Soarin' Around WDW

We are back from our Walt Disney World adventure and kicking off our trip recap series! In this episode of Soarin’ Around WDW, I’m joined by my dad as we relive our Hollywood Studios day, our first park day of the trip and one filled with early mornings, changing plans, and a whole lot of Disney magic.We start from the very beginning: rope drop strategy, Skyliner tips, and what it’s really like tackling the parks solo with kids (and maybe a little overpacking 😅). From riding Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway twice before 9am to surprise character sightings like Jiminy Cricket, we break down how the morning unfolded and what worked (and what didn’t).We also share highlights like Tower of Terror, Toy Story Mania (with some first-time wins!), Rise of the Resistance, and Blake’s very first coaster on Slinky Dog Dash. Plus, we talk shows like Indiana Jones and Beauty and the Beast, and whether some of these classics are starting to feel a little different.Of course, we couldn’t skip our experience at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater. Covering the food, the atmosphere, and a cast member who truly made the meal special.As the day went on, things didn’t go exactly as planned, with Aili not feeling well and having to head back early, but we still wrapped up the night with Fantasmic and some very memorable (and slightly frustrating) moments.We also hear about my dad’s stay off-property, his visit to Kona Cafe the next morning, and his overall thoughts on crowds, Lightning Lanes, and our Hollywood Studios strategy, including our experience using Wait Magic.It’s an honest, detailed look at a full Disney park day: complete with highs, hiccups, and everything in between. 

Happy Wednesday, foolish mortals! After a brief Haunted Mansion hiatus (thanks to all of our recent trip content), we’re finally climbing back into our doom buggies and continuing our journey through one of Disney’s most legendary attractions.In this episode, we’re traveling around the globe to explore the different versions of the Haunted Mansion found in Disney parks worldwide. What originally started as a two-episode series has now expanded into four episodes, because every time we dig into this attraction’s history, we uncover even more fascinating details that are just too good not to share.Today’s episode focuses entirely on the international variations of the Haunted Mansion, including how the story, setting, and even the tone change depending on the park and culture.We’ll explore:Tokyo Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion, the only version located in Fantasyland and a bit of a time capsule that preserves scenes long removed from the American parks.Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris, the darkest and most story-driven version of the attraction, with a fully developed narrative tied directly to Frontierland and the tragic Ravenswood family.Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland, a completely reimagined take on the concept that removes ghosts entirely and replaces them with magical chaos inside the home of eccentric explorer Lord Henry Mystic.Along the way we’ll talk about unique ride scenes, cultural influences, Imagineering choices, hidden Easter eggs, and even a fan-made Phantom Manor short film currently in production.If you’re watching on YouTube, we’re also trying to include photos of each mansion’s exterior and some of the scenes we talk about throughout the episode.Next week we’ll wrap up the series with the final episode covering holiday overlays, films inspired by the attraction, and some of our own Haunted Mansion stories.So dim the lights, stay together please, and remember… there’s always room for one more.YouTube link to Phantom Manor Bride's Song English Teaser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmkIYWaeUIY

In this episode, we’re taking you along for all the pre-trip planning for our upcoming Walt Disney World vacation! From rope drop strategies to snack must-haves and Lightning Lane plans, we’re sharing exactly how we’re preparing for a magical few days in the parks with our girls.We walk through our full itinerary starting with arrival day and our first stay at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, plus a relaxing rest day that includes breakfast at Topolino's Terrace and dinner at Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' in Disney Springs.Dad joins the episode to talk about the portion of the trip he’ll be joining us for, where he’s staying, and what he’s most excited to do when we head into Disney's Hollywood Studios together for the first time in years. We share our priorities for the day, including Slinky Dog Dash, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and OF COURSE ending the night with Fantasmic!.We also break down our strategy for EPCOT rope drop (hello Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After), plus a potential ride on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. And of course we can’t forget Disney's Animal Kingdom, where our priorities include Avatar Flight of Passage, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and Expedition Everest before wrapping up the trip with dinner at Yak & Yeti Restaurant.Along the way we’re also sharing:Our rope drop strategiesLightning Lane and ride prioritiesOur must-try snacks in each parkTips for traveling with kids (including stroller and packing plans)And how we’re balancing park time, pool time, and family timeIf you love Disney planning, park strategies, and snack lists, this episode is for you!Be sure to tune in because after the trip we’ll be sharing full trip recaps and a Trip Transparency episode where we break down exactly what we spent and how we save for our Disney vacations.We’ll see ya real soon! ✨🏰✈️

