I've had both, and they're both good, but I think the better value is with the picnic - TinkPen  428.4 #292 8:51PM

It probably depends on who is enjoying the experience. Boyfriend and I did Ariel's Grotto and loved our dinner and Preferred Viewing. The picnic passes are comparable to the FPs distributed in the morning. I think if you have kid the dining could get expensive. Check out the WOC tab to see what others thought of the picnic option! - cenicienta  323.8 #506 8:53PM

I thought the picnic was a great deal. The food was good and I didn't have to rush to get a FP. I got the blue section but had to line up an hr early to get a good spot within that section. It worked out ok. There are cool things about the preferred dining section but it's too much for me. I'd rather have that money for souvenirs - MTLott  79.8 #3276 8:56PM