Podcasts about Universal Orlando

In Episode 273 of the Vacationeers Theme Parks & More Podcast, Tom and Jon break down the newly released HHN 35 multi-night passes, the elimination of multi-night Express products, and Universal Orlando's dramatically revamped Stay & Scream process plus much more. No rumor report this week—only confirmed news from official announcements, financial filings and dependable reporting.Topics DiscussedSeaWorld and Busch Gardens• SeaWorld San Diego Howl-O-Scream 2026 • Area 64: MOTHERSHIP • SeaWorld Orlando's Nekrosis scare zone • The Rewind interactive bar • Busch Gardens Tampa's “The Doctor Is Back” teaserUniversal Orlando and Hollywood• Comcast's quarterly theme park results • Possible implications for Epic Universe annual passes • Comcast's proposed separation from NBCUniversal • Back to Hogwarts at Universal Orlando • Back to Hogwarts at Universal Studios Hollywood • Downtown Clowntown • Art the Clown and Killer Klowns from Outer Space • Fortnitemares • Evil Dead Burn • Ozzy house all but officially announced • HHN 35 multi-night passes • Rush of Fear and Frequent Fear pricing • Elimination of multi-night Express passes • New Stay & Scream wristband process • Haunted houses beginning at 2 p.m. • The Untrainable Dragon temporary closure • Jimmy Fallon attraction evacuationWalt Disney World• The Magic of Disney Animation opening September 14 • Drawn to Wonderland • Off the Page! character experiences • Olaf Draws! • Once Upon a Studio Theater • Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party food • Parisian Breakfast at Chefs de France • Ale & Compass removes its breakfast buffet enhancementThrillLedgerTrack your theme park visits, rides, wait times, ratings, coaster credits and memories with ThrillLedger.Track rides. Count memories.https://thrillledger.vacationeerspodcast.com/Vacationeers Property ServicesVeteran-owned vacation home care near Disney, including vacation-rental turnover cleaning, property inspections, restocking and digital completion reports.https://propertyservices.vacationeerspodcast.com/Follow Vacationeers PodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VacationeersPodcastWebsite: https://vacationeerspodcast.com/Podcast: https://vacationeerspodcast.com/vacationeers-theme-parks-more-podcast/X: https://x.com/VacationeerTomInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vacationeer_tom/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VacationeerTomMerchandise: https://vacationeerspodcast.com/merch/Follow JonX: @pastorjonself Instagram: @jon.self.37

This weeks episode is all about how to create a Disney World Itinerary (with a Universal split stay!). Having an itinerary for your Orlando trip can make sure you fit in everything you want to do, create a balance of fun park thrills and rest days and help you plan your dining and experiences as you will know where you will be!I will give you lots of tips to get the most out of your itinerary and break down the creation into 4 building blocks!How Many Days You Need In Each ParkBe Strategic With Your Park DaysAdding Breaks and Rest Days (and why they are so important!)Inserting Dining, Experiences, Events and Fireworks!Need help planning your best ever Disney World trip? Check out my Disney Trip Planning Services!https://www.mostmagicalguides.com/trip-planningFor videos packed full of tips and advice, plus vlogs of my own Disney World trips, visit my YouTube Channel!https://www.youtube.com/@MostMagicalGuides

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take listeners inside Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition at Philadelphia's Franklin Institute, an interactive look at how Universal Creative designs modern attractions. Along the way, they explore concept art, animatronics, coaster engineering, projection mapping, Halloween Horror Nights props, and development materials from Epic Universe. Jim and Eric also discuss the new Ozzy Osbourne Halloween Horror Nights houses, the noisy debut of Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift, Comcast's latest theme park results, and Universal's new Al Roker-led video series. NEWS • Halloween Horror Nights officially announces Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness houses for Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood. • The two Ozzy Osbourne houses will feature different scenes, music, imagery, and interpretations of the rock icon's career. • Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift begins soft openings at Universal Studios Hollywood, reaching speeds of up to 72 miles per hour. • Nearby Toluca Lake residents and golfers report hearing screams from the new coaster beyond the park. • Universal explores potential movie adaptations based on classic Atari properties, including Asteroids, Centipede, Missile Command, Pong, and Yars' Revenge. FEATURE • Jim and Eric tour Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition at Philadelphia's Franklin Institute. • The exhibition traces the attraction-development process from early blue-sky concepts to completed rides and themed environments. • Displays feature concept art, mood boards, scale models, ride vehicles, animatronics, projection technology, costumes, and Halloween Horror Nights artifacts. • Interactive stations allow guests to operate animatronics, design roller coasters, experiment with lighting, and create themed merchandise. • Epic Universe receives significant attention through materials connected to Dark Universe, the Ministry of Magic, and other new attractions. • The exhibition highlights the engineering, storytelling, technology, food, merchandise, and live entertainment behind Universal's theme parks. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter and Instagram: @erichersey - strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Plan your next Universal Orlando vacation with personalized concierge service from Be Our Guest Vacations. Their travel professionals can help arrange resort stays, theme park tickets, and special extras for your Universal adventure. Be sure to mention the Epic Universal Podcast sent you. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're answering another fantastic batch of questions from the Main Street Magic Community, covering everything from Disney dining and EPCOT festivals to blue-sky Imagineering ideas and even one very unexpected bird discussion. We kick things off by talking about one of our favorite Disney treats and whether Animal Kingdom's famous Anandapur Ice Cream Truck has any worthy rivals across Walt Disney World. Then we revisit one of Disney's most debated vacation planning topics—the Disney Dining Plan—and discuss whether it's still worth purchasing. We also answer the impossible question of which single Disney park we'd choose to podcast about forever and dream up our own perfect EPCOT festival, complete with food booths, entertainment, and a scavenger hunt. From there, we share ideas for keeping the magic alive after multiple Disney vacations, react to a creative concept for indoor “Minni Disney” destinations around the country, and imagine how we'd completely redesign some of Disney's most disappointing quick-service and table-service restaurants. We also compare Disney's attraction technology with what Universal has accomplished at Epic Universe, debate which after-hours or holiday party offers the best value today, and help a family visiting Walt Disney World for just one day decide which park should make that unforgettable first impression before setting sail on a Disney Cruise. Whether you're planning your next vacation, looking for fresh Disney ideas, or just enjoy hearing us tackle fun “what if” scenarios, this episode is packed with laughs, opinions, and plenty of Disney magic.

It's another huge day for Halloween Horror Nights 35! Join Simon and Phill as they react to the latest HHN35 announcements, breaking down the newest haunted houses, scare zones, shows, and everything Universal Orlando has revealed. We'll share our thoughts, predictions, and what these announcements could mean for this year's event.   If you're planning a trip to Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights 35, this is your one-stop update for all the latest HHN news, rumours, and speculation.  

Do Disney fans actually enjoy listening to trip report podcasts? Lauren and Eric dig into podcast popularity data, compare several long-running Disney shows, and debate what makes a trip report worth hearing. Then they put the format to the test with stories and practical takeaways from Disney's Vero Beach Resort, Bay Lake Tower, Walt Disney World, and Universal Orlando during the summer heat. HIGHLIGHTS • What Listen Notes rankings suggest about the popularity of Disney trip report podcasts • Why useful tips and honest opinions matter more than a minute-by-minute vacation recap • Disney's Vero Beach Resort wins over even a dedicated beach skeptic • First impressions of Bay Lake Tower, including its rooms, views, location, and resort perks • Summer crowds, dining discounts, heat strategies, and hotel experiences at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando For this episode's full show notes, ⁠click here⁠. HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jenny Snyder⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Eric Hersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The kids are back from their epic vacation--not an "Epic" vacation, but just the regular adjective. Listen as they recount their trip to Busch Gardens Williamsburg and to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Visit UFpodcast.com⁠⁠ to contact us and find us on socials. Please add The Universal Family Podcast to your library wherever you listen to your podcasts. We hope you enjoy our show about all things Universal Orlando!

