Let’s be honest—a trip to Disney is magical, but it’s not always easy on the wallet. Between park tickets, souvenirs, Lightening Lane add-ons, and snacks at every corner, costs can add up fast. But what if I told you there’s a budget-friendly hack that anyone—yes, even adults—can use to save money every single day of their Disney vacation?
Here it is: order off the kids’ menu. Yep, even if you’re over 12.
Why the Kids’ Menu Hack Works
Contrary to popular belief, Disney doesn’t require adults to order adult meals. At most quick-service and even table-service restaurants, you can ask for a kids’ meal—and they’ll happily serve it to you. The portions are surprisingly generous and usually include:
- A main dish
- Two sides (often fruit, veggies, or fries)
- A drink (milk, juice, soda or bottled water)
- And sometimes… dessert!
As someone who’s tried this hack many times, I can say firsthand: I always leave full and satisfied—and my budget thanks me.
Let’s take a stroll through the parks so I can show you some of my favorite spots to grab a delicious kids’ meal that won’t break the bank.
Magic Kingdom
- Pinocchio Village Haus: Their kids’ pepperoni pizza is a classic. It comes with French fries, a Cutie mandarin, and a drink. It’s the perfect combo of salty and sweet, and the view overlooking It’s a Small World is a bonus.
- The Lunching Pad: Try the kids’ cheeseburger—again, two sides and a drink are included. It’s quick, filling, and centrally located in Tomorrowland.
Animal Kingdom
- Flame Tree Barbecue: The pulled pork platter on the kids’ menu is surprisingly hearty. Served with two sides (a choice of graham crackers, a cutie mandarin, or applesauce), and a drink—it’s smoky, flavorful, and doesn’t weigh you down for walking the park.
- Satu’li Canteen: The kids’ Cheeseburger Steamed Pod is a fan-favorite. With crunchy vegetable chips and a drink, it feels like an upscale kids’ meal that adults will truly enjoy.
EPCOT
- La Cantina de San Angel: The kids’ Empanadas con Queso are a hidden gem—crispy, cheesy, and served with fruit and a drink.
Pro tip: During the day, you can actually sit inside La Hacienda de San Angel (which is typically closed until dinner). It’s quiet, air-conditioned, and offers a stunning view of World Showcase Lagoon—perfect for a restful meal.
Hollywood Studios
- Docking Bay 7 Food & Cargo: The Fried Chicken Tip Yip Youngling Meal is my go-to. Crispy chicken, mac and cheese, roasted veggies, and a drink—it tastes like comfort food with a galactic twist. One of the most satisfying kids’ meals in any park.
Table-Service Bonus: Sanaa at Animal Kingdom Lodge
If you’re treating yourself to a sit-down meal, don’t skip the kids’ menu either! At Sanaa, I always get the Buttered Chicken with rice and the adorable (and delicious) Timon Grubs for dessert. Think banana pastry cream, whipped cream, gummy worms, graham cracker bugs, and chocolate rocks. It’s whimsical and tasty—perfect for the Disney spirit.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re trying to stretch your vacation budget or just don’t have the appetite for a giant adult-sized portion, the kids’ menu is your secret weapon. It’s affordable, filling, and often just as tasty as its full-sized counterpart.
So next time you’re at Disney, go ahead and ask for the kids’ meal—no one will blink an eye, and your wallet (and stomach) will thank you!
Have a favorite kids’ meal at Disney? Share it in the comments below! 
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