Disney's Best Kept Secret: Dining Reservations

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Planning a holiday trip to a Disney theme park in California or Florida? Here's a tip to gain access to restaurants without long lines or the frustration of being turned away entirely.

One of Disney's best-kept secrets is the new online dining reservation system. The system allows guests to make reservations at Disney World's theme park, resort hotel, and Downtown Disney restaurants as early as six months (180 days) in advance.

Millions of Americans visit the Disney theme parks each year. Travel advisors note that even with the down economy and the reduced number of travelers, planning ahead is key to enjoying a hassle-free Disney vacation. The online Advance Dining Reservations system makes the booking process easy from the comfort of your home prior to leaving.

Using the system allows the traveler to view all of Disney World's table service restaurants (including Disney's Princess and character dining locations) online and make reservations. If you'll pardon the expression, booking a spot simply requires the click of a mouse.

The Disney online dining reservations system allows guests to book a restaurant starting at 6 a.m., several hours before Disney's telephone reservations system opens for the day. For guests attempting to make reservations at Disney's most popular restaurants, this little known window of opportunity can make the difference between nabbing or losing their restaurant of choice some travel experts explain.

Reservations can be made online via the official Walt Disney World Web site.