DDP vs DVC Dining Discount

[MouseOfCards]

My understanding is that DVC members do not get a discount on the DDP, but do get a DVC discount at some of the restaurants. So which is more cost effective, purchasing DDP or just dining with the DVC discount (especially with younger kids - under 6)?

 

[RachaelA]

Where are you planning to make ADRs at? I can't think of any character meals that have the DVC discount. Plus sometimes its just lunch that has the discount.

We buy Tables in Wonderland every trip. The big price increase last year was unforunate, but we still have had decent savings.

 

[Twilight Terror]

Can't answer that one, because it very much depends on your family, your family make-up and how/where you plan on eating. The whole process can involve lots of theoretical number crunching! The original DDP was great when it was free and we were not DVC members! These days, older, wiser, and DVC members for nearly 10yrs, we find there is no way we could eat that much food, so DDP is most definitely not for us! But again, that's a personal, family thing, and what works for one might not work for someone else.

Our solution for the past 4-5yrs has been Tables in Wonderland, which is available to DVC members - 20% off at most table service restaurants (although 18% gratuity is automatically added), for up to ten people, as well as select counter service locations. Since our Disney visits have changed from being more park-based to now more general-Disney-based, we find we are able to really make use of the counter service locations and the TIW discount! So again, your family's habits and park visiting might also influence that decision! Anyway, Tables in Wonderland is something else to consider, if you hadn't already!

 

[disneynutz]

Depends on where and what you eat, as a rule the DDP makes Disney money, that is why the offer it.

We review menus, decide what we will eat and we compare the cost OOP, DDP, and with the TIW card.

Bill

 

[mrsR123]

Where you want to eat might be the deciding factor. If you do a lot of character meals, the DDP is less per day than the child's plate charge. Also consider holidays that might be blacked out for TiW.

FWIW, I am in a grand debate right now for my NYE- 1/6 trip. My kids are all grown, and expensive, though.

 

[pangyal]

The DVC discounts are pretty much limited to the Epcot restaurants and the resort restaurants. TIW covers almost all table service in the parks.

 

[Dean]

My understanding is that DVC members do not get a discount on the DDP, but do get a DVC discount at some of the restaurants. So which is more cost effective, purchasing DDP or just dining with the DVC discount (especially with younger kids - under 6)?

As noted, it depends. I'd suggest you plan a meal itinerary and look at your usual choices then compare TIW, DVC, DDP and even AAA has a couple. The larger the group, longer the stay, types of meals (CS, TS, buffet, signature, kids, etc). After you'd gone through this process a couple of times it'll be easier. There are a couple of calculators out there to help you get a general idea but they aren't perfect either. As a rule the TIW is best for larger parties and longer trips esp at high end signature options or for multiple trips within a year (possibly up to 13 months). Within the DP there are multiple choices as well. Since the DP is a all or none use or lose situation, I'd want either a savings of 20% or an extra value of at least 20% to justify the risks involved.