Hi there, Carly! Welcome to planDisney. We’re so happy you stopped by to bring us your question.
Oh my goodness, your very first Walt Disney World Resort trip? How exciting! You’re about to step into a world of magic, and I’m so thrilled for your family. I still remember my first trip, and let me tell you, those moments stay with you forever! You’re going to make the best memories.
When it comes to
character dining, you're in for a treat! While planDisney panelists like me aren’t able to book dining reservations for you, you can easily do it right through the
My Disney Experience app or on the Walt Disney World website. You’ll want to check those dining windows early, because spots for character meals are super popular, for good reason! Imagine enjoying Mickey waffles while Mickey himself stops by your table for a photo opp… it’s pure Disney joy. So, mark your calendar for that 60-day Dining reservation window and lock in those reservations!
A couple of guest-favorite character dining spots you might want to check out are
The Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom, where you can dine with Winnie the Pooh and friends, and
Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where you’ll meet Safari Mickey, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy in their adventure gear. It’s adorable! My personal favorite is
Topolino’s Terrace Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends! Located at Disney’s Riviera Resort, you’ll dine with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy. Their outfits are the cutest, and the food is divine! I highly recommend!
As for extra magic in Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom, there’s so much to explore beyond the rides! At Animal Kingdom, don’t miss
The Animation Experience at Conservation Station. It’s a hidden gem where you can learn how to draw Disney characters, and it’s so much fun for the whole family. If you’re up for a little adventure,
Wild Africa Trek is an unforgettable up-close tour with giraffes, hippos, and more. It’s an extra-ticketed experience, but wow is it worth it!
Over at Magic Kingdom, if you time it just right, you can catch
Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire on the Cinderella Castle stage or book an enchanting makeover at
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for your little ones. And, of course, don’t miss
Happily Ever After fireworks, my favorite Disney moment, hands down.
If you’d like, you can always reach out to an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. These are travel agents who specialize in Disney trips, and they can help book dining, resort stays, tickets, and even create a custom plan for your visit.
I’m so excited for you, Carly! Keep those questions coming. I’d love to help you plan even more magic for your first Disney adventure.
See ya real soon,
Emille