From the Disney Parks Blog and written by: Lisa Mendillo
Gone are the days of vacations filled with chicken fingers and French fries. Sure those options still exist, and our Moms love the occasional Mickey shaped nugget, but if you are trying to eat healthy on your next Disney vacation, do not fear, Disney Dining has numerous options for you.
First let’s talk kids. They want ice cream for dinner, but you want a healthy option before heading over to Magic Kingdom for a Dole Whip. Disney Parks Moms Panelist, Tabitha, has a suggestion to make your dining selection an easy one.
“When dining with kids, look for Mickey Check meals on menus all over Walt Disney World Resort property,” she explained. “These meals meet specific guidelines that help ensure your kiddos are enjoying food that is not only tasty, but good for them, too! My kids especially love the Power Packs that are found at many Quick-Service locations, because they contain a variety of items that appeal to their picky palates.”
Lauren H., could not agree more about Mickey Check meals. “I have a picky eater, but he still is usually up for trying anything with Mickey in the name. Often we are able to find grilled or roasted chicken that may look a little intimidating at first, but once it’s cut up with a side of grapes it looks like something he’s familiar with and happy to eat,” she exclaimed.
Snacks
Kids, and adults, can also find healthy options on food carts located throughout the parks.
“My kids tend to go more for snacks and less for a sit down meal, and we can find fresh and dried fruit and fruit cups, vegetables and dip, nuts, and even dill pickles at the carts throughout the parks,” said Moms Panelist, Anna S.
Kids – check. Snack – check. Now what about healthy meal options?
“One of my favorite healthy meals to enjoy at Walt Disney World Resort is the Sustainable Fish Bowl at Pandora’s Satu’li Canteen. By choosing the Romaine and Kale Salad Base and keeping my Creamy Herb Sauce on the side, I incorporate more greens and veggies into my day,” said Lindsey P. “I also pay attention to portion sizes, and in my vacationing case, snacks! If I want to splurge on a Sleepy Hollow Fresh Fruit Waffle, I may make a reservation at Be Our Guest for dinner, but only indulge in my favorite French Onion Soup and a side salad instead of a three-course meal. This way, I get my favorite indulgent flavors without feeling bogged down.”
“For adult meals, Walt Disney World has a variety of healthy options, including some fantastic salads. My very favorite is the Energy Salad with Roasted Chicken at Epcot’s Electric Umbrella. Also, most grab-and-go locations in the Resort hotels, as well as snack stands around the parks (like Liberty Square Market in Magic Kingdom Park) offer great healthy choices, like fresh fruit, vegetables, or hummus,” said Moms Panelist Missy F.
Don’t Forget the Water
We always drink water at two of our meals during the day. Water is essential for a long day at the parks! While we drink water throughout the day, we also want to be wise with what we drink when we stop for lunch or dinner,” shares Wes H. “So, our whole family will drink water for one meal, and then our kids can choose the drink of their choice for the other meal that day. (TIP: If we are not on the Dining Plan, this is also a great way to save money!)”
Use My Disney Experience as a Tool
“Before your trip to Walt Disney World Resort, use the Dining tab in My Disney Experience to view the menus for various dining locations within each theme park. This can help you pick out a few key locations that offer meals that will fit into your dining preferences,” said Brandy B. She added, with a large smile, “If all else fails, shove a Dole Whip in your face. It may not be exactly healthy, but you sure will feel magical afterwards.”
For more dining tips or to ask questions about planning your next Disney vacation, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel.
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