Unlocking The Magic: Talking all things Disney Parks, Universal and Cruising

Get ready for a golden-age adventure as we finally step into the iconic Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney's Hollywood Studios. From its glamorous old-Hollywood roots to our surprisingly satisfying Cobb salad experience, this episode covers it all — the good, the expensive, and even a few awkward moments.Whether you’ve walked past this restaurant a hundred times or you’re just hearing about it now, we’ll share everything you need to know before you drop serious cash here. From the rich history of this LA-inspired landmark to the bread rolls Taylor Lautner loved, this episode is packed with fun facts, honest food reviews, and some real talk about value.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic

Welcome back to Unlocking the Magic! In episode 516, we're unlocking the inbox and answering all your burning Disney questions — from cast member magic to solo resort-hopping strategies, what park we’d choose if we could only visit one, and even our favorite snacks and secret experiences.Whether you're planning your first Disney vacation or you're a seasoned park-goer, this is a fun, heartfelt, and info-packed episode you're going to love.📧 Got a question? Send it in to: info@unlockingthemagic.com📷 Follow us on Instagram: @unlockingthemagicpodcast

Food and wine menu: https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/disney-eats-epcot-international-food-and-wine-festival-foodie-guide-2025/

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unlockingthemagicAnd today we’re talking about that sweet middle spot in Walt Disney World hotels , the moderate resorts.  They’re not as pricey as the deluxes, but they give you more amenities and theming than the values.

In this episode of Unlocking the Magic, Bruce and Konstantina dive into your burning Disney questions—from Space 220 dining reviews to the Tonga Toast recipe change. Hear insider tips on resorts, hidden gems for breakfast, party night decisions, and even a hilarious social media “kidnap” scenario. Whether you're a Club UTM member or just a Disney lover, this episode delivers the goods.Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic

Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicWelcome back to Unlocking the Magic! Today we’re stepping away from the parks and heading to a place that’s just as magical in a quieter, more personal way. We’re talking about the Walt Disney Family Museum, a hidden gem that every true Disney fan needs to experience at least once.In this episode, we are going on an inspiring journey through the museum,.  a place that goes far beyond memorabilia and instead unlocking the man behind the magic.This museum isn’t just a timeline of Walt’s life it’s his daughter Diane’s love letter to her father. It’s designed to show us the person Walt was before the suits and the success. And it does exactly that.The museum walks you through Walt’s life in a way that feels almost like flipping through a family scrapbook from his childhood  to his days as a struggling animator, to the moment Mickey Mouse changed everything.  It’s filled with the voice of Walt himself, rare family photos, hand-drawn sketches, and heartfelt letters that give you an unfiltered view into who he really was: a dreamer, a doer, and someone who never stopped pushing boundaries.

Don't forget to use promo code UTM at ⁠reliefband.com⁠ for 20% off + free shipping!Today we dive into one of Magic Kingdom's most overlooked dining spots: The Plaza Restaurant. Is it a hidden gem, or just forgettable? Connie and Bruce break it all down — from the location confusion to surprising food quality, hilarious Patreon comments, portion sizes, and what dessert you absolutely should (or shouldn't) order.We also shout out our sponsor, Relief Band, and explore why you might not need it if you're eating here — but definitely will for Space Mountain.

Today's Sponsor: 👇 Use code UTM at ⁠reliefband.com⁠ for 20% off and free shipping!Join us on a deeply personal and emotional journey into Walt Disney’s actual office, a place rarely open to the public. From hidden mid-century treasures to Walt’s favorite snacks, this behind-the-scenes tour will make any Disney fan's heart skip a beat. We break down the difference between Walt's apartment and his office, share our personal reactions, and uncover the emotional impact of standing where Disney history was made.Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan or just curious about the man behind the magic, this episode is packed with rare insights, heartfelt moments, and a glimpse into the creative environment of one of the greatest visionaries of all time.🔔 Subscribe for more Disney history, behind-the-scenes tours, and park magic!

Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicJoin Connie and Bruce on this packed episode of Unlocking the Magic, where they uncover the biggest Disney and Universal updates. From the brand-new Test Track 3.0 to a $179 adult-only lounge in Epcot, and their behind-the-scenes look at Epic Universe and the Walt Disney Family Museum — it's a ride you don’t want to miss. Plus, hear their honest thoughts on Marvel's Thunderbolts and the expansion of Disneyland and Universal.

Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicWelcome back to Unlocking the Magic! In episode 508, Connie and Bruce dive deep into Disney's ever-evolving food scene, uncovering what's truly worth the price in 2025. From nostalgic bites to new favorites, and even a few duds, they spill the beans on meals, snacks, and experiences across Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of churros and fireworks, this one's for you!Chapters:00:00 - Intro & Today's Theme01:02 - Shaved Ice & Family Favorites at Epcot04:10 - The Great Waffle Comeback at Magic Kingdom07:51 - Garden Grill Review & Shoutout to Lewis11:22 - Is The Plaza Restaurant Underrated?17:44 - Cosmic Ray's Controversy: Boats vs. Plates22:08 - Loaded Nachos at La Cantina: Still Worth It?27:34 - Ferrushi at Epcot: Yay or Nay?32:52 - Staying Club Level at Disneyland Hotel41:38 - Fireworks Dessert Party: Worth the Splurge?👍 Like, Subscribe, and leave a review if this helped you plan your Disney trip!🎧 Listen to the full podcast wherever you get your podcasts.📷 Follow us on Instagram @unlockingthemagic

Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicAfter two decades, we finally returned to the Garden Grill at Epcot—and it surprised us in the best ways! From the unforgettable rotating dining experience to unexpectedly incredible cornbread, this review dives deep into the food, character interactions, restaurant history, and what makes this one of Disney’s most unique dining spots.👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more magical reviews!🛍️ Grab the shirt that started it all: UnlockingTheMagic.com/shopChapters:00:00 - Intro & Why We're Reviewing Garden Grill01:08 - Convincing Dad to Do Character Dining Again02:35 - What to Expect: Show Outline03:13 - Disney's Official Description (and Bruce's Reactions)04:47 - Character Dining: Then vs. Now06:36 - Family Dynamics at the Table07:57 - Garden Grill's Name History & Evolution09:38 - The Rotating Restaurant Experience11:01 - Dining Philosophy & Walt's Vision13:22 - Character Interaction Highlights15:14 - Booth Seating vs. Table Seating16:43 - Breakfast Menu & Pricing Breakdown18:05 - Lunch & Dinner Menu Review20:10 - Cornbread Controversy: The Star of the Meal?22:59 - Crush It or Flush It: Full Menu Breakdown26:30 - Dessert Time & Custom Orders28:13 - Plant-Based Menu Offerings29:46 - The Rotating Experience: The Awkward Quarter Turn32:22 - Google Reviews: What Other Guests Say34:25 - Final Verdict: Is Garden Grill Worth It?38:20 - Character Dining Tips for Families40:00 - Important Things to Know Before You Book42:42 - Closing Thoughts & Merch Mention

We’re back in the studio to break down our full experience at Universal’s Epic Universe! From mind-blowing theming to major ride letdowns, we’re ranking every major attraction by whether it’s actually worth the wait. We’re brutally honest about Mario Kart, in awe of the Ministry of Magic, and still laughing over Curse of the Werewolf. Plus, we reveal our must-have accessory to beat motion sickness on thrill rides.🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe for more real talk about theme parks, rides, and how to make the most of your next trip!💥 Use code “UTM” for 20% off + free shipping at Reliefband.com – a game-changer for motion sickness on rides and cruises!Chapters:00:00 – Intro & What to Expect01:00 – Comparing Epic Universe Pre-Opening vs Post02:30 – Our Secret Weapon for Motion Sickness: Relief Band05:00 – Stardust Racers: Worth the Wait at 60 Minutes?08:12 – Why Mario Kart Ride Disappointed Us11:13 – Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic – BEST Queue Ever?15:20 – Donkey Kong Mine Cart Madness – Worth 90 Minutes?18:00 – Monsters Unchained Review – Thrills & Nostalgia21:40 – Curse of the Werewolf – Fun but Quick24:10 – Why Yoshi's Adventure Feels Like a Prank26:30 – Hiccup’s Wing Glider – A Surprising Favorite30:10 – Fire Drill Water Ride – Best Interactive Surprise32:10 – Dragon Racer Rally – Cute, But Worth It?34:46 – Constellation Carousel – Not What We Expected35:52 – Final Thoughts: Epic Universe Needs THIS37:00 – What We’ll Cover in the Next Episode (FOOD!)38:15 – Outro & Where to Follow Us

