Prioritizing the Magic Kingdom Characters – Locations, Pictures, Wait Times, Best Times to Meet etc.

Updated 3/16/13

The following would not have been possible without help from Kenny and his website, KennyThePirate.com.  Here, you’ll find detailed lists of characters, locations, and meeting times organized into neat little charts that are more easily printable.  You can find his Magic Kingdom character list here and his Master List of characters here.  Kenny keeps up to date with this stuff much better than I do, so double check the times there.

There are a lot of wild cards in the world of Walt Disney World characters.  As you read over the following, you’ll probably find yourself saying, “NO THAT’S NOT WHAT HAPPENED WHEN I WAS THERE” and you may very well be right.  Lines can jump in length with just a few extra groups of people.  A group of ten people taking pictures in every conceivable configuration can push a wait for Daisy Duck that would ordinarily be 5 or 10 minutes to 15 or 20 minutes.  By some stroke of fortune, someone has inevitably arrived at Merida to find only a few people in line smack dab in the middle of the afternoon.  “Anything is possible.”    By having the following knowledge, you’ll be able to prepare the best possible plan and truly roll with the punches as Rapunzel throws them at you.  You’ll know which characters have the longest waits, where they meet guests, when they meet, which characters are available elsewhere with much shorter (or longer) waits, what the characters are wearing, and much more.

Magic Kingdom is where you’ll find the largest assortment of characters in Walt Disney World.  It’s also the only location to meet several characters, including Rapunzel, Merida, and Tinker Bell.  Let’s take a look at who we can expect to find.  I’ve ordered them from “highest priority” to “lowest priority” based on expected wait times later in the day.  The reality is that most characters will have the shortest lines in the early morning and the longest lines in the afternoon and early evening.  Unfortunately, it’s only possible to visit one or two characters first thing in the morning.  We’ll want to visit the characters with the longest afternoon waits first thing in the morning or whenever else is best.  In some cases, the standby waits can hit 60 or more minutes in the afternoon.

Belle at Enchanted Tales with Belle – Yellow Gown

Priority: Highest

Location:

Enchanted Tales is located inside Maurice’s cottage in New Fantasyland.  As you enter New Fantasyland, you’ll see it on the far left before you arrive at Be Our Guest Restaurant or Gaston’s Tavern.

Usual Meet Times: Belle meets from immediately after the Park opens to Park close.  She usually meets during morning Extra Magic Hour, but not usually during evening Extra Magic Hours.

Process:

Enchanted Tales is not like most traditional Meet and Greets and includes a small show and multiple rooms.  See this post for more pictures and a more drawn out explanation of what you’ll see.  You’ll begin by lining up outside.

Inside the first room, you’ll have an opportunity to look around the cottage.

Then, a neat effect transports guests to Beast’s Castle.

This is where things get a little hokey.  Here, guests from the audience are selected to perform a little play for Belle in the next room.

If you want a picture with Belle at the end, it would be a good idea to participate. After assigning the principal roles, the cast member will ask if anyone else wants a role. Belle takes pictures with everyone that participates. If you didn’t participate, you’ll need to get in line with the participants at the conclusion of the play.  Belle makes a quick exit after taking pictures.

The Lumiere animatronic is even better than the Wardrobe.  It’s almost worth doing the meet just to see these guys in action.

 

Lumiere welcomes Belle and the six-or-so minute play begins.  It’s usually a mixture of cute and awkward.

Belle then takes a photo with the participants.  A PhotoPass photographer is also on hand.  She does not sign autographs.

Interaction: Mixed.  On one hand, this interactive experience is more interesting than your typical Meet and Greet.  On the other hand, there is not a lot of personal interaction with the character unless you’re chosen to be Beast.  The quality of the play depends largely on Beast – it’s either very cute or extremely awkward.

Wait Times: Very long.  Enchanted Tales with Belle will have a 40+ minute posted wait within 15 minutes of the Park opening due to the number of people that will be headed back there and the extremely limited capacity.  The wait will continue to be 40+ minutes for the rest of the day, potentially easing up in the evening, particularly during Wishes and the Parade.

Best Times to Meet: Ideally, you want to head here absolutely first thing in the morning – no ifs, ands, or buts about it.  That includes moving to the far left or right of the train station in order to be among the first people inside the Park.  The second best time to do Enchanted Tales is as late in the evening as possible.  You’ll find the shortest waits right before Wishes begins.  There is usually a lull in actual waits around 10:15am.  Everyone who arrived first thing and knows to go straight to Belle will have moved through and few people arriving after rope drop will naturally visit Enchanted Tales first thing in the morning.  The posted wait will likely not be lowered, but you can gauge the line from outside.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Epcot – Belle meets in the France Pavilion in her blue and white (scrappy) outfit.  She no longer greets with Beast here.  Lines are usually 20 to 40 minutes.
2. Epcot – Belle greets guests dining at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in the Norway Pavilion and takes pictures with them upon arrival, but does not meet tableside.

Princess Merida – Red Hair, Scottish-ish Accent

Priority: High

Location:

Merida greets guests in the location previously occupied by Rapunzel.  It is kind of difficult to explain exactly where it is.  From Main Street or The Hub, take the right path immediately next to Cinderella Castle.  You’ll see her Meet on the left.  From Fantasyland, take a right at Mad Tea Party and continue walking so that Cosmic Ray’s is on your left.  You’ll see her Meet location on the right.

Usual Meet Times:

• 9:15am – 7pm with intermittent breaks.  She is usually off from 2:35pm – 3:05pm in particular.

Process:

You have a few options at the Merida meet.  In the center of the area is a table where kids can color a picture of Merida with her horse.  Crayons are provided.  A parent can save the child’s spot in line at the Bow and Arrow Lesson or the line to actually meet Merida, which runs off to the right.

The target.

Definitely a cute little activity to occupy the kids’ (or adults’) time.  Anyone is welcome to learn how to shoot.

Otherwise, get in the far right line that runs up a little slope towards Merida.

Like before, you will likely line up outside the meet area.  Everyone that will be able to meet Merida during her set will be moved into the Meet and Greet area at one time.

Interaction:

Very good.  Merida has a lot more personality than most princesses, but she no longer greets with the bears pictured, unfortunately.

Wait Times: Waits are usually 30 to 60 minutes in the afternoon, depending on crowds.  Merida is more popular now that more people know about her.  With Rapunzel moving into Town Square Theater and Ariel at her Grotto in New Fantasyland, Merida is a higher priority.

Best Times to Meet: If you’re skipping Enchanted Tales with Belle, I would head directly to Merida in the morning.  This is the easiest line to save spots in because the exterior queue is freely accessible.  You may want to have an adult save a spot while another collects FASTPASSes or brings the kids to other attractions.  If the morning isn’t possible, get in line at 6pm when waits are shorter than the afternoon and temperatures are a little cooler.

