Parks and Pals

We're back and boy do we have a lot to update you on! For 10 spectacular days, we enjoyed everything available to us at Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort and got to experience the incredible Halloween Horror Nights 2025. In this week's episode, we'll run through our day-by-day breakdown of our recent trip and highlights including: Halloween Horror Nights, Epic Universe, off-site eating, EPCOT Food & Wine Festival and much much more!

Join us this week for episode 14 of Inside the Gates as we discuss all of the latest menu items, character meets and entertainment and this year's Jollywood Nights and some of Eurostars plans for Disneyland Paris. On top of that, we explore Universals latest ticketing options, Merlin entertainment updates and the brand new Soarin' Across America!Be sure to keep up to date with everything on our socials and keep an eye out for our question for next week's Inside the Gates.

It's time for another Disney eras tour, but this time, it's the 90s edition. During this week's episode, we dive back into arguably the most influential Disney World decade. From the major theme park expansions (including MGM Studios and Animal Kingdom), brand new resorts, outstanding films and much much more, we explore how this became the defining decade for the Walt Disney Company and how it shaped our beloved theme parks today!

The countdown has finally hit zero and we are heading back to Orlando for another incredible trip to Disney World and Universal Resort. In this week's episode, we'll be discussing our entire itinerary from Disney World parks, staying at Cabana Bay, exploring Halloween Horror Nights and a few surprises along the way!

Join us this week for episode 12 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the latest lands revealed for Universal Kids Resort, the opening of the Grand Floridian lobby and the exciting new breakfast items available at Magic Kingdom. On top of that, we'll explore the newest park expansion models at Walt Disney Presents and the Greatest Showman Musical.Be sure to keep up to date with our latest trip on our socials and keep your eyes out for a poll deciding on the next location for Inside the Gates!

We've all got dreams and some of those dreams seem achievable - others seem damn near impossible, but who doesn't love to dream! In this week's episode, we'll be exploring our top bucket list items for Orlando including Disney World, Universal Resort and everywhere in between. From the comical to utterly ridiculous - what would be at the top of your bucket list? 

Join us this week for episode 12 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the opening date of Rock N' Rollercoaster's Muppet retheme, the arrival of new Mickey bars and Storybook Land Canal Boats latest addition. On top of that, we talk all things Grinchmas, Disney World annual pass increases and the potential new Disney CEO.Plus, we hear from you and ask for your most overrated attractions. If you want to get involved, then look out for the weekly polls on our Instagram story!

After a jam-packed 7-day itinerary sailing through the Norwegian Fjords, Chloe is back and she's ready to tell all! In this week's episode, we'll recap all of Chloe's latest trip aboard the Disney Fantasy and find out her favourite meals and experiences, share top tips and discover how much room service one person can order! 

Join us this week for episode 11 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the brand new addition coming to Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios, new booths at Epcot's Food & Wine Festival 2025 and the incredible new Muppets merchandise. On top of that, we discuss new lightning lanes being tested, Level 99's progress at Disney Springs and remember the remarkable Jane Goodall. Plus, we hear from you and ask: what is your favourite Marvel film? If you want to get involved, then look out for the weekly polls on our Instagram story!

It's that time of year once more, where we dust off the cobwebs, don our spooky season attire and take Liam out of the crypt for another guest episode on Halloween Horror Nights. This week, we are joined by the always fabulous Liam (@liam_throughalens) to talk about his latest trip to Universal Orlando for Halloween Horror Night 2025 - it's going to be terrifying!

Join us this week for episode 10 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the latest closure of Animation Courtyard and character meet changes, the return of Disney After Hours and how certain seasonal events are already sold out. On top of that, we discuss the latest Fantasyland permits that have been filed, a new attraction at Legoland and Merlin's selling of Lego Discovery Centre.Plus, we hear from you and ask: who is your favourite Universal monster? If you want to get involved, then look out for the polls on our Instagram story!

