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8 Quick Tips for Making Disney Dining Reservations Like a Pro

Booking dining reservations at Walt Disney World can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to snag those hard-to-get spots at popular restaurants. However, with a little preparation and some insider knowledge, the process can be much smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re after a character meal at Chef Mickey’s or a fine dining experience at Topolino’s Terrace, following these essential tips will ensure you’re well-prepared and ready to dine like a pro.

Let’s dive into the top 8 do’s for making Disney dining reservations.

1. Set Up Your My Disney Experience Account in Advance

Before you even think about making dining reservations, make sure your My Disney Experience account is set up and ready to go. This online portal is where all of your reservations, tickets, and plans will be stored. If you haven’t created an account yet, head to the My Disney Experience site and sign up.

Once your account is created, make sure to:

  • Add your travel party: Ensure that profiles for everyone in your group are connected.
  • Link your resort reservation and tickets: This step is critical, especially if you’re staying at a Disney resort, as it grants you access to early booking benefits.
  • Add payment details: Having your credit card info stored in the system saves precious time when making those sought-after reservations.
Family using my disney experience
Credit: Disney

2. Know Your 60-Day Mark

The key to securing the best dining reservations is knowing exactly when you can start booking. Walt Disney World allows guests to make dining reservations 60 days in advance of their arrival. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you get the added benefit of booking for your entire stay (up to 10 days) simultaneously.

Non-resort guests will need to book reservations one day at a time, starting 60 days before each desired reservation. Mark your 60-day window on your calendar to ensure you don’t miss out. You can calculate your 60-day mark using this handy tool to help you plan accordingly.

3. Plan Your Dining Strategy Ahead of Time

With so many amazing dining options across Walt Disney World, it’s crucial to plan out where you want to eat before your 60-day window. Take the time to research menus and restaurant experiences that appeal to your group. Consider everyone’s preferences, whether it’s a family-friendly character meal or a romantic signature dining experience.

Once you have your top picks, make a priority list so you’re not scrambling when it’s time to book. Don’t forget to have backup options, as some popular restaurants fill up quickly.

4. Check Park Hours and Events Before Booking

When scheduling your dining reservations, consider the park hours and any special events happening during your visit. This is especially important if you want to catch evening fireworks or parades.

For example, if you plan to watch Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom, you won’t want to schedule dinner right when the show starts. Similarly, if you’re attending an event like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, plan your dining around it.

Magic Kingdom crowds in front of Cinderella Castle on Happily Ever After finale night
Credit: Inside the Magic

5. Book by Priority, Not Chronologically

One common mistake is booking reservations in the order of your vacation days. Instead, book based on priority. If you want highly sought-after dining experiences like Cinderella’s Royal Table, Oga’s Cantina, or Be Our Guest, reserve those first, even if they’re for the last day of your trip.

Booking this way increases your chances of securing reservations at top-tier restaurants, even if they’re later in your vacation. Once you’ve secured the hard-to-get reservations, you can move on to other meals.

6. Ensure Park Tickets and Passes Are Set

Booking a reservation inside one of the four Disney Parks requires both a valid theme park ticket and a Park Pass reservation. Just because you’ve snagged a dining reservation doesn’t mean you can enter the park without a valid Park Pass. Make sure these are secured before or shortly after you make your dining reservations.

If you need to adjust your park plans after booking dining reservations, be sure to double-check availability, as Park Passes can fill up quickly.

7. Set Your Alarm – Dining Opens Early

Dining reservations open promptly at 6 AM EST online. Set your alarm and be ready to log in early! It might seem like a pain, but it’s crucial for securing those must-have dining experiences.

A helpful tip: log in to the My Disney Experience app or website on multiple devices. This allows you to search for different restaurants simultaneously, increasing your chances of getting your top picks.

A cozy dining area features wooden beams and arched doorways. The walls are adorned with framed portraits. Green plants flank the entrance to a well-stocked bar with dark wood cabinets. Soft lighting creates a warm ambiance.
Credit: Disney

8. Don’t Give Up – Keep Checking for Availability

If you don’t get the reservations you want right away, don’t panic. Guests often change their plans, meaning reservation slots can open up later. Continue to check the My Disney Experience app regularly—even after you’ve arrived at Walt Disney World. Dining availability can pop up as little as a few hours before mealtime, especially since guests don’t want to incur no-show fees.

For those willing to stay flexible, this can be a great way to snag a last-minute reservation at a coveted spot.

Final Thoughts: 

Securing dining reservations at Walt Disney World doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these top tips, you’ll be prepared to book the meals that will enhance your magical vacation. Remember to plan ahead, stay organized, and be persistent.

With a little effort, you’ll enjoy unforgettable dining experiences at the Most Magical Place on Earth.

Jennifer Retzlaff

Jennifer became a lifelong Disney fan during her first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of her life. She quickly started to introduce her love of Disney to her family with a Disney honeymoon and then family trips when her youngest was 18 months old. She loves the magic that Disney brings to people through theme parks, cruises, and adventures. As a teacher, she tries to bring Disney magic into her classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” She is also part of the Magic Vacation Planner team as a personal travel advisor. With this team, she can now help others plan magical vacations. She loves bringing her love to Disney to readers with How to Disney.

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