Other Meet Locations: None.  Merida can occasionally be found practicing at Epcot, but her appearances are sporadic and not guaranteed by any stretch of the imagination.

Tinker Bell and Rosetta, Vidia, or Terrence – Tinker Bell in her Green Skirt, Vidia in Purple, Rosetta in Pink. Terrence in a Manly Fairy Outfit

Priority: High

Location: This is the entrance to Tinker Bell’s Magical Nook, which is located in Adventureland.  As you enter Adventureland from The Hub, you’ll see the Magical Nook on your right side before you arrive at Swiss Family Treehouse (on your left) or Aloha Isle (on the right).  From Frontierland or Adventureland, it’s on your left after you pass Aladdin’s Magical Carpets, Jungle Cruise, and Swiss Family Treehouse.  Immediately to the right of this door is the Adventureland Veranda Patio, where Ariel used to meet.

Usual Meet Times:

• 15 Minutes After Regular Park Opening – One Hour Before Regular Theme Park Close

For example, if Magic Kingdom was open from 9am – 10pm with Evening Extra Magic Hours, Tinker Bell and Friends would meet from 9:15am – 9pm.  They do not meet during morning Extra Magic Hour.

Process:

You’ll first wait in this interior queue for your turn to enter the portal.

Entering the portal, where you’ll shrink to Fairy size.

Once it’s your turn, you’ll enter the Meet and Greet area.  Usually, only about ten people are admitted at any given time.  First, you’ll meet a Fairy other than Tinker Bell.  It could be Vidia, Rosetta (most likely), or Terrence.  It’s worth noting that Vidia (the one in purple) is the “not nice fairy.”  She may very well have an “attitude” and “make a face” in the photo.  This is just her being in character.  I recommend complimenting her on her flying speed if you’d like to cheer her up a bit.  Next, you’ll move on to Tinker Bell who always appears.

Interaction: Excellent.  You get quality time with two characters.  Tinker Bell is great.

This is what Vidia looks like when she gets along with someone.  We actually really hit it off:

Wait Times: Tinker Bell’s Magical Nook is one of few Meet and Greets that actually has a posted wait time.  Unfortunately, it’s not terribly accurate.

The sign is posted right outside the entrance.  Expect to wait 35 to 60 minutes most afternoons.

Of the queues for all the characters, this one is actually the most pleasant.  It’s nearly freezing in here for whatever reason, which is a welcome respite from the afternoon heat in the summer.  It’s not uncommon to see people face down in the corner laying on the floor.  So if there’s one of the high priority characters you’re putting off until the afternoon, I’d make it this one.

Best Times to Meet: If you’re interested in meeting Merida on the same day, I would head there first.  Enchanted Tales with Belle remains the highest priority if you’re interested in that. The standby wait at Tinker Bell later in the day won’t be as long and the queue is air-conditioned.  Most days, the Fairies meet later into the evening as well, giving you more opportunities to visit.  I recommend heading over there about an hour before they are scheduled to stop appearing, especially if it’s late at night.  If that conflicts with Wishes or the Nighttime Parade, visit as late in the evening as possible with enough time to get out and in position for the nighttime entertainment.  Lines will be even lower if the operating schedule allows you to visit after the nighttime entertainment.  If you aren’t interested in Merida or Belle, head here first thing in the morning.  It isn’t as much of a race as Merida or Belle.

Other Meet Locations: This is the only opportunity to meet Tinker Bell and her Fairy Friends under normal circumstances.

1. Mickey’s Not So Scary/Very Merry Christmas Parties 2012 – The characters met for the entirety of both Parties at Tinker Bell’s Nook.  Their outfits were similar, though Tinker Bell sported pants in the winter.

Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen – Very Regal Outfits

Priority: Moderate High.

Location:

Tiana and Naveen meet in this gazebo in Liberty Square.  It’s behind Liberty Tree Tavern.  From Liberty Square, walk past Hall of Presidents, which will be on your left side.  The gazebo will be on your right after you pass the shops and just before you arrive at the bridge over to The Hub.  From The Hub/Cinderella Castle, you’ll see Sleepy Hollow Refreshments on your right and the walkway over to the gazebo on the left right after you cross the bridge.

Usual Meet Times:

Princess Tiana only:

• 9:30am – 10:15am
• 10:30am – 11:15am
• 11:45am – 12:30pm
• 2:30pm – 3pm
• 2:20pm – 3pm
• 3:30pm – 4pm

Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen:

• 5pm – 5:45pm
• 6pm – 6:45pm
• 7pm – 7:45pm
• 8pm – 8:45pm
• 9pm – 9:45pm

Process: Line up straight back from the gazebo and wait your turn to meet Disney royalty.

Interaction: Excellent, especially in the evening when both characters are present.

Wait Times: Late morning and afternoon waits can easily hit 25 minutes and may even be 40 or more minutes if you include the break.  With two talking characters, interactions can easily be one or two minutes per visitor.  That means a 20 group line could easily take 30 or minutes, plus the 30 minute break.

Best Times to Meet: The relatively late evening is the best time to visit Tiana and Naveen.  You’re more likely to meet both characters and you’re not necessarily missing out on prime touring time if you meet them later in the day.  I’d plan to arrive five to ten minutes before the characters return for one of the last three meet times, or 6:55pm, 7:55pm, or 8:55pm.

Other Meet Locations: Neither character ordinarily appears at other resorts or theme parks.

1. Mickey’s Not So Scary/Very Merry Christmas Parties 2012 – Both characters continued to meet intermittently throughout the Parties in their usual outfits.

Woody and Jessie – Woody as a Gunslinger and Jessie as a Yodeling Cowgirl

Priority: Moderate to Moderate High

Location:

Woody and Jessie meet near the exit to Splash Mountain.  This is on the right side after you pass the entrance to the railroad.

Usual Meet Times:

• 10am – 11:30am with intermittent breaks
• 12pm – 3pm with intermittent breaks
• 3:40pm – 5:40pm with intermittent breaks

Process: The line for Jessie and/or Woody winds around in front of them.  It’s fun to see their interaction with other guests.

Interaction: For non-speakers, Woody and Jessie are a hoot.

Wait times: Waits ordinarily hit 25 to 40 minutes in the afternoon, but can be even longer in the summer when Splash Mountain is more popular.

Best Times to Meet: If you can get there right around 9:55am you’re in business.  That should give you enough time to do some of the other characters, several attractions in Tomorrowland, or most of the Fantasyland priorities before moving over here.  You may want to pop over to meet them before riding Splash and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad around 10am as well.  Remember, those major attractions move through thousands of people an hour and offer FASTPASS.  These guys might make it through 100 people in an hour if several of the groups are large and only want a couple of pictures.  Getting in line about ten minutes before they appear after a long break is also wise.  Otherwise, arriving at 11:50am or 3:30pm would be best.