We all have beloved memories and experiences when entering an Orlando theme park, but then there are also attractions that we despise. In this week's episode, we travel around each of the Florida theme parks and decide one ride to keep forever, one to destroy, and one to restore to its former glory. Keep your loved ones dear and your favourite attractions even closer!

Join us this week for episode 9 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the big updates arriving from Islands of Adventure regarding The Lost Continent and find out who will be at EPCOT's Festival of the Holidays. On top of that, we talk about the major Disney brand collaborations, new documentaries and a brand new ride arriving in Dollywood! Plus, we hear from you and ask: what is the best thing you've ever bought from Disney World.  If you want to get involved, then look out for the polls on our Instagram story!

For the last few years, the media have presented a question: what's the deal with Disney adults? As two self-confessed Disney adults, we feel its our obligation to delve deep into where the term came from, how it has changed over time and explore how the media chooses the portray us. Get ready for some strong opinions and passionate stories!

Join us this week for episode 8 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the Golden Ticket Awards and the winners across Orlando and the world. On top of that, we talk all things Disneyland Paris, Disney Adventure and the latest updates regarding Level 99 in Disney Springs.Plus, we hear from you and your favourite season at Disney. If you want to get involved, then look out for the polls on our Instagram story!

In 1994, Disney created a town called Celebration in Florida - but where did this idea stem from? What has become of Celebration today? And what was life actually like for the residence of this picturesque American suburb? In this week's episode, we'll be diving into the full history of Celebration and leaving no stone unturned! 

Join us this week for episode 7 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the every single update from D23 with all the films, park changes and expansions. On top of that, we discuss everything announced for the Disney Destiny, the opening of World of Frozen and Villains Land's future.Plus, we hear from you and your favourite Disney villains. If you want to get involved, then look out for the polls on our Instagram story!

Over two years ago, when we started this podcast, one of our first episodes was the must dos in Walt Disney World. So we thought, why not bring it back and see what's changed! In this week's episode, we'll be hopping around the parks, resorts and Disney Springs to bring you the unmissable and unskippable experiences across the Orlando resort.

Join us this week for episode 6 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the key updates arriving from Epic Universe's latest planning permission and the opening of Beak and Barrel at Magic Kingdom. On top of that, we'll talk all things Tokyo DisneySea, Halloween Horror Nights, Princess Week and Disneyland Paris changes. Plus, we hear from you and your favourite Disney music throughout the parks and films. If you want to get involved, then look out for the polls on our Instagram story!

It's time to set sail once again as Chloe prepares to embark on another adventure on a Disney cruise. In this week's episode, we'll be discussing everything surrounding Chloe's upcoming trip aboard the Disney Fantasy across the Norwegian Fjords - expect a full itinerary, Disney magic and all the tip and tricks to get the most out of a cruise! 

Join us this week for episode 5 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the latest updates with brand new concept art from the Disney World parks and Disney Adventure menu items. On top of that, we bring you the latest news on Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, Halloween Horror Nights and the final farewell to RIP Ride Rockit If you want to get involved in our new episodes, then look out for the polls on our Instagram throughout the week.

What's the worst piece of advice you've ever been given about Disney World? With so much information on the internet, from forums to groups, we've sifted through them all to put together the ultimate list of bad advice. In this week's episode, follow us through the absolute worst tips as we aim to give you the best alternatives to follow for Orlando.

Join us this week for episode 4 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the latest updates with brand new theme park merchandise, closures and food items for September and October. On top of that, we bring you the latest news on Epcot's Food & Wine Festival 2025, Volcano Bay Nights and Destination D23 rumours!If you want to get involved in our new episodes, then look out for the polls on our Instagram throughout the week.

Continuing our Disney eras tour, we jump straight into the 80s for brand new parks, cultural highlights and all things Disney World. In this week's episode, we discuss the opening of Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Tokyo Disneyland, plus, which movies and rides defined this phenomenal decade for Disney!

Join us this week for episode 3 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the latest updates with brand new theme park food for the Halloween season. On top of that, we bring you the latest news on the opening of The Beak and Barrel at Magic Kingdom, UK theme parks updates and the biggest rumours surrounding Rip Ride Rockit's replacement.If you want to get involved in our new episodes, then look out for the polls on our Instagram throughout the week.

