One of The Plaza’s most famous guests, Eloise, is turning 60! To celebrate one of the most beloved characters in children’s literature, this uber-luxurious New York City hotel is having a “rawther mahvelous” series of celebrations, events, specials, and one of a kind experiences. From slumber parties in the Eloise Suite to family events at the Eloise at The Plaza shop to birthday surprises, cooking classes, and even a free scavenger hunt through Central Park, there are many ways for families to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Kay Thompson’s Eloise.

5 ways to celebrate Eloise at The Plaza

The Plaza, in the heart of Manhattan, is going all out to celebrate six decades of Eloise! Visit this iconic hotel this summer and Fall to get into the Eloise spirit with a variety of activities and events. While The Plaza has set the standard for luxury resorts in New York City (and beyond), there are ways every Eloise fan can celebrate. Even if you can’t get down to Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, you can still share the joy of this classic literary character.

1. Take “flat” Eloise along on your travels.

From now through October 15, fans of Eloise are encouraged to take her on their travels through New York City or perhaps just your hometown. Guests of the the hotel, The Eloise at The Plaza Shop and The Palm Court restaurant will all get a complimentary “flat” Eloise to take home with them. They can then take pictures of themselves with Eloise where ever they go. Posting pictures to social media with the hashtag #WhereIsEloise and tagging @ThePlazaHotel and @ThePlazaEloise gives fans a chance to win one of three amazing grand prizes!  Prizes include a stay in the Eloise Suite, an Eloise Birthday Party or a shopping spree at Eloise at The Plaza. Can’t get to New York City, download your own “flat” Eloise from The Plaza website for free! There is no purchase (or stay) necessary to enter the contest.

2. Enjoy an Eloise scavenger hunt.

The Plaza partnered with The Central park Conservancy to create a scavenger hunt through Central Park. Follow the hunt to find Skipperdee’s favorite pond as well as check out some of the well-known locations within the iconic park. Use the map to help your kids explore New York in a fun, unique way, while also promoting the joy of reading. Don’t want to pop into The Plaza to get the map, just download it from their website and hit the park!

3. Stay in the Eloise Suite at The Plaza.

For those looking for the ultimate Eloise adventure (and don’t mind paying for the privilege), families can book The Plaza’s Eloise Suite. This two-room suite on The Plaza’s 18th floor was designed by famed clothing designer, Betsy Johnson. It is the epitome of living like Eloise at The Plaza, complete with a pink and zebra-striped theme. Room rates start at a heft $2,043 per night. The room includes accommodations, Eloise’s Afternoon Tea for two, an Eloise robe, a copy of the book Eloise at The Plaza, $100 Gift Card for the Eloise Shop at The Plaza, and an Eloise puzzle.

4. Eat Eloise birthday cake at The Palm Court.

To celebrate the anniversary of Eloise at The Plaza, chef Geoffry Zakarian and pastry chef Matthew Lambie have created a special birthday cake to be enjoyed by guests of The Plaza and The Palm Court this summer and Fall. Flavors will change seasonally so feel free to try it out on several occasions. This special jewel box birthday cake can be shared by two or three and may be the actual icing on the cake for a very special New York City birthday celebration. It is available in The Palm Court restaurant. It can also be picked up for take-away or delivered to a guest suite through In Room Dining.

5. Join in one of the Eloise activities at Eloise at The Plaza Shop.

Eloise at The Plaza Shop is offering a number of festive events this summer and Fall. From cooking classes to arts and crafts to dance parties and ballet classes, there is sure to be a special event just right for any Eloise fan. For those who can’t or choose not to participate in a special event, just spend some time in the Fashion Room, filled with Eloise costumes, take-home gifts, and one-of-a-kind merchandise, or the Library Room for “Park views”, Eloise movie clips and space to enjoy Eloise books. The Tea Room is the place where all the “rawther” fancy tea parties happen and can make any celebration that much sweeter. Stopping in The Eloise at The Plaza Shop, even if just to window shop, can be a memory-making experience.

For parents looking for an over-the-top celebratory gift to those who just want to bring a little classic literature into their children’s lives, The Plaza is offering something for everyone leading up to November 4th, the actual birthday of Eloise (as well as the birthday of yours truly). Want to learn more about The Plaza, check out a review Kim-Marie Evans did a few years ago that is still very relevant. Also take a look at Active TravelingMom’s tips for a fun mother-daughter trip to New York City.