Hi Derek,
How fantastic your Granddaughter will be at Disney World for her birthday. If you haven't done so already be sure to sign her up by clicking
HERE (you may need to click "visit US site" at the top of the left hand side of the UK site and then click it again to get it to work) she will then be able to choose a special gift from Disney if you visit the parks on her actual birthday.
Character meals are available to all guests at Disney not just resort guests, even the restaurants which are in the Disney hotels, so don't worry that you're staying off-site. As it's so close to your trip you may not have much choice so I really recommend you call 001-407-939-3463 as soon as possible to see what's available.
Where you should dine all depends on which characters your Granddaughter loves, for Princesses try and get reservations at Cinderella's Royal Table in the Magic Kingdom (MK) or Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot. Winnie the Pooh and friends can be found at the Crystal Palace in MK and a nice breakfast can be found with Donald and friends at Tusker House in Animal Kingdom. For resort breakfasts 'Ohana at the Polynesian has a great one with Lilo & Stitch, there's Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary and for a very English breakfast with Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter try 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian. Have a look
HERE and under dining experience on the left hand side choose character dining for more information.
I really hope you manage to book something and have a great trip,
Jo