Hi Wayne!
So glad to see you back here at planDisney!
While characters showing up at the resorts is never guaranteed, surprise visits always add so much magic to the vacation! When character visits do happen at the resorts, sometimes they’re random, and sometimes they’re scheduled.
During this year’s
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER event, character greetings were regularly scheduled at
Port Orleans Riverside, so I’ll keep my fingers crossed that it will be the same next year during your visit! You can check the activity schedule in advance by visiting the
recreation tab of Port Orleans Riverside’s webpage on Disney World’s website. You can also see the activity schedule listed around the resort once you arrive.
In addition to the activity schedule, you can always ask the Cast Members at the front desk of your resort to see if they have any information regarding character greetings throughout your stay.
Of course, once you get to the theme parks, you’ll have other opportunities to see some of your favorite Disney characters! I’ve found that the best way to find where each character will be is to use the
My Disney Experience app. Click the map icon at the bottom of the screen, then swipe sideways at the top until you can click Characters. You’ll see icons pop up all over the screen, but I personally like to click Show List in the bottom right corner. That way, I can see a full list across all the parks!
I hope that helps! If you have any other questions as you continue to plan, feel free to come back and visit us!
Jenn J.