Disney Dining Plan 2018 - Specialty Drinks

So as of January 1, 2018 the Disney Dining Plan includes specialty drinks.  We just finished a 5 day trip on the deluxe dining plan under the new specialty drinks plan.  Short version: If you drink alcohol you will get great value from the new plan, if you don't you will have to be aware that there is not much for you that changes other than the price of the plan.

In previous years you could get a milkshake for your drink if you asked (or had a waitress/waiter that suggested it for you).  So that makes the value added for milkshakes not anything new.  Previously you could also get flavor added to your drinks as well, I remember getting several vanilla cokes the last time I was at Disney.  So what can you get?  If you were hoping for some new line of specialty non-alcoholic drinks available for all the kids and non-drinking adults you're out of luck.  I was hoping for some specialty coffee drinks or additional flavor options but none of that either.

What was there?  The alcoholic beverage menu that you used to have to pay to drink off of is now available to choose items.  You can order virgin items off of that menu if there are options like the pina coloda from Sci-Fi or other locations.  Also, remember that if its merchandise it is not included so no glowing lights for the kids or souvenir cups.

So if you were going to pay for alcoholic beverages you will benefit from the new change to the dining plan.  Otherwise if you decide a dining plan is a good value for your family then take a minute to ask your waitress what non-alcoholic drinks are available to you before you order.

Not Included - Merchandise