After so much anticipation, Universal Studios UK is finally on the cards! Join us in this week's episode where we are talking to Lawrence (@universallybedford) to discuss everything from rides, entertainment, hotels and more. If you've ever wanted to know more about the future of UK theme park scene then this is your next stop!

Join us this week for episode 2 of Inside the Gates as we discuss the updates and closures happening at Walt Disney World from Hollywood Studios to Buzz Lightyears Space Ranger Spin. On top of that, we bring you our latest predictions from the upcoming D23 event and Merlin's recent investment announcement. Plus we get to hear some of your favourite memories from your trips.If you want to get involved in our new episodes, then look out for the polls on our Instagram throughout the week.

Wouldn't it be lovely if all trips to Orlando could leave you with enough money leftover to plan the next trip? In this week's episode, we put Chloe through her paces to come up with the ultimate budget friendly itinerary for all. Whether you're a sun-soaking couple, a fun-loving family of four, or group of friends seeking cheap thrills, we've got a plan for you!

Welcome to our first bonus episode of Inside the Gates and your weekly roundabout of all things theme park news. In this week's episode, we'll discuss the opening of Disney's Starlight, all of the latest Halloween Horror Nights updates, changes coming to Animation Courtyard and hear from you! If you want to get involved in our new episodes, then look out for the polls on our Instagram throughout the week. 

When visiting a theme park, we are used to stepping into immersive worlds, but very few do it as well as Universal's Islands of Adventure! In this weeks episode, we discuss the top attractions across the park, put them through their paces and decide once and for all which ride takes the top spot.

Disney have produced some of the most outstanding parks across the USA. From where it all began on the east coast with Disneyland to the Florida project and opening of Disney World, they have produced world class attractions, shows and lands. In this week's episode, we are joined by the wonderful Chloe and Sam (@Ch103amy) to discuss all of the east and west coast parks, our most magical memories and decide which is best!

Every time we mention Disney World and Universal Resort, we immediately focus on the highs, the thrills, must-dos across your visit - but what about everything else? In this week's episode, we discuss the most underrated attractions across all four Disney World parks and every Universal Orlando Resort park. Where should we all give a little bit more love to?

Disney World is an ideal location for the perfect romantic date day - but knowing what to spend your hard earned money on can be tricky! In this week's episode, we've both planned a full day in the parks with the simple task: what is the cheapest and most expensive way to spend a day at the parks? Expect hidden gems, lavish luxuries and endless fun!

Universal Studios Orlando has always been the home of the movies, taking us to Wizarding Worlds, stunning sets and behind the scenes of your favourite blockbusters. In this week's episode, we decide, once and for all, what the best attractions are in this great staple of Florida. No minions were harmed by the opinions in the episode!

The landscape of Walt Disney World is ever changing and 2025 is the year of continuous updates. In this week's episode, we discuss all the major progress happening across all the parks from new bars and experiences, ride updates and future projects. Who's ready for a change? 

Think of the strangest experience you could possibly have, now imagine that against a backdrop of the sunshine state. In this week's episode, we explore the weird, wacky and wonderful world of alternative experiences and attractions in Orlando - from museums to crazy theme parks, buckle up for the most absurd episode we've ever done! 

Throughout history, epic battles have been fought between rivals to claim their rightful place on top. Disney vs. Universal is no exception. For years in Orlando, Disney World and Universal Resort have competed for our attention with stunning theme parks, relaxing resorts and world class entertainment - but it's time to decide, who's winning? This week, we are joined by Russ from Orlando Adventures Podcast to decide once and for all whether it's Disney or Universal at the pinnacle!

2025 certainly feels like the year of trips! Following on from an extremely successful visit in February, we travel back to Orlando to explore all the wonders of Disney World and Universal Studios, plus an extra special visit to Epic Universe! Join us this week where we recap our entire May 2025 trip with a review of Epic Universe, the magic of car hire and answering the all important question - can you do everything in one week?

