By Guest Blogger Liliane Opsomer, co-author of the "Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids"
If meeting Cinderella is a must on your Disney vacation, I strongly recommend Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner at 1900 Park Fare. Not only do you get to meet Cinderella and her beau, but I can guarantee you that this will be the most fun character dining experience you will ever have.
Although tempted, I did not put on my regal attire, but I certainly did show up with my tiara, and if your little princess wants to meet Cinderella, I say this is the time to go all out -- dress, jewels and all.
If you are like me, you would expect the star to come and meet you upon arrival, but instead of Cinderella and Eric, it was Drizella and Anastasia who made their rounds in the dining area. They were hilarious, and I quickly forgot about meeting Cinderella and Prince Charming.
But no worries, as time went by, the princess and her consort came to greet the guests, they even danced for our royal entertainment. And did I mention Lady Tremaine? She really is a hoot! Lady Tremaine and her daughters did a great job staying in character with the kids and the adults. Anastasia actually asked me if I was “eligible,” while Drizella complained to me that Cinderella was ruining her evening.
If your child is into meeting characters, this is the place to be. Cinderella, Prince Charming, the evil sisters and their mom stop at each table for photos and autographs. It is most certainly a good way to avoid losing time in the parks for pictures and autographs.
Dining at 1900 Park Fare also gives you the opportunity to discover the Grand Floridian resort, which is modeled on classic Victorian beach resorts. The five-story grand lobby with dome and chandelier is a sight to behold.
I suggest you get done with dinner just in time for viewing the fireworks over the Magic Kingdom. Proceed to the swimming pool area of the hotel, or the dock. If you are lucky, you can get one of the benches, sit down, relax and enjoy the show.
Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner offers an all-you-can-eat buffet with entrees such as salmon and roasted prime rib. Kid-friendly fare like chicken, cheese pizza, and macaroni and cheese is also available. To top it all, there is a huge bowl of gummy bears! Adult price range: $38.33-$42.59; Child (ages 3-9) price range: $19.16-$21.29. Tax is included; gratuity is not. A non-alcoholic, non-specialty beverage is included in this price.
A one-day cancellation policy, the credit card guarantee policy, applies. So if you have a change of plans, make sure you cancel in time! Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner at 1900 Park Fare counts for 1 meal if you are on the Disney dining plan.
Also available at the Grand Floridian is the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast hosted by Mary Poppins, as well as the Wonderland Tea Party in the afternoon, where Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter and friends entertain kids ages 4 to 12 with an hour of stories, games, cupcakes and a special "tea" (apple juice).
For all dining reservations call 407-939-3463.
Related: Top 10 Character Greeting Tips
Related: 10 Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs) Worth Making for Your Family
Liliane Opsomer is the co-author of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids. Find her on Facebook.