Sara:
For the conferences I've attended on Disney property, we were not eligible to purchase the
Disney Dining Plan due to the fact that the hotel room rates had been negotiated to a lower price than those that are eligible for the dining plan and the tickets we purchased were special for convention groups. With all this said, however, it doesn't mean that you wouldn't qualify for the dining plan. To qualify, you must book a vacation package that includes a room and ticket for everyone on your reservation. If you are not getting your room through the conference, you can add the dining plan. If you are getting your room through the conference event planners, ask them if you will qualify for the dining plan, but be prepared that it probably is not the case.
As for dining reservations, I really encourage travelers to make at least one dining reservation a day for their table dining, and certainly for the restaurants that are very popular like
Chef Mickey's, Ohana,
Be Our Guest, Le Cellier and
Cinderella's Royal Table. There are certainly going to be dining options where you can walk up for seating, but be prepared that you may find yourself checking multiple restaurants--especially if you're in the Magic Kingdom--before you find an opening. The thought of eating counter service meals for an entire vacation makes me plan ahead. Remember, you can always cancel up to 48 hours beforehand if your plans change.
If you need help making a dining itinerary, feel free to come back and ask us for some recommendations.
Wishing y'all a magical vacation!
Whitney