Going to the theme parks and living it up in a Disney hotel can be enough to celebrate a special occasion at Walt Disney World, but if you want to sprinkle extra pixie dust on your celebration, there are plenty of ways to do so.
Let's take a look at the variety of ways you can celebrate your birthday, anniversary, or other special occasions at Walt Disney World.
Romantic Anniversary Ideas at Walt Disney World
First and foremost, stop by your Disney hotel front desk or at Guest Relations inside the theme parks and get your button! Just let the Cast Member know you'd like two buttons to share that you're celebrating your anniversary, second honeymoon, or whatever the case may be.
Wear those buttons proudly throughout your trip. You're sure to get lots of congratulations and well wishes.
Did you know you can book a cruise to see fireworks at Walt Disney World? In fact, there are a few Disney fireworks cruise options. The best Disney fireworks cruises for couples are the Magic Kingdom and Epcot Specialty Cruises. Or you can really splurge and go for a private sailing aboard the Grand 1 Yacht out of Disney's Grand Floridian (currently unavailable — we'll update this post when it resumes).
There are also plenty of Disney restaurants with fireworks views.
Disney Floral and Gifts is one the hidden gems of Walt Disney World. It's an absolute must if you're staying at a Disney Resort hotel and want to add a romantic touch to your stay. They can deliver to any Disney Resort hotel, and they have over 30 different floral arrangements and gifts for Valentine's Day.
Savor the Savanna at Disney's Animal Kingdom and Key to the Kingdom at Magic Kingdom tours will make unforgettable memories. If you two are the ultimate Disney fans then the Keys to the Kingdom at Magic Kingdom is a must. You'll learn so much about the Most Magical Place on Earth, and see some behind-the-scenes places.
The Savor the Savanna is personally on my wish list. Even if you're not major Disney fans, this is a must-do and unique experience at Disney World. It's quite pricey, but you'll start off with a private safari before arriving at a special savanna outlook where African-inspired tapas and regional beer and wine await.
Bask in the beauty of the savanna as you sip and savor these tastes.
Finally, embark on a romantic pastime of old. Horse-drawn carriage rides at Disney World are available at Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground as well as Disney's Port Orleans Resort. Either one is a romantic and relaxing experience, though if you choose the carriage ride at Disney's Port Orleans you could always enjoy some beignets too.
Birthday Ideas at Walt Disney World
Frist things first, get a birthday button. You can pick up a Disney birthday button at the front desk of any Disney Resort hotel or at Guest Relations at the theme parks.
If the line is long you can usually pick one up from a Guest Experience Cast Member. Just look for the blue umbrella with Cast Members in blue shirts. They are usually stationed near the center of each theme park, with additional locations near the back.
It's always best to celebrate birthdays with friends, so make time to see some Disney pals. Yes, it's totally okay for grown adults to go say hi to Disney characters in the parks. Here are some of the best (and most popular) character spots at Walt Disney World:
- Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom
- Mickey Mouse at Town Square Theater at Magic Kingdom
- Snow White in Germany Pavilion at EPCOT
- Minnie Mouse at Red Carpet Dreams at Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Kylo Ren and Stormtroopers near First Order Cargo of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
- Rey, Chewbacca, and Vi Moradi across from Droid Depot of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
- Mickey and Minnie at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Discovery Outpost
Make sure you snap plenty of magical photos while celebrating your birthday at Walt Disney World. Using Disney's PhotoPass is the best way to get professional photos. We've got tips and the Best Disney PhotoPass Photo Op Locations for Couples, including how to have a private photo shoot.
If you're into unique experiences, the La Cava Experience at EPCOT is pricey, but truly special. You'll enjoy an intimate, premium tequila tasting featuring multiple tequilas, mezcal, and a cocktail or two with personalized service.
If you're staying at a Disney Resort hotel for your birthday then sprinkle some extra magic into your room with a Disney Floral and Gifts Celebration Basket.
Finally, if you're an adventurous type, then book one of these tours that are great for birthdays. The Wilderness Back Trail Adventure at Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground is lots of fun, uses a Segway, and you don't need a park ticket!
For an unforgettable experience, the Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom gives you up-close animal encounters unlike anything else.
Best Disney World Restaurants for Birthdays and Anniversaries
With so many restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to know which is the best restaurant at Walt Disney World to celebrate a special occasion. But, we've got some pointers for you.
PS: Don't forget to order a Mickey Mouse Celebration Cake, available at many Disney table service restaurants.
Best Disney Character Dining for Adults:
- Topolino's Terrace At Riviera Resort
- Tusker House at Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White at Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Disney Restaurants with Fireworks Views (reservations required)
- California Grill at Disney's Contemporary
- Narcoossee's at Disney's Grand Floridian
- Toledo at Disney's Coronado Springs
- Topolino's Terrace at Disney's Riviera Resort
- Capa at Four Seasons Walt Disney World
- illume at JW Marriott Bonnet Creek
- Stir Lounge at Swan Reserve (not rooftop, but has decent EPCOT views)
Disney World Restaurants with Outdoor Dining:
- Tony’s Town Square Restaurant at Magic Kingdom
- Katsura Grill at the Japan Pavilion Epcot (quick service)
- Spice Road Table at the Morroco Pavilion Epcot
- Rose and Crown Dining Room at the United Kingdom Pavilion Epcot (request an outdoor table)
- The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge at Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge (quick service)
- Nomad Lounge at Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ at Disney Springs
- Wine Bar George at Disney Springs
- The BOATHOUSE at Disney Springs
- Paddlefish at Disney Springs
Disney World Spas for Extending the Celebration
One of the best ways to celebrate a special occasion at Disney World is with a magical spa treatment.
Spas on Disney World property:
- The Grand Floridian Spa at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
- Mandara Spa at the Walt Disney World Dolphin
- Spa at JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek
- Waldorf Astoria Spa at Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Related: Best Orlando Spas for Couples
Things to Remember When Planning a Special Occasion at Walt Disney World
- Check out the Most Romantic Disney Hotels to select the right hotel for your Valentine's Day or Anniversary trip
- Booking Concierge Club Level at Disney Hotels is often worth the splurge
- Sprinkle in some extra allure to your anniversary trip with these Most Romantic Spots in Walt Disney World
- Make the most of your time and learn how to avoid long lines
- Book your dining and hotel reservations as soon as possible (60 days in advance for dining)
Want something truly special? Book a private dining room or create a private event.
Here's How to Host a Birthday Party at Walt Disney World – and Other Special Events