Other Meet Locations:

Jessie:

1. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween/Very Merry Christmas Parties 2012: She hosted a dance party at the Diamond Horseshoe with Woody and Bullseye.

Woody

1. Hollywood Studios: Woody meets alongside Buzz Lightyear and a statue of Hamm across from Toy Story Midway Mania in Pixar Place.  Wait times are ordinarily even longer at the Studios, but there are fewer character priorities there.
2. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween/Very Merry Christmas Parties 2011: Woody hosted a dance party along with Bullseye and Jessie.

Aladdin and Jasmine – Classic Outfits

Priority: Moderate

Location:

Aladdin and Jasmine meet in Agrabah Bazaar in Adventureland.  It’s behind Aladdin’s Magical Carpets, which is across from Jungle Cruise.  Sunshine Tree Terrace is to the left and Aloha Isle to the right.

Usual Meet Times:

• 9:30am – 10am
• 10:20am – 11aam
• 11:20am – 12pm
• 12:20pm – 1pm
• 1:20pm – 2pm
• 2:15pm – 2:55pm
• 3:35pm – 4:10pm
• 4:30pm – 5:10pm
• 5:30pm – 6:10pm
• 6:30pm – 7pm

Process:

Hop in the line that zig zags in front of them.

Interaction: Excellent.  Very friendly and they take a lot of time with visitors here, especially in the morning when it isn’t as busy.

Wait Times: For whatever reason, Prince Ali and Jasmine are more popular than they used to be, with waits often in the 30 to 40 minute range in the afternoon.

Best Times to Meet: This is one that you can safely put off until after 11am if you have more pressing business elsewhere.  Like most things at Disney World, lines are shorter in the early morning.  But it’s probably worth spending a couple more minutes in line here in the afternoon rather than spend a lot of time elsewhere in the afternoon and take care of this first thing.  If you can, arrive at 9:25am or 6:25pm to find shorter waits.  Otherwise, waits are going to be long as you’ll most likely have to wait through a break.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Epcot – Both characters meet in the Morocco Pavilion in the same outfits.  Lines are usually even longer there, making Magic Kingdom a better choice.
2. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2012 – Aladdin, Jasmine, Abu, and Genie met in the same location in pairs of two throughout the night.
   
3. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2012 – Aladdin, Jasmine, Abu, and Genie met in the same location in pairs of two throughout the night.  Aladdin appears in his “Prince Ali” outfit and Genie/Abu wore scarfs.

Winnie the Pooh and Tigger – Just a Red Shirt on Pooh

Priority: Moderate if you want to meet them here.  The wait is much shorter at Epcot in the United Kingdom Pavilion and I recommend doing that.

Location:

Pooh and Tigger greet to the left of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in Fantasyland.

Usual Meet Times:

• 10:45am – 2:45pm with intermittent breaks
• 3:30pm – 8pm with intermittent breaks

Process:

The queue winds around in front of them.

Interaction: Okay.  Tigger is particularly happy to meet you.

Wait Times: Winnie the Pooh and Tigger were in flux for a long time, but recently found a new home in a location that makes a lot of sense.  Because the meet is popular next to the attraction, waits are now much longer and the characters take frequent breaks, which also increases waits.  Expect to wait 30 to 40 minutes to meet them here.

Best Times to Meet: I really do recommend meeting them at Epcot, where their Meet is indoors with a much shorter line.  If you must meet them here, try to get in line at 10:35am or 3:20pm when waits will be much shorter.  Luckily, they do begin greeting later than most other characters, so you will be able to get some things down before it’s time to get in line.  Waits would also be shorter in the evening.  You could try getting in line after 7pm.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Animal Kingdom – Both Tigger and Winnie the Pooh meet at Discovery Landing.  Ordinarily, you meet each character individually.  Eeyore may or may not join them.  They normally appear in their classic outfits, but may have scarfs and hats around the holidays.  Lines are usually short because the entrance to the queue is far away from where they actually meet and the characters aren’t visible unless you really know where to look.
2. Epcot – Winnie the Pooh and Tigger meet in the Toy Solider shop in the United Kingdom Pavilion.  It’s way in the back of the store, which is way in the back of the Pavilion.  Lines are ordinarily less than five minutes.
3. Magic Kingdom – Winnie the Pooh meets diners at Crystal Palace on Main Street with Piglet, Tigger, and Eeyore.
4. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2012 – Winnie the Pooh met with Piglet, Eeyore, and Tigger in their Halloween costumes in this location.
5. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2012 – Winnie the Pooh met with Piglet, Eeyore, and Tigger in scarfs in this location.

Minnie Mouse and Daisy – Daisy Fortuna and Minnie Magnifique

Priority: Moderate

Location:

Daisy and Minnie greet guests at Pete’s Silly Sideshow in the back of Storybook Circus, across from the Barnstormer.  Goofy and Donald meet in the same tent, but their line is separate.

Usual Meet Times: Park open through one hour before Park close.

Process:

Fairly straightforward.  You’ll enter the queue and wait your turn with the characters in front of you.

Interaction:

Madame Daisy Fortuna meets in front of her gypsy caravan.

Interaction is average and similar to most other non-speaking characters.  The sets are more fun than most though.

Wait Times: These gals are popular and wait times are usually about twice that of Goofy and Donald next door.  Expect afternoon waits to be 20 to 45 minutes.

Best Time to Meet: Wait times drop off substantially after 8pm and these two meet more or less continuously all day.  I would visit them in the evening if possible.  You could also pop over after the other New Fantasyland priorities, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Journey of the Little Mermaid, and Ariel’s Grotto and find short waits.  Long waits don’t tend to materialize until around 11am as people make their way up here.

Other Meet Locations:

Daisy:

1. Animal Kingdom – Daisy greets guests at Tusker House Restaurant for breakfast and lunch in her safari outfit.  She is expected to move alongside Donald to the Character Landing in the near future.
2. Epcot - Daisy greets in her pink dress and purple bow near the entrance on the right side.  Waits are often shorter.
3. Hollywood Studios – Daisy greets at Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat alongside Donald in summer attire, usually through 11:30am or noon.

Minnie:

1. Animal Kingdom – Minnie greets in Camp Minnie-Mickey in her safari outfit.  She is expected to move along with Mickey to a new location at the old Beastly Bazaar building sometime in April.  Waits are usually shorter.
2. Epcot – Minnie greets at Character Spot in her traditional polka dot dress along with Mickey and Pluto.  Waits are usually around the same as they are here and it may be ideal if you want to meet Mickey and Pluto as well.
3. Hollywood Studios – Minnie greets at Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat in a pink dress until 11:30am or 12pm. Waits are usually shorter.
4. Beach Club – Cape May Cafe for breakfast only in a beach-y outfit.
5. Contemporary Resort – Chef Mickey’s in an apron.
6. Fort Wilderness – Mickey’s Backyard BBQ for dinner in her picnic outfit.