We’re back with Days 3, 4, and 5 of our Valentine’s Weekend at the Disneyland Resort and this one is PACKED.From a full day at Disney California Adventure Park to soaking in the magic at Disneyland Park and wrapping it all up in Downtown Disney District, we’re breaking down everything, including alllll of the crowds.And yes… we ate. A LOT. 🤭 Snacks, snacks, and more snacks, plus THREE new sit-down restaurants. We also get real about the holiday weekend crowds. How busy it actually felt, what wait times were like, and why Lightning Lane Multi Pass ended up being 100% worth it for us on these park days.Weather-wise? Absolute perfection… until it wasn’t. Our final day brought crazy cold rain in Downtown Disney, and we’re sharing how that changed our plans and whether it was still worth braving the storm.If you’re planning a Disneyland trip over a holiday weekend (or just want to hear all the details from ours), this episode has everything: rides, restaurants, strategy, crowds, and a little bit of Valentine’s magic 💕

Part 1 of our Valentine’s weekend recap at the Disneyland Resort starts with travel day: how everything unfolded getting there and how I prepped mentally and strategically for what ended up being a massive park day.At one point, I thought I might need to complete 53 total attractions in a single 16-hour day across both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.I’m breaking down:How I structured the EveryRide strategyThe ride order and pacing decisionsWhat worked better than expectedWhat derailed the entire planIf you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to pull off EveryRide in one park day, this is the full behind-the-scenes recap. From the first attraction, to the final one. Did I walk away successful? Give Kids the World Donation Link: give.gktw.org/SoarinAroundWDWPod

In Episode 2 of the Haunted Mansion portion of our Treasured Attraction series, we return to the gates of the esteemed mansion to explore what lies beneath the cobwebs and candlelight. This week, we dive into the most widely accepted combined legend of the attraction, piecing together generations of tragedy, curses, and ghostly residents. We break down the layered backstory of figures like Master Gracey, Constance Hatchaway, Madame Leota, and the Ghost Bride, and talk about why Disney has intentionally never given the Haunted Mansion a single definitive story. From Imagineer intent to evolving ride updates, we explore how the Mansion stays alive by changing with every generation, and every ride.But the story doesn’t stop at the ride itself. We also step behind the scenes to discuss some of the most legendary Haunted Mansion experiences ever offered, including exclusive after-hours dinners inside the attraction, Club 33’s infamous Ghostly Retreat, large-scale Haunted Mansion galas, and rare backstage tours that revealed the secrets behind the Mansion’s most iconic illusions.To round out the episode, we share some of our favorite Haunted Mansion Easter eggs to keep an eye out for on your next visit: from hidden wedding rings and cursed families to crypts packed with musical, literary, and Imagineer lore.Sources:https://yourmileagemayvary.com/2024/10/31/tbt-2002-when-we-had-dinner-inside-wdws-haunted-mansion/https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2013/03/26/dining-in-disneyland-marc-davis-centennial-dinner-inside-the-haunted-mansion/Link to Room for One More Event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hP_-QllQqu0&t=2s 

In this episode of Treasured Attractions, we begin our journey through one of Disney’s most iconic attractions: The Haunted Mansion.Part One takes us back to the very beginning, exploring the long development of the attraction—from its earliest concepts in the 1950s to its opening at Disneyland in 1969 as the last attraction Walt Disney personally influenced. We discuss the many Imagineers who helped shape the Mansion, the creative balance between spooky and silly, and how those competing visions ultimately made the ride unforgettable.We’ll also dive into the creation of the groundbreaking Omnimover ride system, the origins of classic characters like Madame Leota and the Ghost Host, and the opening of Walt Disney World’s version of the attraction.This episode sets the foundation for our Haunted Mansion series, uncovering why this attraction has remained a fan favorite for generations.So hop into your Doom Buggy and prepare to hurry back, there’s always room for one more.Credit and shoutout to the Walt Disney Family Museum for a huge part of the history and background of this attraction used int his episode

