When my parents told me we were going to Walt Disney World for the first time, I was 16 years old. As anyone would imagine, I was excited to see the place I have only experienced in movies and television. One thing I never really understood when time got closer was the fact I was going to meet Micky Mouse, Goofy, Tigger, and all the other amazing characters I have grown up with. As many people know teenagers are an interesting group of people, too cool for this, too cool for that. I wasn’t sure what I felt inside except I was crazy excited to meet them.
The day came and it was off to Magic Kingdom! When I visited for the first time in 2001, characters still wandered around with little to no lines, and you just waited for your turn to hop in for your pictures with the immortal character. It was my time, I walked up with my autograph book (which I still have), and then and there I got my first picture and autograph from the one and only Tigger. Did I feel a little silly, yes but I could have just burst with excitement and was ready to run to the next character. Walt Disney World is not a place where people look at you like you are too old or shouldn’t be doing something. Walt Disney World, the characters, and the experiences are for everyone, and everyone can assure that childish wonder will overtake them and feel 100% comfortable doing so.
I do suggest bringing your autograph book instead of purchasing one as they can be pretty spendy. Making one would be a great way to get ready for the trip and make an extra memory in the process. If it is your first time seeing the characters, save your book and use it for future trips. I had my son use mine from my first trip and it was awesome seeing a new generation loving the same thing as I did so many years ago.
Finding characters has become incredibly easy these days with the My Disney Experience App. All you must do is choose your park and find the character Meet and Greet list, it will tell you when and where your specific character can be located. No worries about hunting them down or wondering if they are even there!
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