Ariel – Fins

Priority: Moderate low.

Location:

Ariel meets in a dedicated Grotto to the right of her attraction, Journey of the Little Mermaid, in New Fantasyland.  When it opens, the Mine Train will sit in front of it.

Usual Meet Times: 9am through one hour before Park close, continuously.

Process:

There isn’t a whole lot to it.  The queue is covered, but outside.  It winds around a bit until it’s your turn.  There are actually two Ariels here, so wait times are half of what they would be otherwise.

The setting is a cute clam shell.

Interaction: Great.  They only let one group in at a time, so the meet is among the most intimate on property.

Wait times: Waits usually peak in the 35 minute range in the afternoon.  The doubled capacity helps along with the fact that it isn’t all that obvious back here at the moment.  The path that leads to Storybook Circus is often closed and Ariel is basically at the end of a dead end in New Fantasyland.

Best Times to Meet: I would pop in before doing Journey of the Little Mermaid in the morning.  It’s inconvenient from anywhere other than New Fantasyland at the moment.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Epcot - Ariel usually greets tableside at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall.
2. Magic Kingdom – Ariel is usually found tableside at Cinderella’s Royal Table.

Town Square Princesses – Usually Cinderella (Blue Dress), Aurora (Sleeping Beauty, Pink Dress), and Rapunzel (Pink Dress)

Priority: Moderate.  I highly recommend using FASTPASS here.

Location:

The Princesses meet in Town Square Theater on Main Street.  Just after you enter Magic Kingdom, you’ll see this building on the right.

FASTPASS: The Princesses, along with Mickey Mouse, are the only characters in Walt Disney World that currently offer FASTPASS.  With the arrival of Rapunzel, FASTPASS return times are much further out than before.  Expect the return time to be one to three hours in the future in the afternoon.  Unlike Mickey Mouse, the FASTPASSes are “connected” to the rest of the system, meaning FASTPASS here works like it does at other attractions.

You can collect FASTPASSes for both Mickey Mouse and the Princesses at the same time.  The machines are right next to each other with the return time clearly displayed above.  More information about Mickey Mouse is found at the very end of this article.

Usual Meet Times: The Princesses meet from regular theme park opening to one hour before regular theme park close.  They do not appear during Extra Magic Hours.

Process: There are two lines for the Princesses inside Town Square Theater – the standby line and the FASTPASS line.  Since the Meet and Greet is indoors and air-conditioned, it is one of the more pleasant lines should you have to wait.  In addition, the waiting area features interactive posters and other artwork.  You don’t necessarily need to be in line to peruse the area.  Once you arrive at the front of the queue, you’ll enter a room where the princesses meet.  You’ll have an opportunity to meet each princess individually – one after the other.  Ordinarily, Cinderella, Aurora, and Rapunzel meet guests.  The Princesses do not usually meet with their Princes during regular theme park hours.

Interaction – Excellent.  You get quality one on one time with each of the three princesses.  They can occasionally be a little snooty, but they are princesses after all.  They are doing you a favor simply by meeting you and they know that.

Wait Times – Posted wait times are highly variable and can be anywhere from 20 minutes to 90 minutes in the afternoon.  With FASTPASS users having priority, standby waits can be long, even with a short standby line.

Best Times to Meet – Using FASTPASS in the late afternoon or evening would be best.  FASTPASS would minimize the wait if a large group enters the standby line.  Otherwise, try to avoid 2pm to 4pm when more people will be around the Main Street area for the Afternoon Parade.  Usually, standby waits are much lower as it gets later in the evening.  If the Princesses are appearing until 10pm or later, you can minimize waits by arriving 30 to 60 minutes before they stop appearing.

Other Meet Locations:

Cinderella – All in her usual blue dress:

1. Epcot – She greets diners at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in the Norway Pavilion.
2. Magic Kingdom – Cinderella greets guests and takes pictures with those dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table in the Castle.  She does not visit the tables – only takes a picture with your group before you’re seated.
3. Grand Floridian Resort: She meets with guests dining at 1900 Park Fare for dinner along with Prince Charming and The Tremaines.
4. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2012 – She met with Prince Charming in Town Square Theater along with Rapunzel/Flynn Ryder and Snow White/Prince. Lines were ordinarily 45-75+ minutes.
5. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2012 – She appeared with Prince Charming and the Tremaines in Fantasyland.  Lines were ordinarily 45-75+ minutes.

Aurora – All in her usual pink dress:

1. Epcot – Aurora meets in the France Pavilion.  She ordinarily has short lines there, especially if you arrive just before she is scheduled to appear, but you won’t have the opportunity to meet the other other princesses.
2. Epcot – Aurora meets diners at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in the Norway Pavilion.
3. Magic Kingdom – Aurora meets diners at Cinderella’s Royal Table.
4. Grand Floridian Resort – She appears during the Perfectly Princess Tea Party at the Grand Floridian Resort.
5. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2012 – She appeared with her Prince in Fairytale Garden (where Rapunzel normally meets).
6. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2012 – She met with her Prince at Town Square Theater along with Snow White/Prince and Rapunzel/Flynn Ryder.

Rapunzel – This is the only place Rapunzel usually meets.

Buzz Lightyear – To Infinity and Beyond!  And Then Beyond That!  And Beyond That!

Priority: Moderate Low

Location:

Buzz Lightyear meets in between the exit to Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin and the Carousel of Progress in Tomorrowland.  You’ll exit Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin and be looking directly at him, assuming he’s meeting at that time.

Usual Meet Times:

• 10am – 2:30pm pm with intermittent breaks
• 3:10pm – 7pm with intermittent breaks.

Process: You’ll enter the line to meet Buzz to the right of where he’s located and then say hello when it’s your turn.  Watch out for that laser – it could take your head off!

Interaction: Okay.  He is not particularly chatty, but he does pose and interact the best way he can.

Wait times: Buzz usually has wait times in the 20 to 25 minute range in the afternoon.

Best Times to Meet: Arriving 5 to 10 minutes before he’s scheduled to appear in the morning or afternoon should be perfect.  Wait times are fairly consistent around 15 to 20 minutes because kids see him as they’re exiting Space Ranger Spin.  If you arrive before he appears, few people will be in line waiting because it isn’t obvious who will appear or when they will appear.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Hollywood Studios – Buzz Lightyear meets guests in Pixar Place across from Toy Story Midway Mania.  There, he normally appears with Woody and a statue of Hamm.  Wait times are usually much longer there, making this an easier place to meet him unless you visit him in Hollywood Studios at a highly recommended time.
2. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party – Buzz met intermittently in his usual location and his usual rocketman suit.

