Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is a dream come true for many families, but let’s face it: dining at Disney can be expensive, especially when traveling with a large group.
On the one hand, you want to save as much as possible, but on the other hand, you’re on vacation and don’t want to miss out on the delicious food experiences that Disney has to offer.
Luckily, there are smart ways to strike a balance between affordability and indulgence, allowing you to enjoy your Disney dining experience without breaking the bank.
Below are 10 essential tips to help you stretch your dining budget while still enjoying some of the most iconic meals and snacks at Walt Disney World.
10. Know Your Discounts
The first step to maximizing your dining budget is knowing what discounts you qualify for. If you’re an Annual Passholder, Disney Visa cardholder, or even a member of AAA, you could be entitled to savings on dining. Before you sit down at a restaurant or grab a quick-service meal, ask a cast member if there are any applicable discounts.
It’s a small step that can make a big difference during your trip. And don’t forget to check for seasonal or promotional dining offers that Disney may be running during your stay.
9. Focus on Quick Service Meals
One of the easiest ways to save money on food at Disney is to stick to quick-service meals. These meals are significantly more affordable than table-service restaurants and will save you time, allowing you to maximize your day in the parks.
Quick-service locations offer plenty of satisfying options, from burgers and fries to salads and sandwiches. They also tend to have kid-friendly menus, which is perfect for families with picky eaters.
Some popular quick-service spots include Casey’s Corner in Magic Kingdom and Flame Tree Barbecue in Animal Kingdom. Both offer hearty portions that won’t hurt your wallet.
8. Factor in Tips
When dining at table-service restaurants, remember that gratuities are not included in your bill, even if you’re on a Disney Dining Plan. Plan ahead by factoring in tips when budgeting for meals. Standard tipping in the U.S. is around 18-20%, so keeping this in mind will help you better manage your dining budget.
By being aware of this additional cost, you can make more informed choices about where to dine, and it might help you decide whether to prioritize quick-service over table-service restaurants.
7. Split Quick Service Meals
Another great tip for saving money on food at Disney is to split meals at quick-service locations. Many quick-service meals, like the massive portions at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn in Magic Kingdom or Satuli Canteen in Animal Kingdom, are large enough to share between two adults.
This not only saves you money but also keeps you from overindulging, especially since you’ll likely want to sample various snacks and treats throughout the day.
If you’ve got kids with you, splitting meals can also be a good strategy to ensure there’s no food waste, especially if they have smaller appetites.
6. Order Off the Kid’s Menu
At quick-service locations, adults are often allowed to order from the kid’s menu. This can be a great option if you’re not feeling overly hungry but still want a complete meal. Most kid’s meals come with smaller portions and often include a drink, making it a budget-friendly option compared to full-priced adult meals.
This is especially handy for light eaters or those who want to save room for one of Disney’s famous snacks later in the day.
Unfortunately, this tip doesn’t apply to table-service restaurants, but it’s a fantastic way to save on quick meals!
5. Look for Free Refills
While most quick-service locations at Disney do not offer free refills on soft drinks, there are a few exceptions. Keep an eye out for places like Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Backlot Express where you can refill your drink at no additional cost. If you’re really looking to stretch your budget, skip the soda altogether and opt for free water (more on that below).
At table-service restaurants, soft drink refills are generally free, so it’s worth keeping that in mind when choosing between table-service and quick-service dining. If you plan to indulge in soft drinks, you might save by dining where refills are included.
4. Save Money on Gift Cards
One clever way to stay on budget is to purchase Disney gift cards before your trip. You can often find Disney gift cards at Costco or Sam’s Club at a discount, which means you’ll save money upfront. Then, use these gift cards to pay for your dining at Disney, either directly or by charging your meals to your MagicBand and paying off your balance with the gift cards at checkout.
This strategy not only helps you stay on budget but can also soften the financial blow of vacation spending.
3. Choose Affordable Table Service Restaurants
If you want to enjoy a table-service meal without spending a fortune, there are several affordable options to consider. Some less expensive table-service restaurants include The Plaza Restaurant at Magic Kingdom, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Hollywood Studios, and Grand Floridian Café at the Grand Floridian Resort.
These locations offer delicious meals in a sit-down setting without the premium price tag of some of Disney’s signature dining experiences.
Another hidden gem is the Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, where you can enjoy burgers and ice cream treats without breaking the bank.
2. Don’t Pay for Bottled Water
Florida heat can be brutal, and staying hydrated is essential during a day at the parks. While buying bottled water at $3-4 per bottle can quickly add up, there’s an easy and free alternative ask for a cup of water at any quick-service location.
The water is filtered, so you won’t have to worry about the sometimes unpleasant taste of Florida tap water. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your family hydrated without spending a dime.
You can also bring a refillable water bottle and use the water fountains located around the parks to stay hydrated throughout the day.
1. Decide if the Disney Dining Plan Is Worth It
The Disney Dining Plan can be a great way to save up to 30% on your meals, but it’s not always the best choice for everyone. Before purchasing the plan, do some research. Review restaurant menus and estimate what you would spend on meals if paying out of pocket. Compare this to the cost of the dining plan to see which option gives you the best value.
If you’re someone who loves to enjoy multiple snacks, desserts, and drinks with each meal, the dining plan could save you money. However, if it feels like too much food for your needs, you may be better off paying out of pocket.
BONUS TIP
To make the most of your trip and budget, consider booking your vacation through an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner like Mickey Travels. They can help you find the best deals, secure dining reservations, and offer expert advice, all at no additional cost to you!