On this episode we go through some more of the Producers Club Hot Takes & Unpopular Opinions. Join us in The Producers Club Follow us: LINKTREE   

On this episode of Remy's Roundtable: The Florida Theme Park Podcast, Remy kicks things off by sharing some exciting personal news with Mike—Jen is officially driving a brand-new **Volkswagen Taos**! After celebrating the new ride, Remy brings back one of the show's favorite segments, **Theme Park Debate**, where the guys dive into another fun discussion about the parks we all love.Next, it's time for **The Latest Theme Park Updates**, where Universal Orlando continues to build the hype for **Halloween Horror Nights**. The terrifying **Killer Klowns from Outer Space** return as part of the all-new **Downtown Clown Town** scare zone, where Art the Clown joins the chaos for what promises to be one of the event's most unforgettable experiences.Then, during **Ride of the Week**, Remy takes Mike on a nostalgic journey back to Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom to revisit the beloved, long-lost attraction **If You Had Wings**. Sponsored by Eastern Air Lines, this classic Disney attraction transported guests around the world with catchy music, imaginative scenes, and plenty of Disney magic. It's a trip back to a fan-favorite attraction that many longtime Disney fans still remember fondly.To wrap up the episode, it's time for **Mike's Munchies** as Mike heads over to **Das Stakehaus** at Universal's Epic Universe to sink his teeth into one of the park's most unique dining experiences. Luckily for Mike, Remy's employee discount came to the rescue, making the bill much cheaper than expected—and proving that good food tastes even better when you're saving money!So whether you're here for nostalgic Disney attractions, terrifying vampires and Killer Klowns, delicious food, or a little aviation history, this episode has something for every theme park fan.**Sit back, relax, and enjoy some throwbacks, some vampires, and of course... some airplanes. Enjoy the show!**

We're tackling a wide variety of questions submitted by the Main Street Magic Community, covering everything from trip planning and resort decisions to Disney debates and even a little Universal Orlando. We discuss one of the most awkward situations you'll encounter in the parks—line cutting—and share our thoughts on where we draw the line (literally). Then we help a couple planning a Christmas vacation choose the perfect breakfast and dinner, including a character dining experience. We also look ahead to the future of Walt Disney World and debate whether 2027 or 2028 offers the better opportunity for a return visit based on upcoming attractions. Of course, no Q&A would be complete without some hot takes, so we're sharing the Disney hills we're willing to die on, from parks to movies and beyond. We also help a family decide between Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights, discuss whether Deluxe Resorts are really worth the extra cost, and compare All-Star Music Family Suites versus the Art of Animation Family Suites and the value of having Skyliner access. Finally, for all the Disney fans venturing over to Universal Orlando for the first time, especially self-proclaimed ride chickens, we offer tips to help make that first visit fun, stress-free, and unforgettable. Whether you're planning your next vacation or just love talking Disney, this episode has something for everyone!

Most families walk into a Disney trip thinking it is all parks, all day. Then they get there and realize the resort pool is where a big piece of the magic actually happens. This week Chip is back with me, and we are ranking our top 9 Walt Disney World resort pools. We each ranked our own top ten, swapped lists, and found out we agreed on almost everything. After one friendly disagreement, we trimmed it down to a top nine (sorry, Old Key West). From there we count all the way up, from the Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation to the pool that lands at number one. Along the way we talk slides, zero entry, theming, crowds, and price, because the best pool for your family is not always the fanciest one. We also get into which pools work best for little kids, where the crowds hit hardest, and when a value resort pool can quietly beat a deluxe one. I explain why Animal Kingdom Lodge is almost always the cheapest deluxe resort and tends to hold the biggest discounts, and why your room request there can make or break the whole stay. Chip shares the strange story behind our number one pool, which started out closer to a ten foot deep aquarium than a place to swim. We also get honest about the resorts everyone hypes up that quietly missed our list, and why the price of a room has to be part of how you judge a pool. And near the end, we break down why the most beautiful pool on property still could not reach the top two, and we tease a brand new resort pool that could shake up this entire ranking in a couple of years. Chapters 02:00  How we built the list (and why Old Key West got cut) 03:11  Number 9 06:23  Number 8 10:15  Number 7 13:18  Number 6 18:00  Number 5 21:04  Number 4 25:11  Number 3 29:15  Number 2 37:45  Number 1 Support and Connect

Episode 453 - We've got a huge show today. From popcorn to Dole Whips to Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party foods, we're telling you everything you need to know!Book your Disney, Universal Orlando, or ANY cruise line vacation today! Email: kristen@magicaljourneysvacations.comVISIT ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://diningatdisney.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ .Support us on Patreon. Sign up for as little as $1 a month and get The Ultimate Disney Dining Strategy Guide. patreon.com/diningatdisneySign up for our newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4rlOrDY⁠⁠⁠SOCIAL MEDIA: ⁠⁠⁠Dining at Disney - YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- https://www.facebook.com/diningatdisneypodcast/ ⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/diningatdisney/⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠Dining at Disney (@DiningatDisney) / X⁠⁠⁠ - Support us on ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠!Email - info@diningatdisney.com AFFILIATE LINKS: ⁠⁠⁠Booking Magician - Dining Alerts for Theme Parks⁠⁠⁠ Promo Code "DININGATDISNEY" - ⁠⁠⁠Gardengrocer.com⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠Dining at Disney's Amazon Affiliate Page⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠KingdomStrollers.com⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠Stitchintime- Etsy⁠⁠⁠ - Promo Code DININGATDISNEY - Photo Disclaimer: Some photo assets featured in this video are the property of Disney. All Disney images are used for informational and editorial purposes only. Dining at Disney is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company or any of its affiliates.

Thinking about going to Halloween Horror Nights 35 at Universal Orlando Resort? Simon and Phill break down every HHN35 Fear Pass, including the Rush of Fear Pass, Frequent Fear Pass, Frequent Fear Plus Pass, Ultimate Frequent Fear Pass, Express Pass and the R.I.P. Tour. We also share our best first-time visitor tips, money-saving advice, and everything you need to know before visiting HHN35.   Whether you're a first-time guest or an HHN veteran, this guide will help you choose the right pass and get the most out of your Halloween Horror Nights experience.  

Find out how to create a budget for your Disney World trip! In part two we cover trip costs, such as dining, transport, experiences, Lightning Lanes and more!Creating a Disney World budget is one of the most important things you can do, so I breakdown everything you need to budget for, plus give you some money saving tips for Disney!This special standalone podcast series takes you step by step on how to plan a Disney World trip (including a split stay at Universal Orlando!) and I use my own upcoming 40th Birthday trip as the example!Need help planning your best ever Disney World trip? Check out my Disney Trip Planning Services!https://www.mostmagicalguides.com/trip-planningFor videos packed full of tips and advice, plus vlogs of my own Disney World trips, visit my YouTube Channel!https://www.youtube.com/@MostMagicalGuides

Universal Orlando is putting Fast & Furious - Supercharged in park, and Jim Hill and Eric Hersey revisit how the troubled attraction made the jump from the Universal Studios Hollywood tram tour to a standalone Florida ride. They also unpack a rush of Halloween Horror Nights announcements, including Fortnite and Evil Dead, plus the apparent early reveal of an Ozzy Osbourne house. Along the way, the hosts discuss The Odyssey's blockbuster debut, new ride-system speculation, and a listener-assisted correction to their He-Man history. NEWS • Fortnite's Fortnitemares is headed to Halloween Horror Nights as a scare zone on both coasts. • Evil Dead Burn joins the Halloween Horror Nights 35 haunted-house lineup. • A prematurely released audio advertisement appears to have revealed an Ozzy Osbourne-themed house. • Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey delivers a massive opening weekend for Universal Pictures. • A new equipment permit fuels speculation about future Pokémon or Zelda attractions. FEATURE • Fast & Furious - Supercharged will operate for the final time at Universal Studios Florida on August 16, 2026. • Jim traces the attraction's evolution from the grand finale of Universal Studios Hollywood's tram tour to its costly Orlando counterpart. • The hosts examine why a screen-based party bus never delivered the Fast & Furious experience guests expected. • With Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift testing in California and another coaster rising in Florida, Universal is finally putting guests inside the franchise's cars. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter and Instagram: @erichersey - strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Save up to 12% on theme park tickets and explore a limited-time Universal Orlando offer featuring five days for the price of three at UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're ranking our top burger spots from across the parks, resorts, Disney Springs, and beyond, discussing what makes each one stand out and whether it's worth going out of your way to try. From the iconic Stack Burger at Steakhouse 71 and the island-inspired Wayfinder Burger at Wailulu Bar & Grill to the legendary Bison Cheeseburger at Geyser Point and the fan-favorite creations at D-Luxe Burger, we'll break down the flavors, toppings, atmosphere, and overall experience at each location. Along the way, we'll also highlight a few underrated burgers that deserve more attention, including favorites at Three Bridges Bar & Grill, Yak & Yeti Restaurant, Victoria Falls Lounge, Beaches & Cream, and more. As a bonus, we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit some of the best burgers ever served during EPCOT's festivals, including one of our most beloved Food & Wine Festival burger offerings of all time. If you're planning your next Disney vacation and want to know where to find the juiciest, most flavorful burgers on property—or you're just looking for an excuse to talk Disney food—this episode is for you. Grab some fries, maybe a milkshake, and join us as we crown the best burgers at Walt Disney World!