Goofy and Donald – The Astounding Donaldo and the Great Goofini

Location:

Goofy and Donald greet guests in a tent at Pete’s Silly Sideshow in the back of Storybook Circus, across from Barnstormer.  Minnie and Daisy greet in the same tent, but their line is separate.

Usual Meet Times: Park open through one hour before Park close.

Process:

You’ll enter the tent through Pete’s mouth – the line on the right is for Goofy and Donald.

Their line wraps around in front of them.  There isn’t a whole lot to it.  You’ll meet Goofy first and then move over to Donald.

Interaction:

These costumes are more elaborate than usual, resulting in some fun meets.

It’s somewhat difficult to get a decent picture in here with the lighting.  The characters do their best to communicate and the expressions on their faces indicate they’re happy to see you.

Wait Times: Donald and Goofy are less popular than Minnie and Daisy and their wait time is usually around half of their female counterparts.  Expect to wait 10 to 20 minutes in the afternoon.

Best Times to Meet: There are many higher priorities and the tent is inside and air-conditioned, so this isn’t the worst place to spend 15 minutes in the afternoon.  I would plan to visit after the higher priorities when you’re otherwise in Storybook Circus.  It’s a bit of a hike out here, so I would meet them in conjunction with Minnie and Daisy and ideally with Barnstormer and Dumbo.  Wait times are also much lower in the evening, particularly after 8pm.  You could plan to visit them later in the evening as well.

Goofy’s Other Meet Locations:

1. Animal Kingdom – Goofy also meets in DinoLand across from TriceraTop Spin.  It’s hard to characterize his outfit there – sort of a summer picnic safari.  He usually appears with Pluto, though they also appear individually.  Wait times are usually slightly longer there.
2. Animal Kingdom – For guests dining at Tusker House Restaurant in Africa, he appears in a second safari outfit.
3. Animal Kingdom – He may appear in front of the Animal Kingdom’s entrance or in the Oasis in a safari outfit, but this is less common.
4. Epcot – He meets in his classic outfit just inside Epcot on the right side.  Waits are usually 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Hollywood Studios – Goofy meets at the Sorcerer’s Hat intermittently until 11:30am in blue pants and a blue top hat.  He normally appears with Pluto.  Lines are variable, but usually longer than Magic Kingdom.
6. Hollywood Studios – In 2012, Goofy met as Santa Goofy during the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights.  Waits were very long, often 45+ minutes.
7. Beach Club Resort – Goofy meets diners at Cape May Cafe’s breakfast in a lifejacket and otherwise ridiculous beach outfit.
8. Contemporary Resort – Goofy meets at Chef Mickey’s in a chef outfit.
9. Fort Wilderness – Goofy meets at Mickey’s Backyard BBQ in a cowboy-ish outfit.
10. Mickey’s Halloween Party 2012 – Goofy hosted a dance party along with Stitch, Pluto, Chip, and Dale in his space pilot outfit in Tomorrowland.
11. Mickey’s Christmas Party 2012 – Goofy hosted a dance party along with Pluto, Chip, and Dale in his Santa outfit at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe.

Donald’s Other Meet Locations:

1. Animal Kingdom – Donald meets in the Camp Minnie-Mickey Character Greeting Trails in his safari outfit.  Around the winter holidays, he also dons a wreath.  Wait times are comparable to Magic Kingdom, generally speaking.
2. Animal Kingdom – At Tusker House Restaurant, he takes pictures and interacts with diners before they are seated.  He does not visit tableside.  He’ll be in his safari outfit.
3. Epcot – Donald meets in Mexico in a sombrero.  Waits are usually shorter.
4. Hollywood Studios – He meets alongside Daisy at the Sorcerer’s Hat, usually through 12pm.  Waits are short before 10am, but are usually equivalent or longer than Magic Kingdom from 10am until they stop appearing.  On the plus side, you do get to meet Daisy at the same time.  Both characters are in summer-y outfits.
5. Beach Club Resort – He meets in a (ridiculous) beach outfit at Cape May Cafe’s breakfast.
6. Contemporary Resort – Donald appears at Chef Mickey’s in his chef’s outfit.

Stitch – Naked

Priority: Moderate Low

Location:

Stitch meets in Tomorrowland somewhere around Space Mountain, the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover, and Carousel of Progress.  Here, he is standing near the entrance to the PeopleMover.

More recently, Stitch has been greeting guests in the very back of Tomorrowland to the right of Space Mountain. If he’s greeting guests here, lines will be shorter because it’s not at all obvious that he’s back here unless you’re looking to smoke a cigarette.

Usual Meet Times:

• 8am – 9am if Magic Kingdom has a normal 8am opening
• 9am – 12:30pm with intermittent breaks
• 1:10pm – 3:10pm with intermittent breaks
• 3:30pm – 4:30pm

Process: Find him, get in the informal line, and take your chance at meeting everyone’s least favorite Disney alien!  Other than that other alien!

Interaction: Average to good.  He has plenty of antics.  Ask him what his favorite ride is.  I bet it isn’t Stitch’s Great Escape!

Wait Times: Waits depend on where he greets. If he’s back by Space Mountain, expect to wait just five to ten minutes.  If he’s closer to Astro Orbiter and PeopleMover, waits can be 10 to 25 minutes.

Best Times to Meet: If you’re headed to Tomorrowland first to take care of Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin first thing in the morning, I recommend popping over to Stitch after.  There shouldn’t be more than a handful of people in line, if that.  Otherwise, try to arrive in Tomorrowland about five minutes before Stitch is scheduled to appear – 1:05pm or 3:25pm.  If that isn’t possible, you’re probably going to be looking at some lines unless you luck out and time it so that you arrive at the start of one of this sets.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Magic Kingdom – Stitch dances along with guests at the 626 Dance Party in Tomorrowland.
2. Hollywood Studios – Stitch may appear in the morning at Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat in Hollywood Studios.  He should either appear as normal or possibly have a floral lei on similar to the one he wears at ‘Ohana.  Lines depend on time of day, but they’ll most likely be longer than Epcot.
3. Polynesian Resort – Stitch greets diners along with Lilo, Mickey, and Pluto for breakfast in a floral lei.
4. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2012 – Stitch hosted a dance party with Chip, Dale, Goofy, and Pluto in Tomorrowland.

Pluto – Just A Collar

Priority: Low

Location:

Pluto meets opposite of Marie at the Flagpole, just inside the Magic Kingdom’s entrance.  That’s Town Square Theater on the right and Cinderella Castle is up Main Street behind him.

