90s Disney

AJ, Mike, and Chris go back to Disneyland in 1997 to explore the infamous, short-lived nighttime spectacular Light Magic, the ill-fated “spiritual successor” to the beloved Main Street Electrical Parade.Opening on May 23, 1997, Light Magic promised guests a high-tech evolution of the classic parade. What they got instead was something… different.Does Light Magic deserve its bad reputation, or was it simply a misunderstood experiment ahead of its time? We compare it to later nighttime “misses” like Rivers of Light and Harmonious. And of course, there’s talk of creepy pixie masks, Baroque Hoedown remixes, and how many cast members it really takes to sweep up confetti.00:00 Introduction01:05 Late Night Recording and World Series01:10 Daylight Savings Debate01:57 Light and Magic: The Ill-Fated Disneyland Spectacular02:57 Main Street Electrical Parade History06:21 The Rise and Fall of Light Magic07:26 Technical Aspects and Challenges20:03 Premiere and Public Reception26:16 Legacy and Final Thoughts31:47 Analyzing Light Magic's Shortcomings31:58 Suggestions for Improving Light Magic33:32 Comparing Disney's Nighttime Show Failures34:43 Nostalgia and Nighttime Parades38:40 Listener Emails and Comments41:10 Disney Villains Themed Attractions51:35 Favorite Disney Sequels and Halloween Movies52:07 Wrapping Up and Future PlansFollow UsBlue Sky | Twitter/X | Facebook | Threads | InstagramEmail: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, hosts AJ, Mike, and Chris discuss what it really means to “plus” a Disney attraction — that time-honored Imagineering term for enhancing or improving an existing ride without completely replacing it.Inspired by recent announcements about updates to attractions like Frozen Ever After and Ratatouille: The Adventure, the trio goes park by park through Walt Disney World to decide which attractions could use a little “plus” of their own — and which ones should be left alone.Plus, the brothers read listener emails about Epic Universe tips, favorite Disney holiday traditions, and must-try dining picks for upcoming trips.00:00 Introduction and Announcements02:30 Magic Kingdom: Tomorrowland Updates05:45 Magic Kingdom: Fantasyland Enhancements08:18 Magic Kingdom: Liberty Square and Frontierland10:51 Magic Kingdom: Adventureland Improvements12:34 Epcot: Future World and World Showcase23:07 Hollywood Studios: Sunset Boulevard and Toy Story Land26:24 Thought Experiment: Original Trilogy Ride27:21 Maintaining and Fixing Disneyland Attractions27:42 Future of Star Tours29:03 Indiana Jones and Other Attractions30:07 Animal Kingdom Updates34:15 Avatar and Pandora Attractions38:48 Epic Universe and Hotel Recommendations44:10 Holiday Traditions at Disney45:59 Dining Recommendations for Anniversary Trip49:01 Cedar Point and Knottsberry Farm52:14 Upcoming Episode and ConclusionFollow UsBlue Sky | Twitter/X | Facebook | Threads | InstagramEmail: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as we dive into the history of Festival of the Lion King, one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved stage shows. Opening alongside Disney’s Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998, the show was originally designed as a quick, temporary solution, but it grew into a fan-favorite production that’s still running today.We explore the fascinating journey of the show, including:The origins of Camp Minnie-Mickey and the companion show Pocahontas and Her Forest Friends.How the Lion King Celebration Parade at Disneyland influenced Animal Kingdom’s show.Michael Eisner’s last-minute push for characters and stage shows at Animal Kingdom.Disney Legend Ron Logan’s leadership and the recycling of parade floats to create the production.Writer and director Reed Jones, his early Disney career, and his vision for a celebratory musical revue rather than a simple retelling of the film.A detailed walkthrough of the show itself from the Tumble Monkeys to the fire knife dancer to the aerial “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” duet.The show’s upgrades over time, including moving from its original “shed” theater in Camp Minnie-Mickey to the Harambe Theater when Pandora – The World of Avatar was announced.The pandemic closure, the scaled-down A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King, and the triumphant full return in 2022.A look at the Hong Kong Disneyland version and how it differs from Walt Disney World’s.Join us as we celebrate the story of a show that was meant to be temporary but became an Animal Kingdom icon.00:00 Welcome to 90s Disney01:12 Festival of the Lion King Introduction01:33 Disney in the 90s Recap01:58 Animal Kingdom's Opening Day04:29 Beastly Kingdomme and Budget Cuts06:56 Camp Minnie-Mickey: A Temporary Solution09:05 Pocahontas and Her Forest Friends Show11:00 Lion King Celebration Parade at Disneyland14:21 Creating Festival of the Lion King17:47 The Show's Key Performers and Acts32:59 Voice Actors33:40 Theater Upgrades and Popularity34:38 Timon's Articulated Head and Other Upgrades35:55 Pandora and the New Harambe Theater38:37 COVID-19 Impact and Show Modifications41:59 Full Return of the Festival of the Lion King43:45 Hong Kong's Festival of the Lion King45:27 Disney Stage Shows and Personal Experiences52:08 Listener Emails and CommentsFollow UsBlue Sky | Twitter/X | Facebook | Threads | InstagramEmail: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, the Minotti decide the top 5 picks for the best live shows in the history of Disney-MGM Studios and Disney’s Hollywood Studios!From Broadway-style musicals to stunt spectaculars, atmospheric streetmosphere acts, and fan-favorite singalongs, we cover the entire run of Hollywood Studios’ entertainment offerings—past and present. Which ones made us laugh? Which ones made us cry? Which ones starred us?Expect arguments. Expect nostalgia. Expect Muppets.What’s your favorite show in the Studios? Let us know!00:00 Introduction and Host Banter01:27 Top 5 Live Shows at Disney Hollywood Studios02:32 Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular03:10 Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage06:40 The Hunchback of Notre Dame Show08:49 Voyage of The Little Mermaid10:27 Here Come The Muppets13:32 Ace Ventura and Other Oddities16:51 Superstar Television Memories20:43 Doug Live and Other Shows30:06 Fantasmic!32:06 Dick Tracy Diamond Double Cross34:22 Hollywood's Pretty Woman and Other Shows34:35 Discussing Lightning McQueen and the New Villain Show34:50 The Villain Show Experience36:55 Ranking Disney Shows38:57 Debating the Best Disney Shows42:09 Listener Comments and EmailsFollow UsBlue SkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagram📬 Email us your rankings at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

