22/07/2026
If meeting characters is high on your family's priority list, here's everything you need to know before your Disney vacation:
1. Traditional Character Meet & Greets
This is what most people think of when they picture meeting Disney characters! You'll wait in a designated queue, spend a few minutes talking with the character, take photos, and (for most characters) get an autograph.
A big thing to know: character meet-and-greets are separate from Lightning Lane. You’ll want to check the My Disney Experience app for current locations, wait times, and appearance schedules so you can plan your day around the characters your family wants to meet.
2. Character Dining
This is hands-down one of my favorite ways to meet characters! Instead of spending your park day waiting in multiple character lines, the characters come right to your table while you enjoy your meal. Many character dining experiences allow you to meet several characters in one experience, making it a great way to maximize your time.
3. Roaming Characters
Not every character has a traditional meet-and-greet location! Disney also has characters who make appearances throughout the parks. Some may stop for quick interactions or photos, while others wave, dance, or interact with guests as they pass by. These unexpected moments can end up being some of the most magical memories!
4. Parades & Stage Shows
If you want to see lots of your favorite characters without spending time waiting in lines, this is a great option.
You’ll see tons of characters all at once, but keep in mind these are viewing experiences and you won’t be able to stop for individual photos or autographs.
📱 My Favorite Tip: Use the My Disney Experience app!
Open the app, tap the map at the bottom of the screen, then change the dropdown from "Wait Times" to "Characters." You’ll instantly see which characters are currently meeting in that park, their locations, and appearance times. Looking for a specific character? Tap the search icon and type in their name!
A few more tips:
✨ Character locations and times can change daily, so always double-check the app before walking across the park.
✨ Bring an autograph book to hold all these fun signatures!
✨ The most popular characters often have shorter waits first thing in the morning or later in the evening.
✨ If meeting characters is a priority for your family, I recommend highly recommend character dining experiences!
💾 Save this for your next Disney vacation, you’ll thank yourself later!
✨ I’m a travel agent who specializes in Disney and my planning services are completely complimentary when you book your vacation with me. From dining reservations to Lightning Lanes to personalized itineraries, I’d love to help make your trip as magical (and stress-free!) as possible. Click the link in bio or send me DM to get started!