In this episode, we’re officially kicking off our Valentine’s Weekend trip to Disneyland with a full pre-trip planning breakdown! We’re sharing how this unexpected West Coast trip came together thanks to a work conference, why we decided this would be a kid-free getaway, and how we made it all work financially while already having another Disney trip on the books.We dive into travel logistics, including flights, off-property hotel choices, and navigating conference-discounted park tickets (plus what not to do if you ever go that route). We also break down our park ticket strategy, Lightning Lane decisions, and how modifying conference tickets turned into a much bigger process than expected.This episode also sets the stage for a huge solo park day, as one of us prepares to attempt an EveryRide challenge at Disneyland Resort to raise money for Give Kids the World—a cause that’s incredibly close to our hearts. We talk about what the challenge involves, why we’re doing it, and how you can participate through donations and a giveaway.We wrap up with an overview of our tentative daily plans for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, what we’re most excited to experience for the first time, and what content you can expect during and after the trip across the podcast, Instagram, Patreon, and YouTube.Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day Disney trip, attending a conference at Disneyland, traveling without kids for the first time, or just love hearing how the Disney planning sausage gets made—this episode is for you.✨🎡💖GKTW Fundraising Linkhttps://give.gktw.org/fundraiser/6930377Every Ride Attempt 2- Dec 2024https://youtu.be/hS980Ya4Ico?si=sh33lPbTo7WD02ZgEvery Ride Attempt 1- Dec 2023https://youtu.be/_nZQC5yT8Pc?si=KOYam4dHQrKZcMn7

Using our WED Wheel and listener polls, we set out to design a resort that feels like it has always belonged at Walt Disney World. One rooted in story, nostalgia, and thoughtful theming rather than characters on every wall.Olivia pitches a Frontierland-inspired resort influenced by the lore of Big Thunder Mountain, blending subtle storytelling with outdoor adventure and family-friendly pricing. Meanwhile, Dad dreams up the ultimate Walt Disney World nostalgia resort, celebrating the park’s earliest years through archival photos, extinct attraction vehicles, and a lobby that feels like a living museum.Along the way, we break down what defines a Disney moderate resort, discuss where these resorts could live on property, explore transportation options, room layouts, pools, dining, and recreation, and tackle how new development (like the upcoming Disney Lakeshore Lodge) could reshape the Bay Lake resort area.We wrap things up with a Would You Rather question that gets to the heart of Disney storytelling: reimagining old attractions, bringing back the past, or creating something entirely new.Would you stay at a resort like these? And what do you think Disney’s next moderate resort should be? Let us know and join the conversation.

We’re celebrating the 20th anniversary of a Disney Channel phenomenon that defined a generation: High School Musical. In this very special Nostalgic Nights episode, we revisit the movie that taught us it’s okay to want more than one dream, ask whether Sharpay Evans was actually the villain, and determine if “We’re All in This Together” still holds up two decades later.For this watch-through, I finally made Madi sit down and experience High School Musical for the very first time (yes, really). We talk first impressions, early-2000s fashion whiplash, the realism of Troy’s sports-versus-theater dilemma, and whether this movie could ever be made the same way today. Plus, we dive into behind-the-scenes trivia, Zac Efron lore, soundtrack supremacy, and the cultural impact that turned a made-for-TV movie into an iconic franchise.Is High School Musical truly deserving of its legendary status, or is it pure nostalgia? And the big question: would Madi willingly watch High School Musical 2?Grab your Wildcats gear and press play, this is the start of something new. 🎶🔥

In Part 2 of our Treasured Attractions series on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, we take a global (and deeply personal) look at one of Disney’s most beloved attractions.We explore where Tower of Terror has existed around the world, including California, Paris, and Tokyo, and how each version adapted the same core concept to fit its park, culture, and storytelling style. From Tokyo’s original Hotel Hightower to Paris’s evolving narratives, we break down what makes each tower unique.Then we shift into memories: first rides, unforgettable reactions, family members riding purely out of love (and fear), and our thoughts on the Guardians of the Galaxy transformation. We wrap up by talking about why Tower of Terror remains a favorite despite not loving scary things, answer a listener question about our dream guest-facing Cast Member role, and end with a fun Would You Rather: unlimited rides or unlimited snacks?

