Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
When it comes to character dining at Walt Disney World, there are endless options to add a sprinkle of magic to your meal. From breakfast with beloved characters to dinners fit for royalty, there’s something special for every Disney fan. We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best character dining experiences at Walt Disney World that you won’t want to miss!
1. The Crystal Palace – Magic Kingdom
If you’re a fan of Winnie the Pooh and his friends, The Crystal Palace is a must-visit. This charming dining location offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner services where you can interact with Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Piglet, and Eeyore. The beautiful glass architecture, filled with natural light and lush greenery, creates a magical atmosphere perfect for photos and family memories.
With a wide selection of delicious buffet items, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Tip: Make a reservation early in the day for breakfast, and you’ll get to walk down Main Street, U.S.A. with fewer crowds and have a clear view of Cinderella Castle!
2. The Garden Grill – EPCOT
Located in The Land pavilion at EPCOT, The Garden Grill offers a unique rotating dining experience. This restaurant moves slowly, providing changing views of the Living with the Land attraction below as you dine. Characters like Mickey, Pluto, Chip, and Dale make their rounds during breakfast, lunch, and dinner, bringing smiles to all ages.
Credit: Disney
The food here is farm-fresh, with many ingredients sourced directly from The Land itself, ensuring the freshest flavors.
Pro Tip: The breakfast platter is a standout, and you can enjoy family-style service, which means endless refills!
3. ‘Ohana – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
‘Ohana, meaning “family,” is a character dining gem at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Available only for breakfast, this meal offers a family-style experience with characters like Lilo, Stitch, Mickey, and Pluto. Indulge in a tropical-inspired breakfast while taking in the stunning views of the resort and lagoon. The atmosphere is lively, and the food, such as the pineapple-coconut bread and Hawaiian-style ham, is a fan favorite.
Insider Tip: Book a reservation during the early hours to catch the morning sunlight over the lagoon—it’s a picture-perfect setting!
4. Tusker House Restaurant – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
For a safari-themed character dining experience, head to Tusker House Restaurant in Animal Kingdom’s Africa section. Here, you’ll find Donald, Mickey, Daisy, Goofy, and Pluto dressed in their best safari gear. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets, the restaurant features a blend of classic American favorites and African-inspired dishes. The vibrant setting and character interactions make it a hit with guests of all ages.
Pro Tip: Book breakfast at Tusker House and then head directly to Kilimanjaro Safaris for a true animal adventure!
5. 1900 Park Fare – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
A dining experience at 1900 Park Fare is the perfect excuse to explore the elegance of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The restaurant offers breakfast and dinner services, each featuring a different set of characters. Morning diners can meet Mary Poppins, Alice, the Mad Hatter, and other familiar friends, while the dinner service transforms into a royal affair with Cinderella, Prince Charming, and the delightfully mischievous stepsisters, Anastasia and Drizella.
Credit: Disney
Tip: The stepsisters are known for their humorous interactions, so dinner here is an absolute blast for kids and adults alike!
6. Cinderella’s Royal Table – Magic Kingdom
Dining inside Cinderella Castle is a dream come true for many Disney fans, and Cinderella’s Royal Table delivers an enchanting experience fit for a princess. Enjoy a multi-course meal with stunning views of Fantasyland as you dine in the heart of the castle. Princesses like Cinderella, Belle, Aurora, and Snow White often make appearances, offering magical interactions.
Note: This dining experience is popular and can be pricey, so book your reservation as soon as you can (60 days out is recommended). It’s an unforgettable experience that’s worth the splurge!
7. Trattoria al Forno – Disney’s BoardWalk
Trattoria al Forno’s Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast is a character dining gem along Disney’s BoardWalk. This breakfast-only experience features two iconic Disney couples: Rapunzel and Flynn Rider from Tangled, and Ariel and Prince Eric from The Little Mermaid. It’s a rare opportunity to meet Disney princes, making it a special experience for fans of these beloved stories. The Italian-inspired breakfast menu includes unique offerings like fluffy pancakes and breakfast calzones.
Insider Tip: Plan a stroll along the BoardWalk before or after breakfast to take in the morning atmosphere—there’s nothing quite like it!
8. Chef Mickey’s – Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Chef Mickey’s is a classic Disney dining experience that has been delighting guests for decades. Located in the Contemporary Resort, this lively buffet-style restaurant features Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, and Donald. Watch as the monorail passes overhead, reminding you that you’re right in the heart of Disney magic. Available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Chef Mickey’s is a crowd-pleaser with its extensive menu and fun atmosphere.
Tip: For the best character interactions, make a reservation during off-peak hours when the dining room is less crowded.
9. Hollywood & Vine – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Hollywood & Vine offers character dining with a twist, featuring themed meals throughout the day. Breakfast is all about Disney Junior characters, making it perfect for younger guests. During lunch and dinner, enjoy Minnie’s Seasonal Dine, where the characters—Minnie, Mickey, and friends—dress according to the season, from holiday outfits to springtime attire. This seasonal change provides a unique experience each time you visit.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during a holiday season, book a dinner reservation to enjoy festive character costumes and decorations.
10. Akershus Royal Banquet Hall – Norway Pavilion, EPCOT
For a princess-themed dining experience that’s a bit more budget-friendly than Cinderella’s Royal Table, head to Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion. This character meal offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with appearances by princesses such as Belle, Ariel, Snow White, and Aurora. The menu combines American favorites with Norwegian-inspired dishes, providing a diverse culinary experience.
Credit: Disney
Tip: Akershus offers an intimate setting, making it perfect for families looking for quality time with their favorite princesses without the large crowds.