Usual Meet Times:

• 8am – 9am if Magic Kingdom opens at 8am
• 9am – 12:25pm with intermittent breaks
• 1:10pm – 2:55pm with intermittent breaks

Process: Pluto’s line usually branches off to your right, his left.  Get in line and wait to meet your new best friend.

Interaction: Pluto is usually more excited to meet you than you are him.  And he lets you know it by trying to tackle you to the ground.

Wait Times: Waits develop early because this is one of the first characters you’ll happen upon.  Expect to wait 15 to 20 minutes as early as 10am.

Best Times to Meet: In the afternoon is best.  Most people will have other morning priorities.  Try to arrive at 1:05pm for the 1:10pm meet.  There likely won’t be more than a couple of people waiting and you won’t have to deal with a lengthy break.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Animal Kingdom – Pluto meets in DinoLand across from TriceraTop Spin.  He often meets with Goofy in his usual outfit (just a collar).  Over the holidays, he may have a jingle collar and scarf.  Waits are similar to Magic Kingdom – usually 10 to 20 minutes and you have the benefit of possibly getting a picture with two characters at once.
2. Animal Kingdom – Pluto may also meet in the Oasis or out in front of Animal Kingdom in his usual outfit, but this is rarer.
3. Epcot – Pluto meets at the Character Spot along with Mickey and Goofy in their classic outfits.  Afternoon waits are longer, but you do have the benefit of meeting five characters individually one after the other.
4. Epcot – Pluto greets diners at Garden Grill in Future World alongside Mickey, Chip, and Dale.  He appears in a slightly different collar.
5. Hollywood Studios – Pluto meets at Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat in the morning with a slightly different collar.  He usually appears with Goofy.
6. Contemporary Resort – Pluto greets diners at Chef Mickey’s in a chef hat and apron.
7. Polynesian Resort – Pluto meets alongside Lilo, Stitch, and Mickey at ‘Ohana Breakfast.
8. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2012 – Pluto hosted a dance party with Chip, Dale, Goofy, and Stitch.  He appeared in his space goggles and jetpack.
9. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 20112- Pluto hosted a dance party alongside Chip, Dale, and Goofy at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe in his jingle collar.

Marie – Just A Cat

Priority: Low

Location:

Marie greets guests just inside the entrance at the Flag Pole alongside Pluto.

Usual Meet Times:

• 8am – 9am if Magic Kingdom opens at 8am
• 9am – 12:25pm with intermittent breaks
• 1:10pm – 2:55pm

Process: Marie’s line runs casually off to the left.

Interaction: Poor for the most part.  Known to many as simply “The Cat,” she poses with guests, but doesn’t do much else.

Wait Times: When she met in the France Pavilion, waits were ordinarily five to ten minutes.  In her more prominent location in Magic Kingdom, waits are longer, 15 to 20 minutes in the afternoon with a chance that you’ll have to wait through a break.

Best Times to Meet: I would head back here around 1pm to meet Pluto and Marie at the Flag Pole and then move over to the Princesses and Mickey with FASTPASSes.  Since she is one of the two characters guests see as they enter the Park, people tend to get in line to meet her more often from 9:45am – 11:30am.

Other Meet Locations: This is her only current meet.

Alice and White Rabbit – Alice In Her Blue Dress, White Rabbit in His Classic Animated Look

Priority: Low

Location: They meet in front of Mad Tea Party in Fantasyland on the Tomorrowland side.

Usual Meet Times: Alice and White Rabbit meet together and separately throughout the morning and afternoon.  If Magic Kingdom opens at 8am, White Rabbit and Alice should begin appearing at 8:20am.  If it’s a normal 9am opening (as it is most of the year), then both White Rabbit and Alice should begin appearing at 9:30am.

Alice:

• 8:20am – 9am if Magic Kingdom opens at 8am
• 9:20am – 10am
• 10:20am – 11am
• 11:20am – 12pm
• 12:20pm – 1pm
• 1:30pm – 2:10pm
• 230pm – 3:10pm

White Rabbit

• 8:30am – 9am if Magic Kingdom opens at 8am
• 9:20am – 1:15pm with intermittent breaks
• 1:55pm – 3pm with intermittent breaks

Process: This Meet and Greet is not as formal as some.  The line simply veers off to the right of them.  Once it’s your turn, approach them and ask the time.

Interaction: Above average if you get both.  They don’t seem to have as much fun as some of the other characters, but it’s still a lot of fun to meet them.

Wait Times: It can vary because this Meet and Greet is out in the open in the middle of a popular walkway.  Usually, these characters aren’t as popular as you might imagine.  Wait times are usually 10-20 minutes, even in the afternoon when Magic Kingdom is crowded.  Chalk it up to the nondescript blue dress and funny heart bib.

Best Time to Meet: You’re more likely to meet both of them in the morning, so I recommend trying to get over there around 10:15am for the 10:20am meet.  If you’re visiting Fantasyland first thing, you may also be able to pop over here right at 9:30am and encounter no line.  Most people will have higher priorities, whether that be attractions, shows, or other characters.

Other Meet Locations:

White Rabbit:

This is the only Meet and Greet where White Rabbit appears.

Alice:

1. Epcot – Alice appears along the promenade in the United Kingdom Pavilion.  Her lines are usually longer there.
2. Grand Floridian Resort – She meets diners at the 1900 Park Fare Breakfast Buffet.
3. Grand Floridian Resort – She meets guests at the Wonderland Tea Party.

Gaston – Would Probably Like to Have More Antlers

Priority: Low

Location:

Gaston meets out in front of his Tavern in New Fantasyland.  Be Our Guest Restaurant is to his left and Journey of the Little Mermaid to the right.

Usual Meet Times:

• 10am – 10:40am
• 11am – 11:40am
• 12pm – 12:40pm
• 1pm – 1:40pm
• 2pm – 2:40pm
• 3:50pm – 4:30pm
• 4:50pm – 5:30pm
• 6pm – 6:30pm
• 7pm – 7:30pm

Process: Gaston’s Meet and Greet is among the most informal at Disney World, to the point where there may not even be a line to greet him.  Guests are encouraged to form a group in front of him and take turns interacting and taking pictures with him.  When crowds are heavier, he may greet closer to the bridge and have a line that runs up the side of the bridge.

Interaction:

Among the best.  Gaston may very well have more personality than any other Disney character.  Expect to swoon.

Best Times to Meet: Pop over when it’s convenient.  New Fantasyland is sort of out of the way, so you may be around here at 10am to ride Journey of the Little Mermaid and meet Ariel.  You would want to meet Gaston at that same time.  Crowds are also low in the early evening.  He isn’t a major priority in most circumstances.