It belongs in a museum… or maybe just the theme park stage! This week on 90s Disney, we’re cracking the whip and diving into the boulder-sized legacy of Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! at Disney-MGM Studios.We explore the origins of this groundbreaking live-action stunt show, its connections to the opening of Disney’s third park in 1989, and the impact of Indy mania on everything from casting to explosions to theme park lore. From its high-flying choreography to its crowd-pleasing humor and behind-the-scenes gags, the Epic Stunt Spectacular has earned its place in the Hall of Theme Park Legends.We also talk about the real stunt work, rotating casts, audience volunteers, fire effects, and why this show remains one of the longest-running stage productions in theme park history, even as the rest of the park has changed around it.Plus, we share our own memories of seeing the show as kids and reflect on why the Epic Stunt Spectacular still holds up (even if the fedora is a little dusty).\00:00 Welcome to 90s Disney01:26 Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular03:00 Behind the Scenes: The Making of the Stunt Show06:28 Key Figures in the Stunt Show's Creation23:12 The Show's Evolution and Audience Participation36:58 The Stunt Sequence Breakdown37:11 Behind the Scenes: Truck Stunt38:29 Audience Interaction and Gags41:07 The Airfield Finale45:24 The Gift Shop Experience50:56 Changes Over the Years53:02 Audience Participation and Legal Changes57:42 Indiana Jones in Pop Culture01:02:32 Comparing Stunt Shows01:05:43 Listener Emails and Q&A01:10:58 Taking Disney Advice to Heart01:11:42 Kingdom Hearts and 90s Disney Properties01:14:46 The Savi's Experience at Galaxy's Edge01:17:05 Face Characters and Disney Roles01:24:40 Disney Park Traditions and First Day Plans01:32:42 Favorite Coasters and Sicko Moments01:39:48 Wrapping Up and Future EpisodesReferences & Further Reading:Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular – WikipediaAllEars.net – Show Description & TriviaFull Show on YouTube (2023 version)Follow UsBlue SkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagram📬 Email us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com with your stunt show memories!

