Podcasts about world showcase

Disney built its reputation on immersive environments, elaborate backstories, and spaces where even the smallest details help tell a story. This week, Lauren and Eric look at the newly remodeled Disney Wonders store at Disneyland Paris and ask whether Disney's push toward modern minimalism is stripping away some of the personality fans expect. From the richly themed Disney Stores of the 1990s to Animal Kingdom Lodge, Cars Land, World Showcase, and Pandora, they explore what makes great theming work and why people notice immediately when it is missing. Plus, they consider whether changing tastes, operating costs, and the next generation of shoppers could eventually push themed retail back in the opposite direction. HIGHLIGHTS • Disneyland Paris replaces a heavily themed 1990s-era Disney Store with the more minimalist Disney Wonders boutique. • Lauren and Eric ask why modern Disney retail spaces increasingly resemble contemporary malls rather than immersive Disney environments. • A look back at the maximalist theming of classic Disney Stores, restaurants, and entertainment destinations from the 1990s. • Animal Kingdom Lodge, Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, Port Orleans, and other resorts show how detailed storytelling can transform a space. • Pandora, Cars Land, Liberty Square, World Showcase, and even Universal's Harry Potter lands demonstrate what happens when designers fully commit to a theme. HOSTS • Lauren Hersey - X/Twitter: @laurenhersey2 | Instagram: @lauren_hersey_ • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey | Instagram: @erichersey | Website: 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 Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.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

EPCOT is unique in offering 11 immersive country experiences in World Showcase, which is pretty much a park on its own. World Showcase is situated around a 40 acre lagoon and is essentially a World's Fair. It was originally built with 9 countries with space for a few more and if you walk a full lap around it, it's 1.2 miles.In this Magical Moments, Scott gives some fun facts about each country and makes a bunch of recommendations based on his travels through the 11 pavilions. He also sprinkles in audio clips from visits to Morocco and Italy and several special Guests join him throughout this episode. You'll get to hear from former Guests and friends, Karen Shriner and Russell Fox, and Scott's good friends, John and Steve join in on the fun as well. Get out your passport and travel the World in 1.2 miles with Scott and his pals! Email: TheMouseAndMePodcast@gmail.comSupport: www.patreon.com/themouseandmeFB and Instagram: “The Mouse and Me”Royalty free music by Kevin MacLeod and Alexey Kazantsey, both from Pixabay.com.

EPCOT Center, located in Walt Disney World, is a park with two halves that don't really make any sense together. On today's show, Erik takes us through one of those halves, the half with all the booze in it. We're talking about World Showcase, that wonderful section of the park resting on top of Spaceship Earth, like a North star of international brotherhood and comradery. And drinking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pull up a chair at EPCOT's Germany pavilion because we're taking you along for a live dining review of Biergarten Restaurant and the Eat to the Beat Dining Package before seeing Hanson!We explore the Bavarian village atmosphere, explain how the dining package works, and taste our way through the buffet. From beer cheese soup, pretzel rolls, German potato salad, sausage salad, bratwurst, sauerkraut, pork schnitzel, meatballs, roasted potatoes, and chicken schnitzel to mac and cheese, apple strudel, Baumkuchen trifle, and salted caramel cheesecake, we share our honest reactions. We also reveal which dishes we would go back for, which ones we would skip, and the delicious creation built at the table: a chicken schnitzel, beer cheese, and pretzel roll slider.Of course, this was not an ordinary meal. Right in the middle of Biergarten's live entertainment, the fire alarm sounded and the entire restaurant had to evacuate. We take you outside with us as guests and Cast Members wait for the all clear, then return to our table to finish the buffet after an interruption neither of us had experienced during hundreds of Disney meals.Along the way, we talk about the atmosphere, the musicians and dancing, the service, the value of using Biergarten for a concert dining package, and whether the restaurant deserves a place in your EPCOT rotation. At $69 per person, did the combination of an all-you-care-to-enjoy German buffet and reserved seating for Hanson make this package worth the price?Join us for food, laughs, questionable German pronunciations, one runaway bratwurst, an unexpected evacuation, and our final verdict on Biergarten Restaurant at EPCOT. Whether you are planning an Eat to the Beat concert night or considering this unique World Showcase dining experience, this episode will help you decide if it belongs on your Disney dining list.

The Dis-List Mt. Rushmore series continues!

Remy and Mike are back at the Roundtable with a jam-packed episode covering the latest news, updates, attractions, food, and entertainment from Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando!The guys kick things off with the **latest Disney and Universal theme park news**, including the reopening of **Coral Reef**, new character statues coming to Hollywood Studios, upcoming attraction and transportation refurbishments, the future **Disney Lakeshore Lodge**, updates to the Disney College Program, and new special event dates at **Epic Universe**. Plus, they discuss the upcoming closures of **Toon Lagoon** and **Animal Actors on Location** at Universal Orlando.The episode also takes a look beyond the theme parks as Remy and Mike discuss **Frontier Developments' upcoming collaboration with Disney on a new theme park video game** and the latest changes to Xbox cloud gaming.###

