If you’re heading to Walt Disney World, you already know there’s so much to do—parks to explore, rides to enjoy, delicious meals to taste and don’t forget to meet your favorite Disney characters! But waiting in long lines for character meet-and-greets can eat up your precious park time. Luckily, there’s a magical solution: Disney character dining experiences.
Character meals allow you to meet and interact with up to five beloved Disney characters without the wait. Whether you’re at the parks or one of the Disney resorts, you can enjoy a meal with Mickey, Minnie, and more, while they come to your table for photos, autographs, and some magical memories. Plus, you’re in the comfort of an air-conditioned restaurant, which can be a lifesaver during those hot Orlando days.
Here’s a guide to the 10 best Disney character dining experiences you’ll want to book for your next trip!
10. Cape May Café at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Start your day with a beachy vibe at Cape May Café for Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast! Located at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, this breakfast buffet features your favorite characters dressed in their summer beachwear. You’ll see Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and more. The menu includes breakfast classics like Mickey waffles, cheesy grits, and scrambled eggs with chorizo.
The best part? You’re just a short walk or ferry ride away from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, making it a great first stop before hitting the parks.
9. Mickey’s Backyard BBQ at Fort Wilderness
For a one-of-a-kind experience, try Mickey’s Backyard BBQ at Fort Wilderness Resort. This isn’t your traditional character meal; it’s an all-out hoedown! You’ll dine on ribs, chicken, burgers, and other barbecue staples while Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and friends lead a country-style dance party. Keep in mind that this experience requires advanced reservations and is held outdoors in a pavilion.
It’s a perfect way to wind down after a day at Magic Kingdom, just a short boat ride away.
8. Disney Junior Play ‘N Dine at Hollywood & Vine – Hollywood Studios
If you’re traveling with little ones who love Disney Junior, this is a must-do! At Hollywood & Vine in Hollywood Studios, you can enjoy breakfast or lunch with stars like Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First, Jake, and Vampirina. The buffet features kid-friendly American dishes, and there’s even a dance party where your kids can join their favorite characters!
7. Tusker House at Animal Kingdom
Escape the heat and meet Safari Mickey and his pals at Tusker House in Animal Kingdom. This character meal offers a mix of North American comfort foods and African-inspired dishes served buffet-style. It’s a great way to sample unique flavors while enjoying familiar classics. Mickey, Goofy, Donald, and Daisy make appearances in their best safari gear, making this meal a big hit with both kids and adults.
6. Akershus Royal at EPCOT
Get the royal treatment with Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion. This is a fantastic alternative to dining at Cinderella’s Castle, especially if you’re looking for a reservation that’s easier to snag. You’ll meet Belle, Snow White, Cinderella, and other Disney princesses during this family-style meal.
Breakfast is a mix of American and Norwegian options, while lunch and dinner offer both traditional and Norwegian dishes. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the “Taste of Norway” buffet!
5. Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner at 1900 Park Fare
Dine like royalty at the Grand Floridian’s 1900 Park Fare for Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner. This magical evening features Cinderella, Prince Charming, and other royal guests like the hilarious Stepsisters. The buffet includes international cuisine inspired by kingdoms around the world, making it a delicious way to enjoy the magic before hopping back on the monorail to Magic Kingdom.
4. Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom
For a classic experience at Magic Kingdom, head to Crystal Palace on Main Street, USA. Winnie the Pooh and his friends from the Hundred Acre Wood host breakfast, lunch, and dinner in this charming Victorian-style restaurant. The buffet includes American favorites, and while the setting is great for younger guests, it’s a lovely spot for adults too.
Pro tip: try to book a reservation for breakfast before the park opens to enjoy a quiet morning stroll down Main Street, U.S.A.!
3. Best Friends Breakfast at O’Hana – Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Lilo & Stitch fans won’t want to miss the Best Friends Breakfast at O’Hana in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. You’ll join Lilo, Stitch, Mickey, and Pluto for a Hawaiian-inspired breakfast, complete with tropical juice, Mickey waffles, and more. With its convenient location on the monorail loop, this is the perfect start to a day at Magic Kingdom or EPCOT.
2. Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
A Walt Disney World vacation wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This iconic character meal offers all-you-can-eat American fare with appearances from Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto. Watch the monorail glide through the Contemporary as you enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner with the gang. It’s a great stop after a fun day at Magic Kingdom—just a short monorail ride away!
1. Fairytale Dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table
Nothing says Disney magic quite like dining inside Cinderella’s Castle! At Cinderella’s Royal Table in the Magic Kingdom, you’ll be treated like royalty while enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Princesses like Ariel, Belle, and Snow White will visit your table for photos and autographs, while Cinderella herself greets guests in the Grand Hall. This is one of the most sought-after character meals, so be sure to make your reservation as early as possible!
BONUS TIP
Consider using an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner like MickeyTravels to help you find the best deals, make expert recommendations, and offer free planning services to make your trip stress-free. It’s a genius way to enjoy your magical vacation!