In this episode of Soarin’ Around WDW, we’re checking into one of Walt Disney World’s most iconic attractions: the Hollywood Tower Hotel. Joined by my dad as co-host, we take a deep dive into the history, development, and legacy of The Twilight Zone: Tower of Terror.We explore how the attraction came to life in the early 1990s as Disney-MGM Studios’ first true E-ticket, from its roots in abandoned Imagineering concepts to its opening alongside Sunset Boulevard on July 22, 1994. We discuss the creative minds behind the project, the decision to tie the story to The Twilight Zone, and the unexpected challenges, like a construction sinkhole, that shaped the final design.Then we break down how the ride actually works, explaining the revolutionary elevator system, AGV ride vehicles, the Fifth Dimension illusion, and the powerful Otis motors that pull riders faster than gravity. We also talk about how the Tower evolved over time, from a single drop to today’s randomized drop sequences.Along the way, we uncover some of our favorite Easter eggs hidden across the Tower’s versions around the world and discuss the 1997 Tower of Terror TV movie starring Kirsten Dunst and Steve Guttenberg.From storytelling to engineering, this episode celebrates why the Tower of Terror remains one of Disney’s most beloved and brilliantly themed attractions.

Fasten your seatbelts and stow those tray tables, Flight Crew — because we’re officially cleared for takeoff into 2026! In today’s episode, I’m doing something I’ve never done before: ringing in the new year with six Disney trips already booked or in the works — spanning coast to coast, across the Atlantic, and even out to sea aboard the Disney Wish.Think of this episode as my own personal Soarin’ Around the World, lifting off from California, gliding over to Florida, hopping across to Paris, and sailing the high seas — all packed with pixie dust, planning excitement, and big Disney dreams.🎢 What’s on the 2026 flight path?✈️ February 2026 – Adults-only Disneyland & Disney California Adventure trip (with a solo park day!)🎂 March 2026 – Walt Disney World birthday surprise for Aili🏰 June 2026 – Disneyland Paris + Disney Adventure Park before a family wedding in France🏃 Late 2026 – Another attempt at the EveryRide Challenge with Reegan🎃 October 2026 – A return to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party🛳️ BONUS – Planning ahead for a March 2027 girls cruise on the Disney WishWe also share some exciting show updates, including guest appearances, collaborations with podcast friends, the launch of our brand-new Patreon, and our first affiliate partnership with TNT Shirts & Apparel with our new code SOARIN15 for 15% off of any purchase in their shop— plus exclusive show merch coming soon!Whether you’re planning your very first Disney trip or your fiftieth, this episode is all about dreaming big, planning boldly, and soaking up every magical moment along the way.What Disney trips do you have planned for 2026? And which of these adventures are you most excited to hear more about? Let us know in the comments or over on Instagram!Here’s to a year filled with magic, memories, and plenty of pixie dust — thanks for being part of the Flight Crew as we Soarin’ into 2026! ✨🎆

In this special holiday minisode, we’re cozying up with cocoa and sharing our Very Magical Disney Wish List: our dream Disney bucket list items that would make the ultimate magical moment. From once-in-a-lifetime experiences to the simple traditions we’d love to check off, Olivia and Dad each reveal their top ten Disney wishes.Whether you're wrapping gifts, traveling, or enjoying a quiet Christmas Eve moment, we hope this episode brings you a little joy and a sprinkle of Disney magic.And we want to hear from YOU:What’s on your Magical Disney Wish List? Share it with us in the comments or over on Instagram @soarinaroundwdwpod!Happy Holidays, Flight Crew! 🎄✨

We’re back with Part 3 of our Nostalgic Nights series, and Madi is joining me once again to talk all things The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement. From the film’s fast-tracked production and cast changes to Chris Pine’s iconic film debut, we break down what worked, what felt different from the original, and why this sequel still holds a special place for so many fans.We also dive into the peak early-2000s soundtrack, behind-the-scenes Disney trivia, box office and critical reception, and our thoughts on whether Princess Diaries 3 can live up to the hype over 20 years later. Plus—Nicholas or Michael? 👀 Let the royal debate begin!Link to the Caribbean shirt mentioned in the show from our friends and affiliate TNT Shirts and Apparel: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1769242907/i-usually-say-caribbean-pirates-of-the?sr_prefetch=1&pf_from=shop_home&ga_search_query=caribbean&ref=shop_items_search_8&pro=1&sts=1&logging_key=ad6a252f47520aae40fa25a9bd6e0d8e7ccb128e%3A1769242907And our favorite Pirates Shirt from TNT Shirts and Apparel: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1713701923/dead-men-tell-no-tales-pirates-of-the?sr_prefetch=1&pf_from=shop_home&ga_search_query=caribbean&ref=shop_items_search_1&pro=1&sts=1&logging_key=5b82ea7b8423a16cb861f962ed9624d0736b71e1%3A1713701923Use code SOARIN15 for 15% off 

