dining with Minnie Mouse at Cape May; character dining experience; Asian; mother, daughter, son
  • On Jun 11, 2025
    Christopher from MI Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    At character dining locations (Crystal Palace, Hollywood and Vine, etc...), can we just order a drink and not do the pre-fixe food? We are interested in just seeing characters and don't want to spend money on the full buffet.

    Hey there, Christopher!

    I'm so happy to welcome you to planDisney! As our favorite little Chef Remy once said, "If you are what you eat, then I only want to eat the good stuff!" And lucky for you, Walt Disney World is brimming with delicious delights around every corner. From iconic Mickey-shaped snacks to unforgettable character dining experiences, there's truly something to satisfy every craving. 

    At Walt Disney World, character dining experiences are offered at a prix-fixe price. This is because you're not only enjoying a meal, you're also paying for the one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with beloved Disney characters right at your table. In my opinion, it's a fantastic way to meet several popular characters without having to wait in long lines throughout the parks. Plus, you get to sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal while the magic comes to you!

    As for your question, unfortunately, you won't be able to simply order a drink at these locations. Since character dining is priced as a full experience, all Guests are required to pay the set prix-fixe price, regardless of how much they eat. But from my own experience, the joy, convenience, and unforgettable memories that come with character dining truly make it worth every penny. Sharing those moments over a meal is something my family still talks about long after the vacation ends. 

    Your trip is just around the corner, so if you have your eye on one of these popular dining spots, I highly recommend making an Advanced Dining Reservation as soon as possible. You can do this either on the Walt Disney World website or on your My Disney Experience app. If you don't see any availability right away, don't give up! I encourage you to check multiple times per day, especially leading up to your vacation, and even during your trip. I personally have had great luck snagging hard-to-get dining reservations at the last minute while in the parks, so it's always worth checking often.

    I hope this information is helpful, Christopher! Thanks for visiting us at planDisney!

    See ya real soon!

    Kami

thumbnail image for Kami

Meet the Panelist: Kami, Rhode Island

I'm Kami, a wife, mom of two boys, content creator, and wheelchair user. Visiting Walt Disney World Resort isn't just a trip for my family, it's a journey into a world where magic truly comes to life. Whether it's experiencing new attractions, exploring the resorts, or discovering hidden gems around the parks, I love sharing my tips and tricks with others. For me, Disney is a way of creating unforgettable memories with my family. I'm thrilled to help every guest experience their own unforgettable adventure. Learn More About Kami

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