Planning a fun birthday party can feel overwhelming, especially considering all the details. From the invite list to the food and venue, it can be daunting, but there are countless enjoyable and easy ways to celebrate the special day. There’s no need to plan an elaborate skydiving or bungee jumping day — there are many simpler possibilities.
From indulging in a spa day to visiting a winery to a quick getaway with friends, we’re going to explore the 10 best birthday party ideas, with recommendations for children’s or adult birthday activities.
Get ready to discover new birthday ideas to create a memorable day for yourself or a loved one.
1. Spa Day
Plan a spa day to celebrate this birthday in luxury. Imagine soothing massages, purifying facials, unwinding in steam rooms, and sipping spa water. The best part is you can enjoy this experience alone or invite a few friends to recharge together.
Many resorts offer spa passes that grant access to luxury amenities without being an overnight guest. For example, the Carneros Resort and Spa in Napa, California, is an excellent option for a birthday retreat.
Surrounded by beautiful vineyards, this spa offers a 60-minute Quiet Mind Massage or a 60-minute Signature Carneros Ageless Facial. Both options include the treatment, access to the pool area, infinity hot tub, eucalyptus steam sauna, towel service, men’s and women’s locker rooms with indoor/outdoor showers, an indoor relaxation lounge, an outdoor relaxation deck, and complimentary fitness classes.
What more could you want? It’s the perfect destination to unwind and spend the day.
2. Pool Party
Soak up the sun on your birthday by throwing a pool party. Whether you’re splashing around with friends, lounging on the deck, or treating yourself to poolside drinks and snacks, a pool party is a great way to spend your special day.
Even if you don’t have your own pool, plenty of resorts are ready to welcome you and your guests. Book a Day Pass or reserve a cabana for multiple people to one of the top luxury resorts.
Consider The LINQ Hotel + Experience in Las Vegas for the ultimate pool party. This oasis offers a high-energy atmosphere where you can reserve a daybed or a cabana to celebrate your birthday.
For a chiller vibe, check out The Scott Resort & Spa. They have a main resort pool and a children’s pool, so it’s an excellent option for guests of all ages.
3. Beach Bash
Plan a beach bash celebration if you love the sand and the surf. A day at the beach offers ways to relax and have fun simultaneously. You can enjoy the shade under an umbrella or cabana, lounge in the sun, play beach games, and go for a refreshing dip in the ocean.
The best part is you don’t have to worry about carrying all the necessities down to the beach. Choose a resort that offers beach access and seating for a truly luxurious birthday experience.
The Beach Cabana includes Day Passes for up to four people, a beach cabana with air-conditioning, sofa seating, access to a private full bathroom with shower, cable TV, a mini-fridge stocked with bottled water and sodas, towel service, and two extra lounge chairs. It’s the perfect option for a small beach bash in paradise!
For resorts with these offerings, check out The Savoy in Miami or The San Diego Mission Bay Resort.
4. Theme Park Party
A theme park is the perfect place for a thrill-seeker’s birthday. Spend the day riding roller coasters, enjoying live shows, and snacking on delicious food.
Theme parks offer a fun environment and endless entertainment. Plus, an amusement park can handle any number of guests, whether you want to keep it small or invite a large group.
There are many different parks to choose from if you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping rides or family-friendly attractions. There’s a theme park for everyone. Some parks even offer special birthday packages that include perks like discounted tickets.
5. Winery Celebration
For those who appreciate the finer things in life, a winery celebration offers a sophisticated and enjoyable way to mark the occasion. The day will be spent surrounded by beautiful vineyards, wine tasting, and savoring cheese and other food pairings.
If you plan on inviting a group, look for wineries offering birthday packages. These packages can include private tours, tastings, and access to private areas. Your group can learn all about the winemaking process and stroll the vineyards.
Some wineries may even have a winemaking experience or let your group stomp on grapes. It’s sure to be an unforgettable day well spent.
