Hi there, Connie!
Thanks for stopping by planDisney today with a question about one of my favorite Walt Disney World Resort topics - character dining experiences! There's nothing quite like enjoying a delicious meal as your favorite Disney characters stop by for a hug, laugh, or quick dance party.
Although you can't go wrong with any of Walt Disney World Resort's
Character Dining Experiences,
Garden Grill Restaurant is my personal favorite. With its rotating backdrop, greenhouse-fresh produce from
Living with the Land, and beloved cast of classic characters (did someone say Farmer Mickey in overalls?), you're sure to have an unforgettable meal. During a recent dinner here with some planDisney pals, Dale showed off some memorable dance moves, and he managed to stop by our table more than once. Although this isn't a guarantee, it's definitely a potential perk of Garden Grill's smaller capacity!
If you're hoping to dine at 9 AM, which is currently the
scheduled time of theme park opening for the week of your arrival, I would suggest taking advantage of your access to
Early Theme Park Entry as a Disney Resort hotel Guest. This would allow you to enter the park at 8:30 and avoid the rush of non-Disney Resort hotel Guests entering the park at 9. Additionally, as a Guest of
Disney's Pop Century Resort, you'll be able to swing into EPCOT aboard the
Disney Skyliner direct from your hotel. This will drop you off at the International Gateway entrance of EPCOT, where you'll want to turn left and head through the United Kingdom to make your way to The Land Pavilion.
Please keep in mind that the Disney Skyliner stations at Resort hotels often have a bit of a wait first thing in the morning, so I would suggest factoring that into your travel time. Typically, this line moves quickly and efficiently (it's almost like magic), so don't let that deter you from channeling your inner Tarzan and swinging to your next Walt Disney World Resort destination.
I hope this was helpful, Connie. If you have any additional questions as you plan, feel free to stop back by.
I'm always happy to help!
Thinking Happy Thoughts,
Lizzie