Are you planning a party and trying to figure out where you should have it?  My preference would be at home but many choose to have it outside of the home, either because they prefer to have someone else take care of the planning and clean up or they just want the excitement of having a party somewhere different.  Here are some “chain” establishments that host birthday parties.

1.  Chuck E. Cheese’s:  I’ll start with Chuck E. Cheese’s because my daughter works there  For a minimum of 4 children, you can reserve a 2 hour birthday party.  The cost will be approximately $12.00 per child and each child will receive 20 tokens, 2 slices of pizza and a drink with free refills.  There are also extra perks for the birthday child, like a blow up crown.  You can also have them make your birthday cake, for an additional charge.

2.  Build-A-Bear Workshop:  Have your party guests build their own bear!  Requires a minimum of 6 guests and offers different party prices starting at $10 per child (depending on what type of bear you choose).  You will be assigned a party leader to help organize the party and keep everyone entertained.  Each guest will receive  a party favor the guest of honor receives a photo and gift.

3.  Gymboree:  With several different birthday themes to choose from, Gymboree is a fun place to have a birthday party for kids 1-5.  Prices vary by location but each party is hosted by a Gymboree teacher and includes party gift bags for each guest, all party supplies and a gift for the guest of honor.

4.  Michael’s:  Your favorite craft store also hosts birthday parties.  Requires a minumum of 5 children.  Prices are not listed, but does require a $50.00 deposit.  Your party will include staff for the party, invites and thank you cards and an apron.  You choose the project for your birthday party and each guest will leave with a completed souvenir.

5. Young Chef’s Academy: Instead of providing food for your guests, let your guests make their own food! Young Chef’s Academy hosts 1 1/2 hr long birthday parties. You can choose between a Pizza party where your guess make their own personal pan pizza from scratch, including the dough or a Pasta Party where they will make their own pasta from scratch, including the sauce. You can choose from 2 party packages, starting at $200 for 10 children and other add ons.

6.  Color Me Mine:  Great place for your crafty party goers.  You choose ceramic pieces for your guests to paint.  Party prices average around $25.00 per child and most places supply pizza and soda, but this varies by location.

7.  Pump It Up:  Private indoor arenas, filled with gigantic inflatable slides, bounce houses, obstacle courses and more. Celebrate in your own private party room that their party coordinators set up and clean up for you. Available options including pizza, drinks, balloons and goodie bags make party planning stress-free.

8.  Dave and Busters:  Choose from 3 different birthday packages:  Kids menu item, soft drinks and $10 power card- $15.99,  An entree item, soft drinks and $10 power card- $18.99 or the Buffet, soft drinks and $15 power card- $24.99.  After eating, your guests can use their power cards in the midway which features many arcade type games.

I’ve tried to just focus on some of the major chains that offer birthday packages, but when planning a party outside of your home, the possibilities are endless.  From local bowling alleys, fast food chains, skating rinks to movie theaters and ball parks.

Where is your favorite place to host a party?