6. Weekend Getaway
Going on a quick weekend getaway can be an exciting way to celebrate. You don’t have to go far to feel like you’re on vacation. Whether you’re craving a solo escape or want to go with a partner or a group of friends, a weekend trip can be easy and fun.
Look for luxury resorts in your area or drive to a nearby city, mountain, or beach town. There are countless destinations and resorts to choose from for your birthday slumber party.
Even if you opt to rent a house for you and your friends to stay together, you can still enjoy resort amenities with Day Passes. Consider if you want a relaxing, adventurous, or a mix of both experiences and plan accordingly.
7. Birthday Brunch
Who doesn’t love brunch? On your birthday, invite your friends and family to your favorite restaurant to enjoy brunch. Start your big day in a festive atmosphere, or choose a more laid-back spot.
The best part is you won’t have to worry about cooking or catering food, cleaning up, or entertaining guests at home. Some restaurants have private rooms or sections you can reserve for a large group. It’s a good idea to make a reservation beforehand, even if you have a small party, since brunch can be a busy time to get a table.
8. Karaoke Dance Party
Gather your friends and family in your living room or karaoke bar for a memorable evening. Everyone can sing their hearts out and dance the night away. It will be a time filled with lots of fun and laughter.
Many karaoke bars have private rooms for groups, allowing everyone to sing without inhibition and enjoy a more intimate celebration. Some places also offer themed karaoke nights or special packages with food and drinks.
Get ready to belt your favorite song, perform duets with friends, and showcase your dance moves. The mic awaits you, and this birthday celebration is bound to be a hit.
9. Movie Night
Hosting a movie night for your birthday is a low-key and fun way to celebrate with your closest friends. You can transform your living room into a mini theater with party decorations, cozy blankets, pillows, and low lighting.
A movie night allows everyone to relax, enjoy a great film, and, of course, indulge in some tasty treats. Offer ice cream, popcorn, candy, cupcakes (or a birthday cake), and other treats for everyone to enjoy.
You can even plan fun activities like party games or board games while waiting for everyone to arrive. It will keep guests entertained before showtime. Queue up your favorite movie and prepare for a chill birthday celebration.
10. Murder Mystery Party
Holding a murder mystery party is an exciting and interactive way to celebrate. It’s a fun and suspenseful game where everyone becomes a detective for the evening. The party combines role-playing, storytelling, and problem-solving, so make sure everyone is on board.
Organize the murder mystery by choosing a theme or a storyline. Pre-packaged kits are available online, or you can come up with your own idea. The possibilities are endless!
What Do Adults Do for Their Birthday?
Celebrating your birthday as an adult offers endless choices beyond traditional parties. From small gatherings to adventurous outings, there are birthday party themes for everyone.
Here are a few adult birthday party ideas:
- Scavenger Hunt: Organize a scavenger hunt with friends. You can visit local landmarks and popular spots or keep it on your property. It will create friendly competition and lots of fun memories.
- Escape Room: Visit an escape room with your friends and family. You’ll have to work together to solve puzzles and unravel mysteries under a time limit.
- Game Night: Host a game night featuring your favorite board games, card games, and other group games. It will be an evening full of competition and laughter.
- Costume Party: Throw a costume party where guests dress up as their favorite characters or plan a specific theme. It’s a playful and entertaining way to celebrate any birthday.
- Day Pass Party: Plan a daycation or weekend getaway at your favorite resort. Reserve a Day Pass to lounge by the pool with friends, unwind with self-care at the spa, or enjoy gourmet dining at resort restaurants.
A Birthday to Remember
Birthday planning doesn’t have to be complicated. Consider what you enjoy most and invite your favorite people to join you. Whether you opt for a day at the spa, pool day, beach party, or another fun theme or idea, your next birthday will surely be one you’ll cherish for years to come.
Let ResortPass help you make your next milestone birthday a success with access to luxury resorts and spas.
