Trying to decide if the Disney Dining Plan is actually worth it, especially when it comes to character dining?
You are not alone.
Character meals are some of the most expensive dining experiences at Walt Disney World, and using dining plan credits the right way can save you a surprising amount of money. Use them the wrong way, and you can lose value fast.
This Disney Dining Plan comparison guide breaks down:
- Which character meals use 1 vs 2 table service credits
- Where you get the most value for your credits
- Which meals are best for families, princess fans, and first time visitors
- When it makes more sense to pay out of pocket
Let’s walk through every park and resort option so you can decide what is actually worth booking.
What Is the Disney Dining Plan?
The Disney Dining Plan allows guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels to prepay for meals using a set number of daily dining credits.
Most character dining locations fall into one of two categories:
- 1 Table Service Credit
- 2 Table Service Credits
Character meals are popular because they combine food, entertainment, and photos into one experience. The real question is whether the credit cost matches the price you would normally pay.
Resort Character Dining: Best Value for Dining Plan Credits
Resort character dining is often the best use of Disney Dining Plan credits. These meals tend to be expensive when paid out of pocket and usually offer relaxed character interactions.
Best One Credit Resort Character Meals
- Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Cape May Café at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
- ‘Ohana breakfast at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
These meals typically range from $50 to nearly $70 per adult, making one table service credit an excellent value.
When Two Credits Might Be Worth It
Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge requires two credits for dinner. This can be worth it if Snow White characters are a top priority, but it is not ideal for guests focused on maximizing credit value.
Hollywood Studios Character Dining Comparison
Hollywood Studios offers one character dining location, but it is a flexible and reliable option.
Hollywood and Vine
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner all use one table service credit
- Features seasonal Minnie Mouse themes throughout the year
This is a solid use of credits, especially during breakfast when pricing is highest.
Tusker House (Animal Kingdom)
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner all use one table service credit
- Safari themed character outfits
- One of the strongest food and character combinations at Disney
Tusker House is widely considered one of the best dining plan values on property, especially for breakfast.
EPCOT Character Dining: Value vs Experience
EPCOT has two very different character dining options with very different credit value.
Garden Grill
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner use one table service credit
- Family style dining
- Characters rotate directly to your table
Garden Grill is one of the best uses of a dining plan credit anywhere at Disney.
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
- Breakfast uses one table service credit
- Lunch and dinner require two credits
- Princess dining experience
If princess dining is important to your trip, Akershus can be a great experience. From a value standpoint, breakfast offers the best return for your credits.
Magic Kingdom Character Dining: Are Two Credits Ever Worth It?
Magic Kingdom has the most famous character dining locations and also the highest credit costs.
Crystal Palace
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner use one table service credit
- Winnie the Pooh and friends
- Excellent value for families
Crystal Palace is one of the best character dining values in Magic Kingdom.
Cinderella’s Royal Table
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner all require two table service credits
- Located inside Cinderella Castle
This is a premium experience. It is magical, especially for first time visitors, but it is not the best value from a dining plan perspective.
Be Our Guest
- Lunch and dinner require two table service credits
- The Beast appears but does not visit tables
This is more about atmosphere than character interaction and is usually better paid out of pocket.
Is Character Dining Worth the Disney Dining Plan?
The Dining Plan Is a Good Fit If You:
- Love character interactions
- Want predictable vacation costs
- Prefer buffet or family style meals
- Are traveling with kids or first time guests
You May Skip the Dining Plan If You:
- Prefer quick service meals
- Want flexibility with dining times
- Do not prioritize character experiences
- Plan to snack or share meals
Smart Disney Dining Plan Tips
- Use credits for buffets and family style meals
- Prioritize one credit character dining when possible
- Book character dining early since availability fills fast
- Use credits at breakfast when prices are highest
- Pay out of pocket for lower priced meals
Final Verdict: How to Use the Disney Dining Plan the Smart Way
The Disney Dining Plan can absolutely be worth it if you use it intentionally.
Character dining offers the strongest value when you focus on:
- Resort buffets
- One credit park meals
- High priced breakfasts
Planning your reservations around value and experience is the key to getting the most from your dining plan.
For more Disney dining tips, reservation strategies, and planning secrets, Inside The Castle Guide has you covered.