Hollywood 1939. Amid the glitz and the glitter of a bustling young movie town at the height of its golden age, we invite you to drop into the entire history of Tower of Terror. In this week's episode, we dive deep into one of Hollywood Studios most beloved attractions and fill you with fun facts, historical details, and creepy backstories. We invite you, if you dare, to step aboard because in tonight's episode of Parks and Pals you are the star. And this episode travels directly to . . . The Twilight Zone.

In the final episode of our Disney World ranking episodes, we finally decide the greatest attractions and experiences at Animal Kingdom. With so many ways to spend your day from incredible shows, jaw-dropping attractions and serene walks, let us put you through your paces on our safari ride through the parks best and worst attractions.

How do you decide which attractions to skip at Hollywood Studios? With so many unforgettable experiences ranging from spectacular shows, amazing attractions and immersive worlds, this can sometimes seem like a mammoth task. Fear not and makes some judgements by agreeing or disagreeing with our ranking of the top attractions at the park. In this week's episode, we decide  once and for all what the best attractions are at Disney's Hollywood Studios. 

As our countdown clock descends closer to 0, we are preparing ourselves for another fun-filled trip to Orlando. In this week's episode, we discuss our day to day breakdown for the trip including: dinner reservations, ride priorities, park visits, hotel stays and more. Buckle up for another Parks and Pals adventure! 

With the imminent opening of Epic Universe in Orlando, we thought it's time to take matters into our own hands to help Disney create a 5th park. This week, we've recruited Jade (@timeforjade) to design, share and imagineer some possibilities for this new landmark. Expect crazy coaster, incredible lands and questionable decisions throughout!

It's time for the Disney eras tour - 70s edition. As part of a brand new mini series, we jump back in time to the 1970s to explore this defining decade for the parks and brand as a whole. We discuss everything from cultural phenomenons, groundbreaking technology, and how a day in the parks would be spent. Join us for this epic time travel adventure from the pivotal moment of Magic Kingdom and Walt Disney World's grand opening!

What is the best EPCOT attraction? And what's the most skippable? In this week's episode, we dive into everybody's fond favourites and rock bottoms to decide which attractions at EPCOT are truly worth our time. Expect minor arguments, controversy and plenty of hilarity!

What makes a truly great roller coaster? Is it the feeling of seeing the world upside down, soaring at incredible speeds or the sheer thrill of being thrown out of your seat? In this week's episode, we are joined by Natasha and Luke (@castlesandcoasterscouple) to discuss all of the amazing coasters Orlando has to offer and even have a go at designing our own! 

The big question - is the Disney Dining Plan really worth it? This was the overhanging question from our recent trip to Disney World so we've decided to crunch the numbers, weigh up the pros and cons and outline everything we at while staying in Orlando. From main meals to margaritas, snacks to soda, we will answer the all important questions: how much did we save? And, would we use it again?

Having recently returned from a fun-filled trip to Orlando, we were feeling reflective about the new experiences, challenges and overall trip, so we decided to focus on the biggest lesson we've learnt. In this week's episode we'll discuss our main 5 takeaways from the trip including the changes to virtual queues, new resorts, plus how many naps we ended up taking…

With so much do in Orlando, sometimes you need a second opinion! In this week's episode, we've joined forces with Rollon Holidays (@rollonholidays) to create our ultimate top 5s across Disney World and Universal Studios. Expect endless laughter, hidden gems and new approaches to your Florida trip.

98, 99, 100! To celebrate reaching 100 episodes of Parks and Pals, we decided to put it to you, the listeners for a whole heap of questions. In this week's episode, we answer all of the questions posed to us by you - expect strong opinions and controversial answers! 

Disney's snack game has always been high, and with 2025, there are some great new additions to the parks. In this episode, be sure to grab a snack and join us for a culinary adventure looking through some of the new food options for the parks and resorts. If there's one thing to take away from this episode, it's that Disney loves their loaded fries!