Len Testa and Jim Hill dig into the latest Disney parks news before tracing how Epcot's humble festival food booths evolved into permanent Global Marketplaces with open kitchens. TouringPlans researchers Amy Schinner and Christina Harrison join the show to talk Food & Wine, while Disney surveys hint at possible themed cruises, Halloween party strategy, and how much guests trust Disney's planning tools. Plus, listener questions cover Tomorrowland, attraction relocations, parking garages, underwater pool music, and one extremely ambitious Carousel of Progress Halloween overlay. NEWS • Lakeshore Lodge gets a July 1, 2027 opening date, while Tiana's Bayou Adventure prepares for its first major refurbishment. • Disney's Art of Animation Resort is set for an extensive refurbishment, and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill is preparing to close at Disney Springs. • Disneyland breaks ground on its new eastern parking and transportation hub as Universal prepares to open Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift. • Disney Cruise Line is returning to New York in 2027, while a new survey tests guest interest in themed Disney cruises. • Amy Schinner and Christina Harrison join Len and Jim for a look at this year's EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. FEATURE • Jim traces the roots of EPCOT's Food & Wine Festival back to the Walt Disney World Village Wine Festival and its move to EPCOT in 1996. • The California Grill's successful open-kitchen concept helped inspire a new approach to festival food booths around World Showcase. • Permanent gas, electrical, and water connections transformed temporary booths into the more elaborate Global Marketplace locations guests know today. • With EPCOT operating festivals through much of the year, Disney continues converting temporary food locations into permanent festival infrastructure. For this episode's full show notes, click here. (Coming Soon) HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia - Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social - Instagram: @len.testa - touringplans.com GUEST • Amy Schinner - TouringPlans researcher • Christina Harrison - TouringPlans researcher 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 The Disney Dish news is sponsored by BeOurGuestVacations.com from our friends at DVCRentalStore.com. Whether you're planning Disney or Universal, Be Our Guest Vacations can help make the trip easier for the whole family. 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 dig into the latest Disney parks news before tracing how Epcot's humble festival food booths evolved into permanent Global Marketplaces with open kitchens. TouringPlans researchers Amy Schinner and Christina Harrison join the show to talk Food & Wine, while Disney surveys hint at possible themed cruises, Halloween party strategy, and how much guests trust Disney's planning tools. Plus, listener questions cover Tomorrowland, attraction relocations, parking garages, underwater pool music, and one extremely ambitious Carousel of Progress Halloween overlay. NEWS • Lakeshore Lodge gets a July 1, 2027 opening date, while Tiana's Bayou Adventure prepares for its first major refurbishment. • Disney's Art of Animation Resort is set for an extensive refurbishment, and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill is preparing to close at Disney Springs. • Disneyland breaks ground on its new eastern parking and transportation hub as Universal prepares to open Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift. • Disney Cruise Line is returning to New York in 2027, while a new survey tests guest interest in themed Disney cruises. • Amy Schinner and Christina Harrison join Len and Jim for a look at this year's EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. FEATURE • Jim traces the roots of EPCOT's Food & Wine Festival back to the Walt Disney World Village Wine Festival and its move to EPCOT in 1996. • The California Grill's successful open-kitchen concept helped inspire a new approach to festival food booths around World Showcase. • Permanent gas, electrical, and water connections transformed temporary booths into the more elaborate Global Marketplace locations guests know today. • With EPCOT operating festivals through much of the year, Disney continues converting temporary food locations into permanent festival infrastructure. For this episode's full show notes, click here. (Coming Soon) HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia - Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social - Instagram: @len.testa - touringplans.com GUEST • Amy Schinner - TouringPlans researcher • Christina Harrison - TouringPlans researcher 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 The Disney Dish news is sponsored by BeOurGuestVacations.com from our friends at DVCRentalStore.com. Whether you're planning Disney or Universal, Be Our Guest Vacations can help make the trip easier for the whole family. 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 dig into the latest Disney parks news before tracing how Epcot's humble festival food booths evolved into permanent Global Marketplaces with open kitchens. TouringPlans researchers Amy Schinner and Christina Harrison join the show to talk Food & Wine, while Disney surveys hint at possible themed cruises, Halloween party strategy, and how much guests trust Disney's planning tools. Plus, listener questions cover Tomorrowland, attraction relocations, parking garages, underwater pool music, and one extremely ambitious Carousel of Progress Halloween overlay. NEWS • Lakeshore Lodge gets a July 1, 2027 opening date, while Tiana's Bayou Adventure prepares for its first major refurbishment. • Disney's Art of Animation Resort is set for an extensive refurbishment, and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill is preparing to close at Disney Springs. • Disneyland breaks ground on its new eastern parking and transportation hub as Universal prepares to open Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift. • Disney Cruise Line is returning to New York in 2027, while a new survey tests guest interest in themed Disney cruises. • Amy Schinner and Christina Harrison join Len and Jim for a look at this year's EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. FEATURE • Jim traces the roots of EPCOT's Food & Wine Festival back to the Walt Disney World Village Wine Festival and its move to EPCOT in 1996. • The California Grill's successful open-kitchen concept helped inspire a new approach to festival food booths around World Showcase. • Permanent gas, electrical, and water connections transformed temporary booths into the more elaborate Global Marketplace locations guests know today. • With EPCOT operating festivals through much of the year, Disney continues converting temporary food locations into permanent festival infrastructure. For this episode's full show notes, click here. (Coming Soon) HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia - Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social - Instagram: @len.testa - touringplans.com GUEST • Amy Schinner - TouringPlans researcher • Christina Harrison - TouringPlans researcher 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 The Disney Dish news is sponsored by BeOurGuestVacations.com from our friends at DVCRentalStore.com. Whether you're planning Disney or Universal, Be Our Guest Vacations can help make the trip easier for the whole family. 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

The booths are landing in World Showcase, and we are getting our very first look at what's cooking for the 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival! In this episode of The DizPod, we are giving you the ultimate festival preview to help you plan your itinerary before the gates even open.Join us as we break down all the early news, confirmed menus, and activities Disney has dropped so far:First Look at the Food: We preview the newly confirmed dishes, including the Street Corn-style Chicken Dumplings at Gyozas of the Galaxy, the returning Grilled Bushberry-spiced Shrimp in Australia, and sweet treats like Kirschwasser Torte at The Alps.Festival Activities & Scavenger Hunts: What to expect from the return of Emile's Fromage Montage (the ultimate cheese crawl) and how to hunt down everyone's favorite chef in Remy's Ratatouille Hide & Squeak.Entertainment Sneak Peek: A look at the freshly released Eat to the Beat concert lineup—including highly anticipated festival debuts like Grace Potter and Big Head Todd and the Monsters!The Returning Parisian Breakfast: Why you might want to book the newly confirmed Chefs de France morning buffet before hitting the World Showcase.Get a head start on your festival game plan and find out what we're most excited to try first!What booth are you most excited to see return this year? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe!

Here is your Daily Disney News for Thursday, September 3, 2026 - Tokyo Disneyland unveils "Starry Night Spectacle," featuring breathtaking projections on Cinderella Castle and symphonic Disney tunes. - Epcot's World Showcase at Walt Disney World set to open "Sights and Sounds of the World," an immersive cultural experience through advanced technology. - Disneyland Paris to launch "Autumn Enchantment," a seasonal event with themed treats, special shows, and an autumn-themed parade from September to November. - Disney+ announces a live-action series on Prince Ali from Aladdin, promising new characters and adventures in Agrabah. Have a magical day and tune in again tomorrow for more updates.

