My Favorite Gluten-Free Treats at Disney World
Some people go to Disney for the rides and characters… but if you’re gluten-free, you know the food is part of the magic too. One of the reasons I love visiting Walt Disney World is that it’s one of the few places where you don’t feel like you’re missing out, especially when it comes to treats.
Disney goes above and beyond to offer gluten-free options, and that definitely includes desserts and snacks. These are the five treats I look forward to every single trip:
1. Beignets (Yes, Gluten-Free!)
Gluten-Free Beignets at Scat Cat’s Club Café
If you’ve ever been to New Orleans, you know how special a good beignet is - and Disney can make them gluten-free and delicious. Make sure you let them know you need gluten-free.
You can find them at Scat Cat’s Club Café in Port Orleans Resort, and they’re made in a dedicated fryer, which is a huge win for those with celiac disease.
Even better? They’re also vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free, making them a great option for multiple dietary needs. Don’t skip the dipping sauces—salted caramel, strawberry, and chicory chocolate ganache take them to the next level.
2. Churros
Gluten-free Churros at Nomad Lounge
Gluten-free churros at Disney? Yes, please. Make sure they know you need gluten-free!
You can find them at Nomad Lounge in Animal Kingdom, where they’re served with delicious dipping sauces like vanilla cream and strawberry guava.
They’re also available at Three Bridges Bar & Grill at Villa del Lago, typically paired with a rich chocolate dipping sauce. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, everything a churro should be.
3. Dole Whip
Dole Whip
This iconic Disney treat is a must-have and naturally gluten-free.
Dole Whip is a dairy-free (when not swirled with ice cream) soft-serve-style treat made primarily from fruit. Pineapple is the classic flavor, but you’ll often find seasonal and specialty variations throughout the parks.
You can grab it at locations like:
Aloha Isle
Sunshine Tree Terrace
Pineapple Lanai
Swirls on the Water
Refreshment Outpost
It’s refreshing, allergy-friendly, and perfect on a hot Florida day.
4. Mickey Ice Cream Bars
Mickey Ice Cream Bar
Sometimes simple is best and it doesn’t get more classic than a Mickey-shaped ice cream bar.
Mickey Ice Cream Bar features creamy vanilla ice cream coated in a chocolate shell, all shaped like Mickey Mouse. They’re individually wrapped and widely available at snack carts, kiosks, and resort shops throughout Disney World.
It’s a nostalgic treat that just feels like Disney.
5. Frozen Lemonade
When the Florida heat hits, frozen lemonade is one of the most refreshing gluten-free options you can find.
You’ll spot it at carts and quick service locations across all four parks, including:
Flame Tree Barbecue
Harambe Fruit Market
Pizzafari
Westward Ho Refreshments
Min and Bill's Dockside Diner
It’s tart, icy, and exactly what you need between rides.
6. Popcorn
Popcorn Carts
All the popcorn carts found around the parks sell gluten-free popcorn. You can buy a refillable bucket that can be replenished for a reduced fee throughout your trip.
You’ll spot popcorn cart locations across all four parks:
Magic Kingdom
Main Street, U.S.A
Adventureland
Frontierland
Liberty Square
Fantasyland
Tomorrowland
EPCOT
World Showcase
World Discovery & World Nature
Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Boulevard
Toy Story Land
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Animal Kingdom
Discovery Island
Africa
Asia
Final Thoughts
One of the most magical things about Disney is that gluten-free guests don’t have to sit on the sidelines when it comes to food. From beignets to churros to iconic Disney snacks, there are so many safe and delicious options to enjoy.
As always, make sure to ask questions and advocate for yourself—but also take the time to enjoy these moments. Because being able to grab a treat just like everyone else? That’s a little bit of Disney magic in itself.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, hotels, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
Custom document package with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
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Top 10 Tips for Eating Gluten-Free at Disney World
We love Walt Disney World because we can eat almost anything there gluten-free—from pizza and fries (in dedicated fryers) to treats like churros and beignets… the list truly goes on and on. Planning a trip when you are gluten-free doesn’t have to be stressful; in fact, it can be one of the most enjoyable places to travel with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. Disney has created systems and training that make dining safer and more accessible than almost anywhere else.
