Maximizing Your Disney Dining Plan!

One of the questions we get the most is, “Is the dining plan worth it?” Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer to that as the dining plan is not a one size fits all kind of plan. Once we know what your plans are, we can help you decide if it is worth it. We also can let you know how to make the most of your credits! 

What is the Disney Dining Plan?

It’s an optional package add-on for Guests staying in an on-site Walt Disney World Resort hotel. Simply scan your MagicBand or MagicMobile pass at any of the participating restaurants, stores or carts that accept the Disney Dining Plan and they will deduct the correct amount of credits. 

What is the cost?

Adult (Ages 10+) $94.28

Child (Ages 3-9) $26.69

How many credits do I receive? 

For each night (not days!) of your reservation, you’ll be allotted a certain number of credits.

• 1 sit-down credit per person per night 
• 1 quick service credit per person per night 
• 1 snack credit per person per night 
• 1 resort refillable mug per person

So, for example, if you are staying 5 nights and 6 days, you’d receive:

• 5 sit-down credits per person
• 5 quick service credits per person
• 5 snack credits per person

Gratuity is not included except for at Cinderella’s Royal Table. 

It’s important to note that credits begin upon check in and expire on midnight the day you check out (even though check out time is 11 am!) So be sure to use up all of your credits. We love to use extra snack credits for take home goods from the resort gift shops. The little character gold coins make the best lunchbox treat! 

Does my child under 3 require a Dining Plan?

No, children ages 2 and younger do not require a park ticket or the Dining Plan! 

Are all restaurants one credit?

No, some are two credits. These restaurants are known as Signature Restaurants. See our chart below. 

What is a snack credit?

Ah, snack credits are our favorites! So many things qualify from Mickey premium ice cream bars to bottles of water! You’ll see the DDP graphic next to anything that qualifies. We suggest using snack credits for items that cost over $5 to get the most out of your credit. We love to stretch our snack credits for some breakfast items at the resort food courts in the morning. Pastries and fruit cups are included. 

How to track credits?

We have exciting news! Disney has made this much easier with the return of the dining plan. Credit balances will now be available on your My Disney Experience app. It will also continue to be available at the bottom of your receipts, like in years past. The best way to keep track of your meals and snacks is to go to your app and on the opening page, you will see your Resort listed. Click on "My Resort" and you will scroll down till you see an icon of a clipboard with a fork and knife that says "Check Dining Plan." Every time you use a meal or snack you will see an update on the app with what is left.

I’ve heard of free dining. Does it really exist? 

Yes! It 100% exists. Disney is currently running a promotion for free dining for check in dates of July 1 - September 30, 2024. Contact your Pixie Dust Vacation Planner for more details and free quote! 

What are the benefits of the Disney Dining Plan?

• Convenience 
• Ability to pre-pay
• Cost savings 

How can I maximize my dining credits? 

• Book with a Pixie Dust Vacation Planner for the best use of your credits. We compare the OOP cost to the dining plan cost to help you choose the best way to use your plan. 
• Book character meals! Many are only one credit **Lunches and Dinners are better uses than breakfast. 
• Order items that you typically wouldn’t order if you were paying out of pocket. 
• Take advantage of the included drinks!