Welcome to the great Moderate Resort Showdown! In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, AJ, Mike, and Chris debate and discuss the best—and maybe not-so-best—of Walt Disney World’s Moderate resort hotels.We cover each resort in the category: Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans Riverside, and Port Orleans French Quarter. Along the way, we talk themes, dining, transportation, pool vibes, price, and more—then we each rank our favorites.What makes a Moderate feel “just right”? Is the Skyliner a game-changer? Does a certain sweet treat tip the scale?Resorts Discussed:Disney’s Caribbean Beach ResortDisney’s Coronado Springs ResortDisney’s Port Orleans – RiversideDisney’s Port Orleans – French QuarterWhether you're planning your next stay or just like a good resort debate, this one’s for you.00:00 Introduction and Host Banter01:26 Ranking Disney's Moderate Resorts01:53 Reflecting on Past Episodes and Experiences03:03 Deep Dive into Disney's Moderate Resorts07:04 Caribbean Beach Resort Review15:29 Coronado Springs Resort Review20:36 Port Orleans Riverside Resort Review25:42 Port Orleans French Quarter Resort Review32:05 Discussing Unique Entertainment Options32:34 Pool Preferences and Comparisons32:53 Transportation and Location Insights33:50 Theming and Immersive Experiences35:08 Room Layouts and Family Accommodations36:25 Ranking the Resorts45:49 Listener Questions and RecommendationsFollow UsBlue SkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagram📬 Email us your Moderate resort picks at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of 90s Disney, join hosts AJ, Mike, and Chris as they take you on a journey through a summer cocktail adventure, Disney style! The episode kicks off with the trio preparing for a fun-filled night of cocktail-making while reminiscing about their past Disney experiences. Each host introduces and makes a unique Disney-themed cocktail. This third annual summer cocktail episode promises new drink ideas, fun banter, and a dash of nostalgia for Disney fans. Be sure to try these amazing cocktails yourself and share your results with us!00:00 Disclaimer01:05 Introduction to the Podcast02:04 Summer Cocktail Episode Begins02:45 First Cocktail03:15 Mixing and Tasting the Cocktail03:57 Discussion on Cocktail Ingredients and Techniques05:37 Memorable Drinking Experiences21:49 Preparing the Next Cocktail33:29 The Cranberry Juice Experience34:00 Holiday Cocktails and Memories35:42 Bartending Stories and Lounge Experiences36:48 Exploring Unique Drink Recipes39:33 Disney Lounge Favorites40:46 Cocktail Ingredients and Techniques43:32 Theme Park Drink Adventures54:36 Memorable Dining Experiences01:04:20 Frozen Mojito and Sam Adams Pitchers01:04:50 Tom Hanks' Champagne and Diet Coke Mix01:05:16 Cleaning Glasses and Special Ingredients01:06:20 Listener Submitted Cocktail01:06:43 Steakhouse 71 and Disney Bourbon01:07:23 Vermouth and Campari Discussion01:19:09 Ranking the Drinks01:20:58 Favorite Theme Park Cocktails01:36:19 Wrapping Up and Future Episodes

