We have always used the dining plan but looking at tables in wonderland this time due to not always wanting desserts but would like an appetizer once in a while. I have a few questions.
1. Where do you buy this card can u get it ahead of time and first time you use it does it activate or will we need to get it when we get there.
You can only purchase the card at Guest Relations at the parks (inside or outside locations) or Downtown Disney. Show your DVC membership card and ID and they'll sell it to you. If you have an annual pass, the TiW card is $25 less than the DVC cost of the card. $75 for AP; $100 for Florida residents and DVC members who don't have an AP.
2. How does that work with reservations that are prepays. Are you refunded the savings after your meal.
If you already paid for Cinderella's Royal Table, for example, show your Tables in Wonderland card when you get there. The manager will be able to help you get the difference refunded to you.
3. What is the breakeven point and where can you find a list of restaurants.
Roughly speaking, the break even point is different for those who buy DVC vs. AP. It's just under $375 for AP; Just under $500 for DVC.
Scroll down a bit on this page and you'll find the list of places that accept it.
http://www.wdwinfo.com/disneydiningexperience.htm
Cheshire Figment posted the following as a way to show how you're saving money with Tables in Wonderland:
Here is a working example, using $100.00 as the original bill to make the math show up easily. Note this is for Table Service.
At Counter Service there is no gratuity added.
100.00 - Original Menu Amount
*20.00 - Discount
*80.00 - Subtotal
*18.00 - Gratuity Added based on $100
**5.20 - Sales Tax on $80
103.20 - Final amount charged, takes into consideration discount, gratuity and tax.
Without TiW Discount (and still figuring 18% Gratuity)
100.00 - Original Menu Amount
*18.00 - Gratuity
**6.50 - Sales Tax on $100
124.50 - Total
$21.30 - Savings using TiW Card.
(Note - At Victoria and Albert's the added gratuity is 20% instead of 18%.)
* Ignore the asterisks; they are there only so the columns/numbers line up properly.