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unpack a whirlwind week of Disney and Universal discoveries, from a chaotic Lorcana release to a little-known Walt Disney World store hidden inside an Orlando parking garage. Lauren shares highlights from her latest theme park merchandise haul, including deeply discounted Universal gear and retro-inspired Contemporary Resort merchandise. Then Jim digs into the surprisingly smelly construction history connecting Seven Seas Lagoon, EPCOT, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, and Walt Disney World's original hotels. NEWS • A limited-edition Disney Lorcana release creates massive crowds at Disney Springs and forces the cancellation of a London event. • Jim and Lauren consider whether artificial scarcity and reseller demand are helping fuel Lorcana's popularity. • Lauren discovers an official Walt Disney World merchandise and ticket location hidden inside an International Drive parking garage. • Universal Orlando's Brown Derby shop offers select current merchandise at discounts of up to 70 percent. • The Contemporary Resort leans into vintage Disney style with monorail merchandise, classic photography, and deep-cut references. FEATURE • The excavation of Seven Seas Lagoon required moving millions of cubic yards of ancient organic material. • EPCOT guests encountered an unforgettable odor when construction crews disturbed old World Showcase Lagoon debris during development of Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. • Jim explains how Walt Disney World's original hotels were designed to extend the storytelling beyond the Magic Kingdom. • Early resort concepts included Persian, Thai, Dutch, Cape Cod, and South Seas destinations positioned around Bay Lake. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Lauren Hersey - X/Twitter: @laurenhersey2 - Instagram: @lauren_hersey_ FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Save up to 12 percent on Disney and Universal theme park tickets through UnlockedMagic.com, powered by the trusted team behind the DVC Rental Store. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we pontificate on the future of theme parks as we review a recent article in Forbes: "What Universal Kids Resort Reveals About The Future Of The Experience Economy." And of course, we discuss where the piece of Berlin wall at Universal has moved to now... and so much more! Visit UFpodcast.com⁠⁠ to contact us and find us on socials. Please add The Universal Family Podcast to your library wherever you listen to your podcasts. We hope you enjoy our show about all things Universal Orlando!

Jim Hill and Dan Graney examine the Avengers: Doomsday poster everyone may have looked at wrong, including a nearly hidden Loki positioned at the center of the multiverse and a newly powered-up Thor. They also discuss Marvel Comics leaving New York for Burbank, Kevin Feige's apparent Spider-Man: Brand New Day spoiler, and the increasingly wild X-Men casting rumors ahead of San Diego Comic-Con. Plus, Dan challenges the online narrative surrounding Supergirl and explains why theatrical box office may no longer tell the whole story. HIGHLIGHTS • Marvel Comics prepares to leave New York City after nearly 90 years and relocate its publishing operation to Burbank. • Stephen Wacker takes over as Marvel editor-in-chief while C.B. Cebulski shifts his focus to manga and Asian publishing projects. • Loki may be hiding in plain sight at the exact center of the Avengers: Doomsday ensemble poster. • Thor's orange lightning could signal the arrival of the Odinforce and the MCU's most powerful version of the character yet. • Andy Park's final major Marvel Studios artwork carries an unexpectedly poignant Endgame connection. • Kevin Feige may have revealed Yelena Belova's surprise appearance in Spider-Man: Brand New Day. • X-Men casting rumors intensify ahead of Marvel Studios' Hall H presentation at San Diego Comic-Con. • Vision Quest gets an October release date, Élodie Yung returns as Elektra, and Nova reportedly evolves from a series into a feature film. • Supergirl, The Mandalorian and Grogu, and Masters of the Universe raise bigger questions about online negativity, streaming strategy, and how studios now measure success. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Dan Graney - YouTube: @TheHubbubbery - Facebook: /thehubbubbery - thehubbubbery.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Save on Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando tickets through UnlockedMagic.com. Select your dates, purchase your tickets, and let the Unlocked Magic team know that Jim and Dan sent you. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're putting each other on the spot with a mix of honest confessions, impossible choices, and hot takes covering everything from ships and staterooms to dining, entertainment, private islands, and more. Is Castaway Cay still the ultimate private island, or is Lookout Cay making a serious case? Which onboard restaurant would we bring to land, and what Disney Cruise tradition do we think gets a little too much hype? Once a card is drawn, there's no backing out—we have to give a clear answer and defend it, even if it sparks a debate. While we've personally sailed the Disney Magic, Disney Wish and the Disney Destiny, this episode celebrates the entire Disney Cruise Line fleet. Whether you've sailed once, sailed them all, or are dreaming about your very first Disney cruise, you'll find plenty of fun conversations, surprising opinions, and maybe even a few ideas for planning your next adventure at sea. So grab your favorite tropical drink, settle into your deck chair, and play along with us. Would your answers match ours, or would you make completely different choices? There's only one way to find out!

There are a LOT of hotels at Universal Orlando now, and honestly the choices can be overwhelming. So we did what any reasonable theme park fan would do and ranked all of them from worst to best. In this episode we're going through every single Universal Orlando resort hotel, talking about what makes each one worth it (or not), breaking down the perks, the vibes, the price points, and figuring out where you should actually be staying on your next trip. Spoiler: we don't all agree on everything, and that's kind of the point. Whether you're a first timer trying to figure out if Cabana Bay is the move or a seasoned Universal vet wondering if the new Epic Universe hotels shake things up, this one is for you. We cover: All the on-site Universal Orlando hotels The perks that actually matter when choosing where to stay Which hotels give you the best bang for your buck Our personal favorites and the ones we'd skip How the newer hotels stack up against the classics Drop your own Universal hotel rankings in the comments. We want to see where you land on all of this, and we guarantee someone is going to have a spicy take. If you like what you hear, please hit that like button, subscribe to the channel, and tap the notification bell so you never miss an episode. It really does help us out more than you know. Find the full Capture The Magic Podcast feed on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen to podcasts. Search Capture The Magic and come hang out with us there too. Join Club 32 Help us to fund & grow the show by becoming part of Club 32! You'll get more additional content, CTM Apparel discounts, 1901 Candle Company discounts, private Facebook Group, private podcast & more! - head to ctmvip.com CTM Apparel Get the best Disney, Universal and/or Pop Culture apparel that is hand made in our shop - shop at ctmshirts.com Subscribe To The Show & Leave Us A Review Apple Podcasts - Click Here Stitcher - Click Here Spotify - Click Here Follow Us on Social Media CTM Facebook Group: @capthemagic Twitter: @capthemagic Instagram: @capthemagic Visit Us Online Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Capture the Magic Podcast – find the latest episodes! Capture The Magic Apparel – you can find a great Disney-inspired t-shirt collection! Join Club 32! Our private group with access to exclusive livestreams, podcasts, and MORE! Visit ctmvip.com Our Sponsors Zip Travel - visit travelwithzip.com to see how they can help you have the vacation of a lifetime! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Attractions Magazine contributing writers and correspondents as they bring you news and discussion about all things themed entertainment and parks, including Disney, Universal Studios and beyond on The Attractions Podcast. Topics of conversation on this week's episode of The Attractions Podcast: Magic of Disney Animation returning to Hollywood Studios after 11 years in 2026 Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift: Ride details, testing, opening timeline and more ‘Fast & Furious' roller coaster at Universal Orlando details; Supercharged closing in August 2026 Will MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress open at Knott's in 2026? LEGO officially greenlights fan-made Universal Monsters set Kumba Closing at Busch Garden Hersheypark Trip Report The Attractions Podcast is brought to you by MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel. They provide premium service and expert advice to get the most for your vacation time and dollars. Visit them at mei-travel.com. We welcome your suggestions and want you to be a part of the discussion. Please send your comments to info@attractionsmagazine.com with the subject line “The Attractions Podcast.” Statements or opinions herein are those of the hosts and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the producer, Dream Together Media LLC, or staff.