Sometimes you don’t have time for a sit-down meal in the parks, and honestly, sometimes you just want a really good cheeseburger. In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, the Minotti brothers share their favorite quick service meals from across Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando!From mobile order go-tos and cult-favorite entrees to hidden gems and legendary snacks, we’re serving up personal picks, strong opinions, and plenty of theme park food nostalgia.Share your go-to quick service meal with us!00:00 Introduction and Hosts01:13 Mike's Disney World Trip and Test Track 3.0 Preview01:23 Favorite Quick Service Restaurants01:41 Test Track 3.0 Experience06:44 Magic Kingdom Highlights08:32 Hollywood Studios and New Shows11:54 Dining at the Mexico Pavilion14:39 Universal Studios Adventures17:22 Magic Kingdom Quick Service Debate26:54 Epcot Quick Service Memories28:57 Memories of the Land Pavilion30:00 Epcot's Culinary Delights36:17 Hollywood Studios Quick Service Options44:27 Animal Kingdom's Best Eats50:31 Resort and Disney Springs Dining53:37 Local Barbecue and Earl Sandwich Memories54:16 Quick Service Options at Disney Springs55:50 Universal Studios Dining Highlights01:00:23 Epic Universe Dining Experiences01:06:39 Listener Emails and CommentsFollow UsBlue SkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagramEmail us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

This week, we're setting sail with Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo, and Tim Curry as we revisit Muppet Treasure Island, Disney’s 1996 swashbuckling adventure that proved you can never have too many pirates... or Muppets.We explore how the Muppets returned to adapting literary classics after the success of Muppet Christmas Carol, why Gonzo and Rizzo were almost the stars of this film, and how Tim Curry's unforgettable Long John Silver performance (and laugh) practically made him a human Muppet. Along the way, we look at the film’s memorable songs by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, Hans Zimmer’s rousing score, and the challenges of filming on a full-size gimbaled ship set without sending the entire cast to the sick bay.We also share our memories of the movie’s 90s marketing, its reception, and why it remains such a fun retelling of a literary classic.00:00 Welcome to 90s Disney Podcast01:35 Introduction to Muppet Treasure Island02:10 Muppet Treasure Island Release and Reception04:14 Casting and Character Insights11:43 Behind the Scenes and Production Details28:17 Music and Score of Muppet Treasure Island32:20 Final Thoughts and Reflections32:31 Nostalgic Memories of Watching Movies in Theaters33:25 Ranking the Muppet Movies35:23 Imagining New Muppet Movie Adaptations38:16 Comedic Highlights and Memorable Scenes46:18 Behind the Scenes and Fun Trivia51:04 Legacy and Reception of Muppet Treasure Island55:24 Listener Feedback and Final ThoughtsLinks & References:D23 – Muppet Treasure Island Did You Know?Muppet Mindset – Celebrating 20 Years of Muppet Treasure IslandVariety – Treasure Pic Charted for MuppetsOfficial Trailer on YouTubeFollow UsBlue SkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagramEmail us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com!

Which theme park lines are the most fun to stand in? Which queues are masterpieces of storytelling and design?In this bonus episode, the AJ, Mike, and Chris give their picks for the best lines (and maybe a few worst ones) across Disney and Universal theme parks. Whether it's for the set dressing, the nostalgia, or the sheer entertainment value, these are the places we're surprisingly happy to wait.From haunted mansions to enchanted forests to prehistoric jungles, queue up with us for a conversation full of laughs, surprises, and maybe even a few opinions you’ll disagree with.00:00 Introduction02:40 Favorite Theme Park Lines05:09 Star Tours and Interactive Queues09:21 Indiana Jones Adventure and Test Track12:29 Avatar Flight of Passage and Space Mountain17:59 Universal Studios and ET Adventure19:58 Tower of Terror and Muppet Vision 3D30:20 Dinosaur and Haunted Mansion33:44 Disneyland's Seasonal Magic33:59 The Best Outdoor Queues35:12 Nostalgia for Body Wars36:18 Universal's Unique Queues36:47 Disney World's Hidden Gems39:53 Mario Kart and More at Epic Universe44:35 Classic Disney MGM Studios49:15 Universal's Kongfrontation and More49:58 Harry Potter's Immersive Experiences59:33 Final Thoughts and ListenerCommentsFollow UsBlue SkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagramEmail us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com with your own favorite queue lines!

