The Disney Dining Plan Explained

What Is the Disney Dining Plan?

The Disney Dining Plan (DDP) is a prepaid meal system that lets guests at Walt Disney World Resort purchase a bundle of meals, snacks and drinks at a discounted rate. Instead of pulling out a credit card for every bite, you receive a set number of dining credits each day, which you can redeem at most tableservice restaurants, quickservice locations, and even select character meals.

The plan is optional, can be added when you book a Disneyowned resort or purchased later through My Disney Experience, and is available only to guests staying at a Disney resort hotel.

Types of Disney Dining Plans

Disney currently offers three main plans, each suited to different eating habits and budgets.

1. Quick-Service (Q) Plan

• 2 QuickService meals per night.
• 1 snack credit per night.
• Ideal for families who spend most of their time at the parks and enjoy fastcasual fare.

2. Disney Dining Plan (D) Standard

• 1 TableService meal per night.
• 1 QuickService meal per night.
• 1 snack credit per night.
• Best for guests who want a mix of sitdown dining and quick bites.

3. Deluxe (DD) Plan

• 2 TableService meals per night.
• 1 QuickService meal per night.
• 1 snack credit per night.
• Perfect for food lovers who want to splurge on character breakfasts and fine dining.

All plans include a 10percent discount on alcoholic beverages at tableservice locations (where permitted).

How the Plan Works

1. Purchase the Plan

You can add the DDP during your resort reservation, or purchase it up to 60 days before your arrival through My Disney Experience.

2. Receive Your Credits

Credits are calculated on a pernight basis. For example, a 5night stay on the Deluxe plan gives you 10 TableService meals, 5 QuickService meals, and 5 snack credits.

3. Redeem at Participating Locations

When you order, let your server know youd like to use a Dining Plan credit. The credit value varies by restaurant type (e.g., a QuickService credit is worth up to $15, a TableService credit up to $55, and a snack credit up to $5).

4. Keep Track

Your remaining credits appear in the My Plans section of My Disney Experience, updated after each transaction.

5. Expiration

All credits must be used by the last night of your stay. Unused credits are forfeited, so plan ahead!

Tips & Tricks for Getting the Most Value

• Book popular tableservice restaurants early. Reservations open 60 days in advance and fill quickly, especially for character meals.
• Combine a quickservice breakfast with a snack credit. Many guests use the quickservice credit for a hearty meal and then add a free snack later.
• Make a Meal Planning Day. Choose one park day and aim to use all three credits (tableservice, quickservice, snack) to avoid leftover credits.
• Watch the credit limits. If a meal exceeds the credit value, youll pay the difference; conversely, you cant bank unused credit value for another day.
• Consider the Free Dessert rule. Desserts are usually covered by the credit, but special items like the famous Dole Whip may cost extra.
• Use snack credits strategically. Grab a pretzel, popcorn, or a beverage on a busy day instead of paying cash.
• Alcoholic drinks are a bonus. Since the plan offers a 10% discount on wine, beer, and cocktails, you can enjoy a drink with dinner and still stay within the credit limit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the plan at Disney Springs?

Yes. All three plans are accepted at Disney Springs restaurants, though snack credits are limited to items under $5.

What about meals outside the parks?

Dining plans cover any Disneyowned resort or park restaurant, including Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Polynesian Village Resort.

Are gratuities included?

Gratuities are not covered by the plan and are expected to be added separately, usually 1520% of the bill.

Can I transfer credits to another guest?

No. Credits are linked to the reservation holder and cannot be transferred.

What if I have a dietary restriction?

All Disney restaurants accommodate common dietary needs. Inform your server and theyll guide you to suitable menu options.