In this week's episode, we go land by land at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe, to determine what in each land is untouchable, what needs some change, and what needs to just go at this point. Hence the name, The Great, Good, and The Ugly!Let us know what you think we got right, or wrong, in this episode by checking out our Discord channel! And if you like what you hear, and want more, check out patreon.com/wtmhpodcastSupport the show

In Episode 534, Jose and Ryan are joined by David Blair go over some Hellraiser related news, in particular we talk about the English translation of the old Hellraiser Manga.   This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff.  This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video. Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store Check out his recent painting, "Snowflake",  "Pork Rinds", and "A little Something Fishy II" 2001: The Future's Not What it Used to Be Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast Chat: New Barker-Related Aquisitions From The Reef Hellraiser Announcement Video - Halloween Horror Nights 2026. Doug Bradley recorded Pinhead lines for it! ASHLEY LAURENCE is coming to OKC HORROR CON July 17-19th Official Con website here! Simon Bamford posts casting call for The Black-Ey3d Children film, where he plays "John" Peter Atkins featured in the latest Hellraiser Discord YouTube channel videos Barbie Wilde interviewed in The London Horror Movie Club Paul T Taylor talked to Hellraiser Discord about auditioning for Hellraiser: Judgement Paul Kane will be present at a Hellbound Screening and Q&A in Wales BOOM! Studios releasing fac-simile edition of the Harrowers #1 Hellraiser Manga has been translated to English   Show Notes Night of the Zoopocalypse Blu-Ray on Amazon Buy our Book on Amazon Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Apple  Black Eyed Children on Tubi Coming Next Book Club of Blood : The Inhuman Condition Clive's Contemporaries 1987 – Angel Heart Clive's Contemporaries 1988 – Please Vote More News and Interviews Patreon Members Shout Out David Anderson Erik Van T' Holt Daniel Elven Amanda Stewart Bradley Gartz Markus David Blair Matthew Batten Bennett Jesse Timothy Ramakers Terry Murdock John-John Sponsor: Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.   web www.clivebarkercast.com Apple Podcasts,  Android,  Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian  BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community   Support the show Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian  Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Apple Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt   Music is by Ray Norrish   All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com     AI Summary   This was episode 534 of the Clive Barker podcast, where Ryan, Jose, and David discussed extensive Hellraiser-related news and updates. The team covered several major developments including Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights 2026 featuring a Hellraiser-themed attraction with Doug Bradley as Pinhead, Ashley Lawrence's upcoming appearance at Oklahoma City HorrorCon, and Simon Bamford's casting call for the Black Eyed Children film series. They reviewed a new interview with Peter Atkins by the Hellraiser Discord community and discussed Barbie Wilde's interview with the London Horror Movie Club. Jose shared his discovery of an English translation of the rare Hellraiser manga adaptation by Naruho Amino, which is now available for free online. The group also discussed upcoming Hellraiser game releases, convention appearances by various actors, and plans for their next book club discussion of "The Inhuman Condition" and 1988 Clive Barker works.   Hellraiser Revival Attractions Discussion The group discussed the Hellraiser Revival game and upcoming Hellraiser-themed attractions. They learned about a new Hellraiser ride at Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights, which will feature Doug Bradley as Pinhead. The discussion also covered an upcoming Oklahoma City HorrorCon where Ashley Lawrence and potentially other Cenobite actors are expected to appear. Additionally, they mentioned Simon Bamford's involvement in the third installment of The Black Eyed Children series, though details about where to watch the first two films were not fully confirmed.   Hellraiser Content and Updates The group discussed several Hellraiser-related topics including a new movie "The Black Eyed Children" available on Tubi, a Hellraiser Discord YouTube video featuring Peter Atkins addressing questions about the series, and an interview with Barbie Wilde by the London Horror Movie Club. They also covered Paul T. Taylor's interview about the Hellraiser Judgment audition process and mentioned an upcoming Hellraiser screening with Q&A in Wales featuring Paul T. Taylor. The discussion concluded with information about a Boom Studios re-release of the first issue of the Harrowers comic and the discovery of an English translation of a Japanese Hellraiser manga adaptation from 1988.   Hellraiser Manga Adaptation Discussion Jose and Ryan discussed a recently published manga adaptation of Hellraiser by the Caterpillar Group, noting that while it simplified the story, it captured key elements from both the movie and novella. They identified some character differences and translation issues, particularly regarding family relationships and honorifics in Japanese. The discussion concluded with Jose expressing interest in finding more manga adaptations by Naruho Amino, including "In the Hills of the Cities" and "Gathering of Cenobites," while Ryan mentioned their website had experienced technical issues with Bluehost.   Book Club Content Planning The group discussed upcoming book club content, including plans for "The Inhuman Condition" and commentary on "Angel Heart." They announced a vote for the 1988 commentary topic from a list including "Hellbound," "Hellraiser 2," "Child's Play," "Night of the Demons," and other films, with voting to remain open for a month. The discussion included conversations about various movies including "Monkey Shines," directed by George Romero and based on a Stephen King story, and the poorly received 1994 "Fantastic Four" film that was made to retain movie rights.   Movie Discussion and Updates The group discussed various movies, including the Fantastic Four film series and horror movies like Angel Heart and Hellraiser. They talked about voting for favorite movies in an upcoming podcast episode and mentioned updates to their website. David shared information about collecting Dracula comics, and the team discussed updating their "About Us" page to reflect current information and remove outdated details.  

The field has been narrowed from eleven pavilions to just four, and now it's time to crown a champion in the final episode of the Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup! After surviving the play-in round and quarterfinals, the remaining pavilions enter the Final Four with everything on the line. We'll once again compare each matchup across food, drinks, attractions, immersion, shopping, hangout factor, hidden details, festival presence, and overall experience—but at this stage, every decision feels tougher than ever. The two semifinal winners will advance to the championship match, where we'll take one final look at what makes each pavilion special and decide which one truly deserves to lift the Cup.  Then, after three episodes, multiple upsets, and plenty of tough calls, only one pavilion remains standing. Which pavilion survives the Final Four? Who reaches the championship match? And which World Showcase country is crowned the first-ever Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup champion? Grab your bracket at https://www.patreon.com/wonderlandcrew/posts/main-street-cup-163717533, see whether your picks are still alive, and join us as we finish the tournament and crown the ultimate EPCOT pavilion!

We have a LOT to catch up on! Nightmare Fuel is officially back! Stranger Things is getting its own lagoon show! Killer Klowns from Outer Space are invading the streets of Halloween Horror Nights! Multi-Night Express is officially dead! Oh... and Universal also announced TWO brand-new scare zones! We're breaking down every announcement, what it means for HHN 35, and sharing our thoughts on all of the latest news from Universal Orlando. If you've missed the last few days of HHN updates, this is the episode to get you completely caught up!

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Join us on this ep while the kids are on vacation. It's just the two of us this week, reflecting on our umpteenth watchings of Jaws and other random topics. Visit UFpodcast.com⁠⁠ to contact us and find us on socials. Please add The Universal Family Podcast to your library wherever you listen to your podcasts. We hope you enjoy our show about all things Universal Orlando!

Kumba's days are officially numbered.In Episode 272 of the Vacationeers Theme Parks & More Podcast, Tom and Jon discuss the latest theme park news and announcements from the first half of July 2026.Busch Gardens Tampa has confirmed that Kumba will permanently close following its final day of operation on August 2. We look back at the legendary B&M coaster, discuss its impact on Busch Gardens Tampa, and talk about what could eventually replace it.We also dive into the latest Halloween announcements from both Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando. Halloween Horror Nights continues its 2026 rollout with the Hellraiser haunted house, Nightmare Fuel: Blood Noir, and new scare zones including Sideshow of Decay. SeaWorld Orlando has also started revealing what's waiting for guests at Howl-O-Scream 2026.Plus, we discuss Universal Nights at Epic Universe, the return of UOAP Nights, and Holiday World's newly announced record-breaking water coaster.Then it's time for the Rumor Report, including speculation about a possible major Space Mountain refurbishment at Magic Kingdom and the last two remaining houses yet to be announced at HHN.ThrillLedger, the new theme park ride and visit tracker from Vacationeers Media Group. Track your park visits, log your rides and wait times, count your coaster credits, unlock achievements and see your theme park stats all in one place.

