A Walt Disney World vacation isn’t complete without the chance to meet some of your favorite Disney characters. Whether you’re looking for a hug from Mickey Mouse, a mischievous interaction with Stitch, or a playful moment with Chip and Dale, character meet-and-greets add a layer of magic to any trip.
With so many character experiences available throughout Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, there are plenty of opportunities to create unforgettable memories.
From classic meet-and-greets to character dining experiences, here’s your guide to the best characters to meet at Walt Disney World in 2025!
Mickey Mouse – The Iconic Must-Meet Character
Mickey Mouse is the heart and soul of Walt Disney World, and meeting him is a must-do for guests of all ages. The great news? Mickey appears in multiple locations, each with a unique theme!
- Magic Kingdom: Mickey, dressed in his magician outfit, welcomes guests at Town Square Theater. This meet-and-greet is one of the most popular, so Lightning Lane is available for those who want to skip the standby queue.
- EPCOT: Find Mickey at the World Celebration, sporting his classic red shorts and yellow bow tie. This location provides a quieter experience, perfect for families with young kids.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: At Adventurers Outpost, Mickey and Minnie dress in their safari gear, ready to explore the wild! This location is indoors, offering a nice break from the Florida sun. You can also meet Mickey during character dining at Tusker House Restaurant.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Mickey greets guests in his Sorcerer’s Apprentice costume from Fantasia, a nod to his Hollywood roots.
Mickey Mouse also makes special character dining appearances at:
- Chef Mickey’s – A lively meal at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
- Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera – A stylish breakfast at Disney’s Riviera Resort.
- ‘Ohana – A tropical breakfast experience at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
Anastasia and Drizella – The Sassy Stepsisters
If you’re looking for a hilarious character interaction, you won’t want to miss Anastasia and Drizella, Cinderella’s infamous stepsisters.
- These two often meet at the Enchanted Glade Gazebo in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom.
- Sometimes, they can also be found near Cinderella Castle, engaging in their usual antics—arguing, searching for a prince, and competing for attention.
They love to chat, and their over-the-top personalities make every interaction laugh-out-loud funny.
Stitch – The Galactic Trouble-Maker
Stitch, or Experiment 626, is one of the most mischievous characters you can meet at Walt Disney World.
- Magic Kingdom: Stitch appears on the Rocket Tower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland, where he shares the spotlight with Buzz Lightyear. Check the Times Guide or the My Disney Experience app for showtimes.
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Enjoy breakfast at ‘Ohana, where Stitch joins Lilo, Mickey, and Pluto for a tropical dining experience filled with fun interactions and delicious food.
Winnie the Pooh – A Hug-Worthy Classic
There’s nothing quite like a big bear hug from Winnie the Pooh!
- EPCOT: Winnie the Pooh can often be found near the Imagination Pavilion, playfully exploring the gardens.
- Magic Kingdom: Meet Winnie the Pooh and Tigger at their Fantasyland meet-and-greet location, right next to The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh attraction.
This adorable meet-and-greet is a fan favorite, and Pooh always makes time for cuddles and autographs!
Chip and Dale – The Playful Duo
Chip and Dale are always up to mischief and are among the most entertaining characters to meet!
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: These chipmunks often greet guests near The Hollywood Brown Derby, sometimes pretending to have a picnic.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: In Dinoland, U.S.A., Chip, and Dale dress as dinosaurs for Donald’s Dino-Bash. Their prehistoric outfits make this one of the cutest character meet-and-greets!
- EPCOT: Chip and Dale host characters dining at the Garden Grill Restaurant, interacting with guests in a rotating restaurant overlooking Living with the Land.
Their playful antics make them a must-meet for kids and kids-at-heart!
Donald Duck – The Star of the Show (According to Him!)
Donald Duck never misses an opportunity to remind guests that he’s the #1 duck at Disney!
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Donald hosts Donald’s Dino-Bash, dressed in a fun explorer outfit in Dinoland, U.S.A.
- EPCOT: Meet Donald in his Three Caballeros outfit at the Mexico Pavilion, where he poses for pictures and signs autographs.
- Magic Kingdom: Donald appears at Chef Mickey’s and Topolino’s Terrace in special character-themed outfits, making each visit unique.
Meeting Donald is always an energetic experience, as he loves to show off his dance moves and strike funny poses.
Best Character Dining Experiences at Walt Disney World
If you want to maximize your character interactions, consider character dining! Here are some of the best options:
- Chef Mickey’s (Disney’s Contemporary Resort) – Meet Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto in this high-energy dining experience.
- Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera (Disney’s Riviera Resort) – Enjoy a refined character breakfast with Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy.
- ‘Ohana (Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort) – Join Stitch, Lilo, Mickey, and Pluto for a Hawaiian-inspired breakfast.
- Garden Grill (EPCOT): Visit a rotating restaurant and Meet Chip, Dale, Mickey, and Pluto.
Character dining is a great way to see your favorites without waiting in long lines!
Final Thoughts – The Magic of Meeting Disney Characters
Character meet-and-greets bring Disney stories to life and create cherished memories for families and fans of all ages. Whether you’re hugging Mickey, laughing with the stepsisters, or goofing off with Chip and Dale, these experiences make every Disney trip extra special.
No matter your age, meeting Disney characters is pure magic. Who’s on your must-meet list for your next Walt Disney World vacation?
