Check out our monthly Character Magic column in each issue for tips , autograph book alternatives , and topics for memorable chats with a new character .
MEALS , MARKERS , & MORE If autographs are high on your must-do list , try character meals .
Between Magic Kingdom and nearby hotels , you can check a lot of boxes :
• A royal party of princesses at Cinderella ’ s Royal Table .
• The Fab Five at Chef Mickey ’ s at the Contemporary Resort .
• Mary , Alice , and a few lovely friends for breakfast or Cinderella , Prince Charming , and the Tremaines at dinner at 1900 Park Fare at Grand Floridian .
Meals get you photos , autographs , minimal lines , air conditioning , sustenance , and a chance to rest your tired feet . Wins all around .
Just remember : Mickey has chubby fingers . Pluto ’ s a dog . Tiana has a restaurant to run . Make it easy for busy characters and bring a marker . Pens are OK , but a big , thick Sharpie is easy to grab , doesn ’ t fade , and makes for a good , visible autograph .
Be colorful ! Minnie loves red . Alice and Donald blue . Tigger orange . Rapunzel and Pooh yellow . You can have a whole rainbow of autographs , and characters love to see their favorite color .
Make sure your autograph item has plenty of space for personality . Ariel may draw some bubbles . Anastasia and Princess Aurora sometimes give a kiss with their autographs . Aladdin adds a lamp . Donald may even show his softer side with a heart for Daisy .
Speaking of personality , these characters are fun and fairly difficult to find , and they ’ ve given our family unforgettable Magic Kingdom moments .
• Gaston in Fantasyland near his tavern
• The Evil Stepsisters in various locations behind Cinderella Castle
• Mad Hatter hanging near his tea party
• Merida in Fantasyland
• Stitch in Tomorrowland
• Jasmine & Aladdin near the bazaar in Adventureland
Each character has their own unique signature that ' s full of personality . TOP LEFT : Donald and Daisy Duck . TOP RIGHT : Princess Aurora complete with a kiss . MIDDLE : Aladdin and Jasmine . BOTTOM : Whether you ' re a kid or just a kid at heart , autographs and character meets are a magical experience . PHOTOS BY TRISHA DAAB