If you're wondering whether Halloween Horror Nights is appropriate for teenagers, how scary it really is, or what age is best for HHN, this episode answers those questions and more.Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando is one of the biggest Halloween events in the world—but it's also one of the most intense. In this episode of Mom Street USA, we're sharing our complete parent's guide to HHN, including what to expect, ticket options, scare zones, haunted houses, Express Pass, food, shows, and tips for making your first visit a success.Whether your teen is a horror superfan or just curious about the event, we'll help you decide if Halloween Horror Nights is the right fit for your family and how to approach the night without feeling overwhelmed.In this episode we cover:-What Halloween Horror Nights is and how it works-Haunted Houses vs. Scare Zones-HHN ticket options, Scream Early, Express Pass, and RIP Tours-Best food, themed snacks, and Pizza Fries-Nightmare Fuel, Death Eaters, and Ghoulish!-Best HHN photo spots-Deathly Afraid Necklaces and how they work-Tips for reducing wait times and avoiding overstimulationRemember that Universal Orlando officially recommends Halloween Horror Nights for ages 13+, and every child is different. We hope this guide helps you feel prepared so your family can enjoy one of Universal's most popular seasonal events!If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe to Mom Street USA for weekly Disney World and Universal Orlando vacation planning tips designed specifically for families.Watch Mom Street USA every week LIVE on YouTube every Friday at Noon eastern! Join us now on our Patreon account: https://patreon.com/MomStreetUSACheck out our partnership with Kingdom Strollers here: https://fas.st/t/jLDXEFpD Find more on MOWD, the newest theme park app from our good friend Kirk at Walrus Carp here: https://mowd.io/ Have a question or have a future show topic recommendation? Chat with us on Patreon or email us @ momstreetusa@gmail.com!⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/momstreetusa#HalloweenHorrorNights #HHN #UniversalOrlando #UniversalStudios #HHN2026 #UniversalHalloween #UniversalTips #OrlandoVacation #ThemeParkTips #FamilyTravel #HalloweenEvents #MomStreetUSA

Disneyland's bargain evening tickets disappear, Universal Orlando rolls out an unusually affordable Florida resident pass, and Epic Universe lights up the night with Celestial Goodnight. Len and Jim also examine revealing Disney and Universal guest surveys, a fog-screen patent that may be connected to Tropical Americas, and some wonderfully strange theme park history. Then Jim continues the story of Disney's Living Character Initiative, tracing how Finding Nemo pushed Imagineering to bring animated characters into the parks faster than ever before. NEWS • Disneyland's $59 evening tickets have sold out for the remainder of 2026. • Epic Universe debuts Celestial Goodnight, a new nighttime spectacular featuring fountains, fireworks, lighting effects, and the Helios Grand Hotel. • Universal Orlando introduces a $199 Florida resident pass offering unlimited visits to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure through December 16. • New Disney and Universal surveys raise questions about Lightning Lane planning, hotel benefits, dining revenue, and the value of Universal Express. • A Disney patent describes a 360-degree image projected onto a laminar-flow fog screen, potentially for a future animal-filled attraction. FEATURE • Universal's rapid transformation of popular movies into theme park attractions forced Disney to reconsider its traditionally slow development process. • Finding Nemo became Pixar's biggest hit to date, leaving Disney Parks searching for a faster way to bring Nemo and his friends to guests. • Before a permanent attraction could be built, Disney experimented with a tiny drivable Nemo character in the Magic Kingdom and at the Transportation and Ticket Center. • Imagineering's solution became Turtle Talk with Crush, a groundbreaking interactive experience developed in roughly ten months and still entertaining guests today. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social - Instagram: @len.testa - touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Save on admission to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and select special events with UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disneyland's bargain evening tickets disappear, Universal Orlando rolls out an unusually affordable Florida resident pass, and Epic Universe lights up the night with Celestial Goodnight. Len and Jim also examine revealing Disney and Universal guest surveys, a fog-screen patent that may be connected to Tropical Americas, and some wonderfully strange theme park history. Then Jim continues the story of Disney's Living Character Initiative, tracing how Finding Nemo pushed Imagineering to bring animated characters into the parks faster than ever before. NEWS • Disneyland's $59 evening tickets have sold out for the remainder of 2026. • Epic Universe debuts Celestial Goodnight, a new nighttime spectacular featuring fountains, fireworks, lighting effects, and the Helios Grand Hotel. • Universal Orlando introduces a $199 Florida resident pass offering unlimited visits to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure through December 16. • New Disney and Universal surveys raise questions about Lightning Lane planning, hotel benefits, dining revenue, and the value of Universal Express. • A Disney patent describes a 360-degree image projected onto a laminar-flow fog screen, potentially for a future animal-filled attraction. FEATURE • Universal's rapid transformation of popular movies into theme park attractions forced Disney to reconsider its traditionally slow development process. • Finding Nemo became Pixar's biggest hit to date, leaving Disney Parks searching for a faster way to bring Nemo and his friends to guests. • Before a permanent attraction could be built, Disney experimented with a tiny drivable Nemo character in the Magic Kingdom and at the Transportation and Ticket Center. • Imagineering's solution became Turtle Talk with Crush, a groundbreaking interactive experience developed in roughly ten months and still entertaining guests today. For show notes for this episode, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social - Instagram: @len.testa - touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Save on admission to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and select special events with UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Universal Orlando has been busy, and we're covering all the latest news you need to know before your next vacation! Whether you're planning your first Universal vacation or you're a seasoned passholder, we'll help you stay up to date on the biggest changes. 

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It's episode 452. We've got a lot of Disneyland discussion for you today! Carthay Circle's new menu items, an update on Gordon Ramsay's restaurant, a new Filipino restaurant in Downtown Disney, and the cool treats that you must enjoy when visiting Disneyland this summer to keep you cool.Book your Disney, Universal Orlando, or ANY cruise line vacation today! Email: kristen@magicaljourneysvacations.comVISIT ⁠⁠⁠https://diningatdisney.com/⁠⁠⁠ . Sign up for our newsletter ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4rlOrDY⁠⁠ - SOCIAL MEDIA: ⁠⁠Dining at Disney - YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠- https://www.facebook.com/diningatdisneypodcast/ ⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/diningatdisney/⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠Dining at Disney (@DiningatDisney) / X⁠⁠ - Support us on ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠! Email - info@diningatdisney.comAFFILIATE LINKS: ⁠⁠Booking Magician - Dining Alerts for Theme Parks⁠⁠ Promo Code "DININGATDISNEY" - ⁠⁠Gardengrocer.com⁠⁠- ⁠⁠Dining at Disney's Amazon Affiliate Page⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠KingdomStrollers.com⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠Stitchintime- Etsy⁠⁠ - Promo Code DININGATDISNEY - Photo Disclaimer: Some photo assets featured in this video are the property of Disney. All Disney images are used for informational and editorial purposes only. Dining at Disney is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company or any of its affiliates.

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey cover a busy week of Universal news, from Epic Universe's long-awaited Celestial Goodnight fireworks debut to Universal Fan Fest Nights coming to Orlando this fall. They also check in on Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift testing at Universal Studios Hollywood, and Super Nintendo World heading to Singapore. Then Jim uses last week's Backdraft discussion as a springboard for a look at Ron Howard's decades-long relationship with Universal, from Parenthood and Backdraft to Apollo 13, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and beyond. NEWS • Epic Universe officially debuts Celestial Goodnight, its nighttime fireworks and fountain spectacular. • Universal Orlando announces Universal Fan Fest Nights, a limited-capacity after-hours event coming to Epic Universe this fall. • Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift begins testing at Universal Studios Hollywood, though early reports suggest it may not be as silent as advertised. • Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas adds a limited-time Resident Evil takeover with themed zones, puzzles, food, and characters. • Universal Studios Singapore announces plans for a Super Nintendo World expansion, raising questions about what new ride systems may eventually travel stateside. FEATURE • Jim traces Ron Howard's path from child actor on The Andy Griffith Show to Happy Days star and eventual director. • The discussion follows Howard's early directing career through Grand Theft Auto, Night Shift, Splash, Cocoon, and Willow. • Jim explains how Parenthood became the first movie shot at Universal Studios Florida before the park officially opened. • The episode connects Backdraft to Howard's long Universal run, including Apollo 13, A Beautiful Mind, Cinderella Man, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey, Instagram: @erichersey, Website: strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Planning a Universal or Disney trip? Epic Universal Podcast listeners can save up to 12% on theme park tickets, including select after-hours events, through UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup! In this special tournament series, we're putting all 11 World Showcase pavilions head-to-head in a single-elimination bracket to determine, once and for all, which pavilion deserves to be crowned the ultimate EPCOT champion. Before the competition begins, we explain exactly how the tournament was created. Using AI analysis, rankings and opinions from some of the most trusted Disney fan sites, and our own experiences after countless visits to EPCOT, we seeded each pavilion into the bracket based on six major categories: Food, Drinks, Attractions, Immersion, Shopping, and Hangout Factor. But once the tournament starts, the seeds no longer matter—every matchup is decided one category at a time, with the winner advancing and the loser going home. After introducing the rules and revealing the full bracket, it's time for the opening play-in round. Three exciting matchups kick off the tournament as lower-seeded pavilions battle for the chance to face the top contenders waiting later in the bracket. Every debate is filled with tough decisions, surprising opinions, and plenty of Disney discussion as we compare everything from signature restaurants and iconic snacks to rides, entertainment, architecture, hidden details, and festival offerings. Who earns the first victories? Which pavilion pulls off an upset? And which favorites are waiting for their chance to enter the tournament? Welcome to the Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup!

