Hey, howdy, hey, Rashelle! Thanks so much for swingin’ by planDisney with this great question. Hanging out with my character pals is one of my favorite things to do.
Rashelle, in my recent visit two weeks ago, I did not see characters signing autographs yet. I like to check the
experience updates on the Disneyland Resort website as guidelines continue to evolve and many experiences are coming back in phases. This is not to say the character interactions aren't exciting - they really are! The character meet and greets are from a distance, but they are positioned in places where it’s easy to pop in front of them and take a great selfie. Also, the characters will still wave and interact with you, but you speak to them from a few feet away. I saw an adorable child with a Mickey Mouse shirt pointing to his shirt and the kind and gracious Mickey in return was very excited and pointing to the shirt too. It was like they were having a conversation and the sweet boy had a priceless smile across his face. I waved at Genie and told him I was enjoying his phenomenal cosmic powers with Disney Genie+ and he jumped up and made a funny gesture acknowledging my comment - it definitely made me laugh!
Two of the best places in the parks to find characters are the
“it’s a small world” promenade just across from the attraction, and by the fountain on
Buena Vista Street shortly after you enter Disney California Adventure Park. I have consistently seen characters rotate through these areas and both areas are spacious enough to provide Guests an opportunity to take photos. Also, the queues move relatively quickly. Here's another tip - if you are interested in seeing any characters in particular, ask a Cast Member standing near the character meet and greets and they usually have magical tips on where you might find your best pal and when. These Cast Members are typically wearing a special button labeled "Ask Me About Characters."
Rashelle, if you have an opportunity, you might want to try a
character dining experience. I was at
Goofy’s Kitchen two weeks ago for breakfast with friends and during my one hour there, we saw Chef Goofy and his pals come out to dance around the restaurant four times! They don’t stop at every table, but they do pause in several places to dance. We were very entertained! Also, the food was amazing – a huge gourmet buffet spread and absolutely delicious, including fresh omelette bar, at least 12 hot breakfast items (both sweet and savory), fresh fruit, and more desserts than I could count. You'll also find Chef Goofy's signature Peanut Butter and Jelly Pizza, and don't forget the Mickey-shaped waffles and Mickey-shaped pancakes! This is the only character dining location currently that has characters there for breakfast and dinner. If you don’t see reservations available in the
Disneyland mobile app, check again closer to your visit as Guests may cancel plans and reservations may pop up!
The magic awaits, Rashelle! I hope you have an amazing visit.
Kamini