This week on Parks of the Present, your votes sent us to Hollywood Studios, and the WED Wheel told us to dream up a brand-new sit-down restaurant. We each share our own blue-sky concept for Sunset Boulevard:Olivia brings the iconic Tip Top Club to life with a 1939 Art Deco atmosphere, live jazz, ghostly cast members, timed “Fifth Dimension” moments, and a menu inspired by elevated Depression-era dishes.Dad follows the Yellow Brick Road with a nostalgic Wizard of Oz restaurant featuring classic-style animatronics, a Dorothy meet-and-greet, themed cocktails, and cozy family-style dining.Two totally different visions, one spectral and glamorous, one whimsical and vintage, both adding much-needed dining magic to Hollywood Studios. Stick around as we spin the wheel to reveal what we’re dreaming up next!

Welcome back, Flight Crew! ✈️✨In this soothing episode, we’re slowing things down and exploring the most peaceful places around Walt Disney World. Whether you’re a commando-style rope-dropper or someone who hits that midday wall hard, everyone needs a moment to breathe in the magic.We’re breaking down our favorite low-key rides, quiet corners, and hidden hangouts across all four parks — plus a few relaxing escapes outside the parks. From the shady paths of Animal Kingdom to tucked-away benches in Hollywood Studios, to serene World Showcase gardens, we’ve got your next zen moment covered.In this episode we explore:🌿 Quiet Spots in Each Park🍽️ Calm Corners at Quick-Service Spots 🚠 Relaxing Spaces Outside the Parks😄 Bonus Chill ZonesIf you’ve ever thought, “I love Disney… but I need a minute,” this one’s for you.

In this special minisode, we’re taking a moment before heading home for the holiday to share just how grateful we are for YOU. We’re celebrating the amazing Disney podcast friends we’ve made along the way, highlighting their shows, and sharing why their creativity, kindness, and passion mean so much to us. We’re also sending a huge thank you to all of our listeners around the world and of course to my co-hosts, Dad and Reeg! As well as the magic of Disney that continues to inspire us week after week. Wishing you all a warm, joyful Thanksgiving surrounded by the people you’re most thankful for. We’ll see you next week!This includes highlighting our friends:@idiotsimagineering@makeitmagicalpod@whereilongtobe@backlottours@mickeyinminutesAnd a few other special mentions as well! @disneytripreportpod @parentsondiseney @forceperspective

Welcome back, Flight Crew! ✈️ This week, we’re slowing things down and taking a deep breath of that sweet park air. In Relax, Take It Easy Part 1, we’re focusing on the attractions that help you unwind, recharge, and just be in the magic.From the gentle spin of the PeopleMover and the classic tunes of Carousel of Progress, to the calm waters of Na’vi River Journey and the quiet beauty of Living with the Land — we’re sharing our go-to rides and shows that let you take it easy without ever leaving the fun behind. 🌿🎢Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds, cool off, or just reset between thrills, this episode is your guide to finding a little peace in the parks.💭 Where’s your favorite spot to relax on a ride? Come chill with us and share your go-to “breathe and recharge” attractions on Instagram @SoarinAroundWDWPod!

Happy Wednesday, flight crew! ✈️ Today, we’re heading back into the future- Parks of the Future, that is! This week, Dad’s back in the Imagineering chair as we each bring our own blue-sky ideas to reimagine forgotten corners of Walt Disney World.For this round, EPCOT took the crown in our listener poll, and we’re diving into one of its most mysterious spaces: the long-abandoned Wonders of Life Pavilion. I’m pitching a brand-new, action-packed Marvel stunt spectacular, Battle for the Nexus, where Guardians, mystics, and heroes collide under EPCOT’s golden dome for a multiversal showdown of pyrotechnics, acrobatics, and epic storytelling.Meanwhile, Dad takes a totally different spin on the parks’ future with Just Music - a rotating live music venue where up-and-coming artists can perform on Disney stages, blending heart, harmony, and a touch of that old-school EPCOT innovation.It’s Heroes & Harmonies this week! One part cosmic chaos, one part creative chorus, and together, we’re dreaming up the kind of experiences that make Disney magic feel brand new all over again.At the end of the episode, we’ll spin the WED Wheel to reveal our next Parks of the Future theme! Don’t forget to vote in our Instagram stories or drop your thoughts in the Spotify comments! ✨ Tune in, dream big, and as always… keep your seatbelts fastened! It’s going to be a wild flight into imagination!