Nine hundred episodes. That's a whole lot of Disney opinions, vacation planning, restaurant debates, resort stays, questionable decisions, and unforgettable moments—and somehow, we've made it this far without completely losing control. Until now. For this very special milestone episode, Sean from But Mostly Disney takes over the host's chair and puts us through five rounds of questions, games, debates, and a few mildly uncomfortable moments. With Sean running the show, neither of us knows exactly what is coming next—and that is where the fun begins. We start with a rapid-fire game of “Finish the Sentence,” covering everything from the most unnecessarily stressful parts of a Disney vacation to overrated attractions, misunderstood Disney foods, and the little things we do that drive each other crazy. We also answer the same questions separately to see how closely our answers match after 900 episodes together. Next, Sean tests how well we really know one another in the Main Street Magic Newlywed Game. Can Jeremy identify Rhonda's ideal Walt Disney World resort? Does Rhonda know Jeremy's most predictable Disney food order? If one of us disappeared inside a Disney park for several hours, would the other know where to start looking? We're about to find out. Then it is time for “Keep It, Fix It, Kill It.” Sean gives us 20 Disney attractions, restaurants, resorts, experiences, and Disney Cruise Line offerings, and we must decide whether each one should remain exactly as it is, receive a much-needed update, or disappear forever. From Tomorrowland Speedway and Journey Into Imagination with Figment to the Disney Dining Plan, Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Pirate Night, and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, no Disney favorite is safe. The conversation gets a little more personal during the 900th Episode Hot Seat as Sean asks us questions we do not hear every day. We reflect on what each of us brings to Main Street Magic, what we have learned from one another, how this incredible community has changed us, and what we never want the podcast to become. Finally, Sean closes with one question that brings our entire 900-episode journey into focus: When someone eventually listens to their final episode of Main Street Magic, what do we hope they gained from the time they spent with us? This episode is funny, honest, occasionally chaotic, and filled with the kind of friendly Disney disagreements you would expect when we hand control of the show to Sean.

The appetizer is over. **Now we eat.**In Part 2 of our 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival series, Scott and Candice are working their way through the festival menus—from CommuniCore Hall all the way around World Showcase—to figure out what we'd order, what we'd skip, and what has us seriously regretting that we aren't going this year.This year's festival celebrates its **30th anniversary**, and Disney is reaching into the archives to bring back 30 dishes from previous festivals. That means we're finding menu items dating all the way back to the original 1996 festival alongside plenty of new additions.Along the way, we're talking about:

With the D23 expo firmly in the rear view, the team is ready to head back down to Orlando. Since the 2026 Epcot Food & Wine Festival menus just dropped, we thought it'd be a great time to revisit the 11 countries in the World Showcase to pick our favorite drinks from each location. Find out which person's picks are the tastiest overall and which person's choices may leave them passed out quicker than you can say "MMMhops".   Take a seat at the bar and follow us on social media! Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest: WDWHappyHour YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/WDWHappyHour Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wdwhappyhour

The Kungaloosh Club – EP4. 30Aug2026 Current Walt Disney World Happenings Aloha and Welcome to episode 4 of The Kungaloosh Club. Let's chat about the current happenings at Walt Disney World. In this episode we cover Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, the 2026 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, and the new tables popping up around Epcot's World Showcase.              As always, DMagicWorld.Com is our favorite 24/7 Disney music streaming station. Be sure to check out our Facebook group, Now That's Disney. A fun and family friendly Disney loving group. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BuCWyk9b9/ We're also on YouTube channel, Now That's Disney. https://youtube.com/@nowthatsdisney?si=0ZfGq5y-i9XIVDaj Visit us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/?__pwa=1 The Kungaloosh Club and Now That's Disney are in no way part of, endorsed or authorized by, or affiliated with the Walt Disney Company or its affiliates. As to Disney artwork/properties: © Disney. Disclosure | Privacy Policy Be sure to like, subscribe, download, and comment on all our social media platforms. We appreciate the engagement. #wdw #waltdisneyworld #disneyland #orlando #florida #california #themeparks #visit #travel #vacation #nowthatsdisney #magickingdom #epcot #animalkingdom #hollywoodstudios #pixarpier #eat #drink #resorts #mickeymouse #merchandise 

Mike and Rikki are back to get your weekend started with some fun Disney talk! We start the show discussing the new "rail tables" added to World Showcase in Epcot just in time for the Food & Wine Festival! Mike changes his mind on what he thinks of these during the show! Then, we share some "sweet" stories from the years about times we have spent at Disney Springs, and actually give some tips that might help with your "sweet tooth" on your next trip too! Please share your thoughts with us in the BOGP Clubhouse! Please visit our website at www.beourguestpodcast.com.  Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Become a Patron of the show at www.Patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast. Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast.   Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is back for 2026—and before we start eating our way around World Showcase, we're looking at everything ELSE the festival has to offer!This week, Scott and Candice kick off a two-part Food & Wine series with a guide to the festival beyond the marketplace menus. We start with the important question: Is Food & Wine actually our favorite EPCOT festival? Candice makes the case for Food & Wine, while Scott remains firmly on Team Festival of the Arts.Then we're exploring what you can see, do, collect, hear and experience at this year's festival, including:

Here is your Daily Disney News for Monday, August 17th, 2026. - Tokyo Disneyland welcomes "Cinderella's Royal Ball," a dazzling new stage show for Cinderella fans. - Disneyland Anaheim introduces "Midnight Masquerade," a limited-time Haunted Mansion overlay with new story elements and characters. - Epcot, Florida debuts "World Journeys," offering an immersive tour of global cultures in the World Showcase. - Disney+ revives "The Wonderful World of Color" as a digital series with modern twists on classic Disney stories. Have a magical day and tune in again tomorrow for more updates.

Join us as Sheila and Ric chat with friend Carly Grezlik about her recent Walt Disney World vacation with her family. For Carly, it was her first visit to the parks in more than three years, and this trip was extra special as she introduced her husband, Matt, and 12-year-old daughter, Kerrigan, to the magic for the very first time. Along for the adventure was daughter Riley, celebrating her 19th birthday and already a seasoned Walt Disney World veteran alongside her mom. Over four fun-filled days, the family stayed at Disney's All-Star Movies Resort and made the most of every moment, often going from park opening until park close. Kerrigan conquered her very first roller coaster aboard Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, while the entire family agreed that Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind was the standout attraction of the trip. They also explored EPCOT's Kidcot Fun Stop Passport, creating memories throughout the World Showcase. Despite real-feel temperatures soaring to nearly 110 degrees, the family found surprisingly manageable crowds and packed an incredible amount into their vacation. The trip concluded in unforgettable fashion with Disney's new Starlight Parade—Carly's favorite Disney parade to date—followed by Happily Ever After from a perfect viewing spot directly in front of Cinderella Castle. Carly also shares some fun statistics from their vacation, including walking 34.5 miles in just 4½ days, taking home 20 Gideon's cookies, enjoying three Gideon's Peanut Butter Cold Brews, checking off five countries while Drinking Around the World, and, most importantly, making endless magical memories together. Thanks for listening to Monorail Tales! We hope this episode reminded you that there's nothing quite like experiencing Disney for the first time—or seeing it all again through the eyes of someone who is. If you enjoyed today's episode, be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, leave us a review, and share the show with your Disney-loving friends. Keep the magic alive between episodes! Visit MonorailTales.com, join our Monorail Tales Facebook Group, and follow us on Instagram for the latest Disney news, show updates, and plenty of Disney fun. Have a question, comment, or an idea for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to Sheila at sheila@monorailtales.com. Planning your next Disney vacation—whether it's your very first visit or your fiftieth? Brandi & Ric with The Curated Travel Collection would love to help you plan a magical, stress-free vacation at no additional cost to you. Whether you're dreaming of Disney, Universal, a cruise, or an all-inclusive getaway, they're here to help every step of the way. Looking to add Disney Vacation Club points or purchase a DVC membership? Be sure to visit our friends at DVC Shop for expert service, outstanding prices, and a passion for helping Disney fans make the most of their membership. From all of us at Monorail Tales, thank you for being part of our Disney family. Never lose that sense of wonder that comes with a first visit, because every Disney trip has the chance to create a brand-new favorite memory. Until next time, keep the magic alive... keep making magical memories... and we'll see you on the next Monorail Tales adventure!

