Beyond the thrilling rides and fun parades at Disney parks, one of the most cherished experiences for visitors of all ages is meeting the characters. Disney character dining brings beloved animated characters to life while you enjoy a meal, creating an immersive and unforgettable dining adventure.
Disney character dining experiences are offered at various Disney properties worldwide, including at both Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California. Each location offers its unique charm and different character dining options. It’s not difficult to find the perfect choice for you. Let’s take a closer look at what makes character dining on Disney properties so special.
First, for any Disney related travel plans, let me encourage you to utilize the service of a travel professional that specializes in Disney Destinations.
The Characters Come to You
One of the key appeals of character dining at Disney is that you don’t need to wait in line for your favorite characters. Instead, the characters come to you. You can enjoy your meal while Mickey, Minnie, or other beloved Disney friends visit your table and interact with your party. The characters you meet are dressed in their favorite outfits to match the theming of the restaurant like here at Tusker House in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Donald is ready for Safari!
Immersive Theming:
Disney is renowned for its attention to detail, and character dining is no exception. The restaurants where these experiences take place are meticulously themed to enhance the storytelling. Whether you’re dining in a rustic Wilderness Lodge, a royal palace, or a tropical paradise, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a Disney movie.
A Wide Range of Dining Options:
Disney offers a diverse range of character dining options to suit various tastes and preferences. Here are some popular choices:
photo: @bizzy.runninganddizn
- Cinderella’s Royal Table (Walt Disney World): Located inside Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom, this opulent dining experience brings you face-to-face with Disney princesses. As you dine in a regal setting, you’ll be visited by Cinderella, Ariel, Snow White, and others.
- Be Our Guest (Walt Disney World): Inspired by Beauty and the Beast, this restaurant at Magic Kingdom is where you can meet the Beast himself in his enchanted castle.
- Storytellers Cafe (Disneyland Grand Californian): At this craftsman style lodge, you’ll dine with Mickey, Minnie, Chip, Dale and more. The warm tones and metal artwork accents make this buffet style meal a woodland paradise.
- Goofy’s Kitchen (Disneyland Hotel): This restaurant offers guests the chance to see what Goofy and his friends can whip up in cartoonish style kitchen.
- Crystal Palace (Walt Disney World): This restaurant features a Victorian garden theme and hosts Winnie the Pooh and friends. The ambience is reminiscent of the Hundred Acre Wood.
photo: @bizzy.runninganddizn
Just to name a few…
Know Before You Go
Character dining experiences can be a great way to meet your favorite characters and spend time interacting with them. The price of the experience is generally higher than an average meal at other table service restaurants on Disney property. In addition, alcoholic beverages or specialty items are an added cost at character dining.
@bizzy.runninganddizn Tusker House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a character dining buffet experience with the fab 5. #disneydining #disneyworld #diznvacationswithjessicayashin #diznvacations #tuskerhouse #dak #animalkingdom
♬ original sound – bizzy.runninganddizn
You are paying for the character interaction and the price does not always reflect the food options. Most character dining experiences are “all you care to enjoy” so eat as much as you would like. Also, some of the experiences require guests to pay in advanced when making the reservation unlike other dining on property. Lastly, the Disney Dining Plan can be used for your character dining experience, however, some restaurants will charge 2 credits as opposed to 1.
Accessibility for All Ages:
Character dining isn’t just for children; it’s an experience that Disney fans of all ages can enjoy. Adults are equally delighted by the immersive atmosphere and the nostalgia of meeting beloved characters from their favorite childhood stories.
Reservations Highly Recommended:
Due to the immense popularity of character dining experiences, it’s crucial to plan ahead and make advanced dining reservations. Disney’s online reservation system is open to resort guests 60 days in advance of their check-in for the entirety of the trip. Guests not staying on property can make reservations 60 days prior to the day of dining.
Some of the character dining reservations can be difficult to book even at the 60-day mark. So, despite being ready at 6am on day 60 before your vacation, you may not find availability for your desired dining experience. It’s important to keep checking back, even on the day before you’d like to dine with characters. As reservations are cancelled, they become available in the system.
Character dining at Disney properties is a unique blend of fun food, imaginative theming, and cherished character interactions. For Disney enthusiasts it offers a magical way to make your visit even more memorable.
So, when you plan your next Disney vacation, be sure to discuss character dining with your travel professional. For help planning that trip, you can submit a free no obligation quote request or reach out to DizN Vacations. Their team of travel professionals are experts in building a perfect Disney vacation for your travel party.
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