057: 2024 Character Dining Overview and Rankings

Let's dive into the topic of character dining, which can add an extra layer of excitement to your Disney trip. Character dining is an experience where you can enjoy a meal with your favorite Disney characters. You can find character dining options in the Disney parks and the resorts. Some of the popular character dining options in the parks include Cinderella's Royal Table, Chef Mickey's, and Crystal Palace. 

Many people stress over getting all the reservations to character dining meals, but it's important to consider why you should or should not do character dining. One reason to do character dining is to save you time in the parks. Instead of waiting in a long line to meet a character, you can enjoy your meal and interact with the characters as they visit your table. It's also a great way to get pictures with the characters without worrying about the crowds. 

It's essential to consider the cost of character dining. Prices can vary depending on the restaurant and the time of day. For example, dinner is typically more expensive than breakfast or lunch. Some restaurants, like Cinderella's Royal Table, require pre-payment. To avoid any surprises, it's important to review the menus and prices before making your reservations.

When considering character dining, you should also consider how long it takes to enjoy a character meal. Character dining experiences generally last around an hour and a half, so it's important to plan accordingly. You can consider whether it's better to do it on a rest day or use it as a break while at the parks.

With so many character dining options, choosing the most suitable one for your family is important. Some restaurants have specific themes, like the Princesses at Cinderella's Royal Table, while others have a broader range of characters, like Chef Mickey's. You should review the restaurant's menus and characters to ensure that it's a good fit for your family.

Finally, it's worth noting that there's no need to overload your trip with dining. While character dining can be a fun and memorable experience, plenty of quick-service dining options are available throughout the parks and resorts. You can always mix and match your dining experiences to create a balance that works for your family and your budget.