Discover 7 Hard-to-Find Character Meet-and-Greets at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is the ultimate destination for magical experiences, and meeting your favorite Disney characters is one of the best parts of any trip. Whether it’s sharing a hug with a Disney princess, snapping a selfie with a classic character, or having a surprise encounter, the magic of these moments is unforgettable. However, some of these beloved characters are a bit harder to find than others.

If you’re looking to meet some rare Disney friends, here are 7 hard-to-find character encounters at Walt Disney World that you won’t want to miss!

7. Beast – Magic Kingdom

If you’re a fan of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, then meeting the Beast himself is a dream come true. While you won’t be able to snag his autograph, you can still say hello and capture a photo with the master of the castle at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom.

The catch? He only makes appearances during dinner service, and this is one of the most coveted dining reservations at Walt Disney World. To increase your chances of meeting him, be sure to book your reservation as early as possible. Keep an eye on the reservation window and try to secure your spot as soon as it opens.

Dining with the Beast is a magical experience, and it’s a must-do for any fan of the classic tale!

6. Pocahontas – Disney’s Animal Kingdom

For those who have ever wanted to “paint with all the colors of the wind,” meeting Pocahontas is a magical opportunity you won’t want to miss. You can find her at Discovery Island Trails West in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where she greets Guests and shares her love for nature and the environment.

Check the My Disney Experience app for up-to-date appearance times to catch this rare character encounter. Pocahontas is a bit more elusive than some other characters, so planning ahead is essential. Be sure to arrive early and have your camera ready for a special moment with this beloved Disney princess.

5. Snow White, Dopey, and Grumpy – Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Step into an enchanted forest and meet Snow White and her dwarf friends at the Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White, located at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This immersive dining experience brings the magic of Snow White’s world to life as you enjoy a prix-fixe meal surrounded by woodland decor and charming characters.

During your meal, you’ll have the opportunity to meet Snow White, Dopey, and Grumpy and even snap a photo with the Evil Queen herself! This experience is extremely popular, so be sure to make reservations well in advance. Booking as early as possible will ensure you don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind dining adventure.

4. Country Bear Jamboree Characters – Magic Kingdom

Get ready to dance with some classic Disney characters! The bears from the Country Bear Jamboree often make surprise appearances in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom. These fun-loving characters dance, interact, and pose for photos with Guests, making for a lively encounter that’s full of Disney charm.

Since they don’t have a formal queue or a designated PhotoPass photographer, you’ll need to be quick to catch these bears. Short lines may form as they interact with Guests, so be prepared to jump in when you see them. This is a fantastic way to experience a bit of Frontierland magic and get up close with some of Disney’s classic characters.

3. Merida – Magic Kingdom

Pixar’s only princess, Merida from Brave, is a popular character in Magic Kingdom, and meeting her is an unforgettable experience. You can find her at Fairytale Garden near the base of Cinderella Castle in Fantasyland. The setting is as enchanting as Merida herself, complete with a Celtic flair that transports you straight into the world of DunBroch.

However, due to her popularity, lines for Merida can get quite long, especially later in the day. To maximize your chances of meeting this fiery princess, head to her location right when the park opens. Check her appearance times on the My Disney Experience app to plan your day and ensure you don’t miss your chance to meet Merida.

2. Lady Tremaine and the Fairy Godmother – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Looking for a royal encounter outside the parks? Head to 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for the Happily Ever After Dinner. This character dining experience brings some of Cinderella’s most iconic characters to life, including Lady Tremaine, Cinderella’s wicked stepmother, and her charming Fairy Godmother.

While Lady Tremaine and the Fairy Godmother aren’t typically found in the parks, you can meet them here, along with Cinderella, Prince Charming, and the Stepsisters. This experience is perfect for those who want a mix of familiar faces and rare characters. Make sure to reserve your spot early, as character dining at 1900 Park Fare is popular among Disney fans.

1. Anastasia and Drizella – Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The wickedly delightful Anastasia and Drizella, Cinderella’s stepsisters, are not only part of the Happily Ever After Dinner at 1900 Park Fare but also appear near the gateway to the new Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom. These characters are known for their playful and hilarious interactions with Guests, making them a highlight for anyone who loves a bit of Disney mischief.

Their schedules can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the My Disney Experience app or the Magic Kingdom Times Guide for the most up-to-date information on their appearances. Meeting Anastasia and Drizella is a unique experience that adds a fun twist to your day at the park!

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Tips for Making the Most of Your Character Encounters

• Use the My Disney Experience App: The My Disney Experience app is your best tool for finding character appearance times and locations. Check the app frequently during your visit to stay updated on where your favorite characters will be and when they’re available for meet and greets.
• Arrive Early: For the best chance to meet rare characters, arrive at the parks early and prioritize the ones you want to see the most. Popular characters like Merida often have long lines later in the day, so getting to their locations early can save you time.
• Plan Character Dining in Advance: Reservations for character dining experiences, especially those featuring rare characters, fill up fast. Be sure to book as early as possible to secure your spot. Disney allows reservations up to 60 days in advance, so mark your calendar and plan ahead!

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Final Thoughts

Meeting your favorite characters at Walt Disney World is one of the most magical parts of any visit, and tracking down these rare and hard-to-find friends adds an extra layer of excitement. Whether you’re dining with the Beast at Be Our Guest or dancing with the Country Bear Jamboree characters in Frontierland, these encounters create memories that last a lifetime.

So, next time you’re planning your Disney adventure, keep this list handy, check the My Disney Experience app, and prepare to meet some of the most elusive characters in the park. Have a magical day, and may all your character dreams come true!