Character dining- empty nester

[rentayenta]

That day has come. Made our ADRs yesterday, told the kids, and confirmed that it all sounded great. Asked again if they were sure they didn't want to do any character meals and I got a unanimous: YES, we're sure!

They grow up so fast.

Looking forward to this next stage of Disney.

I never thought I'd see the day when Saana and F&W kiosks would be more appealing to them than a meal with Chip n Dale.

 

[SLM]

Next summer will be our first time back at character meals since 1995! Our grandson will be three years old and our daughter and her husband are ready to take him to Disney World-I am so looking forward to Chef Mickey's and some of the new ones we never got to experience. So I understand how it will seem funny not to eat with characters-but I enjoyed touring with a teenager as well-it's such a good place to let be a little independent but still safe.

 

[mdsd8700]

That day has come. Made our ADRs yesterday, told the kids, and confirmed that it all sounded great. Asked again if they were sure they didn't want to do any character meals and I got a unanimous: YES, we're sure!

They grow up so fast.

My kids would probably prefer to vacation with you. Gone are the numerous character meals per trip but we still always do at least one and my kids are 15and 18. I really like the character pictures and since I know they won't stop to see characters at least this way I get a few pictures. My kids are okay with it, but I am sure wouldn't mind if we didn't do it either!!

Enjoy your trip!

 

[twinklebug]

My kids would probably prefer to vacation with you. Gone are the numerous character meals per trip but we still always do at least one and my kids are 15and 18. I really like the character pictures and since I know they won't stop to see characters at least this way I get a few pictures. My kids are okay with it, but I am sure wouldn't mind if we didn't do it either!!

Enjoy your trip!

Mine are about your's ages. Son chose CM as a dinner this last trip which really surprised me. Not so much for the food or price, but as it shows he still loves the characters

Daughter has discovered the joys of the Gluten Free Mickey waffles at Ohanas and loves goofing around with Stitch.

 

[dissybroad]

If it's any consolation, there's always grandchildren. I love our multi-generational trips!

 

[Ms. WDW]

That day has come. Made our ADRs yesterday, told the kids, and confirmed that it all sounded great. Asked again if they were sure they didn't want to do any character meals and I got a unanimous: YES, we're sure!

They grow up so fast.

Looking forward to this next stage of Disney.

I never thought I'd see the day when Saana and F&W kiosks would be more appealing to them than a meal with Chip n Dale.

Here's one better; our son lost all interest in WDW around the age of 15!! Even with the offer of bringing a friend he really had no desire to go. I guess my "love of the Mouse" just didn't wear off on him....Oh where did I go wrong?????

 

[Rob S.]

My wife and I go to WDW at least 3 times a year alone (no kids). We do a character meal every other trip or so. Our favorite is Crystal Palace. I see lots of adult couples doing the same thing. Don't be afraid to make a reservation without any children.

 

[Ms. WDW]

Heck...I take a solo trip each year and I love having a characer meal!!

 

[spiceycat]

Here's one better; our son lost all interest in WDW around the age of 15!! Even with the offer of bringing a friend he really had no desire to go. I guess my "love of the Mouse" just didn't wear off on him....Oh where did I go wrong?????

you didn't. he will enjoy WDW again - but it might be when he is in college.

offer him US/IOA instead of WDW and see if that won't at least get him to Orlando.

 

[RumpleMom]

Just wait until you can go without the kids- that's fun too.

DH and I go to a character meal just the two of us.

 

[twinklebug]

you didn't. he will enjoy WDW again - but it might be when he is in college.

offer him US/IOA instead of WDW and see if that won't at least get him to Orlando.

Agree on the IOA! A simple pic from their website should do the trick

Also note there are many other attractions that although they take some driving to get to are worth the effort. Nasa's pretty cool. My next trip will hopefully involve us taking the hour drive to Tampa to visit the Big cat Rescue sanctuary. I'm excited to hopefully get to see them in person and not just through youtube videos.

 

[rentayenta]

Oh yes, our grand babies will get spoiled rotten when it comes to Disney. I hope that's not for many years though.


I hadn't thought of doing a character meal with just myself and DH. It's a good idea. I can hardly get the kids to pose with them anymore either. But me, I'd never give up an opportunity to say to Mickey.


Ms. WDW, I know that day will come for us too with at least one of our kids but for now I'm holding tightly onto the fact that they're counting down. I like the IOA idea too. Maybe it's just Disney?