Six Flags Over Texas finally "drops the gate" on Tormenta: Rampaging Run, the massive new B&M dive coaster, and the early word is exactly what you'd hope: no rattle, great reviews. Mike and EB break down what a park gets right when a new ride opens with an entire refurbished plaza around it, and whether "biggest dive coaster yet" actually means anything anymore to hardcore enthusiasts who've done this exact ride four times already. Then it's a packed news round covering a genuinely incredible Universal exhibition at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia (with a Star Wars follow-up already announced for the park's 50th anniversary), Universal Orlando's new after-hours "Universal Nights" event at Epic Universe going head-to-head with Halloween Horror Nights, and Disneyland officially welcoming its one billionth guest. That last one gets the full Coaster Radio treatment: an "exclusive" behind-the-scenes report from the Billionth Guest Command Center, featuring the triumphant return of Disney Podcast Guy, whose live-streamed quest for billionth-guest glory ends about as well as you'd expect. After the break: a trip report from two listeners who flew from Houston to Atlanta for one last ride on Arie Force One before it's gone, plus fresh chatter about whether RMC floating the idea of relocating the coaster means anything (spoiler: not until someone signs a check). Then the second half of the show is all yours — this week's interactive topic asked listeners which park has changed the most, for better or worse, over the last 20 years, and the answers cover Disney California Adventure's total reinvention, Dollywood's coaster boom, Carowinds' rise from unknown local park to must-visit and Hersheypark's transformation into a real destination.

Jonathan Tisch helped shape Loews Hotels for 45 years, built some of the company's most important projects, and still talks about hospitality as a people business before anything else. Dr. Producer Suzanne Bagnera cohosts this conversation with Jonathan Tisch, retired executive chairman of Loews Hotels, and we get into the decisions behind Loews Miami Beach, the long relationship with Universal Orlando, the Arlington growth story, and why hotel people still need to fight for more respect. Jonathan also shares one line from his first sales boss that stuck with him through every chapter of his career: Never start a paragraph with "I." That idea runs through the whole conversation. Jonathan keeps coming back to the guest, the team, the community, and the responsibility hotel leaders carry.

How far in advance should you book your Disney World vacation? Is the dining plan actually worth it? And what is going on with those new MagicBand checks at Disney Springs? In this episode, I sit down with my co-host Chip to answer the listener questions that have been flooding our inbox, and if you're a family planning a Disney World trip, these are probably your questions too. We start with the news everyone is talking about: Walt Disney World now requires a MagicBand check to ride buses and boats from Disney Springs to the resorts. I explain why 99 percent of vacationing families will never notice this change, what Disney is really trying to stop, and why I think the Skyliner and monorail could be next. Then we work through your questions one by one: the six to eight month booking sweet spot, how Disney discounts really work behind the scenes, whether the dining plan makes sense for your family, and how many park days a first trip actually needs. Chip and I also dig into a real client scenario from this week: Pop Century versus Coronado Springs when a 20 percent discount makes them the same price. I explain why most families overestimate how much they will actually use the Skyliner, and why paying up for a Skyliner resort with fewer amenities is usually the wrong move. We also share why the food budget is the first thing I cut on a Disney trip, and why Lightning Lanes are the last. Stick around to the end, where two dads with ten kids between us settle the rope drop debate and break down exactly when Park Hopper pays off, and when it is just money down the drain. I'll even tell you how much I have lost on it myself. FREE: Beginner's Guide to Lightning Lanes: https://adventures-of-a-disney-dad.kit.com/09205643ab Chapters 03:52  News: MagicBand checks at Disney Springs 05:54  Who this change actually affects (and who it does not) 07:15  The Grand Floridian gingerbread house and resort crowding 08:58  Should resort guests get dining priority? 09:53  What reservation availability says about Disney demand right now 14:00  Question 1: How far in advance should you book? 16:01  How Disney discounts really work behind the scenes 19:25  Question 2: Is the Disney dining plan worth it? 24:13  Cut the food budget first, never the Lightning Lanes 25:11  Question 3: How many days does a first trip need? 28:38  Question 4: Is the Skyliner worth it? Pop Century vs Coronado 31:17  Why families overestimate the Skyliner 35:22  Question 5: My daughter is terrified of characters 37:51  Question 6: Rope drop or stay late? 42:01  Question 7: When does Park Hopper actually pay off? 49:12  Wrap up and how to get free planning help

Jim Hill and Dan Graney return from the Fourth of July weekend with Avengers on the brain, Spider-Man breaking trailer records, and X-Men '97 stretching Marvel history across thousands of years. They dig into the rumored new Endgame Encore tag, how Spider-Man: Brand New Day may be quietly setting up the MCU's mutant era, and why X-Men '97 Season 2 feels like both a great show and a smart primer for Doomsday. Then Jim and Dan crown their first-ever Doctor Doom of the Week as Sony's latest digital ownership moves spark a bigger conversation about physical media, preservation, and the original 1977 Star Wars returning to theaters. NEWS • Avengers: Endgame Encore is headed back to theaters with new footage, a fresh intro, and an exclusive end tag tied to Avengers: Doomsday. • Jim and Dan revisit their Doctor Doom theory as fans wonder whether Tony Stark's famous hammering sound could be recontextualized for Victor von Doom. • Spider-Man: Brand New Day is breaking trailer records while hinting at mutating DNA, Damage Control, inhibitor tech, and the MCU's coming mutant era. • Tom Holland says he wants to help bring Miles Morales into the MCU, echoing the mentor role Robert Downey Jr. played for him. • X-Men '97 Season 2 launches with a time-hopping three-episode premiere that moves from the future to 1997 to ancient Egypt. FEATURE • Sony earns the first Doctor Doom of the Week title after paid digital movies begin disappearing from PlayStation libraries due to expired licensing. • Jim and Dan unpack why GTA 6's reported physical release raises concerns about empty boxes, download codes, and the decline of game discs. • The conversation turns to preservation, ownership, and what gets lost when digital storefronts replace shelves of movies, games, and Blu-rays. • Disney's planned IMAX release of the original 1977 theatrical cut of Star Wars offers a hopeful counterpoint for fans of film history and physical media. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Dan Graney - YouTube: @TheHubbubbery, Facebook: /thehubbubbery, Website: thehubbubbery.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Save on Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando tickets with UnlockedMagic.com, from the team behind DVC Rental Store and DVC Resale Market. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're wrapping up an unforgettable Fourth of July weekend at Walt Disney World with plenty of food, fireworks, resort updates, and a few surprises along the way. We kick things off by giving shoutouts to some amazing members of the Main Street Magic community we had the chance to meet before diving into the latest changes around Disney's Polynesian Village Resort—including an update to Wailulu Bar & Grill's menu and the unexpected reason Disney has eliminated zero-proof cocktails across its owned restaurants. From there, we eat our way through the weekend with breakfast at Steakhouse 71, featuring Walt's Prime Rib Hash, seasonal pancakes, a build-your-own omelet, and some must-order sides before heading poolside to Barefoot Pool Bar for refreshing drinks and spicy honey pork wings. We also stop by Trader Sam's Grog Grotto to sample several appetizers and then chat about finishing the trip at Tambu Lounge with a couple of classic favorites. Along the way, we share our thoughts on the new Disney Springs bus procedures, recap what it's like spending Independence Day at Disney's Polynesian Resort, and discuss everything from fireworks to crowd levels to whether this holiday weekend is worth experiencing for yourself. Whether you're planning your next Walt Disney World vacation, looking for honest Disney dining reviews, or just want to spend some time hanging out with us, this episode is packed with food, fun, Disney updates, and plenty of holiday magic.

