One of the most popular things to do at each of the Disney Parks is to enjoy a character dining meal with some of your favorite Disney characters! It’s an awesome way to see your favorite characters all at once, snag a few pictures and autographs, and enjoy delicious food!
Most dining experiences are buffet style and very family-friendly. Now, these don’t come
cheap, but no matter what experience you choose, it will soon become one of your favorite vacation memories, kids most of all.
Most experiences run about $35-$59 per person. Almost all Character Dining meals are included in the Disney Dining Plan but there are a few that are not, such as the Garden Grove, so definitely double-check with your travel agent before making a reservation. These are very popular and it’s recommended to book right at your 180-day check-in so that you can get the time and location you want.
Character Meals are all over Disney World. Some are located at the Grand Floridian Resort, Riviera Resort, Polynesian Village Resort, Swan Hotel, Contemporary Resort, Wilderness Lodge, Boardwalk Resort, Beach Club Resort and, of course, the 4 main parks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot. Sometimes it’s fun to schedule one of these on your check-in or check-out day so that you can just enjoy the experience and not feel rushed. You can visit any and all resorts on the Disney property even if you aren’t staying at the specific resort. Other times, if you just need a break from all the hustle of rides and attractions, having a fun break in the day with great company is a great way to recharge.
We suggest planning around 90 minutes for your Character Dining meal. Even with
reservations, there are sometimes small waits, or longer character interactions, etc so better to plan for more time than being rushed.
If you are opting not to have a Disney Dining Plan then we recommend selecting the breakfast option for a character meal because these are always cheaper in cost and it’s a super fun way to start your day!
Another tip: if picking a character dining location inside one of the parks, try to shoot for one of the earliest times because there will be a lot less wait time, and easier to keep up with your Fast Pass Plus selections for the day. Most breakfasts are in a great location for rides or attractions right when you walk out the door.
A lot of these character dining locations will have a Photo Pass Photographer available, but if they don’t, cell phones and personal cameras are definitely welcomed and recommended.
If you are looking for the Classic Disney Characters like Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Donald, and Daisy you are likely to find some of them at Tusker House, Cape May Café, Chef Mickeys, Garden Grill, Hollywood & Vine, ‘Ohana, Topolino’s Terrace, Ravello, and Garden Grove.
For your Princess Fix, we suggest 1900 Park Fare (Cinderella’s Happily Ever After After Dinner), Artist Point (Evil Queen from Snow White!), Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, Cinderella’s Royal Table, Trattoria al Forno. Another really special event is the Perfectly Princess Tea Party.
Disney Junior characters will be at Disney Jr. Play n’ Dine Breakfast at Hollywood & Vine. Winnie the Pooh friends are at Crystal Palace.
Wonderland Tea Party- offered at specific times weekly, will be Alice and Wonderland crew.
Disney also takes things to a different level by offering some of these locations and character meals to time with all their amazing firework shows. After you eat, you can get the best seat in the “mouse house” to enjoy the fireworks or night time shows!
Any more questions or thoughts please reach out to your awesome A Touch of Magic Travel Agent and they can get all your questions answered!
If you have any questions I can answer, please feel free to reach out to me at Katie@ATouchofMagicTravel.com.
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