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  • On Apr 22, 2025
    Helen from Merseyside Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Where would you recommend to celebrate a big birthday? We'll have a 9yr old with us so want somewhere relaxed but special. We're staying at French Quarter. First time at Disney (& the US!) for both my husband and daughter.

    Welcome to planDisney, Helen! And a very merry unbirthday to you! It looks like you've got a lot to celebrate on your upcoming visit to the Walt Disney World Resort, and I'm excited to offer you some suggestions to make your celebration magical!

    Helen, there are so many fantastic choices for a birthday celebration, but I'm going to offer you three recommendations so you can decide which one best fits your vacation style and budget!

    My first suggestion is to celebrate with a character dining experience; these interactive meals are fun for guests of all ages and promise you lots of great birthday photos and fun! Some of my favorite character meals include brunch at Topolino's Terrace inside of Disney's Riviera Resort for the amazing rooftop views and delicious meal offerings, dinner at Garden Grill Restaurant in EPCOT for its unique atmosphere and all-you-can-eat platters, and any meal time at Chef Mickey's in Disney's Contemporary Resort for special character interactions and proximity to Magic Kingdom Park if you're planning to head to the parks on the same day!

    My second suggestion is to celebrate at a Disney Springs dining location; staying at Port Orleans Resort offers you the opportunity to travel by boat down the Sassagoula River to the shopping and dining area. We celebrated my daughter's 16th birthday at Planet Hollywood and it was a relaxed vibe, but they made it special by announcing her birthday on the big screens as we dined! Another great option at Disney Springs is Summer House on the Lake; it's got a diverse menu, a casual but upscale atmosphere, and all of the options I've had have been delicious! 

    My final suggestion is to celebrate at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue! Helen, this is my absolute favorite dining experience in all of Disney! The dinner show will have you clapping your hands, stamping your feet, and splitting your side with the laughter and antics of the Pioneer Players! Your daughter will have a fantastic time, and they love a celebration over at Pioneer Hall, so you're sure to get some special birthday attention!

    No matter where you celebrate, be sure to also treat yourselves to some birthday beignets at your home resort during your visit! As a New Orleans native, they really are worth trying!

    I hope this helps, Helen, and I hope you have a magical trip and an amazing birthday celebration! If you have any other questions before your arrival, come back to planDisney and let us know! We're happy to celebrate with you!

    See you real soon,
    Alison

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Meet the Panelist: Alison, Louisiana

I'm Alison - a wife, mom, and teacher from New Orleans, LA. My first childhood visit to the Walt Disney World Resort sparked a lifelong love of this magical place, and I still find magic in both the new and nostalgic on each visit! I understand the changing dynamics of planning a practically perfect vacation; no matter how large your group is or what your interests are, I look forward to helping you create magical memories and discover unique experiences to make them even more enchanting! Learn More About Alison

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