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they dive deep into the legendary Adventurer’s Club at Walt Disney World’s Pleasure Island and explore how it inspired and connects to the global lore of Disney’s Society of Explorers and Adventurers (S.E.A.)!In this episode:The history of the Adventurer’s Club, its immersive theater roots, iconic characters, and quirky traditions like the famous “Kungaloosh!”What made the Club’s interactive shows, rooms, and animatronic moments so beloved and unforgettableThe fan movement that tried to save it and where you can spot Easter eggs todayHow S.E.A. started in Tokyo DisneySea, key members like Harrison Hightower III, Lord Henry Mystic, and Mary Oceaneer, and how Disney has expanded the lore worldwideDetails on the rumored Disney+ series and the planned S.E.A. feature filmFun drink recipes to recreate the spirit of the old Club at home00:00 Introduction and Hosts01:16 Podcast Milestones and Listener Appreciation02:35 The Adventurous Club and Society of Explorers and Adventurers02:44 Old Kungaloosh Cocktail Recipe03:46 Disney in the Late 80s and Early 90s04:29 Pleasure Island and Adventurous Club Overview05:14 Inside the Adventurous Club16:58 Characters of the Adventurous Club22:32 Rooms and Shows of the Adventurous Club30:09 Closure and Legacy of the Adventurous Club32:39 The Decline of Disney's Adventurers Club34:19 The Emotional Farewell of the Adventurers Club35:49 The Birth of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers (S.E.A.)37:42 S.E.A. Expands Across Disney Parks39:16 S.E.A.'s Influence in Disney Attractions and Media47:44 The Future of S.E.A. in Disney Media52:41 Personal Memories and ReflectionsFollow and connect with us:Email: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.comBlue Sky: bsky.app/profile/90sdisney.comTwitter/X: x.com/90sDisneyPodFacebook: facebook.com/90sdisneyThreads: threads.net/@90sdisneypodcastInstagram: instagram.com/90sdisneypodcast

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris in this special bonus episode as they recount their recent adventures at Disney World and the unforgettable Epic Universe preview weekend. From thrilling rides to nostalgic moments, hear all about their experiences, favorite eats, and a surprising business announcement for Mike. Perfect for Disney enthusiasts and theme park lovers looking to live vicariously through their magical journey!00:00 Introduction and Hosts01:14 Disney World Trip Overview01:55 Buc-ee’s First Impressions03:01 Swan Hotel Experience06:42 Epcot Adventures12:36 Magic Kingdom Day21:17 Animal Kingdom Day30:50 Nostalgia for Dino Land31:02 Harrison's First Rollercoaster31:50 Waiting in Line for Flight of Passage33:29 Dinner at Sana34:57 Breakfast at 1900 Park Fair40:31 Bippity Boppity Boutique Experience44:52 Late Night at Magic Kingdom53:49 Building Lightsabers at Galaxy's Edge59:53 Farewell to Muppet Courtyard01:02:39 Galaxy's Edge Adventures01:02:52 Blue Milk Misadventures01:03:08 Rise of the Resistance01:04:08 Tower of Terror Thrills01:05:03 A Much-Needed Break01:06:00 Family Fun Continues01:16:31 Evening at Disney Springs01:18:40 Epcot Day Highlights01:34:04 Reflecting on the New Park Areas01:34:31 A Day of Rides and Encounters01:35:11 Exploring the World Showcase01:38:14 Epic Universe Preview Day01:38:56 Navigating Super Nintendo World01:41:49 Lunch at Toadstool Cafe01:47:34 Donkey Kong Country Adventures01:51:31 How to Train Your Dragon01:57:12 Dark Universe and Monsters Unchained02:01:42 Ministry of Magic and Final Thoughts02:04:24 Recency Bias and Ride Comparisons02:05:18 Pro Tips for Visiting Epic02:05:37 Navigating the Park with Kids02:07:20 Evening Adventures and Dining02:11:16 Reflecting on the Park Experience02:13:33 Final Day and Special Moments02:22:06 Q&A SessionFollow us:Blue Sky | Twitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagramEmail us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

