When Can You Make Disney Dining Reservations: How Early? Get the Inside Scoop

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All that time in the parks at Walt Disney World are guaranteed to do one thing:

Make you hungry.

When it comes time to eat, there’s no shortage of great options.

A delightful meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table or a hearty dinner at Be Our Guest could transform your trip into a magical memory.

But the question is, when can you make Disney dining reservations?

You can make Disney Dining Reservations 60 days in advance if you’re a guest at a Disney Resort hotel and up to 180 days in advance for certain dining experiences.

If you’re not staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you can make reservations up to 60 days in advance.

The booking window opens at 6:00 AM Eastern Time for online reservations, and 7:00 AM for phone reservations.

Keep in mind that the most popular dining experiences like Cinderella’s Royal Table can book up really quickly, so it’s beneficial to make your reservations as early as possible.

Be ready with your credit card details for the reservation and remember to be flexible with dining times for the best chances of securing your preferred dining experience.

Some might think that’s all they need to know, but hold your horses!

What if you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, do you get any early booking privileges?

What happens if you miss the 60-day window?

Are there any dining packages that could enhance your dining experience?

And what about last-minute reservations, is it even possible?

How about the ever-popular character dining, how do you secure a spot?

Does the same thing apply to restaurants at Disney Springs?

Hang tight because we’re going to delve into these details and more!

Whether you’re a seasoned Disney enthusiast or a first-time visitor, join us as we journey through the ins and outs of Disney dining reservations.

Because securing your spot at the table is the first step to a truly enchanting Disney experience.

  1. When Can You Make Disney Dining Reservations: You can make Disney Dining Reservations 60 days in advance of your check-in date.
  2. What Time to Book Reservations: For the over achievers, online reservations open at 6 AM EST, but you could start trying as early as 5:45 AM.
  3. High Demand Restaurants: Popular Disney restaurants like Cinderella’s Royal Table have high demand, so it’s vital to book as soon as your booking window opens.
  4. Online Reservations: Disney allows online reservations via their Disney World Website or the My Disney Experience app. Having your details ready can streamline this process.
  5. Credit Card Details and Flexibility: Be ready with your credit card details when booking and have flexibility with dining times for the best chance of securing a reservation.
  6. Other Disney Dining Options: Disneyland and Disney Cruise also offer Advance Dining Reservations, although the booking windows may vary.
  7. Disney Springs Reservations: Disney Springs has a myriad of dining options with more flexible booking rules. Some restaurants, not owned or operated by Disney don’t adhere strictly to the 60-day Advance Dining Reservation policy and could offer last-minute availability.

Before diving in, join our new private Facebook group, the Disney Park Advisor Community, for Disney enthusiasts to share their passion, seek advice, and make friends. Click here to join now!

 width=Time’s Ticking: Understanding Disney’s Dining Reservation System

Disney is like that exclusive club downtown.

You can’t just waltz in and grab a table.

So, when can you actually book your dream dining experience at Disney World?

If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you can make your Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs) up to 60 days in advance.

Plus, you get a nifty bonus – you can book for the first 10 days of your trip from that 60-day mark.

That’s right, we’re talking about making reservations for up to 70 days out in some cases (Walt would be proud).

For those not staying on Disney property, the window is the same 60 days, minus the 10-day extension.

As for the what time can I make Disney dining reservations question? It’s 6 AM Eastern Time online and 7 AM over the phone.

(So grab that magical mouse coffee and get booking!)

Why it’s Crucial to Clock Your Reservations Right

Knowing when to make Disney dining reservations is a game-changer.

The early bird doesn’t just get the worm here.

It gets the most sought-after reservations at the busiest times.

(I know, not as catchy.)

In my experience, securing a spot at popular eateries like Be Our Guest Restaurant or Cinderella’s Royal Table is like snagging a front-row seat at a Taylor Swift concert.

It can feel nearly impossible.

But, with an alarm clock and a quick clicking finger, you’ve got a fighting chance.

Let’s take a moment to imagine.

Picture this: You and your family, enjoying a relaxing meal at Chef Mickey’s without the stress of wondering if you’ll get a table.

That’s the Disney magic we’re talking about.

It’s all possible when you know the ins and outs of the Disney Dining Reservation system.

Remember, the early mouse gets the cheese.

Or in this case, the Mickey waffles.

(Trust me, they’re worth the early wake-up call.)

Just like Cinderella had until midnight, your carriage of dining options turns into a pumpkin if you don’t book at the right time.

So, mark your calendar, set an alarm (or three), and get ready to secure your dream Disney dining experiences.

After all, the only thing better than a day at Disney World is capping it off with a fantastic meal.

