will be our first trip to WDW. There will be 2 grandparents 2 parents and 1 child (11)

    Hello, Kayla!

    Well, first, I think it's only fair to warn you that I am literally PAINED now when I travel to Walt Disney World and I'm NOT on the Dining Plan. Truly.

    What we love about the Disney Dining Plan is that it forces us to sit down for a proper meal at least once a day, out of the chaos that can be a park, out of the inclement weather / heat / cold as well, and reconnect as a family.  Before we had access to the Dining Plan, we simply only splurged on Table-Service meals maybe once, often for a character meal. Our trips using the Dining Plan are entirely different!

    If you look at the amount of money you'll spend to add the Dining Plan to your trip, then calculate the amount of money you might have spent on food while in the parks, you might realize that you'll either be saving money (if you planned on eating at Table-Service locations anyway) or spending a similar amount of money for far better fare.  To check out approximate food costs, take a look at allearsnet.com, a NON-Disney-affiliated website where fans post costs of food items and menus from time to time. Because it's not an official site, I can't guarantee that the information is accurate; however, you CAN take a look at what your dining budget might look like OFF the plan, then compare what it would cost you to add the Dining Plan.

    Another thing we love about the Dining Plan is that we can order the most expensive item on the menu (that we like) and not have to feel guilty for having done so...if it's included in the price of the plan.  Pair that with the resort-refillable mug and the Quick-Service options as well as snacks each night of your stay, and I really think that you can't beat it.

    Should you decide to add the Dining Plan, please send me additional questions so that I can help you maximize your use of it.  You won't believe how relaxing, enjoyable and conveniently, yet elegantly delicious your trip can be!
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Meet the Panelist: Andrea, Pennsylvania

I am a teacher, wife and mom who has been a member of the Disney Vacation Club since 2003. I love discovering a new favorite DVC resort, fantastic restaurant or hidden gem onboard a Disney ship! I'm a micro-planner who can help you capture your own magic! Learn More About Andrea

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