That said, a little planning (and a few insider tips) can make your experience even smoother. Here are my top 10 tips for eating gluten-free at Disney World:
1. Work with a Gluten-Free Disney Travel Advisor
Planning a gluten-free trip is different—and it helps to have someone who truly understands it. As someone with celiac disease who loves Disney, I only recommend places I personally trust. A knowledgeable travel advisor can guide you toward the safest and best dining options, saving you time and stress.
2. Stay on Disney Property
Staying at a Disney Resort makes gluten-free dining much easier. You’ll have:
Access to safe dining options at your resort
Easy transportation to parks and restaurants
Less need to search for outside food options
It simplifies your trip and reduces stress around meals.
3. Eat on Disney Property/Where to find Gluten-Free Options
Disney-owned restaurants follow strict allergy protocols, which is a huge advantage. While there are great options at Disney Springs, not all restaurants there are Disney-operated, so procedures may vary. Always double-check and ask questions when dining off Disney-owned property.
In sit-down & quick service restaurants, ask for the gluten-free menu. When looking at menus on the My Disney Experience app, make sure you scroll down past the kids’ meals. There you will find the “Gluten/Wheat Allergy Friendly” options.
4. Make Advanced Dining Reservations Early
Dining reservations open 60 days in advance at 6:00 AM, and the most allergy-friendly restaurants fill up fast. Booking early ensures you have access to the best table service experiences where chefs can accommodate gluten-free needs.
Download the Disney Mobile App:
My Disney Experience Mobile Android
5. Use Mobile Ordering Whenever Possible
Mobile ordering through the My Disney Experience app is a game-changer. You can:
Review allergy-friendly menus in advance
Customize your order
Avoid long lines
Ordering 15–20 minutes ahead helps ensure your food is ready when you need it—especially since allergy meals take a bit longer to prepare.
See our blog The Ultimate Guide to Eating Gluten-free at Disney World.
6. Look for the Allergy Indicators
When your food arrives, check for:
An allergy pick/marker
A different-colored tray (often purple)
These are part of Disney’s safety system and signal that your meal was handled as an allergy order.
7. Be Cautious with Buffets
Even though Disney does an excellent job with allergies, buffets can be risky due to cross-contact. Whenever possible:
Ask if a chef can prepare your food separately in the kitchen
Request a plated meal instead of serving yourself
Many Disney buffets are happy to accommodate this—just ask!
8. Always Speak to a Cast Member
Never assume your dietary needs are automatically understood. Whether you’re at quick service or table service:
Inform a Cast Member about your gluten-free needs
Confirm with your server
Ask questions if anything seems unclear
Communication is key to staying safe.
9. Advocate for Yourself
This is the most important tip. Even in a place as accommodating as Disney:
Double-check your meals
Ask how food is prepared
Trust your instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t eat it. Disney Cast Members are there to help and want you to feel safe.
10. Make Memories
At the end of the day, this trip is about more than food. Take the pictures, enjoy the rides, and soak in the magic. One of the best parts about Disney is that you can feel included in the dining experience—and that’s something truly special.
Final Thought
Disney World sets the standard for gluten-free travel, but no place is ever 100% risk-free. Stay aware, ask questions, and advocate for yourself—but also allow yourself to enjoy the experience.
Because you deserve a vacation that feels just as magical as it tastes.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, hotels, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
Custom document package with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
Ready to book your next European vacation? Let our travel agents make the process easy!
Our travel agents specialize in:
Caribbean & Mexico
Disney World
Hawaii
Europe
Cruises
The Ultimate Guide to Eating Gluten-Free at Disney World
Walt Disney World is one of the best destinations for gluten-free and allergy-friendly dining. Disney has a multi-tiered training system in place for special diets, ensuring that guests can dine with confidence. Cast Members are trained to recognize allergy requests and are instructed to escalate those orders to specially trained staff or chefs to ensure safety. Multiple procedures are in place to help minimize risk and handle gluten-free dining properly.
