Can Disney Vacation Club Members Get Free Dining?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) member, you might be wondering if you can get free dining during your stay at a Disney resort. The answer is both yes and no, depending on the timing of your visit and the specific promotion being offered.

What is the Disney Dining Plan?

Before we dive into whether DVC members can get free dining, let’s first talk about what the Disney Dining Plan (DDP) actually is. The DDP is a prepaid meal plan that allows guests to pay for their meals in advance and then use credits to redeem meals at participating restaurants throughout Walt Disney World. The plan comes in various tiers and includes different types of meal credits (such as table service, quick service, and snacks), depending on which tier you choose.

Can DVC Members Get Free Dining?

Now that we know what the DDP is, let’s address the question at hand: Can DVC members get free dining? The answer is sometimes.

Disney occasionally offers free dining promotions to all guests staying at select resorts during certain dates. These promotions typically require guests to book a specific package that includes park tickets and a minimum number of nights at a Disney resort. If you’re a DVC member who books one of these packages during the promotion period, you can take advantage of the free dining offer just like any other guest.

However, there are some caveats to keep in mind. First, not all resorts participate in every free dining promotion.

Second, there are often blackout dates when the promotion isn’t available. Finally, even if you book during an eligible period and stay at an eligible resort, some room types might not qualify for the free dining offer.

Other Discounts for DVC Members

While DVC members can’t always get free dining specifically, there are other discounts available that can help save money on food and dining experiences. For example, DVC members can save up to 20% on select dining locations throughout Walt Disney World. These discounts are subject to blackout dates and availability, so be sure to check before you go.

DVC members can also use their Disney Rewards Dollars towards dining expenses. These dollars are earned through the Disney Visa credit card and can be redeemed for a variety of purchases, including meals at select restaurants.

Conclusion

In summary, DVC members can sometimes get free dining during select promotions offered by Disney. However, it’s important to read the fine print and make sure your resort and room type qualify for the offer before booking.

In addition to free dining promotions, DVC members can save money on dining expenses by taking advantage of discounts and using their Disney Rewards Dollars. With a little planning and research, you can enjoy delicious meals while also saving some money during your next Disney vacation.