This week, Kristen (Suzie) co-hosts with Mike. With the World Cup in the rearview mirror, we want to discuss World Cup contending Countries who could be in EPCOT. They are both on the Imagineering Team, and Mike is proposing (4) potential Pavilions to Kristen, and she will decide which of the four is most worthy of being in World Showcase. Which of these would you prefer? Thanks for listening, Mike and Kristen.   0:00 Introduction 6:32 FIFA World Cup Countries to Possibly Join World Showcase 8:32 Australia/New Zealand 13:03 Brazil 17:05 Egypt 20:03 Spain 25:12 Kristen's Overall Pick 29:41 Wrap-Up   Support the Show: Luxury Travel Advisors LLC - Book your next vacation with Mike and Kristen....Their services are completely free, and you will support a small business. (mike@luxurytraveladvisorsllc.com) or (kristen@luxurytraveladvisorsllc.com)   Social Media: Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wdwbtg Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/748540042888446 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wdwbtg Twitter (X): https://x.com/wdwbtg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wdwbtg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ltallcmike   #WaltDisneyWorld #Disneland #Disney  

The Florida weather tried to run the show, but we still pulled off a packed Walt Disney World parks trip with plenty of snacks, storms, and hard-earned tips. Five parks. Three days. Were we crazy, lucky, or smart? Yes.We start with the pre-cruise stretch: checking into Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, hopping to EPCOT, and attempting the classic “drinking around the world” challenge in World Showcase while thunder and rain keep forcing us indoors at exactly the right moments.We also share one of our favorite adult breaks at EPCOT: Geo-82, the 21+ lounge inside Spaceship Earth, plus what it's like riding Ratatouille now that the 3D is gone and how Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind hits when you catch a new song. Italy becomes our accidental home base again, and yes, we have thoughts about how easy it is to “get stuck” there once the snacks and drinks start rolling.Then we splurge at Hollywood Studios with Lightning Lane Premiere Pass and explain how it works, what it costs, and why it felt like a true game changer for doing the park in a few hours without living on our phones. After a Disney Springs errand run, we got swept away at DVC's Moonlight Magic at Typhoon Lagoon.Post-cruise, we go full bucket list with a Polynesian Bora Bora bungalow stay, Trader Sam's, and July 4 fireworks from the deck. We wrap the trip with  what was supposed to be a relaxing day, but turned into Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom highlights, including Nomad Lounge, a minivan pro tip, Tron, the Beak and Barrel pirate bar, and ride updates like a smoother Big Thunder and a refreshed Buzz Lightyear.Subscribe, share this with your Disney parks planning crew, and leave a rating and review so more Disney fans can find us. What's your biggest Disney splurge that actually felt worth it?----Adventures & Mousecapades is a passion project from Alicea & Nathan Novak - two Seattleites addicted to The Mouse. We are not affiliated with Disney, nor are we travel agents. Opinions are our own.Instagram, Threads, Facebook: @ourmousecapadesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ourmousecapadespodhttps://OurMousecapades.compodcast@ourmousecapades.com

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!

In Part 2 of the Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup, the tournament moves into the quarterfinals as our top seeds finally enter the competition and the battle for the Final Four begins. Using the same category-by-category judging system from last episode, every matchup is decided by comparing Food, Drinks, Attractions, Immersion, Shopping, Hangout Factor, Hidden Details, Festival Presence, and Overall Experience. One pavilion advances, one pavilion goes home—there are no ties and no second chances. Will top-seeded France, Mexico, and Japan prove why they earned their rankings, or will one of the opening-round winners pull off a tournament-shaking upset? From iconic restaurants and legendary snacks to immersive architecture, hidden gems, unforgettable attractions, and festival favorites, every debate brings us one step closer to crowning the ultimate World Showcase champion. Along the way, we'll share our reasoning behind every decision, revisit some of EPCOT's most beloved experiences, and probably disagree a time or two as we narrow the field from eight pavilions down to just four. Who survives? Who gets eliminated? And which pavilions will earn a coveted spot in the Final Four? Grab your bracket at WonderlandCrew.com, follow along with your own picks, and see if your championship predictions stay alive as the Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup: The Road to the Final Four continues!

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!

Send us Fan MailWe're back on a light news week, but that's ok because we have some fun topics & updates from our favorite parks and D23!Join us in our completely free Discord https://discord.gg/4nAvKTgcRnCheck out all of our amazing sponsors!Getaway Todayhttps://www.getawaytoday.com/?referrerid=8636If you want to book a Disney Vacation, please use our friends at Getaway Today. Also, if you call 855-GET-AWAY and mention Walt's Apartment, you will get a special dose of magic Where In The Park The Podcast-“Discover the history behind the details of Disney parks and more on the Where In The Park podcast”https://whereinthepark.comCheck Out Sunken City Designs - from the mind of Louis Medinahttps://sunkencitydesigns.bigcartel.com

Planning your first trip to Epcot? There's a LOT to know, so in this episode, we're breaking down the basics, by the numbers! We're talking about how many restaurants, attractions, and other experiences you'll find throughout the park, including what you can expect in World Celebration, World Discovery, World Nature, and World Showcase. Whether you're trying to figure out just how much there is to do or wondering if you can actually experience it all in one day, this episode will give you a better idea of what Epcot has to offer.But before we head around World Showcase, we've got a few personal updates to share. Erica gives the latest update on her quest for the perfect runDisney season following another very eventful registration day, and Jonny has a major life update of his own. If you're loving the show, we'd be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcastErica IG: @TravelPlannerEricaJonny IG: @Darth.MouseYouTube: @TravelPlannerEricaEmail Us: OnceUponAParkPodcast@gmail.comReady to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

What happens when an attraction isn't just a show, a walkthrough, or an interactive space... but all three at once?This week, Marissa presents her very first solo Imagineering project, transforming EPCOT's UK Pavilion into Alice's Unbirthday Party, a story-driven Wonderland adventure where guests become active participants in a secret celebration hidden from the Queen of Hearts.Blending an interactive hedge maze, immersive environments, live storytelling, and playful exploration, this concept reimagines one of World Showcase's quietest corners as a fully connected guest experience where every choice helps bring the Unbirthday Party to life.More than an Alice in Wonderland attraction, this episode explores a growing trend in modern Imagineering: the blending of traditional attraction formats into a single, seamless experience.Send us Fan MailDon't forget to check us out on Instagram!