On your marks, get set, go! In this episode of 90s Disney, AJ, Mike, and Chris are racing through the magical history of runDisney, Disney’s official long-distance running series. Chris takes the lead with a look back at how Disney’s first road races began in the 1980s with "Jog with Jiminy," evolved into the Disney Endurance Series, and finally transformed into the runDisney events we know today. From humble beginnings to marathons through the theme parks, we explore how these events reshaped the Disney calendar, filled hotel rooms in the off-season, and inspired thousands of costumed runners to race for the medals, the memories—and the merch.Plus, we hear all about Chris’s firsthand experience running the Star Wars Half Marathon, complete with 4 AM start times, stormtrooper photo ops, and the joys and hazards of a 13.1-mile journey through Disney property. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a seasoned churro fan, this episode is your victory lap.Topics CoveredThe origins of runDisney: Jog with Jiminy and the Disney Endurance SeriesThe first Walt Disney World Marathon in 1994Why Disney World is uniquely suited for racing eventsThemed races: Princess, Star Wars, Castaway Cay, Dopey Challenge, and moreThe short-lived Disneyland Marathon and its infamous wrong turnrunDisney today: massive scale, high demand, and big medalsChris’s personal Star Wars Half Marathon experienceAJ and Mike’s aspirations (and hesitations) to get on the courseBalloon ladies, cosplay runners, and surprise rides along the wayFollow UsBlueSkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagram📬 Email us at 90sdisneypodcast@gmail.com with questions or comments!

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, we’re going where no ranking has gone before—across the lands of both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure!Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they each bring their personal preferences, hot takes, and maybe a little bit of theme park chaos to the table. From nostalgia-soaked walkways to lands that are just “fine,” it’s time to figure out which parts of the Disneyland Resort reign supreme. One land must stand at the top… but getting there won’t be easy.Is it the immersive theming? The snacks? The rides? The bathrooms? It’s all fair game.Expect laughter, passionate debates, sibling rivalry, and maybe a few theme park truths you weren’t ready to hear.Follow Us:BlueSkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagramEmail us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

It’s Star Trek like you’ve never experienced it before… unless you were lucky enough to visit the Las Vegas Hilton in the late ’90s and early 2000s! This week, AJ, Mike, and Chris beam aboard Star Trek: The Experience, a one-of-a-kind immersive attraction that brought fans into the final frontier in the most Vegas way possible. From Klingon kidnappings to Quark’s Bar and even weddings on the bridge of the Enterprise, this was no ordinary theme park experience.We dive into how Las Vegas rebranded itself as a family destination in the ’90s, the abandoned dream of a full-size Enterprise downtown, and the Hilton’s transformation into a Trekker’s paradise. Relive iconic moments from Klingon Encounter, brave the Borg Invasion 4D, and explore everything from the gift shops and museum to the walkaround characters and their surprisingly deep lore.Plus, what killed this incredible attraction just before Trek’s 2009 comeback? And how did it influence the next generation of theme park storytelling?Things We Talked AboutThe failed $150 million Enterprise replica project for downtown VegasThe rise of family-focused attractions on the Strip, including MGM Grand Adventures and Luxor’s Sega arcadeThe Las Vegas Hilton’s surprising Star Trek connectionKlingon Encounter and its groundbreaking transporter illusionBorg Invasion 4D and how Voyager influenced its creationDeep dive into the museum, Quark’s Bar (Warp Core Breach, anyone?), and character interactionsThe closure of the Experience and its legacy in themed entertainmentWatch and Read MoreHollywood Reporter: The Star Trek SagaMusings of a Middle-Aged GeekMemory Alpha: Star Trek: The ExperienceStarTrek.com: Remembering Star Trek: The ExperienceYouTube: Walkthrough Video 1YouTube: Walkthrough Video 2Follow UsBlue SkyTwitter/XFacebookThreadsInstagramEmail us your memories or questions: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