Other Meet Locations: A man as important as Gaston can only be found in one place.  And this is it.

Peter Pan – Lost Boy

Priority: Low

Location:

Peter Pan usually meets just outside of Adventureland around the bridge that connects it with the Hub.  In the first image, his back is to Main Street and Crystal Palace.  In the second image, his back is to Adventureland with the bridge on the far right side.

Usual Meet Times:

• 8:30am – 9am if Magic Kingdom opens at 8am
• 9:15am – 9:55am
• 10:10am – 10:35am
• 12pm – 12:35pm
• 1:45pm – 2:15pm
• 3:30pm – 4pm

Process: Find him then enter the short line that will be to either side of him.

Interaction: Great, especially if someone in your party is dressed like a pirate or fairy.

Best Times to Meet: I recommend arriving around 3:25pm for the 3:30pm Meet.  Only one or two people will be in the area waiting for him to appear, if that, since his break is so long.  Otherwise, arriving here about 5 minutes before he’s scheduled to appear for any of this meets will result in short waits.  Most people will have other priorities early in the morning.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Contemporary Resort: After the Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage that sets sail from the Contemporary Resort, Peter Pan will be on the dock to greet you upon the completion of your voyage.
2. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2011 – Peter Pan met with Wendy in her blue dress next to Mickey’s PhilharMagic in Fantasyland.

The Tremaines – Drizella, Anastasia, and Lady Tremaine – Classic Attire – Very Sexy

Priority: Low

Location: The Tremaines greet behind Cinderella Castle.

Usual Meet Times:

• 9am – 9:40am
• 10:20am – 10:45am
• 11:15am – 11:50am

Process: Simply get in line, wait for your turn, and hope no one in your party is wearing a Cinderella or Prince Charming costume.  They don’t care much for them.  Actually, try to dress someone in your party up like Cinderella or Prince Charming.  Ask Drizella to show a little ankle.  She’ll be flattered and Anastasia will kick you.

Interaction: Best.  The Tremaines are hilarious.

Wait Times: Short, usually just 5 to 10 minutes.

Best Times to Meet: I would arrive around 11:10am for the 11:15am meet.  While waits are short, they don’t greet for much of the day, so you will need to visit before lunch.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Grand Floridian Resort – Lady Tremaine, Anastasia, and Drizella host dinner at 1900 Park Fare along with Prince Charming and Cinderella.

Chip and Dale – We Love America

Priority: Low

Location:

Chip and Dale greet in Donald’s old spot in Frontierland, which is across from the Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade on the walkway that connects Liberty Square and Frontierland.

Usual Meet Times:

• 9:15am – 1:45pm with intermittent breaks

Process: Their line runs casually off to the right of them.  Wait your turn.

Interaction: Good, considering they don’t talk much.  These are two of the naughtier Disney characters and they like to get themselves into trouble.

Wait Times: If you don’t have to wait through a break, waits should be in the 10 to 15 minute range.

Best Times to Meet: If you see them in the morning with a short line, I’d pop in line.  Otherwise, I’m not sure there’s a specific time that would be better than others.  Like the other characters, early is better.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Animal Kingdom – Chip and Dale meet at Camp Minnie-Mickey Greeting Trails in their usual attire.  From the middle of November through New Year’s, they meet in scarfs and hats.
2. Epcot – They appear outside the Character Spot across from the entrance to the Land Pavilion in their usual attire (naked).  Lines are usually shorter.
3. Epcot -  They greet diners at Garden Grill in their usual attire (still naked) along with Mickey and Pluto.
4. Hollywood Studios – Chip and Dale meet at the Sorcerer’s Hat in the morning in hats and ties, usually until noon.  Lines are usually shorter before 10am but may be longer from 11am – 12pm.
5. Fort Wilderness – They join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy at Mickey’s Backyard BBQ in their grill master outfits.
6. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2012 – Chip and Dale hosted a dance party in Tomorrowland with Stitch, Pluto, and Goofy in the same outfits they wear in Tomorrowland.
7. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2012 – Chip and Dale hosted a dance party at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe wearing scarfs and hat with Goofy and Pluto.

Fairy Godmother – Sparkly

Priority: Lowest

Location: Fairy Godmother is usually behind Cinderella Castle near the entrance to Cinderella’s Royal Table.  She can also be to the left of the Castle Couture store.

This is the Fairy Godmother to the left of Castle Couture. If you don’t see her to the left or right of the back of Cinderella Castle, look here.

Usual Meet Times:

• 8:30am – 9am if the Park opens at 8am
• 9:40am – 10:20am
• 11:50am – 12:30pm
• 12:45pm – 1:20pm

Process: Her line is off to the side of where she meets.  Wait your turn and hope that she grants you a wish with fewer strings than Cinderella’s.

Interaction: Excellent.  Few characters are sweeter.

Wait Times: Wait times are usually just five minutes.  She isn’t in the most obvious location and she disappears so often that long lines rarely form.

Best Times to Meet: I would meet her in conjunction with the Tremaines in the late morning.

Other Meet Locations: None.  At one time, Fairy Godmother met at Cinderella’s Royal Table and dinner at 1900 Park Fare.  As of this moment, she no longer meets at either location.  Cinderella’s Royal Table features more princesses at each meal and 1900 Park Fare includes Cinderella, Prince Charming, and the Tremaines.

Mary Poppins – White/Red Dress and Umbrella

Priority: Lowest

Location: Mary Poppins meets around Town Square.  Normally, she is right in front of Tony’s Town Square Restaurant and The Chapeau:

The first image above shows where you can expect to find Mary Poppins.  Her exact location depends on whether other characters are present.  In the second image, she’s standing in front of The Chapeau store on Main Street.

Usual Meet Times:

• 8:20pm – 9am if Magic Kingdom opens at 8am
• 9:20am – 10am
• 10:15am – 11am
• 11:15am – 12pm
• 1:15pm – 1:50pm
• 2:10pm – 2:45pm

Process: The line should be short, nearby, and informal.  Look for the few people in a little line nearby.

Interaction: Good.  It’s Mary Poppins and she’s usually “very” in character, which leads to the occasional snooty interaction.  I’m sure it will be fine though.

Wait Times: Afternoon wait times are usually short – in the 5 to 10 minute range.

Best Times to Meet: Most people won’t want to take the time to meet her in the early morning.  I would arrive about five minutes before she’s scheduled to appear for the 1:15pm or 2:10pm appearance.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Epcot – Mary Poppins meets throughout the afternoon in the United Kingdom Pavilion.  Her lines are usually much longer there.
2. Grand Floridian Resort – Mary Poppins meets diners at 1900 Park Fare breakfast.

Snow White – Standard Attire

Priority: Lowest

Location:

Snow White meets outside Town Square Theater/Tony’s Town Square Restaurant on the right side of Main Street.