There are two main types of dining at Disney World: quick service and table service.
Download the Disney Mobile App:
My Disney Experience Mobile Android
Quick Service
Quick service meals allow you to browse menus and order directly through the My Disney Experience app, making it one of the easiest ways to dine gluten-free.
To order:
Log in to your My Disney Experience app
Select “Order Food” from the main menu
Choose your restaurant
Click “View Menu” and scroll all the way down past drinks
Look for the “Gluten/Wheat Allergy-Friendly” section
Step 1: Login to your account
Step 2: Choose “Order Food”
Step 3: Choose your restaurant
Step 4: Click View Menu
Step 5: Review “Gluten/Wheat Allergy-Friendly” menu
Now choose your arrival window & add items from the allergy-friendly section at the bottom of the list.
Once you’ve selected your meal:
Choose your arrival window
Add items from the allergy-friendly section to your order
Gluten-free meals do take a bit longer to prepare, so ordering 15–20 minutes in advance tends to work best. When your food is ready, it will typically be served on a different-colored tray (often purple) as part of Disney’s allergy safety protocol.
If you prefer to order in person, simply ask a Cast Member for an allergen menu. You can place your entire order—both regular and gluten-free—at the same time. Non-allergy meals will usually come out quickly, while gluten-free items may take a little longer. You may receive a pager or notification when your food is ready, and there is often a separate pickup area for allergy-friendly meals.
One of the best parts? Disney makes it possible for gluten-free guests to enjoy foods that are often hard to find safely—like chicken tenders, fries, burgers, and even pizza.
Favorite Quick Service Locations:
Pinocchio Village Haus (Magic Kingdom)
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café (Magic Kingdom)
ABC Commissary (Hollywood Studios)
Flame Tree Barbecue (Animal Kingdom)
Gasparilla Island Grill (Grand Floridian)
Capt. Cook’s (Polynesian Village Resort)
Table Service
Disney also offers incredible table service dining experiences, many of which are very accommodating to gluten-free guests.
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made 60 days in advance at 6:00 AM. This is especially important for popular restaurants.
When dining:
Notify a Cast Member at check-in about your gluten-free needs
Remind your server and request a gluten-free menu
Don’t hesitate to ask questions—advocating for yourself is key
When your meal is served, it should include an allergy marker (pick). If it does not, always confirm with your server before eating.
Favorite Table Service Restaurants:
Liberty Tree Tavern (Magic Kingdom)
Biergarten Restaurant (EPCOT)
Chef Mickey’s (Contemporary Resort)
Coral Reef Restaurant (EPCOT)
Garden Grill (EPCOT)
Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen (Magic Kingdom)
Kona Café (Polynesian Village Resort)
Whispering Canyon Café (Wilderness Lodge)
50’s Prime Time Café (Hollywood Studios)
Snack Carts & Kiosks
All snack carts throughout Disney World have an allergy binder available. Just ask a Cast Member, and they’ll let you review ingredients to find a safe option.
Final Thoughts
Disney World truly stands out as one of the easiest places to eat gluten-free. Their systems, training, and wide variety of options make it possible to enjoy meals that often feel out of reach elsewhere.
That said, no environment is ever 100% risk-free. Always advocate for yourself, ask questions, and trust your instincts when it comes to your health and safety.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, hotels, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
Custom document package with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
Ready to book your next European vacation? Let our travel agents make the process easy!
Our travel agents specialize in:
Caribbean & Mexico
Disney World
Hawaii
Europe
Cruises
How to Choose the Best Disney Resort for You
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney has over 25 resort options to choose from. There is truly something for everyone! So how do you decide which one is right for you? There are several important questions to answer before deciding.
What makes a Disney Resort the Right Fit for you?
Answer these questions to help you decide.
What is your budget?
Do you prefer luxury and relaxation or immersive Disney theming?
Do you want to be close to the parks?
What type of dining options do you want at the resort (mostly quick service or table service too)?
