Do the parks become less crowded during "dinner" time?

[Bastiansmom]

I have been reading the dining plan boards and notice that most people suggest using the TS credit for dinner. Does this mean that the parks are less busy between 5-8pm because at lot of people are eating at a TS restaurant? Has anyone noticed this?

 

[mickeytattoo95]

Yes, the lines are a little better during dinner hours for popular rides. But the main reason you want to use your TS for dinner, not lunch, is because dinners are more expensive and you get more food/value for dinner than lunch...most of the time. There are always a few exceptions.

 

[Bastiansmom]

Thanks!

 

[septbaby]

As long as you come close to break even the DP will be a good deal. You can do this by using TS credits for B, L or D and the same for CS.

I think if you try to "maximize" savings you do yourself a diservice and maybe not book the meals or select the entrees you actually really want. Don't convince yourself that the most expensive are the most satisfying, that mayvery well not be the case.

We used our credits for all three meals, ate plenty, didn't walk around hungry and even had CS credits to use up on the last day (we shared just about every CS meal, we used what was left on the final day).

Keep in mind if you book TS past 7pm you'll still get the benefit of those "shorter" lines as most families with young children head out for their dinners between 4-6. At 7/8 many are returning for the night time parades or fireworks.

 

[a1tinkfans]

Things I have noticed over the years (and during free dines)
things "slow" a bit 2-4pm as the parents with strollers and young kids leave for resort/nap times

Then about 5-6:30 many families have dinners and then about 8-9 it gets a bit busier as the parades and stuff are upcoming...

I also find that getting ADRs for the early dinner hours 5-6:30 seem to be easier.