The Disney magic doesn’t stop at the park gates; it continues right to your dinner plate!

Fun fact: Disney’s culinary teams serve more than 6,000 different food items across the parks and resorts.

You’re not just booking a meal, you’re booking an adventure in flavors.

 width=Book Ahead or Bust: The Lowdown on Disney Dining Reservations

Does the thought of a juicy smoked turkey leg at Liberty Square make your mouth water? Or maybe it’s the tantalizing Ratatouille at Monsieur Paul that’s got you daydreaming.

(We’ve all been there!) To turn those dreams into reality, it’s crucial to understand how Disney Dining Reservations work.

So, how far in advance can you make Disney Dining Reservations? Let’s unravel this Disney mystery.

The Early Bird Special: Booking Your Disney Dine Time

Advance Dining Reservations (ADR), or as the Disney Dining pros call it, the “60-day scramble,” is when you can start making reservations for your meals.

This booking window opens at 7 AM ET, precisely 60 days before the start of your vacation.

If that sounds early, it’s because Disney dining is a high-demand game.

Here’s a kicker: Online reservations actually open earlier! You can begin booking online at 6 AM EST.

However, take this insider tip to heart: start trying to book at 5:45 AM, as some reservations may open up a smidge early.

You can secure these prime spots using the Disney World Website.

Just plug your preferences into the Disney search box, or use the ‘Check Availability’ tool on any individual Table Service restaurant’s page.

From personal experience, last-minute hopes for snagging a table at top spots like Cinderella’s Royal Table or Victoria & Albert’s are often dashed.

It’s similar to trying to find a four-leaf clover in Central Park — possible, but requires a sprinkling of pixie dust (and maybe a lucky rabbit’s foot).

Onsite vs Offsite: The ADR Golden Ticket?

Here’s where the magic gets a tad tricky.

There’s a difference in the reservation timeline for guests staying at Disney World resorts versus those staying offsite.

Disney resort guests have a significant advantage: they can start making reservations for their entire stay (up to 10 days) at that 60-day mark.

It’s like having a culinary magic carpet!

Let’s imagine you’re staying at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and you’re set to check in on July 1st.

You can begin making reservations for your meals from July 1st through July 10th, beginning on May 2nd.

That’s an additional treasure trove of days to secure your spot at the dining tables of Disney World.

If you’re staying offsite, don’t fret.

You still get your 60-day window.

But remember, you won’t get that bonus 10-day advantage and will need to book each day separately, starting 60 days prior to each day of your visit.

Understanding how early you can make Disney dining reservations and the difference between on-site and off-site booking times can be a game-changer.

It’s the special ingredient to ensuring you’re not settling for a basic sandwich when you could be feasting on a gourmet meal.

 width=Book Ahead or Bust: The Lowdown on Disney Dining Reservations

Does the thought of a juicy smoked turkey leg at Liberty Square make your mouth water? Or maybe it’s the tantalizing Ratatouille at Monsieur Paul that’s got you daydreaming.

(We’ve all been there!) To turn those dreams into reality, it’s crucial to understand how Disney Dining Reservations work.

So, how far in advance can you make Disney Dining Reservations? Let’s unravel this Disney mystery.

The Early Bird Special: Booking Your Disney Dine Time

Advance Dining Reservations (ADR), or as the Disney Dining pros call it, the “60-day scramble,” is when you can start making reservations for your meals.

This booking window opens at 7 AM ET, precisely 60 days before the start of your vacation.

If that sounds early, it’s because Disney dining is a high-demand game.

Here’s a kicker: Online reservations actually open earlier! You can begin booking online at 6 AM EST.

However, take this insider tip to heart: start trying to book at 5:45 AM, as some reservations may open up a smidge early.

You can secure these prime spots using the Disney World Website.

Just plug your preferences into the Disney search box, or use the ‘Check Availability’ tool on any individual Table Service restaurant’s page.

From personal experience, last-minute hopes for snagging a table at top spots like Cinderella’s Royal Table or Victoria & Albert’s are often dashed.

It’s similar to trying to find a four-leaf clover in Central Park — possible, but requires a sprinkling of pixie dust (and maybe a lucky rabbit’s foot).

Onsite vs Offsite: The ADR Golden Ticket?

Here’s where the magic gets a tad tricky.

There’s a difference in the reservation timeline for guests staying at Disney World resorts versus those staying offsite.

Disney resort guests have a significant advantage: they can start making reservations for their entire stay (up to 10 days) at that 60-day mark.

It’s like having a culinary magic carpet!

Let’s imagine you’re staying at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and you’re set to check in on July 1st.

