Character [kar’ik-ter] a unique or extraordinary individuality; distinctive quality; a feature that distinguishes an individual; essential nature; person marked by notable or conspicuous traits

They step out of the movies and off the pages of picture books to add their special magic to every Disney Destination.  They lend their names to our favorite attractions, wave from parades, delight us at dinner, stand ready to give hugs.

 

Characters can be found all around the parks and resorts.  Some locations offer the chance to say hello, get autographs, and take pictures.  Other venues allow guests to see them performing or learn more about their stories.   We have some advice for maximizing these celebrity opportunities:

 

• Refer to the park maps for character greeting locations which  are indicated by a white glove in a red square.

 

• Check the Tip Board and the Times Guide at each park.  The Character Location Guides will indicate the type of characters making appearances, such as the characters from Toy Story.

 

• Visit Guest Relations at the parks or City Hall in the Magic Kingdom. Cast members have a special phone number they can call for the most current information.  This is an especially useful resource if you absolutely have to see a specific character.

 

• Check opening times for dedicated character meeting venues and be there early.  Most guests will head for attractions before making their way to these areas.

 

• Autographs are a terrific way to keep memories for a lifetime and children often get very involved in the hunt.  The characters’ signatures are wonderfully idiosyncratic and collecting them is fun for all ages. Make it a challenge to find some of the rarely-seen characters or try to cover all the letters of the alphabet. Be sure to have a fat pen, sharpie, or chunky toddler crayon since many of the characters find it difficult to grasp regular pens.  Use two facing pages of an autograph book for each character; one for the signature and the other for a photograph.

 

• Consider setting aside a day to put together handmade autograph books before leaving on vacation.  The project will keep the family excited about the upcoming trip.  Round out the evening with popcorn and a viewing of the Disney Parks planning DVD or a Disney movie.

 

• A baseball cap, t-shirt, or a plain canvas tote bag can be signed and becomes a souvenir that also serves a useful purpose!  Bring something sturdy enough to support an article of clothing so it can be signed; a clipboard, backpack, or other item with a rigid surface.  Characters cannot sign any item being worn by the guest.  A laundry marker will keep the signatures permanent and washable.

 

• Review the Dining Plan guide.  The icon with a white glove in a red square indicates a character dining venue.  Character meals typically allow more one-on-one time without the long waits in lines.

 

• Need a more personal experience?  Private character meetings can be arranged.  For a substantial fee, guests can have their favorite characters make an appearance at their private dinner or event.  Contact Whimsical World Travel for more information.

 

Henry David Thoreau said that “dreams are the touchstones of our character.”  On a Disney vacation, the characters become the touchstones of our dreams.