Think Character Meals are just for kids? Or that they’re too expensive? Think again! There are SO many reasons you should consider a Walt Disney World Character Meal during your next trip. And with so many options as far as characters, locations, and meal varieties—there is something for everyone!
It’s a great way to see characters without dealing with lines, heat of the day, or trying to find the ones you want to see.
Other benefits
- It provides an opportunity to experience Disney magic outside the parks.
- It’s a nice respite in the middle of the day, or after a long day. It provides an opportunity to sit down, enjoy the meal, and be entertained by the characters.
- Character meals can be enjoyed by kids AND adults.
There are plenty of options to consider offering a variety of meal and character offerings, as well as price points to meet any budget. Don’t dismiss them thinking they’re too expensive. They can be pricier than other meal options, but there are ways to save, and ways to work the meals into your budget.
Character Options
From the Fab 5 to Princesses, to Safari Pals, to World Travelers, to Lilo & Stitch. You can dine with:
- Hard-to-find characters (catch the evil queen at Story Book Dining at Artist Point; or Prince Ali & Tiana at 1900 Park Fare)
- Classic favorites (Pooh and friends can be found at Crystal Palace)
Tigger signing an autograph book at Crystal Palace - Characters who entertain (Mickey and Pals dress in their safari gear and invite kids and teens to join them in a conga line at Tusker House)
Download Our Character Dining Chart!
Locations
Character Meal options can be found in the theme parks or at the resorts. Choosing a resort character meal is nice for those who are visiting without park tickets, or people who want to get a taste of the magic on non-park days. Or an option to escape from the park mid-day for an early dinner.
- Hop on the Monorail from Magic Kingdom and travel to the Grand Floridian to visit Cinderella, or Mirabel at 1900 Park Fare.
- Take a walk to the Contemporary from Magic Kingdom to enjoy lunch or dinner with Mickey and his pals at Chef Mickey’s.
- Plan a breakfast on the rooftop of Disney’s Riviera Resort and enjoy time with Mickey, Minnie, Daisy and Donald in outfits representing their artistic flair—then hop on the Skyliner and enjoy the view traveling to theme parks or other resorts.
Affordability
There are ways to make Character Meals an affordable option for dining. Outside of participating in a Dining Plan, consider doing a breakfast Character Meal. Breakfast tends to be a lower cost option for meals. Many of the Character Meals that are offered serve breakfast, so take advantage of that price savings. And for an added bonus—schedule the meal late morning and you’ve got breakfast AND lunch covered!
Character Meals add such a magical touch to your Walt Disney World vacation. As these are a popular option, be sure to make your Advance Dining Reservation to confirm your spot. Don’t miss the opportunity for great character interaction, great food, and most importantly—photos with the characters!
