One of the best parts of a Walt Disney World vacation is meeting favorite characters in person. From classic Disney icons to heroes and villains from across Disney’s many franchises, character meet-and-greets help bring these stories to life in a way that attractions alone can’t.
While Disney World already offers a strong lineup of character experiences, there are still plenty of fan-favorite characters who have yet to receive a permanent presence in the parks. Here are a few dream meet-and-greets I’d love to see added someday.
1. C-3PO and R2-D2
These ARE the droids we’re looking for.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has been open for years now, and frankly, I’m still surprised this meet-and-greet doesn’t exist. The galaxy’s most beloved droids, C-3PO and R2-D2, feel like a natural fit for Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Both characters made appearances during the glory days of Star Wars Weekends (we miss you), and they’ve popped up at special events over the years. A permanent home in Galaxy’s Edge or elsewhere in the park seems like a no-brainer. Will this agony ever end?
2. Indiana Jones
Cue the John Williams score. Indiana Jones has been entertaining audiences for more than four decades… yet guests still can’t meet the legendary adventurer at Walt Disney World.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios would be the obvious choice, especially alongside the existing Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. Looking further ahead, Disney’s Animal Kingdom would also make sense once the new Indy attraction opens within the Tropical Americas area.
We could even have the meet and greet as part of an interactive treasure hunt, similar to Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure, where guests help Indy uncover a mysterious artifact…
3. Mei Lee (Red Panda)
Ever since Mei Lee appeared during Pixar Fest and Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure, I’ve wanted to see Turning Red represented in Florida. What better place than EPCOT’s Canada pavilion?
A meet-and-greet featuring Mei in her red panda form would fit perfectly, and the pavilion could host a colorful Toronto-inspired backdrop. She’s so very huggable, and this would add some much-needed Turning Red representation to Walt Disney World.
4. Ernesto de la Cruz
Marigolds, music, and the power of family. As we know, the world of Coco is a perfect fit for EPCOT’s Mexico pavilion, and an Ernesto de la Cruz meet-and-greet would be the icing on the cake.
We’ve already seen the character appear during Disney California Adventure’s Oogie Boogie Bash and D23 events. His larger-than-life personality would make for memorable interactions, especially in a setting inspired by the Land of the Dead.
Perhaps we could give sombrero-wearing Donald a brief break and let Ernesto take the spotlight for a while… Bonus points if a few alebrije chihuahuas happen to be nearby.
5. The Hitchhiking Ghosts
The Hitchhiking Ghosts are among the most recognizable characters associated with The Haunted Mansion… yet guests still can’t officially meet them? A dedicated character experience in Liberty Square would be an instant hit. Imagine stepping into an eerie indoor setting filled with Haunted Mansion music and atmospheric lighting.
Honestly, I’d settle for a permanent photo opportunity outside the mansion. Or Madame Leota. Or Constance the Bride. Or the Hatbox Ghost. Or any of the other 999 happy haunts!
It’s worth noting that the Hitchhiking Ghosts are known to make appearances atop Frontierland’s rooftops and appear in the Boo-To-You Parade during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Hopefully that’s a sign Disney is at least exploring more opportunities for these fan-favorite characters!
Who Would You Add?
Disney World’s current character lineup is pretty strong, but there’s always room for a few more dream encounters. Whether it’s classic Disney characters, villains, Pixar favorites, Star Wars legends, or theme park originals, there are plenty of possibilities out there.
I’d also love to see some iconic park characters return like the Dreamfinder and Orange Bird. How about Robin Hood, Powerline, Kuzco and Kronk, Bing Bong, Carl and Russell, get their own dedicated meet-and-greets someday? Just to name a few… Who would make your list?
