Welcome, Annette! I feel so honored that you chose planDisney for your question about character dining at the Disneyland Resort. Let's get you some answers so you can continue with your plans for a spectacular, memorable visit to the 'Happiest Place on Earth!'
The short answer to your question is yes! You may absolutely enjoy a meal at Storytellers Cafe, inside Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa without purchasing a theme park ticket. The Mickey's Tales of Adventure Breakfast or Brunch Buffet is a crowd favorite in my family, especially since we get to see Mickey Mouse and his pals dressed in their explorer-themed outfits. Don't forget to make your advanced dining reservations, up to 60 days before your visit, as character meals can be quite popular! However, even if you aren't able to secure a reservation in advance, you may be able to use the Mobile Dine Walk-Up Availability on your intended date by locating Storytellers Cafe on the Disneyland mobile app and following the prompts to "Join Walk-Up List." While same-day reservations aren't always available, it is a good contingency plan to be aware of, in case you aren't able to locate a dining reservation in advance.
Now, Annette, there are a few different ways to access Storytellers Cafe. The first is through the entrance to Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa located in the Downtown Disney District between the Disney Dress Shop and the Sephora®. Another option is to use the front gate entrance of Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa. You'll need to tell the Cast Member at security that you are arriving for a dining reservation, and they will be happy to direct you. If you are driving a vehicle, you should know that 3-hours of complimentary parking is included when you dine at Storytellers Cafe! Guests will begin to be charged parking rates after their initial 3-hour window of validated parking.
Annette, I hope you have an absolutely delightful time at Storytellers Cafe or wherever your adventures take you around Disneyland Resort! If we can help with any other pieces of advice, I hope you'll feel welcome to visit planDisney again.
Wishing you Wondrous Journeys,
Tishra