I think it's every little girl's dream to visit American Girl and get the whole experience. I remember my American Girl, Samantha, so vividly (it helps that my mom still has her) and remember loving her so much. They only had the catalog when I was growing up and the adult me is a little jealous that my daughter got to go shopping in Doll Disneyland! Emily recently turned 5 and her gift was a girl's trip to Palo Alto to pick out her very own American Girl Doll. Grandma, Voa Voa, Emily and I left on a Friday and headed to Palo Alto. Before starting our shopping we checked into our hotel, the Garden Court Hotel, which is boutique hotel in the heart of downtown. I almost always stay at large chain hotels because I know what to expect in the room and amenities but the Garden Court Hotel has quickly changed my mind. From the valet, to the lobby, to the rooms you get a personal and luxurious feeling.
After you enter the lobby you are greeted with a classic and gorgeous lobby which is equally matched with the staff that was exceptional, warm and courteous our entire stay. I was extremely impressed with our room that was like no other hotel I've ever stayed in. It was bright, well appointed, and luxurious. Emily was over the moon to see a doll bed for her American Girl. We couldn't get out of the room fast enough to go pick out her doll once she saw that bed.
Our room overlooked a beautiful courtyard that made me feel like we were in Europe.
We quickly headed to American Girl to do our shopping. Emily was bit timid and overwhelmed in the store but after a wonderful staff member suggested Lea, Emily was in love. The lady who helped us thought Emily looked like Lea with Hazel eyes and dirty blonde hair. We then spent quite a bit of time picking out several accessories to make Lea perfect. We did a bit of shopping in the mall afterwards and enjoyed dinner at Fleming's.
When we got back to our room we were welcomed with wine and milk and cookies. All of us girls were thrilled. Emily couldn't wait to get Lea ready for bed and then enjoy some sweet treats for herself. After enjoying the finer things we all enjoyed a cup of hot tea since it was cold and rainy outside.
The next day we went back to American Girl to enjoy a birthday lunch at the Bistro. They have thought of every detail and we had such a fabulous time. May I suggest the pre-fixed birthday lunch which was so reasonable and you get more food than you can ever eat. We started with appetizers followed by lunch and cake and ice cream just for Emily. Lea got her own high chair as well as a tea cup and saucer. While you are waiting the Bistro provides you a box of questions that are conversation starters. They were so much fun and such a neat idea. After our lunch Emily received a birthday gift from the staff, all of which was included.
This post is sponsored by the Garden Court Hotel. As always all opinions expressed are honest and my own.
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