How far in advance for dining reservations

[honeymo78]

Our last trip and first trip to Disneyland was in early May 2009. We didn't make any dining reservations before we left and had no trouble getting something a day or two in advance or even same day everywhere we ate. Is this something I can still expect or should I make some in advance.

 

[skiingfast]

To some extent that will still work. I would only reserve at the 60 days limit for the days when the parks hit capacity. Otherwise I've also made them a week or two out and been able to get within 30 minutes of the times I wanted.

 

[HydroGuy]

Our last trip and first trip to Disneyland was in early May 2009. We didn't make any dining reservations before we left and had no trouble getting something a day or two in advance or even same day everywhere we ate. Is this something I can still expect or should I make some in advance.

Pretty much. Blue Bayou is always one I make a res for. Others it is mostly not necessary far in advance.

You can always make them and then cancel or modify. So there is no reason you have to wait.

 

[Kittyskyfish]

To some extent that will still work. I would only reserve at the 60 days limit for the days when the parks hit capacity. Otherwise I've also made them a week or two out and been able to get within 30 minutes of the times I wanted.

I agree. I've made BB rezzies during my trip w/out any problems - on the off season. But on my Christmas trips, they were booked solid 1 month in advance. I learned for my 2009 Christmas trip to make them right at the 60 day mark to be really, really sure!

So, early May? If it's on weekdays, you shouldn't have a problem at all. Though I'd still make early reservations if you need a specific day *and* time, like if you're trying to work around shows and other stuff. You can always change or cancel it.

 

[honeymo78]

Thanks guys. We'll be there May 3-10. Over Mother's Day weekend we plan on fast food or a chain that we can just do call ahead seating for. We have our Mothers Day dinner booked already just not on Mother's Day. During the week we hope to get a Minnie's breakfast in the park, Catal for dinner and Steakhouse 55 for breakfast - just not sure what days everyone really wants. Anything else we really don't care too much about. If we are in the mood for something and can get it, great, otherwise no big deal.

 

[PHXscuba]

I'd only fret if I had a large group or wanted something very specific. Or if I had people in the group who wouldn't stand for a long wait for a table.

Also, some of the special packages (Fantasmic dessert or World of Color meal package) can book up earlier than others, so I think I'd have those arranged. Otherwise, maybe call the night before or go first thing when you get to the area.

Have a great trip!

PHXscuba

 

[honeymo78]

Thanks PHXscuba. Only 4 of us, all adults. Food for the WOC packages doesn't interest the group so we'll be doing fastpasses for WOC.

We really loved the slower pace and low crowds compared to Disneyworld for that time of year and are glad to see that is still generally the case. Of course the POTC premiere event will be interesting to say the least. That might be the right day to send the boys on their Grizzly Rapids marathon and I'll stay at the pool.

 

[mystic_path]

I generally go to Cali in late May / Early June when its still considered "Low Season" before all the schools get out for summer, and we always make our reservations around the 60 day mark prior to the day we want to eat on. Cause if there is a convention going on, or some holiday around that time, the park crowds can be effected and I want to make sure I have the time I want to eat at, and on a particular day. Normally like others said, you don't have issues a month or so out if you do it then, but play it safe, you can call back and modify your reservations.