What is Character Dining?
Character dining allows guests to enjoy a meal at select Disney restaurants while Disney characters make appearances throughout the dining area. Characters will often come to each table, greet guests, pose for photos, and sign autographs, making it a magical opportunity for children and Disney fans of all ages.
Where to Find Character Dining Experiences
Disney World offers character dining options across various parks and resorts, each with its own theme and character lineup. Here are some of the more popular choices:
- Cinderella's Royal Table (Magic Kingdom): Dine inside Cinderella Castle and meet Disney princesses such as Cinderella, Ariel, and Snow White.
- Be Our Guest Restaurant (Magic Kingdom): Enjoy French-inspired cuisine in the Beast’s castle and meet the Beast himself.
- 'Ohana (Disney's Polynesian Village Resort): Meet Lilo, Stitch, Mickey, and friends during a Hawaiian-style feast.
- Chef Mickey's (Disney's Contemporary Resort): Meet Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto while enjoying a buffet-style meal.
- Garden Grill (Epcot): Enjoy a rotating feast featuring farm-fresh fare while meeting characters like Mickey, Pluto, Chip 'n' Dale.
These are just a few examples, and Disney offers several other character dining experiences catering to different themes and tastes.
Tips for an Enchanted Character Dining Experience
- Make Reservations Early: Character dining experiences are popular and can book up quickly. Make reservations up to 60 days in advance using the My Disney Experience app or website if you’re staying at a Disney resort.
- Arrive Early: Arrive at your reservation time or a few minutes early to ensure you have enough time to check-in and be seated promptly.
- Bring Autograph Books and Cameras: Characters are happy to sign autographs and take photos with guests. Make sure to have your autograph book, camera, or smartphone ready to capture these magical moments.
- Engage with Characters: Take the opportunity to interact with the characters. They may engage in playful banter, give hugs, and pose for unique photos.
- Enjoy the Food: Character dining restaurants offer a variety of food options, from buffet-style meals to à la carte menus. Be sure to indulge in the delicious offerings while enjoying the character interactions.
- Consider Dining Plans: Character dining experiences can pricey but they can be included in Disney Dining Plans, which can offer savings and convenience depending on your dining preferences.
Why Choose Character Dining?
Character dining provides a convenient way to meet multiple characters without waiting in long lines at the parks. It’s also a great way to enhance your Disney World experience, especially for families with young children who may be excited to meet their favorite characters up close.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to add a bit of magic to your Disney vacation, character dining offers an unforgettable experience that combines delicious food with beloved Disney characters. It's a perfect opportunity to make memories that will last a lifetime. So, don’t miss out on this magical dining experience during your visit to Disney World!
