Hi there, Halle!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, and thanks for your great question. I just love how eager you are to meet the many Characters of the Disneyland Resort! Get your autograph book ready or check out the selection at
shopDisney.com before you arrive so you are prepared.
While not every Character you meet will be signing autographs, many do, so I always suggest bringing your autograph book to Character meetings just in case. My personal favorite writing utensil to use is a retractable Sharpie marker. Since there are no loose caps to worry about, I find it easiest to take with me in my bag. In a pinch, though, I have also had no problem with just a regular ball point pen from my hotel room. I have seen some Guests get really creative with a rainbow selection of permanent markers or thin-line felt markers to have Characters sign their autograph books or photo mats. The possibilities are endless!
Since Characters are a priority, I suggest keeping an eye on the
Disneyland app every day to see the status and locations of Characters in both parks. Since these change daily and throughout the day, keep checking back to make sure you don't miss your must-meet Characters. Another way to make sure you meet and greet a selection of Characters is to book a
Character Dining experience. There are Character dining locations in each of the three Disneyland Resort Hotels as well as in the park at Plaza Inn. Although exact Characters are always subject to change, you will definitely get to meet a few during your delicious meal.
I hope this helps, and please return if you have any other questions. Have a Fantasmic day!
-Jennifer