Spotting the main Mouse himself when you visit Disney World can be surprisingly difficult. While there are many character greeting locations throughout the Disney World theme parks, characters rotate and you never know who you'll see at each location. The following list will give you the best places to meet or see Mickey Mouse in person,so grab your camera and autograph book and get ready to meet the mouse.
1. Mickey's Country House in Toon Town Fair
Stop by Toon Town Fair in the Magic Kingdom and you will have the opportunity to meet Mickey in the "Judge's Tent." You can also tour Minnie's house and Mickey's garden, take a whirl on Goofy's Barnstormer and meet a few other favorite characters at this location.
Tip: Walk to Toon Town after you visit Fantasyland or Tommorowland, or take the train from the Splash Mountain area. Toontown doesn't open until 11 a.m., so you don't need to rush.
2. Fantasmic! (Disney's Hollywood Studios)
© The Walt Disney Company
Head to Disney's Hollywood Studios one evening and see Mickey take on the forces of evil at Fantasmic!, the nighttime fireworks spectacular. You'll see Mickey in action as he duels a host of Disney villains, and enjoy music, fireworks and special effects at this show.
Tip: Arrive early to secure your seat in the Fantasmic! amphitheater; the theater is very large, but the best seats get taken quickly.
3. Chef Mickey's
© The Walt Disney Company
Visit popular Chef Mickey's, located in the Contemporary Resort. You'll enjoy a great meal at the buffet, which is packed with sweet and savory offerings; you'll also get to spend some time with Chef Mickey himself. Classic Mickey characters will stop by and visit your table at this character dining location, giving you time to chat, grab an autograph and snap a photo. You'll enjoy having a little extra time to meet Mickey and friends — and you'll love the food as well.
Tip: Chef Mickey's is one of the most popular restaurants in Disney World, and advanced reservations are a must.
4. Magic of Disney Animation (Disney's Hollywood Studios)
Visit the Magic of Disney Animation pavilion at Hollywood Studios for a tour and animation lesson. While the subject matter is more for adults, the addition of classic animated clips and characters make it appealing for every age group. After your tour, you will be able to spot Mickey in person as he signs autographs in the indoor animation exploration area.
Tip: Keep an eye out for your favorite Pixar characters at this location as well, including the Incredibles, Lightening McQueen and Carl and Doug, the stars of Up. This is a Pixar character hot spot.
5. Character Spot in Epcot
© Dawn Henthorn, licensed to About.com
Visitors to Epcot meet Mickey at at the Character Spot adjacent to Innoventions West. While this location may have a line, it is one of the best places in Epcot to spot Mickey and your favorite classic characters. Don't forget to pack your autograph book, and arrive early to grab a place in line.
Tip: If you arrive at Epcot when it first opens, you will see Mickey and a host of other characters during the park's opening celebration.