Hi, Melissa! My own Tween helped with these suggestions!
My daughter loves DisneyQuest. Something totally different from being in the theme parks or surrounded by characters for a special day, this is perfect for Tweens! There are virtual reality experiences, arcade games, Disney art lessons, and much more.
How about bowling? Splitsville is a unique experience in Downtown Disney, with lanes set up almost in pods, so you feel like it's a much more intimate experience. Food at Splitsville is really delicious, and it can be a whole evening celebration with dinner and a couple of rounds of bowling.
Another great Downtown Disney option is the Fork and Screen experience at the AMC movie theater. You'll be seated in big, comfortable seats while a server brings a really delicious dinner right to your seat. You can have a nice dinner and enjoy the movie, then head over to Ghirardelli's ice cream parlor for a delicious birthday sundae.
If you want to do something in the parks, consider one of the backstage tours. She is old enough now to check out something like the
Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom, which gets big thumbs up from my Tween. Check out some of the other
Back Stage Tours to see what's available at the other theme parks.
Also, look at some of the
Disney Birthday Celebration offerings. You'll find birthday cakes, in room celebrations, and other special birthday suggestions!
Have an awesome time on your first trip - and a very happy birthday to your daughter!