Join Erik and Tage this week as they are joined by Marie and Andy as they discuss the countries from the World Showcase at EPCOT that they have or want to visit in real life, the guests that they would invite to an episode of the Hub Crawl, their favorite and least favorite ride music, and what they think is a fair price for Disney theme park tickets. Support the podcast by going to https://www.thehubcrawl.com/support. Question 1: Of the countries in the World Showcase at EPCOT, which ones have you visited in real life and which would you like to visit? Bonus points if you tell me HOW you want to visit (explore on your own, tour guide, ABD hint hint) Question 2: If you needed two guests for your next episode of a famous podcast, whom would you invite and how can I get in touch with them? Question 3: Excluding “It's a Small World”, what Disney park ride (or queue) has your favorite song/music? What ride (or queue) drives you crazy? Question 4: What do you think is a fair price for a Disney theme park ticket? Should the different parks have different pricing? Bonus Question: Loosely inspired by Tage's disapproval of Spirit Jerseys: What Disney attire will you wear in the parks but not outside of them. What do you judge people for wearing in and/or (you choose) out of the parks?

New series alert! We're kicking off a new type of episode focusing on projects that never were completed. Maybe concept art was drawn or Disney even announced it - but it never happened. On this episode we're looking at the 3 attractions planned for the Japan Pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase.   Weekly Exclusive Bonus Episodes of our Podcast are available at  our Patreon page. Visit our Amazon Storefront to see what our must-haves are for the parks (Affiliate Link)     Follow Along! Podcast Account: @ThatParkLifePodcast Beth: @TheRealBethMcDonald and @SimplisticThrills Greg: @Gregintheparks Greg's Other Podcast: The Quick Escape Podcast

Len Testa and Jim Hill start with snow shovels, snapping turtles, and New Hampshire's ongoing audition for “America's Australia,” then move into a packed Disney Dish. This week, they cover Disney's holiday party calendar, the Grand Floridian gingerbread house retirement, tightening resort-access rules, the BoardWalk's new Hurley Burley lounge, Disneyland's Celebrate Soulfully Yardfest, and Universal Kids Resort's very sunny Texas debut. They also dig into new DVC survey perks, listener questions about Europa Park, Australia in World Showcase, and whether Epcot is due for a monorail-adjacent hotel. Then Jim continues Disney's living-character history with Dinotopia's odd but memorable second life at Walt Disney Studios Park. NEWS • Disney's Hollywood Studios may be targeting August for Magic of Disney Animation, though the building may have opinions of its own. • Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights return with schedules that neatly zip together across the holiday season. • The Grand Floridian gingerbread house is being retired, raising questions about resort crowds, access rules, and guest satisfaction. • Disney's resort-access language continues to tighten around holiday decorations, dining reservations, and who gets to visit which lobby. • The BoardWalk's former Jellyrolls space is set to become Hurley Burley, with family entertainment by day and a 21-and-up lounge by night. • Disneyland's Celebrate Soulfully Yardfest brings HBCU bands, drumlines, and Mickey Mouse as drumline major to Downtown Disney. • Universal Kids Resort opens in Texas with early chatter about short rides, light landscaping, and a shade situation that may require SPF and optimism. FEATURE • Jim explains how sets from ABC's 2002 Dinotopia miniseries wound up on the Studio Tram Tour at Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris. • Waterfall City helped fill out a park that opened with a small budget and a very large need for things guests could see from a tram. • The segment revisits Dinotopia, Reign of Fire, Catastrophe Canyon, and the strange art of letting narration do the work of missing dragons. • Jim sets up next week's look at Pixar Place, the Living Character Initiative, and the Luxo lamp story that still gives Imagineers the thousand-yard stare. For this episode's full show notes, click here.View transcript 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 The Disney Dish News is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com, from the friends at DVC Rental Store. Visit UnlockedMagic.com for discounted theme park admission at prices better than Disney's. 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 with snow shovels, snapping turtles, and New Hampshire's ongoing audition for “America's Australia,” then move into a packed Disney Dish. This week, they cover Disney's holiday party calendar, the Grand Floridian gingerbread house retirement, tightening resort-access rules, the BoardWalk's new Hurley Burley lounge, Disneyland's Celebrate Soulfully Yardfest, and Universal Kids Resort's very sunny Texas debut. They also dig into new DVC survey perks, listener questions about Europa Park, Australia in World Showcase, and whether Epcot is due for a monorail-adjacent hotel. Then Jim continues Disney's living-character history with Dinotopia's odd but memorable second life at Walt Disney Studios Park. NEWS • Disney's Hollywood Studios may be targeting August for Magic of Disney Animation, though the building may have opinions of its own. • Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights return with schedules that neatly zip together across the holiday season. • The Grand Floridian gingerbread house is being retired, raising questions about resort crowds, access rules, and guest satisfaction. • Disney's resort-access language continues to tighten around holiday decorations, dining reservations, and who gets to visit which lobby. • The BoardWalk's former Jellyrolls space is set to become Hurley Burley, with family entertainment by day and a 21-and-up lounge by night. • Disneyland's Celebrate Soulfully Yardfest brings HBCU bands, drumlines, and Mickey Mouse as drumline major to Downtown Disney. • Universal Kids Resort opens in Texas with early chatter about short rides, light landscaping, and a shade situation that may require SPF and optimism. FEATURE • Jim explains how sets from ABC's 2002 Dinotopia miniseries wound up on the Studio Tram Tour at Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris. • Waterfall City helped fill out a park that opened with a small budget and a very large need for things guests could see from a tram. • The segment revisits Dinotopia, Reign of Fire, Catastrophe Canyon, and the strange art of letting narration do the work of missing dragons. • Jim sets up next week's look at Pixar Place, the Living Character Initiative, and the Luxo lamp story that still gives Imagineers the thousand-yard stare. For this episode's full show notes, click here.View transcript 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 The Disney Dish News is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com, from the friends at DVC Rental Store. Visit UnlockedMagic.com for discounted theme park admission at prices better than Disney's. 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

From Spaceship Earth to World Showcase, we're sharing our best tips for every land, pavilion, and country in EPCOT to help you save time, find hidden gems, and have a better Disney vacation! This week on Rope Drop Radio, Doug and Lauren take a lap around EPCOT and share their favorite tips for every section of the park. Whether you're entering through the front gate or International Gateway, EPCOT can feel overwhelming. Between World Celebration, World Discovery, World Nature, and all 11 countries of World Showcase, there's a lot to explore. That's why we're sharing one practical tip, hidden gem, strategy, or must-do recommendation for every area of the park. If you're planning a Walt Disney World vacation in 2026, this episode is packed with planning advice, food recommendations, attraction strategies, and insider knowledge to help you maximize your EPCOT day. JOIN US ON OUR ROPE DRO TRIP AUG 30th - Sept 2nd. More Info Here. Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster!

