Hello Lisa! Your 8-year-old is so lucky to be visiting the Walt Disney World Resort! I was around that age for my first visit, and I've never stopped going back to experience the magic ever since! Dining in the parks is such a fun part of planning! There are excellent quick-service dining options in all the parks!
While there are several
table-service restaurants in the parks that my family enjoys, we usually save them for special occasions such as birthdays, graduations, or other celebratory moments. During most park visits, we maximize our time with rides and attractions while enjoying the delicious (and time-saving)
quick-service dining options.
Table-service dining is the only way to experience characters when dining in the parks. There are no quick-service dining options in the theme parks or resort hotels with character experiences. However, character meet and greets are available in all four theme parks! In fact, you can even use Lightning Lane to save time for character meet and greets!
You might consider a few additional options if you’re looking to meet characters without the wait associated with table-service dining. Characters make appearances at the resort hotels! Inquire at the concierge desk of your Walt Disney World Resort hotel for times and locations. It’s a great opportunity to get a photo and an autograph, sometimes with little waiting involved!
Another option is to join
Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-a-Long! This complimentary event is held nightly at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground! Join the rascally chipmunks for a campfire, singing, and a Disney movie under the stars! To make the experience extra “sweet,” you can also bring along your own marshmallows and sticks or purchase a s’mores kit at the Chuckwagon Snack Bar! Please note this event is subject to change due to weather conditions. Additionally, character appearances are subject to change.
Lisa, if you have more specific questions regarding quick-service dining options in the parks, please send another question to planDisney! My fellow panelists and I are happy to make in-park dining recommendations for any (and all) of the theme parks! Additionally, you may want to consider adding a touch of convenience to your vacation with the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan! It is a great option for families! And the best news is there's a
free dining plan offer available for Guests ages 3-9 for visits in 2026!
Dreams do come true!
Jonathan