Are you traveling with children, as a couple, or with a larger group?
Will you spend most of your time in the parks or at the resort?
These answers will help narrow down your resort category and the specific resort that will suit you best.
What Are the Disney Resort Categories?
Disney resorts are divided into four categories, each offering a different balance of price, amenities, and theming.
Value Resorts - Budget-Friendly and Fun
Moderate Resorts - Comfort Without the cost of a deluxe resort
Deluxe Resorts - Luxury, Location, and Amenities
Deluxe Villas - Space and Home-Like Comforts
Value Resorts
Value resorts are ideal if you want to stay on Disney property at the lowest possible price while still enjoying Disney theming as well as transportation to the parks.
Best for:
First-time visitors
Families on a budget
Guests who plan to spend most of their time in the parks
What to expect:
Bold Disney theming
Quick-service food courts
Bus transportation to all parks
Popular options include Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, which also offer family suites.
Lots of dining options for all tastes.
Great for short getaways (3–4 nights) with high-value entertainment and activities.
Mix of high-energy activities and lounges for quiet time
Moderate Resorts
Moderate resorts offer larger rooms, better pools, and additional dining options while remaining more affordable than Deluxe resorts.
Best for:
Families who want more space
Guests who enjoy scenic surroundings and quieter environments
What to expect:
Themed pools with water slides
Table-service restaurants
Bus transportation, and in some cases, Skyliner access
Examples include Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside.
Deluxe Resorts
Deluxe resorts provide the highest level of comfort, dining, and convenience. Many are located within walking distance of parks or offer monorail or boat access.
Best for:
Couples or families who prioritize convenience
Guests who enjoy fine dining and resort amenities
Repeat Disney visitors
What to expect:
Close proximity to parks
Signature restaurants and lounges
Spacious rooms and premium pools
Top choices include Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Deluxe Villas
Disney Deluxe Villas are ideal for longer stays or larger groups who want extra space and kitchen facilities.
Best for:
Larger families
Groups traveling together
Guests who prefer apartment-style accommodations
What to expect:
Studios to multi-bedroom villas
Kitchenettes or full kitchens
Access to Deluxe resort amenities
Examples include Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows.
Choosing a Resort Based on Your Priorities
Best for Convenience
Deluxe resorts near Magic Kingdom or EPCOT can save significant travel time. Resorts connected by monorail, Skyliner, or walking paths offer a major advantage for getting around easily.
Best for Families with Young Children
Moderate resorts offer quieter settings, larger rooms, and better pools, while Value resorts with strong theming, like Disney's Art of Animation Resort, are especially popular with kids.
Best for Budget-Conscious Travelers
Value resorts provide the lowest nightly rates while still offering the benefits of staying on Disney property.
Best for Resort Downtime
Guests who plan to spend time enjoying their resort may prefer Moderate or Deluxe resorts, which typically feature more elaborate pools, recreation, and relaxing outdoor spaces.
Best for Dining Enthusiasts
Deluxe resorts are ideal for travelers who prioritize dining, with access to signature restaurants, character dining, and popular lounges.
Transportation
All Disney resorts provide complimentary transportation to the parks, but the type of transportation can vary by resort category and individual resorts.
Disney Resorts Connected by Monorail
Magic Kingdom Resort Area (Resort Monorail Loop):
Disney's Contemporary Resort
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
EPCOT Monorail Access (via Transportation and Ticket Center transfer):
Guests staying at the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, or Contemporary can transfer to the EPCOT monorail.
Disney Resorts Connected by Skyliner
Disney's Riviera Resort
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney's Pop Century Resort
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
(Also convenient for access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.)
Disney Resorts Connected by Boat
Magic Kingdom Area Boats:
Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary also offer boat options in addition to monorail.
EPCOT / Hollywood Studios Friendship Boats:
Disney's BoardWalk Inn
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Disney's Beach Club Resort
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
Disney Springs Area Boats:
Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Disney's Old Key West Resort
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Final Tips Before Booking
Book as early as possible, especially during holidays and peak seasons. It is import to think about how much time you will actually spend at your resort, as paying more may not be necessary if you plan to be in the parks all day. Balance theme, comfort, and convenience, especially if you are traveling with children. Finally, review dining options at your resort, as some restaurants are destinations on their own.