Usual Meet Times:

• 8:20am – 8:50am if Magic Kingdom opens at 8am
• 9:20am – 9:45am
• 10am – 10:35am
• 10:55am – 11:30am
• 12:50pm – 1:25pm
• 1:50pm – 2:15pm

Process: Like the other less formal Meet and Greets, Snow White’s line simply runs off to the side of her.

Interaction: Good, so long as you don’t bring a poison apple.  She can be a little more snobby than the other princesses, for whatever reason.

Wait Times: Waits are generally in the ten minute range, though they can occasionally be longer if a large group or two gets in line.

Best Times to Meet: Sometime after 12pm would be best in most situations.  Arrive in the area around 12:45pm or 1:45pm to find shortest waits.  Most people will have higher morning priorities since afternoon waits are shorter than the other characters.

Other Meet Locations:

1. Epcot – Snow White greets guests in the Germany Pavilion in the same outfit.  Wait times are generally longer there.
2. Epcot – Snow White meets diners at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in the Norway Pavilion in the same outfit.
3. Magic Kingdom – Snow white meets diners at Cinderella’s Royal Table in the same outfit.

Mickey Mouse – Mickey In His Magician Outfit

Priority: Lowest

Location:

Mickey Mouse is located in Town Square Theater, which is the same building as the Princess Meet and Greet.  Just after you enter Magic Kingdom and pass underneath the railroad station, you’ll see this building on your right.  Walk up the steps and enter the queue on the right.

FASTPASS: Mickey Mouse and the Princesses are the only two characters at Walt Disney World that offer FASTPASS.  However, unlike the Princesses, the Mickey Mouse FASTPASSes are not connected to the rest of the system.  This means you can pull Mickey FASTPASSes and then pull FASTPASSes for any other attraction immediately after (assuming you’re eligible for a set of FASTPASSes).

In the picture above, we have a Mickey Mouse FASTPASS that was collected at 9am and a Jungle Cruise FASTPASS that was collected at 9:07am.  The Mickey Mouse FASTPASS has a return time of 9:40am and the Jungle Cruise has a return time of 9:45am.  Although the Mickey Mouse FASTPASS says that I need to wait five minutes until I could collect another FASTPASS, I could actually collect FASTPASSes for the Princesses right after.

Usual Meet Times: Mickey Mouse meets from regular theme park opening to one hour prior to regular theme park close.

Process:

After you walk up the stairs to Town Square Theater, you’ll be greeted by these two lines.  For Mickey Mouse, take the right door.  If you have FASTPASSes, tell the cast member manning the queue.  Inside, you’ll find a variety of interactive posters and artwork.  If you have FASTPASSes, you’ll head directly through to the picture below.  If you don’t, you’ll wait your turn in the room with said posters.

Next, you’ll be positioned in front of a door in the next area.  It’s pretty drab.

When it’s your turn, you’ll enter through the door and then enter into yet another line.  Then it’s Mickey Time!!

Interaction: Good.  It’s Mickey after all.  He no longer ordinarily appears with Minnie, who has moved back to Pete’s Silly Sideshow.

Wait Times: Somewhat surprisingly, Mickey Mouse ordinarily has the shortest posted wait in the Magic Kingdom.  You can chalk it up to having a lot of help back there.  With a FASTPASS, you can still expect to wait about 10 minutes because you’ll have to wait in the second and third lines before you make it to Mickey.  In the standby line, plan to add another ten minutes.  But all rooms are nicely air-conditioned and Town Square Theater itself is interesting to peruse while you wait.

Best Times to Meet: Whenever it’s convenient is fine.  Since you can pick up a FASTPASS virtually any time, most people will want to meet Mickey in the afternoon or evening.  He isn’t a morning priority.  And because he’s somewhat hidden inside the Theater, the kids won’t pass him and demand to get in line.

Other Meet Locations: Now you’ve done it.

1. Animal Kingdom – Mickey meets in his safari/park ranger(?) outfit at Camp Minnie-Mickey.  Waits are usually longer to much longer.  He is expected to move to the old Beastly Bazaar building sometime in April.  From mid-November through December, he wears a Christmas sweater and Santa hat.  During the holidays, his lines will be even longer.
2. Animal Kingdom - Mickey meets diners at Tusker House Restaurant in his safari outfit for breakfast and lunch.
3. Epcot – Mickey meets in his classic outfit along with Minnie and Pluto at the Character Spot.  Afternoon waits are longer (20 to 45 minutes), but you do get to meet one character after the other.
4. Epcot – Mickey meets diners at Garden Grill in his farmer’s outfit.  He meets along with Pluto, Chip, and Dale.
5. Hollywood Studios – Mickey meets inside the Animation Building as Sorcerer Mickey.  Lines are usually longer – 20 to 40 minutes.
6. Contemporary Resort – Mickey meets diners at Chef Mickey’s in his chef outfit along with Minnie, Pluto, Chip, and Dale.
7. Fort Wilderness Campsite – Mickey meets diners at Mickey’s Backyard BBQ in his cowboy (hoe-down?) outfit along with Goofy, Chip, and Dale.
8. Polynesian Resort – Mickey meets diners in his luau outfit along with Lilo, Stitch, and Pluto.
9. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2012 – Mickey met with Minnie in his pirate costume in Town Square Theater.
10. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2012 – Mickey met with Minnie in his finest red and green suit.

Beast – His Version of a Tuxedo

Priority: Must have dinner at Be Our Guest Restaurant

Location:

Beast greets guests inside Be Our Guest Restaurant in the room just off to the right once you enter the Castle.  This doubles as the area where you would place your order at lunch.

Usual Meet Times: Dinner service begins at 4:30pm and Beast should appear at 5pm.  He walks through the restaurant and then begins greeting guests.  He’ll make a pass through the restaurant every half hour or so to remind people that he’s present and foreboding. He continues appearing until the last guests leave.

Process: After finishing dinner and (hopefully) paying the bill, your server should inform you that you can head over to meet Beast.  This is one meet where character attendants will try to get groups to take one picture together, which in turn lowers wait times for everyone else.  If you want multiple pictures, it would be best to split your group up into smaller parties and then reconvene at the end for a larger group shot.  Of course, you may just want the one picture.  The only way to meet him is to have dinner at the Restaurant, which you most likely will need a reservation for.

Interaction: Poor in the grand scheme of things.  It’s cool to see him, but he does not interact much and doesn’t sign autographs.

Wait Times: It depends on how many people have recently finished their meals and there isn’t a whole lot you can do to mitigate waits.  Expect to wait around ten minutes.

Best Times to Meet: After dinner is really your only option.  There would be fewer people in line earlier in the evening.

Other Meet Locations: This is it.