Hi Esther,
A character meal is definitely a "must do" for a first visit to Disney World! It is a great way to get quality one-on-one time with the characters. Instead of waiting in line, you get to enjoy an awesome meal while waiting.
Some of the character meal locations are inside the theme parks & others are at the resorts. You do not have to be staying on property to take advantage of any of the Disney dining locations. Keep in mind that theme park admission is required to dine at any of the locations inside the theme parks & is not included in the price of your meal.
Click
here for a list of current character meals. I'd put Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary Resort & The Crystal Palace in the Magic Kingdom (MK) at the top of my list. My boys also love Mickey's Backyard BBQ.
Here are some of my boys' non-character favorite places to eat:
* California Grill at the Contemporary with reservations timed to see the fireworks at MK
* 'Ohana at the Polynesian Resort
* Whispering Canyon Cafe at the Wilderness Lodge
* Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at the Beach Club Resort
* Coral Reef Restaurant at Epcot
* Liberty Tree Tavern at MK
* Rainforest Cafe at Downtown Disney or Animal Kingdom
* T-Rex Cafe at Downtown Disney
* Rose & Crown Pub at Epcot with reservations times to see IllumiNations
* Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Disney's Hollywood Studios (DHS)
* 50's Prime Time Cafe at DHS
* Tony's Town Square Restaurant at the MK
These places offer a fun atmosphere and great food. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended & can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE beginning 180 days prior to your arrival date. Wishing you minnie magical memories :-) Allison