How to Eat Cheap at Disney World

By Sarah Dray

Eating cheap at Disney requires advanced planning.

Disney World has over 100 eateries of all kinds within the parks. Most of them, however, will quickly blow your budget if you're not careful. While it may seem impossible, it is possible to eat cheap at Disney World and save the money for the next round of golf once the kiddies are down for the night.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Skip character meals. The popular Cinderella's Royal Table in Cinderella Castle (breakfasts) and the Garden Grill in The Land with Mickey and friends (lunch) sound great but will set you back a minimum of $15 per kid ($29 per adult). Instead, have breakfast at the Liberty Tree Tavern, which has a kid's menu, or pick a quick bite at any of the snack stands throughout the park.

Step 2

Choose places that have counter service, rather than table service. They're cheaper, faster and give you the option to take them along with you as you walk around the park. In Epcot, try the Boulangerie Patisserie or the Kringla Bakeri og Cafe. In Magic Kingdom, go for the meals at the Main Street Bakery or the Westward Ho Refreshments.

Step 3

Bring snacks. Small bags of munchies, such as nuts or popcorn, are allowed and will save you money if you get hungry mid-afternoon. Candy is especially important, as the kids will be tempted by the many stands and ask for it.

Step 4

Skip the highly-popular stands, such as the Main Street Ice Cream Parlor or Diamond Horseshoe on Liberty Square. Instead, head to smaller stands that sell snacks or are set on the smaller streets or corners, such as the Sunshine Tree Terrace or Casey's Corner. Cheaper places tend to sell snacks or fast food, rather than full sit-down dishes.

Step 5

Pack powdered juice and then ask for cold water, free at any counter. Add the powder and make your own drink. Avoid buying soft drinks at Disney World, as they have the highest markups of all food items.

Step 6

Skip meals or drinks that come with a souvenir cup or toy. The markup for that extra item is usually really high. Either buy the same cup separately or bring your own to save money.

Tips & Warnings

If you're staying at one of the Disney Resorts, consider taking a break and having a meal at the hotel. They're usually a lot cheaper and larger than what you'll find inside the park. Then take the free shutter bus and get back to the park for more fun.

About The Author

Sarah Dray has been writing since 1996. She specializes in health, wellness and travel topics and has credits in various publications, including "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." She is also a seasoned independent traveler and a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant. Dray is pursuing a criminal justice degree at Penn Foster College.