Finding the Best Disney World Resort for You
There is no single best Disney World resort for everyone, but there is a best resort for your travel style, budget, and priorities. By understanding the differences between resort categories and focusing on what matters most to you, you can choose a home base that enhances your entire Disney vacation.
Working with a travel advisor takes the guesswork out of planning your trip. We’ve visited most of the resorts we recommend, and with more than 25 to choose from, we can help you find the one that’s just right for you, so you can focus on relaxing, making memories, and enjoying every moment.
As a Disney World travel advisor with celiac disease, I’ll help you plan your next trip and ensure the experience is smooth, safe, and completely stress-free.
Noreen
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, resorts, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Custom document package mailed to you with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Ready to book your next European vacation? Let our team make the process easy!
My Favorite Gluten-free Snacks at Disney World
If you plan on visiting Walt Disney World and are interested in eating gluten-free food, this blog post is for you! Below are my favorite gluten-free snacks.
Dole Whips
A “must-have” dessert at Disney World is definitely the Dole Whips. These treats are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and are free from top allergens. Some of the most popular flavors are pineapple, strawberry, lemon, orange, coconut, and raspberry. Note, these can be twisted with vanilla flavor too, but vanilla does contain dairy and is not vegan.
Locations:
Magic Kingdom (Aloha Isle in Adventureland, Sunshine Tree Terrace in Adventureland, and Storybook Treats in Fantasyland)
Epcot (Refreshment Port before Canada and Festival booths)
Animal Kingdom (Tamu Tamu Refreshments in Africa)
Also available at Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, Polynesian Resort, Art of Animation Resort, POP Century Resort, All Star Movies Resort, and The BoardWalk.
Pro Tip: Outside of Magic Kingdom you’ll see Dole Whips also available with alcohol for a fun beverage option.
Churros
Yes, you can get gluten-free churros at Disney World! However, they aren’t in an obvious location. Head to Nomad Lounge & Cocktail Bar in Animal Kingdom. You can wait for a table, but I prefer to walk up and get these to go and then enjoy them in the park.
Location: Nomad Lounge in Animal Kingdom
Pro Tip: Always order two orders. These churros are INCREDIBLE and my gluten-loving family thinks they’re better than the regular churros at the parks because they’re fresh. So always order one order for yourself and one for everyone else!
Pastries from Erin McKenna’s Bakery
If you’re in Disney Springs, make sure you head to Erin McKenna’s gluten-free bakery for a snack or dessert. They have gluten-free donuts, muffins, cookies, cakes, etc. My favorite is the lemon teacake!
Plus - they deliver. You can order treats to be delivered to your resort and have snacks handy during your entire stay.
Location: Disney Springs
Pro Tip: Erin McKenna’s is near The Boathouse. Go there for dinner first - trust me!!!
Mickey Ice Cream Bars
For a classic Disney dessert, have a Mickey Bar! These vanilla ice cream treats are covered in chocolate and also gluten-free. One reason why Mickey Bars are on my list - they’re convenient. You’ll be able to find these at multiple locations throughout the parks.
Locations: Throughout Disney Parks at snack kiosks and Disney World Resorts’ shops.
Snacks With Character
If you want an easy classic snack that comes in handy, pick up Disney’s Snacks With Character. These pre-packaged snacks were developed for guests that are gluten-free, nut-free, or have other allergies.
All packages are labeled “gluten-free” and you’ll find cookies, corn puffs, chips, and rice crisps.
Locations: Available in stores throughout the parks and resorts.
*Always double-check with a cast member to ensure that an item is safe for your dietary needs before consuming it.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, resorts, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Custom document package mailed to you with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
Ready to book your next vacation? Let our travel agents make the process easy!
Our travel agents specialize in:
Caribbean & Mexico
Disney World
Hawaii
Europe
Cruises