Character Dining at Disneyland: How Much Does It Actually Cost?

One of the most magical experiences you can have is character dining at Disneyland. But let’s be honest – it can also be quite an investment. That’s why I’ve put together some tips and tricks to help you get the best bang for your buck while enjoying all that Disneyland offers. From choosing the right time of day to finding the best deals and even maximizing your experience, I’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn how to make your character dining adventure unforgettable without breaking the bank.

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Discount Disney Park Tickets And Hotels

Please be aware that all Disney parks require park tickets and a theme park reservation. Make sure you have both! Please don’t pay the full price for your Disneyland tickets or hotel. My partners at Get Away Today have the very best deals on tickets and hotels. Their customer service is top-notch, and they even have layaway plans. You can find them by clicking on the image below or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Mix In Some Magic sent you for the best deal!

They have great deals on hotels! Many of their properties offer a free night with a stay, free parking, extra discounts, or a complimentary breakfast! You save the most money when you purchase a vacation package and bundle your hotel rooms with one of their discount resort ticket offers.

If you book a package with park tickets and a hotel room, you can use my code MIX10 to save an extra $10. That’s more churro money, friends!

I have a bunch of hotel reviews that might be helpful for you if you’re still trying to decide where you’d like to stay.

Character Dining At Disneyland

Here’s some helpful information about how much character dining at Disneyland costs, tips, and valuable information to help you have the best experience possible. Check out my guide to the Best Character Breakfast at Disneyland. 

Choose the Right Time of Day

To fully optimize your character dining at Disneyland experience, choosing the right time of day is essential. While breakfast seems obvious, it’s also the most popular and can have longer wait times. Consider scheduling a mid-morning or mid-afternoon meal or even dinner instead, as these times tend to be less busy and more affordable.

Additionally, character interactions are often more relaxed during these periods, allowing for more quality time with your favorite Disney characters. Remember that meal times may vary depending on the location, so check the park’s schedule beforehand. By choosing the right time of day, you can make the most of your character dining experience and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. 

 Remember that reservations for character dining at Disneyland fill up quickly, so book and plan accordingly. By choosing the right time of day, you can make the most of your character dining experience and create unforgettable memories with your family.

Dining reservations can be made at Disneyland 60 days in advance. If you have trouble getting a dining reservation, I recommend using Mouse Dining. They are an excellent service that helps you get hard-to-find dining reservations. You tell them where you want to dine and when, and they’ll send you an email or text notification when the dining reservation you’re looking for opens up. 

Consider the Location

To fully enjoy your character dining experience at Disneyland, it’s important to consider the location of the restaurant and the time of day that would work best for you. Each restaurant has its distinct atmosphere that can add to the overall experience.

If you plan on spending the morning in Fantasyland, a character breakfast at the Plaza Inn can be a great way to start your day. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a relaxing break after a long day in the park, a character dinner at Goofy’s Kitchen can provide just that. Remember that reservations fill up quickly, so plan accordingly and book in advance. 

Find the Best Deals

Once you’ve decided on the location and time of day for your character dining, it’s a good idea to check to see if any discounts are available. Although rare, occasionally, you can find a deal. Many restaurants offer discounts for Magic Key Holders. Some credit card companies offer discounts or special offers for Disneyland dining. Check for any current promotions or offers before booking your reservation. Getting the best deal can help you save money and make the most of your character dining at Disneyland experience.

Character Dining At Disneyland Options

There are quite a few character dining options at Disneyland! All character dining restaurants at Disneyland Resort are located outside the park(so no park tickets are required). The exception is Breakfast with Minnie and Friends, the only Disneyland character meal in the theme parks. Breakfast with Minnie and Friends requires a theme park ticket and reservation. 

Here are the Character Dining options at Disneyland and a brief overview of what you can expect, including the characters you can meet there. 

Minnie and Friends- Breakfast In The Park

This dining experience is the only one that happens inside the parks. You’ll need a park ticket for this dining experience. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet at the Plaza Inn on Main Street with Minnie Mouse and her friends. Breakfast includes Mickey waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage, breakfast potatoes, and a made-to-order omelet station. There’s an assortment of cereals, assorted muffins, danishes, fruit, and pastries. 

In addition to Minnie Mouse, you can expect to see Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Chip and Dale, and some of the mice from Cinderella(Suzy and Perla). Occasionally, Captain Hook, the fairy Godmother. or Pinnochio will join in the fun too. 

Mickey’s Tales of Adventure Breakfast Buffet

Located at the Storyteller’s Cafe inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, this fun character dining experience is available for breakfast and brunch. Breakfast includes assorted pastries, muffins, danishes, fresh fruit, carved meats, eggs, Mickey waffles and pancakes, seasonal french toast, and chili Verde Chilaquiles. You can expect to see Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Chip, and Dale. The characters do an excellent job of roaming around the tables and interacting with guests. They’re happy to take photos, so ensure your cameras are ready! This is the only Disneyland character breakfast where you can meet Mickey Mouse!

Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures

Located at the Napa Rose inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, this 3-course meal includes delicious food and activities with some of your favorite princesses! Breakfast consists of a 3-course meal with things like 3 tier tower of appetizers, princess waffles, and royal desserts. Upon arrival, Disney Princesses await to greet you and share your hopes and dreams before taking a photo on a beautiful private patio. You may participate in storytime with Belle or learn some fierce warrior poses with Mulan. Young adventurers are given a special keepsake to take back to their home kingdom to remember their magical morning!

Goofy’s Kitchen

Located inside the Disneyland Hotel, this fun character dining experience is available for breakfast and dinner.

For breakfast, you can enjoy a buffet with Mickey Mouse pancakes and waffles, french toast, bacon, sausage, and Goofy’s famous peanut butter and jelly pizza. You can expect to meet Goofy at the entrance before you sit down for your meal. You’ll get to snap a picture with him before you’re shown to your table. You might also see Chip & Dale, Minnie, and Pluto roaming around.

How Much Does Character Dining At Disneyland Cost? 

How much does character dining at Disneyland cost? Keep in mind, prices are subject to change at any time. All the character dining options are priced the same. You can expect to pay $35- $59.99 per person. The lower price is for children, and the higher price is for adults. The exception is the Disney Princess Adventures. This is one of the most expensive Disneyland character dining experiences. You will pay $125 at this location for adults and kids. 

Maximize Your Experience

To truly maximize your character dining at Disneyland Park, you should keep a few things in mind. First and foremost, make sure you arrive at the restaurant on time or even a few minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in process. Additionally, bring plenty of patience and flexibility, as character interactions and meal service can take longer than expected.

Remember to take advantage of any special activities or entertainment during your meal. From sing-alongs to photo opportunities, character dining experiences often include extra perks that can enhance your overall experience.

Another tip for maximizing your character dining at Disneyland experience is to come prepared with an autograph book and pen. This will allow you to easily collect signatures from your favorite characters like Mickey Mouse or Minnie Mouse without having to search for paper and writing utensils in the moment.

Make sure you take lots of pictures! The characters will come around to each and every table and interact with everyone in your group. You can get up from your table and take photos with the characters.

Finally, let the restaurant staff know if you celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary. They may be able to provide a special surprise or acknowledgment to make your experience even more memorable.

By following these tips and being open to the unique experience of character dining, you can ensure that your visit is the best it can be. And remember to check out the next section on making the most of the little extras during your meal!

Don’t Forget the Little Extras

While the character interactions and delicious food are the main attractions of character dining at Disneyland, there are also little extras that can enhance your experience even further. For example, some restaurants offer special souvenirs such as autograph books or character-themed plates that you can purchase to remember your visit. 

Additionally, some character dining at Disneyland experiences offer exclusive photo opportunities with the characters. Take advantage of these photo ops to capture special memories with your favorite Disney characters. 

Finally, if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, inform the restaurant staff beforehand. They will do their best to accommodate you and ensure a great dining experience. 

These little extras can make your character dining at Disneyland experience even more magical. So be sure to keep these tips in mind and enjoy all that Disneyland offers!

Disneyland Planning Help

I’ve got bunches of information on planning a Disneyland trip that will be so helpful for you! Start with my complete guide to visiting Disneyland. It’s a step-by-step guide for planning your vacation that will be helpful. Check out my top 10 Disneyland tips and guide to when to visit Disneyland to help you pick the best time for your vacation! I’ve also got a post on rope dropping at Disneyland that’s very helpful.

Make sure you check out my downloadable touring plans if you’d like a step-by-step guide to the parks! 

I have a planning phone call that’s super popular! In this phone call, I can answer all of your Disneyland vacation questions and give you lots of tips and info tailored just to you and your group!

Character dining at Disneyland can be an unforgettable experience for your family, but it’s important to make the most of your budget. You can maximize your experience without breaking the bank by choosing the right time of day and location and finding the best deals. And remember the little extras that can add to the magic.

As you plan your trip to Disneyland, remember these tips and tricks to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Remember, the memories you create with your family will last a lifetime, so go ahead and plan your character dining at Disneyland adventure now. Walt Disney once said, “The more you like yourself, the less you are like anyone else, which makes you unique.” So embrace your uniqueness and create your own magical memories at Disneyland.

Make sure to check out my YouTube videos for helpful info and my podcast for lots of Disney planning information! You can find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Just search for “Mix In Some Magic” Follow me on Instagram or Facebook for lots of Disney tips and fun and make sure you join my Disney planning Facebook group! It’s a great place to ask all your Disneyland planning questions and get expert help.