One of the highlights of each trip to Walt Disney World Resort is the character dining experiences.  We love having the one-on-one interaction with our favorite pals and watching our little guys’ faces light up with delight.

I’ve compiled a completely unscientific list (i.e.: I asked my 2 and 4 year old) of our Five Favorite character dining spots and they are as follows:

5. Cape May Beach Club Breakfast Buffet at Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Surf’s up dude! Join Minnie, Goofy and Donald as they ready for a day at the beach. Some may be scratching their heads at this one as Chef Mickey’s is usually a fan favorite.  We really liked the atmosphere.  It was a bit more laid back; we felt like we could take our time and relax.  There were crayons and paper tablecloths for the kids to draw. And the food was good.  We liked the healthy offerings such as yogurt, fruit and spinach salad.  There are meats and cheeses along with traditional breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, frittatas, and biscuits and gravy.

Cost: $15.99 child, $29.99 adult (please note cost may vary depending on time of year)

This is only a breakfast option. Characters are subject to change.

4. Chip ‘n Dales Harvest Feast at The Garden Grill, Epcot

If you are looking for farm-fresh, delicious food, look no further than The Garden Grill, located in The Land Pavilion.  All food is served family style.  The platters of turkey, beef and fish, along with sides like salads, mashed potatoes and rolls, provide home-cooked comfort in the heart of Epcot.  There is a child’s option available as well that includes chicken, sweet potato fries and mac ‘n cheese.

What is neat about this dining experience is that it rotates through Living with the Land. Plus, guests dine with Farmer Mickey, Pluto and Chip ‘n Dale.

DIStracted Tip- Ask to sit on the lower level for better views of the exhibits.

Cost: $18.99 child, $37.99 adult (please note cost may vary depending on time of year)

This is a dinner only option. Characters are subject to change.

3. Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine at Hollywood and Vine, Disney’s Hollywood Studios

If your little one is a fan of Disney Junior, this is the place to go! This is hands down one of the best, most vibrant, character dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort. There is singing, dancing, and plenty of character interaction. Guests meet Jake, Handy Manny, Doc McStuffins and Sofia the First.

A buffet restaurant, there is a good deal of variety for children and adults.  Both breakfast and lunch have a made-to-order station on the line and there are healthy options available.

Cost: $15.99-$18.99 Child, $29.99-$36.99 Adult (please note cost may vary depending on time of year)

This is a breakfast and lunch option. Characters are subject to change.

2. Donald’s Dining Safari at Tusker House Restaurant, Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Jambo! Located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Tusker House Restaurant is a favorite; combining one of the best character dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort with a delectable buffet.

Photo by MaryBeth

My kids love the music, dancing, and one-on-one attention they get with Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, Minnie Mouse and Mickey Mouse. The photos of our favorites dressed in their safari best are a hit. As parents we love the food! The combination of African flavors and American fare suits our family perfectly. We love to sample the more “exotic” dishes and the Jungle Juice is phenomenal.

Cost: $14.99-$17.99 Child, $25.99-$32.99 Adult (please note cost may vary depending on time of year)

This is a breakfast, lunch and dinner option. Characters are subject to change.

1. Cinderella’s Royal Table, Magic Kingdom Park

A Disney fan dream come true, eating inside Cinderella Castle is an experience like no other.  You feel as though you’ve been transported a few centuries. There are crests and flags, stained glass windows and chandeliers. And the view overlooking Magic Kingdom Park is amazing.

The children are given swords (for boys) or wands (for girls) and each child is given a wishing star upon which they get to make their wishes during the Magical Wishing Ceremony.

Guests meet Cinderella, Snow White, Jasmine, Ariel and Aurora (note the princesses may change) all while feasting on food that is exquisite.

Cost: $33.99- $44.99 Child,   $54.99-74.99 Adult

This is a breakfast, lunch and dinner option. Characters are subject to change.

So what do you think?  Did your favorite make the list?  Which character dining experience would you add? Please comment below.