Hiya, Taylor! Welcome to planDisney!
Let me be one of the first people to wish you a happy (early) birthday. Whether you’re turning 1, 21, or 101, I can’t think of a better place to celebrate another trip around the sun than Walt Disney World. There are so many amazing celebratory options at the parks and resort hotels, and much fun as EPCOT’s World Showcase can be, there are some of my favorite alternatives.
My first and favorite recommendation is
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at the Polynesian Village Resort, as well as its outdoor off-shoot
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace. This tropical tiki bar has some of the best drinks at Walt Disney World (try the Hippopoto-Mai-Tai or Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum), as well as the best decor. Which is probably why it’s such a popular spot! And after hanging out with the skippers at Trader Sam’s, you can hop on the Monorail to the Grand Floridian’s Enchanted Rose or Contemporary Resort’s Steakhouse 71 to continue your birthday celebration.
If celebrating at EPCOT is a priority, then I’d suggest checking out
GEO-82. This upscale lounge is for guests 21 years and up, so you’ll be newly able to visit, and the cocktails are inventive and delicious. If you’re looking for some special activities outside of the lounges, you might consider booking a special tour, like the
Behind the Seeds tour, or a
Capture Your Magic photo session to commemorate your birthday visit. There’s also
Disney After Hours at EPCOT on select nights, which may overlap with your stay, depending on the number of days you’ll be visiting.
I hope these recommendations help with your birthday planning, Taylor. However you decide to celebrate, make sure you stop by Guest Relations to get your complimentary birthday button. Also, be sure to enjoy your big day responsibly and don’t forget to drink plenty of water! It’s like I always say: hydrate, feel great!
Magical travels!
Matt