Orlando, FL, Decided.
Every decision that matters, on one page.
✦ Stay: Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa ($$$$)
✦ Eat: Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' — book days — very popular; reserve to skip a long peak wait (walk-ups can face a substantial queue). The play: book a table, order the fried chicken + a shrimp & grits to share, and a moonshine cocktail. NO park ticket required — Disney Springs is free.
✦ Stay: Loews Royal Pacific Resort ($$$)
✦ Eat: The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar — book usually none — mostly walk-in with a place-in-line waitlist; expect a wait on busy park nights. The play: add your name early after a park day, and let a mixed group split burgers + sushi rolls. NO park ticket needed.
✦ Stay: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort ($$$$)
✦ Eat: Le Cellier Steakhouse — book weeks — one of EPCOT's most in-demand tables; reservations open ~60 days ahead and go quickly. The play: book at your 60-day window for a lunch or early dinner that anchors a World Showcase eating day, and remember you need an EPCOT ticket + park reservation (if required) to get in. Confirm the current menu; the cheddar soup + filet are the reflex orders.
✦ Stay: JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort ($$$-$$$$)
✦ Eat: The BOATHOUSE — book days — recommended for prime dinner / sunset / weekend seatings; walk-ups possible off-peak (the bar takes some). The play: reserve a waterfront table around sunset and, for a treat, book the separate Amphicar ride. NO park ticket required — Disney Springs is free to enter.
When to go: February, March, October, November.