Len Testa and Jim Hill start this week's Disney Dish with news from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and the wider entertainment industry before digging into listener questions and recent theme park patent applications. They discuss Typhoon Lagoon's upcoming maintenance closure, Disneyland's unusual evening ticket offer, the new pirate-to-skeleton effect in Pirates of the Caribbean, and Universal's long-awaited Hellraiser Halloween Horror Nights house. Then Jim continues his history of Disney's Living Character Initiative with a look at Pixar Place, Toy Story Mania, and the short-lived Luxo Jr. figure that hopped into Hollywood Studios history. NEWS • Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to close for annual maintenance on September 9, 2026, leaving Blizzard Beach as Walt Disney World's open water park. • Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party sees another sold-out date, with Len and Jim looking at why early weekend parties disappear quickly. • Level99 opens at Disney Springs, prompting a discussion about interactive play spaces, Disney Quest, and why Disney IP is not part of the experience. • Disneyland introduces a $59 evening ticket for select summer nights, suggesting softer attendance in Southern California. • Universal Orlando announces Hellraiser for Halloween Horror Nights, giving Pinhead a long-awaited haunted house spotlight. FEATURE • Jim revisits the Living Character Initiative after Disney's 2006 Pixar acquisition reshaped priorities inside Imagineering. • Mickey's Midway Mania becomes Toy Story Mania as Pixar characters move to the center of Disney's park strategy. • Hollywood Studios' Pixar Place is designed as a tribute to Pixar's Emeryville campus, complete with a Florida version of Toy Story Mania. • The Luxo Jr. figure debuts as a six-foot-tall living character but vanishes after only about ten months due to weather exposure and trademark complications. For this episode's full show notes, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social, Instagram: @len.testa, Website: touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Disney Dish is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com, from our friends at DVC Rental Store. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://nordvpn.com/DISNEYDISH⁠⁠⁠⁠ Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa and Jim Hill start this week's Disney Dish with news from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and the wider entertainment industry before digging into listener questions and recent theme park patent applications. They discuss Typhoon Lagoon's upcoming maintenance closure, Disneyland's unusual evening ticket offer, the new pirate-to-skeleton effect in Pirates of the Caribbean, and Universal's long-awaited Hellraiser Halloween Horror Nights house. Then Jim continues his history of Disney's Living Character Initiative with a look at Pixar Place, Toy Story Mania, and the short-lived Luxo Jr. figure that hopped into Hollywood Studios history. NEWS • Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to close for annual maintenance on September 9, 2026, leaving Blizzard Beach as Walt Disney World's open water park. • Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party sees another sold-out date, with Len and Jim looking at why early weekend parties disappear quickly. • Level99 opens at Disney Springs, prompting a discussion about interactive play spaces, Disney Quest, and why Disney IP is not part of the experience. • Disneyland introduces a $59 evening ticket for select summer nights, suggesting softer attendance in Southern California. • Universal Orlando announces Hellraiser for Halloween Horror Nights, giving Pinhead a long-awaited haunted house spotlight. FEATURE • Jim revisits the Living Character Initiative after Disney's 2006 Pixar acquisition reshaped priorities inside Imagineering. • Mickey's Midway Mania becomes Toy Story Mania as Pixar characters move to the center of Disney's park strategy. • Hollywood Studios' Pixar Place is designed as a tribute to Pixar's Emeryville campus, complete with a Florida version of Toy Story Mania. • The Luxo Jr. figure debuts as a six-foot-tall living character but vanishes after only about ten months due to weather exposure and trademark complications. For this episode's full show notes, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social, Instagram: @len.testa, Website: touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Disney Dish is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com, from our friends at DVC Rental Store. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://nordvpn.com/DISNEYDISH⁠⁠⁠⁠ Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disney Springs and Disney's BoardWalk are both getting a major refresh in 2026 — and this week the Mouse Chat team breaks down every new restaurant, lounge, shop, and entertainment venue worth knowing about. From Gideon's Bakehouse's mysterious savory spin-off to a 45,000-square-foot game palace, plus the long-rumored BoardWalk additions Disney finally confirmed, here's what's coming and when. Ready to turn any of this into a trip? [Get a free, no-fee Disney World quote from Pixie Vacations »](https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quote/?utm_source=mousechat&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=july2026) ### Disney Springs — New Food & Dining **Six Ravens (Gideon's Bakehouse savory concept) — signage up, opening this summer.** The strongest "almost open" signal yet: signage is now installed at the former Art of Shaving space in The Landing, just a few doors from the original Gideon's. The signature item is the "Coffyn" — a hand pie with sandwich-style fillings wrapped in a house-made yeast roll (a nod to a medieval European pastry) — paired with smashed potatoes and dips like sweet heat and homemade honey mustard. Drinks include local beers crafted with Orlando's Sideward Brewing and The Ravenous Pig, plus root beer on tap. The name nods to the Tower of London and its legendary guardian ravens. Note for listeners: it's grab-and-go, no reservation, and **not** on the Disney Dining Plan. **Kakigori Kool (Morimoto Asia shaved-ice cart) — summer 2026.** Morimoto Asia is adding a snack cart serving Japan's kakigori shaved-ice dessert with fruity syrups and toppings, right outside the restaurant. *Building your Disney Springs dining hit list? Our agents know the new spots and the can't-miss classics — [start a free quote](https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quote/?utm_source=mousechat&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=july2026) and we'll fold it into your trip.* ### Disney Springs — Entertainment (old DisneyQuest / NBA Experience building) **LEVEL99 — opens June 29, 2026; tickets on sale June 22.** The largest LEVEL99 to date: 60+ challenge rooms and duels across a 45,000-sq-ft, two-story space, plus a chef-crafted menu with their award-winning Detroit-style pizza and a big central bar. Tickets start at $29.99 (1.5- and 2.5-hour intervals). It's the chain's fourth location after Natick, MA; Providence, RI; and Tysons, VA. Fun hooks: the first 500 guests opening day get a commemorative pin, and the date was revealed via an Instagram puzzle fans had to decode. **Vuori + Columbia Sportswear (retail).** Athletic apparel brand Vuori opens at Disney Springs this summer alongside LEVEL99 and Six Ravens, and Columbia Sportswear reopens July 24. ### Disney's BoardWalk — New Lounge, Store & Dining (the big one) Disney officially confirmed the long-rumored BoardWalk additions — all opening starting in late 2026 — finally filling in those empty buildings everyone's been speculating about. (Trying to decide where to stay near Epcot and Hollywood Studios? Listen to [Which Disney World Resort is Perfect for You?](https://mousechat.net/which-disney-world-resort-is-perfect-for-you-mouse-chat-podcast/)) **Hurly-Burly (waterfront lounge) — late 2026.** The headliner: a new waterfront lounge inspired by a historic seaside theater. By day it hosts trivia and family-friendly games; each evening it becomes a live-music venue for guests 21+. It fills the live-entertainment gap left by Jellyrolls, which closed in April 2025 after nearly 30 years. Expect coastal-inspired cocktails, light bites, and a rotating lineup of live performers. **Basin (bath & body retail) — late 2026.** The Disney Springs favorite is opening a BoardWalk location for soaps, bath bombs, bath salts, and body butters — with an interactive twist: create custom bath teas, make your own soaps, and personalize purchases with a soap embossing press, all themed to BoardWalk's vintage seaside look. **New quick-service restaurant — TBA.** Disney confirmed a new quick-service spot is planned but hasn't shared theme, menu, or opening date — more expected later this summer. We'll keep you posted. *Want a BoardWalk-area stay (BoardWalk Inn, Beach Club, or the Swan & Dolphin) so you can walk to Epcot? [Get a free quote](https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quote/?utm_source=mousechat&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=july2026) and we'll match you to the right resort.* ### Other Newsworthy WDW Items **Disney Springs resort bus verification returns June 28 — and becomes permanent.** A practical heads-up: this makes resort-hopping through Disney Springs noticeably harder. For more on getting around property, hear [Best Options to Get to Disney World](https://mousechat.net/best-options-to-get-to-disney-world-mouse-chat-podcast/). **Good to Go Days added for summer.** WDW Good to Go Days return for summer 2026 with three June dates — June 25, 28, and 29 — letting Annual Passholders visit without a park reservation, subject to blockouts. Check our monthly-updated [Disney World crowd calendar](https://pixievacations.com/disney-world-crowd-calendar/) before you pick dates. **Disney Lakeshore Lodge — first looks.** New first looks at the lazy river and pool area for Disney's Lakeshore Lodge — the new resort coming to the Bay Lake area between Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge, currently slated for 2027. **Bonus tip:** Adding a Disney cruise to your park trip? You can browse and book Disney Cruise Line — and every major line — through our [online cruise booking engine](https://cruise.pixievacations.com/app/0/cruise/0/selection.html?search[vendor_ids][0]=20), no fees. For the new ships, hear [Disney Treasure vs Disney Destiny](https://mousechat.net/disney-treasure-vs-disney-destiny-which-2026-disney-cruise-should-you-book/). --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **When does Six Ravens open at Disney Springs?** Six Ravens, the savory concept from Gideon's Bakehouse, is targeting a summer 2026 opening at The Landing in Disney Springs (the former Art of Shaving space, near the original Gideon's). Signage is installed as of June 2026. It's grab-and-go, no reservations, and not on the Disney Dining Plan. Planning a Disney Springs day? Pixie Vacations can build it into your free trip plan. **When does LEVEL99 at Disney Springs open?** LEVEL99 opens June 29, 2026 in the former DisneyQuest / NBA Experience building, with tickets starting at $29.99. It's an interactive challenge-and-duel venue with 60+ rooms across 45,000 square feet, plus a full restaurant and bar. **What is Hurly-Burly at Disney's BoardWalk?** Hurly-Burly is a new waterfront lounge confirmed for Disney's BoardWalk, opening late 2026. It hosts trivia and family games by day and live music for guests 21+ in the evening, filling the entertainment gap left by Jellyrolls. It joins a new Basin bath-and-body store and a yet-to-be-named quick-service restaurant. **Do you need a park reservation for Good to Go Days?** No. On Walt Disney World Good to Go Days, eligible Annual Passholders can enter a park without a park reservation (subject to blockouts). Summer 2026 added June 25, 28, and 29. A travel advisor can help you plan dates around blockouts and crowds. **Is booking Disney World through Pixie Vacations really free?** Yes. Pixie Vacations is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, and Disney pays the agency's commission — so expert planning, dining and Lightning Lane strategy, and price monitoring cost you nothing extra. [Request your free quote.](https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quote/?utm_source=mousechat&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=july2026) --- ## Listen to This Episode New episodes of Mouse Chat drop every Monday at 8 AM Eastern. Listen right here, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a show. Questions or comments? Email comments@mousechat.net. --- ## Plan Your Vacation — Free with Pixie Vacations Dreaming of a Walt Disney World trip after this episode? The Mouse Chat team's travel agency, **Pixie Vacations**, offers free vacation planning with **no booking fees** — Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, Sandals & Beaches all-inclusive resorts, weddings, honeymoons, and group trips. Steve Griswold is a Disney College of Knowledge graduate, and our team has personally experienced the parks, ships, and resorts we recommend. **Ready to book?**