You can begin making reservations for your meals from July 1st through July 10th, beginning on May 2nd.

That’s an additional treasure trove of days to secure your spot at the dining tables of Disney World.

If you’re staying offsite, don’t fret.

You still get your 60-day window.

But remember, you won’t get that bonus 10-day advantage and will need to book each day separately, starting 60 days prior to each day of your visit.

Understanding how early you can make Disney dining reservations and the difference between on-site and off-site booking times can be a game-changer.

It’s the special ingredient to ensuring you’re not settling for a basic sandwich when you could be feasting on a gourmet meal.

Reservation Royale: A Peek into Popular Disney Restaurants

Ever wondered what makes Cinderella’s Royal Table or Be Our Guest so enticing that people book months in advance just for a meal? Or maybe, you’re mystified by how a Disney dining reservation is more elusive than a golden ticket to Willy Wonka’s factory.

Let’s dissect this fairy-tale fascination, the demand for popular Disney restaurants, and learn how you too can score the coveted reservations.

The Magic Table: Dining Demand at Disney

Disney World restaurants are like a unique theme park within the parks — a culinary ride that leaves you full, satiated, and craving for more.

Some even have their own fan base (Cinderella’s Royal Table, I’m looking at you!).

Cinderella’s Royal Table is the crown jewel of Disney dining.

Located in the heart of Cinderella’s castle, this restaurant offers a grand meal with a side of character meetings.

It’s no surprise that the reservation here is a hot ticket item.

The same goes for Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom, where you can dine in the Beast’s enchanted castle.

These spots aren’t just meals; they’re experiences.

So, naturally, the demand for them is through the roof (or should we say, castle turret?).

Ever heard of a garden oasis serving farm-to-table cuisine in the midst of a bustling theme park? That’s The Garden Grill at EPCOT for you, another biggie on the popular restaurants’ list.

Remember, popularity equals high demand, which equals a scramble for reservations.

But don’t sweat, because we’ve got a game plan for you.

The Art of the Reservation: Scoring Tables at Disney’s Most Popular Spots

Bagging a reservation at these highly sought-after spots may feel like pulling Excalibur from the stone, but with the right strategy, you’re in the game.

Start by booking as early as possible.

We’re talking the moment that booking window opens.

60 days prior for offsite guests and 60 plus up to 10 days of their stay for Disney resort guests.

Like the saying goes, the early bird gets the worm, or in our case, the early mouse gets the cheese souffle.

Persistence is key.

Didn’t score your dream reservation on the first try? Keep checking back.

Reservations can pop up unexpectedly as people change their plans.

There’s also the concept of the Disney Dining “Drop”.

A handful of reservations often pop up a day or two before the actual dining date due to Disney’s 24-hour cancellation policy.

So if you’re already on your vacation and didn’t snag that Cinderella’s Royal Table reservation, check back a day or two before your desired dining date.

In my experience, I once scored a reservation at Be Our Guest just one day before, all thanks to the Disney Dining Drop.

It was like finding a hidden Mickey in the most unexpected place!

And last but not least, consider dining at off-peak hours.

If you’re flexible, you might find more availability for late lunches or early dinners.

Securing a spot at popular Disney restaurants might seem like a Herculean task, but with the right know-how and a pinch of pixie dust, you’re all set to take on the Disney dining world.

Just remember, every great Disney adventure requires a bit of magic, some faith, and a whole lot of planning.

 width=Online Banquet: Mastering Disney Dining Reservations

So you’ve locked your eyes on a coveted dining spot at Disney World.

You know the who, the where, the why…

but what about the how and the when? Let’s break down the step-by-step process of making online Disney dining reservations, and the crucial timing involved.

Like orchestrating a perfect symphony, timing and precision are key.

Waltz through Web: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Online Disney Dining Reservations

A magical dining experience at Disney is just a few clicks away.

Here’s your playbook:

  1. Head to the Disney World Website. This is your gateway to all things Disney, including Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs).
  2. Navigate to ‘Dining’. You’ll find this in the dropdown menu at the top.
  3. Select your restaurant. You’ll see a list of every delicious Disney dining location.
  4. Choose your preferred one (Cinderella’s Royal Table or Be Our Guest perhaps?).
  5. Choose the date, time, and party size. Remember, Disney’s system treats ‘Adults’ as anyone 10 or older, and ‘Children’ as those aged 3 to 9.
  6. Click ‘Check Availability’. If there’s an open slot, it’s your lucky day!
  7. Review your selection and ‘Book Now’. Fill in your information and voila! You’ve just made a Disney Dining Reservation.

Don’t forget to check the box to receive a confirmation email.