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicJoin Bruce and Connie for a first-look deep dive into Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, Epic Universe. From exclusive VIP access to empty-park rides and all-you-can-eat tastings, they share honest reactions, immersive experiences, food reviews, and what Universal got right—and what needs work. Whether you're a lifelong theme park lover or planning your first trip, this is your ultimate guide to Epic Universe!

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Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicWelcome to episode 503 of Unlocking the Magic! In this special "Crush It or Flush It" edition, we’re breaking down ALL the eats from our Adventures by Disney trip—what delighted us, what disappointed us, and what made us question everything we knew about Disneyland food. Whether you're a foodie or just planning your next Disney vacation, this episode is packed with laughs, honest reviews, and unexpected twists.

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Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicT-Shirts: https://bruce-shop.fourthwall.comBruce and Connie bring the Disney love with a mega session of Would You Rather—covering everything from your favorite coasters to hanging with Walt during Disneyland’s construction! Tune in for nostalgia, laughter, and magical debates.

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicWe brought the whole crew—Connie, Bruce, and their daughter Gianna—for a celebration full of laughs, nostalgia, and heated Disney debates. From rides and movies to character encounters, we’re comparing Disney's past and present to decide once and for all: Did Disney get better or worse?👇 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and vote in the comments: Old Disney or New Disney?⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 - Welcome to Episode 500 🎉00:45 - Meet Our Special Guest: Gianna Joins the Show01:12 - Today’s Topic: Old vs. New Disney03:18 - RIDE DEBATE BEGINS: Maelstrom vs. Frozen Ever After07:44 - Ellen’s Energy Adventure vs. Guardians of the Galaxy12:00 - ReliefBand Sponsor Message 🙌13:00 - Mr. Toad vs. Winnie the Pooh17:14 - Snow White’s Scary Adventures vs. Princess Hall22:09 - Great Movie Ride vs. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway25:23 - Galaxy’s Edge vs. Backlot Tour + Honey I Shrunk the Kids28:09 - Stitches Great Escape: Missed Opportunity?30:03 - LIVE ACTION SHOWDOWN: Cinderella, Beauty & the Beast, Lion King35:21 - Why We Still Love the Originals38:11 - Movie Theaters vs. Streaming at Home39:16 - BONUS: Jaws vs. Diagon Alley41:38 - Simpsons vs. Back to the Future Ride44:40 - Wrapping Up: Which Disney Era Wins?

Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagicIn episode 499 of Unlocking The Magic, Bruce and Connie dive into something different: the best things to do around Orlando besides the theme parks!From beach days at Cocoa Beach to gliding through the swamps on airboats, this episode is full of fresh ideas for your off-park itinerary. Plus, get a sneak peek at their thoughts on Discovery Cove, Kennedy Space Center, and quirky stops like Ripley's Believe It or Not.Chapters:00:00 – Podcast Intro & Episode 499 Celebration01:26 – Listener Shoutouts & Real ID Jokes04:30 – Podcast Memory Problems & Social Media Chaos08:01 – Topic Reveal: Orlando Beyond the Parks09:00 – Cocoa Beach: Our Favorite Day Trip13:20 – Why You Need to Visit Kennedy Space Center18:10 – Airboat Rides & Wild Florida Adventures21:40 – Natural Springs & Off-the-Beaten-Path Nature23:00 – Discovery Cove: Worth the Price?29:00 – Boston Honesty, Reviews, and Keeping it Real33:08 – Ripley’s Believe It or Not & Weird Museum Fun36:55 – Paranormal Florida: Haunted Investigations?38:39 – Real Estate Ghost Stories + House Whisperer Chat40:00 – Final Recap of Attractions & Vacation Tips42:50 – UTM Club, Episode 500 Ideas & Mousercise Madness