It’s an exciting time to be a fan of The Little Mermaid.
The new live-action The Little Mermaid movie is now playing in theaters, there’s a ton of NEW Ariel merchandise, AND the live-action version of Ariel is now meeting guests in Disney World. However, you might notice that there are TWO Ariel meet-and-greet experiences in Disney World, and the My Disney Experience app has changed how it lists these experiences.
Yes, you have a chance to meet TWO versions of Ariel in Disney World right now — the animated version of the character meets guests in Magic Kingdom AND the new live-action version of Ariel is meeting guests in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
To differentiate between the two, you might notice a change made in the My Disney Experience app. The animated version of Ariel says, “Ariel (From the Animated Story).” You’ll find this meet and greet in Magic Kingdom at Ariel’s Grotto in Fantasyland.
The live-action meet-and-greet says, “Ariel (From the Live-Action Story).” This meet and greet is in the Walt Disney Presents building at Hollywood Studios.
While we’re on the subject of My Disney Experience, do you know how to see the times that EVERY character appears in the parks? Let us show you a handy little tip! First, while on the My Disney Experience app, tap the map icon next to the home icon at the bottom of the screen.

©Disney
From there, filter to whichever park you plan to visit by tapping the “Filter” button in the top left corner. Then, tap Wait Times right at the top of your screen, tap Characters, then tap “Show List” in the top right corner. Tap on any character on the list to see all the times that they will appear!

©Disney
If you’re looking out for a specific version of Ariel in Disney World, make sure to look for the new differentiation. Also, if you’re wanting to celebrate all things Little Mermaid, be sure to check out all the NEW mermaid-inspired treats in the parks.
We’ll continue to keep you updated on ALL things Disney World, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB for more.
In the meantime, have you seen the DFB Ariel’s Favorite Things Gear?
We’ve got tees, totes, accessory pouches, a dress, and more!
Melissa McCarthy Reveals SECRETS About Disney’s New ‘Little Mermaid’ Movie — Check It Out!
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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
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