Send us Fan MailWhat would your perfect day at Walt Disney World look like if you had to make some tough choices?This week on The Mickeyphile Podcast, Scott and Karen take on the Perfect Disney Day Challenge. The rules are simple: in each Walt Disney World park, they get one snack, one meal, three attractions, one show, and one hidden gem. No unlimited budgets. No trying to do everything. Just the experiences they'd choose if they only had one day to experience each park their way.Would they rope drop Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or head straight for a classic attraction? Is the best EPCOT snack found in World Showcase or somewhere else entirely? Which shows make the cut, and which fan favorites get left behind? Along the way, they compare choices, debate priorities, and discover that building the perfect Disney day isn't as easy as it sounds.Before the challenge begins, they break down several Walt Disney World news stories, including the opening of Level99 at Disney Springs, new transportation restrictions affecting some visitors, Disney's new 2-Day, 2-Park ticket for EPCOT and Animal Kingdom, and the upcoming refurbishment of the Grand Floridian Café.Plus, Fourth of July plans, recent visits to the parks, and plenty of Disney discussion from two Central Florida locals who spend a lot of time in the magic.Play along and see how your perfect Disney day compares to ours.As always, thank you for listening to The Mickeyphile Podcast.

onight on The Great British Mickey Waffle, the ultimate theme park debate continues! Last week we laid the groundwork, but we couldn't squeeze all four parks into one show. Tonight, we are back for Part 2 to put Epcot and Disney's Animal Kingdom directly under the microscope!We're breaking down how these two heavyweights stack up across our three massive categories:✨ Atmosphere & Theming – Does the world of Pandora beat walking around the World Showcase?

Send us Fan MailLast episode, we explored the history behind EPCOT's Mexico Pavilion and the Imagineers who helped bring it to life. In Part 2, we're stepping inside the pyramid.From ancient Mesoamerican architecture and hidden cultural symbolism to Plaza de los Amigos and San Angel Inn, we're uncovering the details that make Mexico one of the most immersive and richly themed pavilions in all of World Showcase.Along the way, we'll explore the real-world structures that inspired the pavilion and the stories behind its restaurants and marketplace.In this episode, you'll discover:The real-world inspirations behind EPCOT's iconic pyramidHow Maya, Aztec, and Toltec influences were combined into a single designHidden architectural details and symbolic artwork throughout the pavilionThe story behind Plaza de los Amigos and its perpetual twilight atmosphereThe history of San Angel Inn and its connection to Mexico CityWhether you're a longtime EPCOT fan or simply love uncovering the stories hidden in Disney's details, this episode will help you see the Mexico Pavilion in a whole new light.Join us in our completely free Discord https://discord.gg/4nAvKTgcRnCheck out all of our amazing sponsors!Getaway Todayhttps://www.getawaytoday.com/?referrerid=8636If you want to book a Disney Vacation, please use our friends at Getaway Today. Also, if you call 855-GET-AWAY and mention Walt's Apartment, you will get a special dose of magic Where In The Park The Podcast-“Discover the history behind the details of Disney parks and more on the Where In The Park podcast”https://whereinthepark.comCheck Out Sunken City Designs - from the mind of Louis Medinahttps://sunkencitydesigns.bigcartel.comEdit This EpisodeEpisode is LivePublished:Jun. 12, 2026 @ 5PMEditAdd a TranscriptAdd Chapter MarkersCreate a Visual SoundbiteMid-Roll PlacementsShare Link to EpisodeEpisode Share URLCopyDirect Link to AudioCopyDownload MP3Embed Audio PlayerWhat's NewPlatform StatsRefer a FriendAboutHelp

Looking for the perfect Disney date night? Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a couples trip, or you're parents trying to sneak in some special time together during your Walt Disney World vacation, we've got you covered!In this episode of Mom Street U.S.A., we share our favorite date night ideas at Walt Disney World, including romantic dinners, unique experiences, shopping spots, sweet treats, and unforgettable ways to spend an evening together. We cover date nights both with and without kids, so every Disney couple can find an option that fits their vacation style.In this episode, we discuss:-The ultimate EPCOT date night, including World Showcase dining, festival food booths, shopping, and fireworks-Romantic restaurants like Le Cellier, Teppan Edo, and other EPCOT favorites-Magic Kingdom date ideas for families, including special treats, shopping, and memorable experiences-Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Capture Your Moment PhotoPass sessions-A luxury Disney Monorail resort date night with Trader Sam's, Grand Floridian dining, California Grill fireworks views, and more-A unique evening at Animal Kingdom Lodge with Jiko and the Starlight Safari-The perfect Disney Springs date night with incredible restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and dessertsWhether your ideal date night is sharing a Dole Whip under the fireworks, enjoying a fine dining experience, exploring Disney resorts, or finding the perfect souvenir to remember your trip, these ideas will help you create magical moments with the person you love.If you're planning a Walt Disney World vacation and want more Disney tips, park strategies, dining recommendations, and family travel advice, make sure to subscribe to Mom Street U.S.A. and join us every week for more Disney planning magic!✨ What's your perfect Disney date night? Tell us in the comments!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#DisneyDateNight#WaltDisneyWorld#DisneyWorld#DisneyCouples#DisneyForAdults#DisneyVacation#DisneyPlanning#DisneyTravel#DisneyTips#DisneySprings#EPCOT#MagicKingdom#DisneyDining#DisneyRestaurants#DisneyPodcast

Send us Fan MailIn Part 1 of this 2-part episode of Imagine That, Amanda & Kevin explore the origins of EPCOT's Mexico Pavilion, tracing its roots from early World Showcase concepts and World's Fair influences to the Imagineers, artists, and cultural consultants who helped bring it to life.Along the way, we'll uncover abandoned concepts, negotiations with the Mexican government, the search for authenticity, and the contributions of legendary Disney figures, including X. Atencio, Eddie Martinez, Ray Aragon, and a young Joe Rohde.Join us in our completely free Discord https://discord.gg/4nAvKTgcRnCheck out all of our amazing sponsors!Getaway Todayhttps://www.getawaytoday.com/?referrerid=8636If you want to book a Disney Vacation, please use our friends at Getaway Today. Also, if you call 855-GET-AWAY and mention Walt's Apartment, you will get a special dose of magic Where In The Park The Podcast-“Discover the history behind the details of Disney parks and more on the Where In The Park podcast”https://whereinthepark.comCheck Out Sunken City Designs - from the mind of Louis Medinahttps://sunkencitydesigns.bigcartel.com

Not every Disney memory comes from the biggest ride or the longest Lightning Lane. Sometimes, the most magical moments happen in the places guests walk right past.This week on All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie are sharing their favorite underrated attractions, hidden gems, and overlooked experiences throughout Walt Disney World. From relaxing rides and interactive shows to hidden dining spots and resort favorites, this episode is packed with ideas that can help make your next Disney vacation feel more immersive, memorable, and less rushed.They break the conversation down park-by-park, highlighting experiences that families often miss while running between the headline attractions. Whether you're planning your very first Disney trip or you're a longtime Disney fan looking for something new, this episode will help you slow down and discover a different side of Walt Disney World.Some of the hidden gems discussed include: The PeopleMover and Enchanted Tales with Belle in Magic Kingdom  Living with the Land and the films around World Showcase in EPCOT  Frozen Sing-Along Celebration and Star Tours in Hollywood Studios  Winged Encounters and underrated character meet-and-greets in Animal Kingdom  Resort dining favorites like Sebastian's Bistro, Whispering Canyon, Olivia's Cafe, Toledo, and more Along the way, Ryan and Julie also share: Why these attractions often become the most meaningful family memories  Tips for using underrated experiences to escape crowds and heat  Ways to balance Lightning Lanes and downtime during your Disney vacation  A quick recap of Julie's recent Washington DC family trip  A “Where in the World is Wonder & Beyond Travel?” segment featuring a last-minute Disney trip planned around riding Carousel of Progress before its refurbishment If your Disney planning style has become all about checking boxes and racing from one attraction to the next, this episode is a reminder that some of the best Disney magic happens when you slow down a little.The world is full of wonder — and sometimes the most unforgettable Disney moments are the ones you never expected. Support the showLove the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/newReady to plan your vacation?  Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation"Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page!Please share the show with your travel buddies!!  Click this link and share the show!Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

A timeless EPCOT icon becomes the center of a modern debate about how communication continues to evolve in the age of AI. This week, Stephen reimagines the final act of Spaceship Earth, restoring its physical storytelling roots while introducing a new interactive layer that reflects how technology is reshaping human connection in real time.The result is a grounded, thoughtful update that stays true to the attraction's core thesis: bringing people closer together across distance, language, and time. From classic communication scenes to a carefully constrained AI-driven personalization system, the pitch explores what it means for Disney storytelling to remain human in an increasingly automated world.Plus, Brett of Ride Creator joins the Idiots live to pitch Mission to Mars…Needs Moms!, a chaotic crossover that combines the infamous Disney film with the classic Tomorrowland attraction in a way that somehow makes perfect sense. Don't forget to check us out on Instagram!

On this weeks adventure, we are taking you around World Showcase (some honorable mentions included) to bring you some of our favorite, and not so favorite, Quick-Service restaurants. Come join us for ramen, schnitzel, and razor-sharp baguettes!! If you want help booking your next Magical Vacation, reach out to me for a free quote! Free Quote   Instagram: @justanothermagic_monday   Facebook: Fantastical Vacations by Monika

Join Lou for Memory 344, recorded on a cool December evening in 2021 as our holiday adventure continues around Epcot's World Showcase. After enjoying Father Christmas in the UK Pavilion, we make our way toward Canada — walking quickly, laughing with friends, and arriving just in time for the background music to fade and the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs to take the stage.This lively band fills the pavilion with a joyful blend of traditional and modern holiday tunes, including “The Christmas Jig,” “Good King Wenceslas / Carol of the Bells,” “Le Réveillon,” “Little Drummer Boy / O Come Let Us Adore Him / Joy to the World,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” and a spirited rendition of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Their energy, musicianship, and storytelling create a warm, festive atmosphere that feels like a true holiday celebration.After the performance, we linger with our friends — fellow Disney fans and music geeks — chatting about the show, our favorite moments, and even my passion for capturing and sharing Walt Disney World through immersive audio. It's a small but meaningful moment that closes the loop on why these Memories matter.

Grab a drink and join the conversation—this week on Dudes Dish Disney, the guys sit down with the legendary “inventor” of Drinking Around the World at EPCOT—CONGO Carl!

Episode 201 takes us back to EPCOT and deep into the World Showcase to solve one of Disney fans' favorite “what if” debates—what rides should exist in the pavilions that currently don't have any?Nick and Rob each rank their Top 5 ride ideas, mixing Imagineering-style concepts with a few IP twists and plenty of spirited debate about what actually belongs in World Showcase. Some ideas feel perfect, some feel chaotic, and at least one probably breaks the budget.If you love EPCOT expansion ideas and Disney attraction wish lists, this one's a fun ride (pun intended).If this episode has you dreaming about your next Disney trip, you can support the show while planning it:Be Our Guest Vacations: https://beourguestvacations.com/?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=dislistpodDVC Rental Store: https://dvcrentalstore.com/?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=dislistpodUnlocked Magic: https://unlockedmagic.com/?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=dislistpodUsing these links helps support the podcast at no extra cost to you—and keeps the Dis-List magic going.Plan Your Trip With Our Affiliates

EPCOT's Canada Pavilion often feels like a space guests walk through rather than stay in. This week, Stephen reimagines it as a living cultural district inspired by Toronto's Kensington Market, where layered storytelling, music, and guest interaction turn the upper level of the pavilion into a constantly evolving environment.At the center of it all is a touring 4★Town concert experience that weaves through the pavilion and encourages exploration, culminating in a reworked theater and character moment that feels like part of the world rather than a separate show. The goal is simple: make Canada feel alive, repeatable, and worth returning to throughout the day.Plus, for the first time ever, we're featuring a listener-submitted Imagineering pitch from our new friend Cam Sullivan as he shares his concept for a new Mandalorian addition to Galaxy's Edge. And honestly… he's coming for our jobs.Don't forget to check us out on Instagram!

Join us for Memory 343, recorded on a festive December evening in 2021, as we continue our holiday journey around Epcot's World Showcase. After hearing Père Noël in France during our last episode, we take a few minutes to wander through France, Morocco, and the United Kingdom — gathering Kidcot stickers, enjoying the nighttime ambience, and letting the sounds of the season guide us.Our path leads us to the charming garden maze in the UK Pavilion, where the kids play while we wait for the next Holiday Storyteller. We even bump into some longtime friends who now live in Orlando, adding a warm, unexpected moment to the night.Then Father Christmas arrives, ringing his bell and filling the pavilion with festive cheer. He shares the origins of Christmas traditions that began in the United Kingdom — including the start of the greeting card — and even invites Mikey to help ring a bell as he sings. It's a joyful, heartfelt performance that captures the spirit of the season.

Most first-timers give EPCOT half a day and leave thinking it was fine. Guestswho know the park spend a full day — sometimes two — and call it their favorite.In Episode 11, Kelly Bennett breaks down everything you need to know to be inthat second group.EPCOT is 305 acres organized into four neighborhoods: World Discovery (home ofGuardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Mission: SPACE), World Nature (Soarin'Around the World, Living with the Land, The Seas with Nemo & Friends), WorldCelebration (Spaceship Earth, Figment), and World Showcase — a 1.2-milepromenade featuring 11 international pavilions. This episode covers all of it.Key takeaways:— EPCOT has a second entrance — the International Gateway, located between the  France and United Kingdom pavilions — that guests at BoardWalk, Beach Club,  Yacht Club, and Swan and Dolphin can walk to directly. This puts them in the  heart of World Showcase without fighting the main entrance crowds.— Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is the highest-priority Lightning Lane  at EPCOT; book Individual Lightning Lane at 7 AM or arrive at rope drop.— EPCOT hosts four rotating festivals throughout the year. The International Food  & Wine Festival (late August–November) features 30+ food and beverage booths  around World Showcase and is one of the best experiences in all of Walt Disney  World for adults.— Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada pavilion is one of the most sought-after  dining reservations at Walt Disney World. Book 60 days out.Plan your full trip at MyDisneyBrain.com — the Walt Disney World First-Timer'sComplete Planning Guide is $37 and covers EPCOT in complete detail.Is EPCOT worth a full day at Walt Disney World? Absolutely — if you know thestrategy. In Episode 11 of My Disney Brain, Kelly Bennett breaks down EPCOT'sfour neighborhoods, all 11 World Showcase pavilions, the secret InternationalGateway entrance, rope drop strategy for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewindand Frozen Ever After, the four rotating EPCOT festivals (Food & Wine, Flower &Garden, Festival of the Arts, Festival of the Holidays with CandlelightProcessional), top dining picks including Le Cellier and Teppan Edo, and themost common EPCOT planning mistakes. Essential listening for anyone planning a2026 Walt Disney World vacation. Get the complete planning guide atMyDisneyBrain.com.──────────────────────────────────────KEY TAKEAWAYS (scannable bullet points)• EPCOT's four neighborhoods — World Discovery, World Nature, World Celebration,  and World Showcase — require a full day to experience properly; half-day visits  consistently leave guests feeling like they missed something• The International Gateway (between France and UK pavilions) is EPCOT's second  entrance — guests at BoardWalk, Beach Club, Yacht Club, Swan, and Dolphin can  walk directly into World Showcase without going through the main entrance• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is the top Lightning Lane priority at  EPCOT — book Individual Lightning Lane at 7 AM on the day of visit or target  it at rope drop; standby waits regularly exceed 90 minutes• World Showcase features 11 international pavilions, each staffed by cultural  representatives from those countries; must-stops include NorwayNew Opening / My Disney Brain 2023Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREE New Closing / My Disney Brain 2023Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREESupport the show

You can learn a lot about a running community by the questions they ask, and this week our listeners showed up with everything from serious marathon nerves to wildly fun runDisney hypotheticals. We dig into smart offseason training so you do not drift between race weekends: setting a local goal race, building an aerobic base, adding strength and mobility, and respecting summer heat. We also get specific on proof of time strategy, including why certain distances help, what counts for different runDisney weekends, and how planning ahead can change your corral placement and your whole race-day experience.Then we jump into listener questions that are pure runDisney joy. We design dream Disney race courses with more time inside the parks, more Animal Kingdom and Pandora, a better Hollywood Studios stretch, and the return of that iconic World Showcase finish that feels like a true victory lap. We talk bucket list races outside of runDisney, bucket list moments inside Disney, and whether you should chase Dopey, Goofy, or “just the marathon” based on what you actually want your weekend to feel like.The mindset talk gets real when we answer how to calm first-time Dopey and first-time marathon anxiety. We lean on trust-the-process training, run-walk pacing, and practical mental tricks for hard miles and lonely long runs, including music, podcasts, community messages, and finding a group that supports interval runners. Plus, we debate the most important question of all: if you could replace gels with Disney snacks as on-course fuel, what would you pick?If you love runDisney, marathon training, and a community that celebrates every PR, every proof of time, and every finish, hit play. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more runners can find the Rise and Run family.Send us Fan MailSupport the showRise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.Sponsor LinksMagic Bound Travel    Stoked Metabolic CoachingRise and Run Podcast Cruise Interest Form with Magic Bound Travel Affiliate LinksThe Start Line Co.Fluffy FizziesMona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza ApparelGoGuarded  

Experience a festive holiday moment in Epcot's France Pavilion as we listen to Père Noël share his charming Christmas tale. This memory comes from our December 2021 visit, when we had just finished watching Matsuriza in Japan and realized Père Noël was beginning his storytelling in only two minutes.We hurried along the World Showcase promenade from Japan, past Morocco, and arrived in France just in time to hear Père Noël begin. He shares the story of Babette and her Christmas letter, along with French holiday traditions like Le Réveillon and children placing their shoes by the fireplace. It's a warm, joyful moment that captures the spirit of the season in World Showcase.After the performance, with Remy still down, we head to the fountain to sit, relax, and decide where our adventure will take us next.

859 · EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival Sweet 16 Bracket-Style TournamentWhat happens when you take the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival Sweet 16 desserts, and put them into a bracket-style tournament, recorded LIVE at the Festival?You get delicious chaos.After the success of last year's Savory 16, we're doing it again. But this time we're diving into the sweetest side of EPCOT's most beautiful festival. From nostalgic cereal milk shakes to fruit sushi, funnel cakes, frozen cobblers, and unexpected surprises, 16 desserts go head-to-head across World Showcase to determine one champion.I am joined by two fellow foodies (who joined me for our Savory 16 tournament last year), as we walk the promenade, taste every contender, debate favorites, and crown the Best Sweet Treat of the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival.Along the way we talk festival strategy, surprising standouts, value picks, and the dishes you absolutely should not miss.If you love EPCOT festivals, Disney food, or just playing along with your own bracket in the parks, this one is for you.Subscribe for more Disney insights, reviews, and conversations, and join the community in the WDW Radio Clubhouse.