Hey there, Elaine! I'm so glad you've stopped by planDisney with your dining question.
There is just something so fun about a character meal and I think you'll be happy to know that you can absolutely make a reservation to enjoy one. You do not need to be staying at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel to enjoy this experience. As of right now, there are only a few
character dining locations to choose from. Currently, you can make an
advanced dining reservation for Tusker House at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Garden Grill at Epcot, Hollywood & Vine at Disney's Hollywood Studios, Chef Mickey's At Disney's Contemporary Resort and Topolino's Terrace - Flavors of the Riviera at Disney's Riviera Resort. You can make reservations online starting at 6:00 a.m. Mickey Mouse's time or starting at 7:00 a.m. over the phone by calling 407-WDW-DINE. Character meals are very popular and do book up quickly so it is best to make your reservation as soon as possible. I did want to let you know that character meals are looking a little bit different at this time. No longer do the characters come around to each table individually to sign autographs and take pictures. Instead, characters are keeping a safe distance waving, smiling, dancing and posing for pictures from afar. I actually took one of the best pictures I have ever had with Minnie Mouse not too long ago because of this. She was further away from me so I was able to get all of her fabulous outfit in my selfie and it was just so cute.
I'm sure you have in mind where you'd like to have your character meal at but if you are open to suggestions I love breakfast at
Topolino's Terrace - Flavors of the Riviera. It's actually an all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast even though you order an entree off of the menu. I love their breakfast quiche but can't say no to Mickey waffles and dining there I don't have to choose. They are always more than happy to bring both. Plus, the restaurant is so beautiful and has the most spectacular view of the Walt Disney World Resort. It's such a great place!
I hope this helps, Elaine. If you have any other questions before your trip later this year please feel free to come back and
ask me. I'm happy to help.