Hi there, Michelle! It is so great to see you back here at planDisney!
It looks like you have another magical vacation on the horizon. As you already know, there is plenty you can be doing to prepare for your trip to Walt Disney World Resort and it looks like you're on the right track!
Character dining is one of the most popular activities at Walt Disney World. How can you not have a smile on your face when Mickey and Minnie are dancing their way around the dining room as you enjoy a delicious meal? Who can resist a Disney princess curtseying in her gown as you feast on a yummy dinner after a long day in the parks? Walt Disney World is currently operating under a
phased reopening for the safety of all Guests. We do not yet have word when the rest of the character dining options will reopen. Therefore, I think your best course of action would be to book one of the character dining experiences that is currently open, such as
Tusker House Restaurant or
Chef Mickey's. If other character dining options happen to re-open before your stay, you could always modify your dining reservations and switch to those.
The addition of
Disney Genie & Disney Genie+ Services, as well as
Individual Lightning Lane purchases has sent us all on "the wildest ride in the wilderness!" As I've learned more about this new system, I've been able to bask in the benefits and plan my days much more effectively. There are two ways to access the Lightning Lane for your favorite attractions. The first is by purchasing Disney Genie+, which gives you Lightning Lane access (shorter wait times) to over 40 attractions throughout all four theme parks. When using the Lightning Lane for these attractions, you will be given the next available arrival time. When you purchase an Individual Lightning Lane attraction, such as
Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway or
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, you will be able to choose your ride time from the list of available options. You are not limited to the next available time slot.
Michelle, I hope I've helped light your way to the magic!
Ta ta for now,
Ashley