It’s like your golden ticket to the Disney dining experience.

Disney Dining O’Clock: The Best Time to Book Online

Wondering what time you can make Disney dining reservations online? Well, my friends, the early bird gets the worm.

Or, in this case, the early mouse gets the Mickey waffles.

Online reservations open at 6 AM EST. However, here’s a pro-tip: I’d recommend starting at 5:45 AM.

Why? Because sometimes reservations open a tad bit early.

Early mornin’, sleepy eyes, a warm cup of coffee, and securing your Disney dining – sounds like the perfect start to the day!

Now, you might be thinking: 6 AM? Really? Yes, really! Reservations fill up faster than you can say “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”.

Remember, the world of Disney waits for no one.

So set that alarm, and be ready to pounce!

For the phone line lovers among you, note that phone reservations start a bit later, at 7 AM.

But let’s be real: why wait when you can get a head start online?

 width=Be Our Guest (Literally): Nailing Disney Dining Reservations

Imagine this: You’re planning the perfect Disney vacation.

You’ve got your Mickey ears ready, your tickets booked, and all that’s left is to secure a magical meal at one of Disney’s sought-after restaurants.

But wait! How do you ensure your reservation is a guaranteed fairy tale and not a pumpkin-at-midnight scenario? Buckle up, friends, we’re diving into the critical tips for making successful Disney Dining Reservations.

The Three Musketeers of Reservations: Credit Card, Planning, and Flexibility

First things first, have your credit card details ready.

Time waits for no one in the realm of Disney Dining Reservations (ADR), and you don’t want to lose your spot while hunting for that elusive credit card.

Next, you must master the art of anticipation.

Planning ahead is not just an option, it’s a requirement.

The crystal ball says: the early planner catches the prime dining slot.

Lastly, don a cloak of flexibility with dining times.

We all crave that perfect sunset dinner at Cinderella’s Royal Table, but hey, an enchanting lunch can be just as magical.

In my experience, being flexible with dining times often leads to scoring reservations at those hard-to-get spots.

The Genie’s Guide: When Your Desired Reservation Seems Like a Magic Carpet Ride Away

Ever wished for a Genie when you can’t get a reservation for your desired restaurant or time? Well, don’t worry, I’ve got your back!

  1. Don’t panic, keep checking: Persistence is key.Cancellations happen.Your dream slot could open up any minute.Set a reminder to check daily, hourly, or hey, why not every 15 minutes if you’re really eager.
  2. Get on the Waitlist: Did you know many Disney restaurants have waitlists? You might just be a cancellation away from that coveted dining experience.
  3. Be open to new experiences: If you’re not able to score a reservation at your first choice, explore other options.Remember, every restaurant in Disney offers its own unique brand of magic.
  4. Consider off-peak dining times: Going against the grain can sometimes work in your favor.Less conventional dining times might be easier to secure.After all, midnight snacks at the Beast’s castle, anyone?

Remember, magic is all about believing.

So, keep faith, use these tips, and you’re well on your way to securing a delightful Disney dining experience.

After all, Disney is the place where dreams come true! Happy dining!

 width=Disney Springs: A New Frontier in Disney Dining

This place is a magical city of dining tucked away in the heart of Walt Disney World.

It’s like walking into a genie’s lamp packed with an array of dining options.

But how do you tackle reservations here? Let’s break it down.

Disney Springs Dining: Is It the Same Game?

So you’ve mastered the art of making Disney World dining reservations and now you’re eyeing the smorgasbord at Disney Springs.

You’re probably asking, “Is it the same deal here? Do I need to rise with the birds and book 60 days in advance?”

The answer is a relieving…

…Not exactly.

Many restaurants in Disney Springs are independently owned and do not strictly follow the 60-day Advance Dining Reservation (ADR) policy.

While you can book many Disney Springs dining locations through the My Disney Experience app or website (just as you would with other Disney World restaurants), others may use different platforms such as OpenTable.

So, yes, some dining reservation principles remain the same, but there’s a little more flexibility and variety here.

The Prime Time for Disney Springs Reservations

You’re geared up and ready to take on Disney Springs dining reservations.

Your mouse-clicking fingers are twitching with anticipation.

But hold up – what time can you make these reservations?

Just as with other Disney World dining reservations, you can usually start booking online from 6 AM EST.

However, keep in mind that this might vary depending on the individual restaurant’s policy.

Some might not need that pre-sunrise commitment and will let you book at a more reasonable hour.

Can’t Score an ADR? Try Disney Springs

Missed out on the Advance Dining Reservations for your favorite Disney World restaurants? Bummer, right? But don’t fret! This is where Disney Springs could be your fairy godmother in disguise.

With a cornucopia of dining experiences from top-notch burgers to gourmet cuisines, Disney Springs often has last-minute availability.

So if Cinderella’s Royal Table is all booked out, remember that a mouth-watering steak at The BOATHOUSE or a heavenly slice at Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza might just be a few clicks away.

Beyond the Castle Walls: Dining Reservations at Disneyland and Disney Cruise

Picture this: You’ve just nailed the Disney World dining reservation game.

You’ve dined with Cinderella, had tea with Alice, and now you’re eyeing new culinary adventures.

What’s next, you ask? Well, the magic doesn’t stop at the borders of the Magic Kingdom.

It’s time to sail across the seven seas and fly to the land where dreams come true — we’re talking about Disneyland and Disney Cruise.

The Happiest Place on Earth: Dining at Disneyland

Swapping Cinderella’s castle for Sleeping Beauty’s? Respect.

Disneyland, located in sunny California, offers an array of irresistible dining experiences.

Booking dining reservations at Disneyland is a similar process to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.

You can book online or over the phone, starting 60 days in advance.

But here’s a pro tip: Disneyland dining doesn’t quite have the same fervor as Disney World (don’t tell Mickey I said that).

So, you might just find getting reservations here a tad easier.

However, don’t let that lull you into complacency.

Remember the key principles from our Disney World tips: be ready with your credit card, plan ahead, and embrace flexibility.

With that, you’re all set to chow down on some churros with Goofy!

Anchors Aweigh: Disney Cruise Dining Reservations

Ready to make waves with your dining game? Let’s set sail on a Disney Cruise!

Disney Cruise Line operates on a rotational dining system.

This means you and your serving team rotate through three different dining rooms throughout your voyage.

Sounds fun, right? Here’s the kicker: you don’t need to make individual dining reservations.

Your dining schedule is automatically allocated when you book your cruise.

But what about those special dining experiences, like an adult-exclusive dinner at Palo or Remy? Reservations for these experiences can be made online prior to setting sail.

The booking window varies depending on your Castaway Club membership level, but typically opens between 120 to 75 days before sailing.

And here’s a nugget from my personal treasure chest: All these special experiences book up fast, so mark your calendar.

 width=Magic Mirror on the Wall: Your Disney Dining Reservations FAQs Answered

Just when you thought you’ve had it all figured out, those little questions start to creep in.

And let’s be real, when it comes to the world of Disney dining reservations, there’s always more to uncover.

But guess what? I’ve got you covered.

We’re about to dive into your most pressing questions that haven’t been answered yet.

So, let’s satisfy that curiosity of yours!

Q: How early can you make dining reservations at Disney?

A: You’ve got your Disney World vacation booked, and now it’s time to lock down those all-important dining experiences.

You’re probably wondering, “How early can I secure a spot at Cinderella’s Royal Table or Chef Mickey’s?” Well, the magic number is 60 days in advance.

But remember, reservations open online at 6 AM EST, so set that alarm, have your credit card at the ready, and may the force (of speedy internet connection) be with you!

Q: What time can you make Disney dining reservations 60 days out?

A: It’s the crack of dawn, your alarm goes off…it’s Disney dining reservation day! At what ungodly hour must you rise from your slumber to secure that coveted reservation, you ask? On the dot at 6 AM Eastern Standard Time.

Yes, you read that right.

We’re talking before the rooster crows, before your first cup of coffee, but hey, when Mickey Mouse pancakes are at stake, it’s all worth it.

Q: Do Disney dining reservations open at 5:45 AM or 6 AM?

A: Here’s where the plot thickens.

Officially, Disney dining reservations open at 6 AM EST.

Unofficially (between you and me), it’s worth starting to refresh your page around 5:45 AM EST.

Sometimes it’s possible that some reservations might open up a tad earlier, so it doesn’t hurt to be ahead of the game.

Q: What time of day does Disney release reservations?

A: Oh, the elusive ‘Disney dining reservations release time.’ The answer is — drumroll, please — 6 AM EST.

But remember the sneaky little secret we shared earlier? Start your refreshing marathon at around 5:45 AM EST to increase your chances of grabbing those early bird reservations.

Q: How early can you make reservations at Cinderella’s Royal Table?

A: Cinderella’s Royal Table is the crown jewel of Disney dining experiences, especially for families with lil’ princesses.

Making reservations here follows the same rule as other Disney World restaurants – you can start booking 60 days in advance at 6 AM EST.

However, given the popularity of this royal dining experience, you’ll want to be ready to click faster than a pumpkin turns into a carriage at midnight.

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