It's time for an extra special bonus episode of 90s Disney! This time, we're heading to Universal as Mike gets an exclusive first look at Universal Epic Universe! Thanks to a friend, Mike got to attend an employee preview of the highly anticipated new theme park, months before its grand opening.Mike walks AJ and Chris through the entire park, discussing his spoiler-free first impressions of Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and the Ministry of Magic. From groundbreaking ride technology to next-level theming and food, this episode is packed with early insights into the biggest new theme park in decades!Topics DiscussedHow Epic Universe compares to other major theme parksCelestial Park – The grand entrance and hub of the parkSuper Nintendo World – Bigger, better, and featuring Donkey Kong!Dark Universe – Universal Monsters come to life with an incredible dark ride and immersive themingHow to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk – A sleeper hit with kinetic energy and breathtaking sceneryMinistry of Magic – Even though the ride wasn’t open, Mike got a sneak peek at the queue (and it’s massive!)The best food and drinks across the parkHow Disney might respond to the competitionLinks and ResourcesListen on SpotifyFollow us on BlueSkyFollow us on XFollow us on FacebookFollow us on ThreadsFollow us on InstagramEmail us at: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.comJoin the Conversation!Have you been keeping up with Epic Universe? What are you most excited for? Let us know by leaving a comment on Spotify or emailing us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com.Thanks for listening! See you next time on 90s Disney!

All aboard! This week, we set sail on a deep dive into the history of the Disney Cruise Line. From its origins with the Big Red Boat to the launch of the Disney Magic in 1998, we explore how Disney transformed the cruise industry into a floating theme park experience.In This Episode: The fan-requested topic that led us to cover Disney Cruise Line history What pop culture looked like on July 30, 1998 – the launch date of the Disney Magic The evolution of Disney’s cruise offerings from the Big Red Boat partnership to their own fleet How Michael Eisner saw an opportunity to bring Disney magic to the seas The unique design and innovations of the early Disney Cruise Line ships The creation of Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay Expanding the fleet: The transition from the Magic and Wonder to the Dream, Fantasy, and beyond Recent expansions, including the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and upcoming ships What makes a Disney Cruise different from other cruise lines Mike’s first-hand experience on the Disney WishFollow Us: Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads InstagramContact Us:Email: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

Welcome to a special bonus episode of 90s Disney! Inspired by an email from listener Manny, we embark on the ultimate challenge: ranking all the pavilions in EPCOT's World Showcase. Which country reigns supreme, and which one needs a little extra magic? From drinking strategies to pavilion expansions, we debate it all!Topics Covered Preferred routes for drinking around the world (Mexico vs. Canada vs. International Gateway) Ranking all 11 pavilions in the World Showcase Which pavilions need an upgrade? The best snacks, restaurants, and drinks in each country Where does China really belong in the rankings? Why Germany’s caramel and beer keep it strong The impact of Ratatouille on France’s pavilion status What’s missing from the UK pavilion? How Morocco’s potential remains untapped Drinking Around the World PicksBig thanks to Manny for inspiring this episode! Let us know how you would rank the World Showcase pavilions. Send us an email or drop a comment on Blue Sky!Follow & Contact UsEmail:90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.comFollow us on Social Media: Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram

Welcome, explorers! This time on 90s Disney, we’re stepping into the jungle and exploring the history of Rainforest Cafe. From its ambitious start in the '90s as an immersive dining experience to its expansion across Disney properties and beyond, we break down how this animatronic-filled restaurant became a staple of themed dining! In This Episode: The origins of Rainforest Cafe and its quirky, ambitious founder. How Disney got involved and why the restaurant ended up in multiple theme parks. The ups, downs, and lasting impact of Rainforest Cafe on themed dining. Our personal memories and thoughts on the experience of dining in the wild! Follow Us: Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram 📩 Email us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

In this special bonus episode, we take a musical journey through some of the most iconic and beloved songs from Disney attractions. Join us as we revisit the soundtracks that made our favorite rides unforgettable and discuss how these tunes elevate the park-going experience. Whether you’re humming along to One Little Spark or grooving to Nothing Can Stop Us Now, this episode will strike a nostalgic chord for any Disney fan.