Today, we are heading over to Universal Orlando Resort for the ultimate in bougieness. We are talking all about our recent experience taking a Private VIP Tour at Universal’s two original parks here in Orlando: Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. We’re also talking about all of the ways you can have a VIP experience and what each entails, from private to non-private options. If you’ve ever been curious about how to see and do the most things possible in the shortest amount of time, this is it. Enjoy! This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations. For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney and Universal Vacations, visit https://www.fantasticalvacations.com We would love you to join us on Patreon! Thanks so much for supporting the show. We also have Addicted to the Mouse Merchandise! You can check it out at https://addictedtothemerch.com Thanks so much for listening! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Sunday for the podcast. Join us every Sunday and Wednesday evening as we take you to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, on Disney Cruise Line, Universal Studios and everywhere in between! We can be found at www.addictedtothemouse.com and be reached at danandleslie@addictedtothemouse.com Please also connect with us here: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/addictedtothemouse Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@AddictedtotheMouse Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AddictedtotheMouse/ Instagram – https://instagram.com/addictedtothemouse/ The post Universal Orlando VIP Tours: Is the Ultimate Upgrade Worth It? appeared first on Addicted to the Mouse.

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey break down Comcast's planned split from NBCUniversal and Sky, and what that could mean for Universal's theme park business. They look at how a standalone NBCUniversal might affect future park investment, especially after years of Comcast enthusiasm for rides, lands, and Epic Universe. The episode also covers a big week of Halloween Horror Nights announcements, new Universal CityWalk updates, and animation news from Annecy. Then Jim shares the fiery history of how Ron Howard's Backdraft became a Universal Studios Hollywood attraction. NEWS • Comcast plans to split NBCUniversal and Sky into a standalone publicly traded media company. • Jim and Eric discuss how this could reshape Universal Parks funding, strategy, and future growth. • Halloween Horror Nights announces Hellraiser for both Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood. • Universal reveals original HHN houses including Invasion: Alien Abduction and Cyber Goria. • Universal CityWalk Orlando appears to be improving its bus terminal entry ahead of peak crowds. FEATURE • Jim looks back at Ron Howard's 1991 film Backdraft and how Universal turned it into a lower lot attraction. • The Backdraft attraction used intense flame effects, controlled heat, and a surprise platform drop to put guests in the middle of a warehouse fire. • The episode revisits the 1990 Universal backlot fire and the rapid rebuilding of New York Street. • Jim explains how Backdraft opened during Universal Studios Hollywood's push to become a full motion-picture-based theme park. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey, Instagram: @erichersey, Website: strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Planning a trip to Universal Orlando or Walt Disney World? Epic Universal listeners can save up to 12% on theme park tickets, plus save on after-hours events like Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, with UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode we rate Fast & Furious : Supercharged on 5 topics : Facade, Story, Worth the Average Wait, Queue and Overall ride experience for our Ultimate Universal Orlando Ride Ranking. Join us in The Producers Club Follow us: LINKTREE   

We're recapping another food-filled weekend at Walt Disney World and beyond as we take you through every meal, snack, and dining experience from our latest trip. Over the course of just 48 hours, we visited seven different dining locations, ranging from Disney quick service favorites and signature dining to a brand-new off-property brunch spot that completely impressed us. We kick things off with lunch at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge before heading to Disney Springs for dinner at House of Blues. We make a stop at Golden Oak Outpost to try the new Banana Caramel Beignets, revisit Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe, and enjoy dinner at Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood atop Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. We also venture outside the Disney bubble to experience brunch at Harlow Grove in Winter Park, a beautiful new restaurant that quickly earned a spot on our list of must-visit dining destinations. As always, we're sharing exactly what we ordered, our honest thoughts on each dish, what surprised us the most, what we'd definitely order again, and whether each location is worth adding to your next Walt Disney World vacation itinerary.  Whether you're planning your next Disney vacation, looking for new restaurants to try, or simply enjoy hearing honest Disney dining reviews, this episode is packed with plenty of delicious conversation, helpful recommendations, and a few unexpected favorites that might just inspire your next meal. Grab a snack and join us as we break down one of our tastiest weekends yet!

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into a very Oz-heavy opening, from new Wicked-adjacent publishing news to the limited reopening dates for North Carolina's Land of Oz. Then they unpack the latest Halloween Horror Nights announcements, Universal Studios Hollywood's new security setup, and the early reactions to Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas. The episode wraps with a fond farewell to CityWalk Orlando's Hot Dog Hall of Fame and a deep dive into Steven Schussler, the Rainforest Cafe creator whose themed-dining imagination helped shape restaurants at Disney, Universal, and beyond. NEWS • Land of Oz tickets go on sale as the park prepares for its limited 2026 September operating dates. • Halloween Horror Nights adds the original house Madlands: Caged Cannibals to the Orlando lineup. • H.R. Bloodengutz returns with a new Halloween-focused haunted house and plenty of old-school HHN lore. • Universal Studios Hollywood shifts security screening to new perimeter hubs around CityWalk. • Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas faces early online criticism ahead of its July 1 opening. FEATURE • Eric shares his last visit to Hot Dog Hall of Fame before the CityWalk favorite closes in July. • Jim looks back at Steven Schussler's path from Rainforest Cafe to T-Rex, Yak & Yeti, The Boathouse, and Hot Dog Hall of Fame. • The hosts explain how themed dining, oversized ambition, and a house full of animatronic animals helped reshape restaurants at Disney and Universal. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey, Instagram: @erichersey, Website: strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Planning a trip to Universal Orlando or Walt Disney World? Visit UnlockedMagic.com to save on theme park tickets and select after-hours event tickets. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices