Hi Michael,
Disney is a great place to celebrate a birthday! Be sure to pick up a "Happy Birthday" button for your daughter at any Guest Relations location.
I think a
special meal is a perfect way to celebrate a birthday. Your 12 year old may or may not think she's too old for a character meal. If she does, I think she'd enjoy one of these great places:
* Be Our Guest Restaurant
* 'Ohana
* Planet Hollywood
* Rainforest Cafe
* Via Napoli
* Whispering Canyon Cafe
In my experience, my boys lived for the moment when they were 14 months old. They loved the Magic Kingdom and meeting all the characters. A character meal like The Crystal Palace or Chef Mickey's is perfect for that age. I think you would also all enjoy the Tomorrowland Terrace Fireworks Dessert Party because it will give you a great view of the fireworks and some elbow room for your little one to stretch his legs while you wait.
I recently answered a question for another Guest that gave her some
suggestions for her adventurous daughter that you may find helpful for some ideas for your birthday girl.
You said that you are going to be visiting during the fall. If you are there during any of the
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates, I highly recommend attending one of the events. It is spooktacular fun for the whole family and what better way to celebrate a fall birthday.
Please feel free to visit with any other questions. We're thrilled to help! Wishing you minnie magical memories :-) Allison