So you may have noticed that I enjoy meeting characters at the Disney parks. ;) A few weeks back I had about two hours in DCA to do whatever I wanted all by myself, so I set about taking as many character photos as I could. I took all those above and more!
Anyway, I thought people might like some tips on how to have the most efficient character experience at DCA! If you get to these areas and don't see a character, keep an eye out for a PhotoPass photographer and/or character host. The host can be identified by the rectangular "Ask me about Characters" buttons. That's a good sign that a character is on their way, but you can certainly ask the host as they have the schedule.
First up, when you enter the gates, scan to the left and right. On the left, by Oswald's Filling Station is the newest M&G, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. To the right, you may see Chip & Dale. I have usually found them near the benches in front, near the trolley. I've yet to meet Oswald, so I would make a beeline there! Continue down Buena Vista Street and you can meet some of the Fab 5 in their 1930's garb. Typically you will see Mickey, Goofy, or Pluto outside of Elias and Co. on the left and Trolley Treats on the right. On very rare occasions I have seen Minnie, Donald and Daisy but that tends to be for special events. Also wandering around are the Citizens of Buena Vista Street (Molly the Messenger, Donna and Lady, PhiPhi the Photographer, and Officer Blue).
After BVS, head towards Hollywood Land. Over by the Animation Building, in front of the Once Upon a Time costumes, you will find Disney Junior characters like Sofia the First, Jake (Neverland Pirates) and Doc McStuffins. A little further down I sometimes see The Incredibles characters (Mr. & Mrs. or Frozone), either on the corner or over in front of the Hyperion Theater. Make a left to Monsters U and see if Sulley is greeting. Remember, he doesn't sign autographs and his line often closes quickly, so don't daudle! It's best to look for him early, I don't often see him out after 3. If you are a Disney Visa customer, present your card at the special M&G behind the House of Cards from 10:30-1:30. Normally I see Minnie and Stitch there, but lately Daisy and Pluto have been spotted as well. Remember to use the voucher they give you for a free 5x7!
At this point, you can walk over to A Bug's Land. The only character I know that meets here now is Flik. I believe Atta used to appear as well. There is a little area over by the watermelon of Heimlich's Chew Chew Train where he is usually to be found.
As you leave A Bug's Land, you might see Red the Firetruck on the right, across from Luigi's Flying Tires. I've also seen him meeting at the Cozy Cone Motel, alternating with Lightning McQueen and Mater. Obviously none of the cars sign. DJ also comes out for a little street show, but does not do M&G
If you've made it this far, you're doing pretty well, half way there! Walk through Pacific Wharf up to Paradise Pier. Duffy is no longer meeting over at Treasures in Paradise, so keep walking to the gazebo next to the Cove Bar (Ariel's Grotto). In the past I've met Captain Mickey here, but usually it's Sailor Donald or Daisy. Walk around towards Toy Story Midway Mania. Across the way is a covered area where characters sometimes meet. I've met Phineas and Ferb there, but this is not typical. Past the boardwalk shops on the left is the Toy Story M&G, where you may see Buzz, Woody, or Jessie. On that day, I caught Buzz and Jessie enjoying a little "Spanish mode" fun.
Over near Paradise Garden Grill there is sometimes seasonal entertainment with character M&G, though nothing is going on right now. For example, last Christmas they had a Mexican theme with the Three Caballeros and Mexican costumed Mickey, Goofy, etc. and for Lunar New Year Mulan and Mushu rotated with Chinese costumed characters.
Turn left at Ariel's Undersea Adventure to Redwood Creek. Sometimes you may see Russell or Dug meeting out near the Eureka building of Grizzly River Run. However, usually Russell greets guests after the Wilderness Explorer Ceremony inside the Redwood Creek Challenge area. Dug can also be found inside the entrance.
Finally, look for the propeller plane over at Condor Flats to see Aviator Minnie. She used to wear an Amelia Earhart type flight suit, but currently dresses in her "Fly Girls" uniform. Goofy also used to meet here, but I haven't seen him in years.
Well, I think that's it! If you haven't caught all of the characters at this point, but have more time, you can always circle around back, lol! Hope that's been helpful and maybe I'll do a little walk through of the Disneyland characters sometime.
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