Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is exciting, but it is also way easier to get wrong than most families realize. After helping hundreds of families plan their trips, I see the same seven mistakes over and over, and they lead to stress, meltdowns, exhaustion, and a vacation that feels more like a survival mission than actual fun. In this episode, I break down the 7 rookie mistakes most first-timers make at Walt Disney World and show you exactly how to avoid them so your trip is smoother, happier, and actually feels like a vacation. You’ll learn:• Why party nights and park hours can quietly wreck your plans• The big reason you should never do Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios back to back• How one extra resort night can transform the entire trip• Why dining reservations can throw off your whole schedule• When rope drop hurts families more than it helps• Simple ways to recover, pace yourself, and avoid burnout• The number one planning mistake that ruins Disney trips for most families 📩 Get a free vacation quote: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote📰 Join the weekly newsletter: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com Plan smart, not perfect — and I’ll see you in the parks!

Ranking every Walt Disney World resort hotel — from the best deluxe resorts to the ones we’d only stay at for a discount. In this episode, Matt and Chip debate and break down every Disney World resort using real experience as dads, travelers, and Disney fans. If you’ve ever wondered which Disney resort is actually worth the money, this tier list covers it all — transportation, dining, pools, theming, and value for families. Before you book your next trip, find out which resorts made the Elite Tier and which ones we’d avoid (even if the price looks tempting). ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 Intro: How we ranked every Disney resort01:50 Animal Kingdom Lodge04:20 All-Star Resorts06:30 Caribbean Beach Resort09:30 Grand Floridian12:00 Saratoga Springs13:50 Pop Century16:40 Art of Animation18:10 Port Orleans Riverside & French Quarter21:00 Wilderness Lodge & Fort Wilderness24:20 Yacht & Beach Club25:50 Coronado Springs27:40 Polynesian Village Resort29:30 BoardWalk Inn30:50 Contemporary Resort32:30 Riviera Resort  Resources & Free Planning Help Plan your Walt Disney World vacation with Adventures of a Disney Dad — free tools, honest rankings, and expert tips for families.💻 Blog: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com📬 Join the newsletter for resort guides and Disney planning tools🎧 Listen to the Adventures of a Disney Dad Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

The Adventures of a Disney Dad Podcast is back, and this week I’m joined by my friend and returning guest, Matt Richardson, one of the most passionate voices in the Disney running community. We’re diving into everything you need to know before your first runDisney race weekend, including the early mornings, the corrals, the famous Balloon Ladies, and all the details that make these races different from anything else out there. Whether you’re considering signing up, or actively getting ready for Wine & Dine, Princess Half Marathon, Marathon Weekend, or Springtime Surprise, this episode will help you feel prepared, confident, and excited for race day.   🎧 In This Episode: How Matt got started with runDisney and what makes these races so special Why runDisney events are perfect for beginners and new runners How to navigate early mornings, corrals, and the 16-minute pace rule Tips for avoiding rookie mistakes and making the most of race weekend What to expect at the expo, plus merch advice Our picks for the best races and resorts for runners and spectators ⏱ Chapters: 01:00 – What makes runDisney races unique 06:00 – Why racing keeps runners motivated 08:30 – What makes the runDisney community so inclusive 10:30 – The Balloon Ladies explained (and how not to get swept) 13:00 – Navigating corrals, proof of time, and pacing tips 17:30 – Character photos vs race time: how to balance both 20:30 – Early morning race logistics (yes, 2:30 a.m. wake-ups!) 25:00 – Avoiding social media fear-mongering before your race 27:30 – Fueling and pre-race breakfast strategies 30:30 – When to arrive for race weekend and expo tips 38:00 – Which race weekend is best for first-timers 44:30 – The value of charity bibs and fundraising tips 46:00 – Best Disney resorts to stay at for race weekend   📎 Show Notes & Links: 🎽 Follow Matt Richardson on social: https://www.instagram.com/mattrichardson https://www.tiktok.com/@matthungryagain   💙 Support Matt’s Boys & Girls Club charity run: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/2025bgccfdisneywinedine/account/2159671/   🏰 Plan your next runDisney trip with me — my travel services are 100% free: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   📧 Join my newsletter for Disney race tips, park planning, and family vacation advice: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   🔗 Read: 6 Tips to Avoid the runDisney Balloon Ladies: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/rundisney/rundisney-balloon-ladies   #runDisney #DisneyWorld #DisneyRunning #DisneyMarathon #WineAndDineHalfMarathon #PrincessHalfMarathon #MarathonWeekend #SpringtimeSurprise #AdventuresOfADisneyDad

I planned our first Disney World trip the wrong way and learned the hard lessons so you don’t have to. In this episode I share 6 things I wish I knew before our first Walt Disney World vacation with little kids so you can save time, avoid stress, and have a smoother trip. What you’ll learn: 00:50 Dining Reservations: Not the End of the World 02:49 Rope Drop: Not Mandatory for Everyone 04:47 Transportation Woes: Plan Ahead 08:08 Disney Discounts: Keep an Eye Out 10:04 Choosing the Right Resort: It Matters 12:39 Embrace Disney Technology: Save Time and Stress I’m Matt, a Disney dad of three and a travel agent who plans trips for families every week. These are the exact tips I give my clients. Walt Disney World Key Date Calculator: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/walt-disney-world-key-date-calculator   Free weekly tips: Join my newsletter for park strategies, booking reminders, and family-first advice → www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   Work with me: Ready for help planning your trip? Get a free quote →https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote

Disney World is expensive, but not everything is worth the money. In this video, I share 9 Disney World extras that are always worth the splurge. From fireworks dessert parties and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique to Savi’s Workshop and VIP tours, these are the upgrades my family has tried and loved at Walt Disney World. You’ll learn what each experience costs, what’s included, and why it may (or may not) be right for your trip. 👇 Helpful Links 📖 More Disney planning tips: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com 📝 Free Disney World vacation quote: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote 👍 Like this video, subscribe, and share your favorite Disney splurge in the comments!

In this episode, Chip and Matt are joined by special guest Hallie Jones to answer your listener questions! We discuss the pros and cons of Disney resorts like Pop Century vs. Coronado Springs, to offering expert tips on Multi Pass. We also dive into topics such as the best viewing spots for Magic Kingdom fireworks outside the park, common mistakes to avoid at Magic Kingdom, and much more. 01:50 Discussing Disney's Announcements and Future Plans 05:08 Tron Aries Overlay and Upcoming Trips 08:28 Which Parks to Visit on Which Days 15:01 Split Stays Between Universal and Disney 22:07 Best Spots to View Magic Kingdom Fireworks 25:42 Pop Century vs. Coronado Springs 33:28 Common Mistakes at Magic Kingdom 38:45 When to Consider Park Hopper Tickets 43:48 Top Multi Pass Selections at Epcot 48:56 How Much Time Do You Spend on Your Phone at Disney?   Newsletter and Freebie: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com Plan your next trip with me (free) 👉 https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote Connect with Hallie: https://www.instagram.com/itallstartedwithamouse138

Animal Kingdom in one day with kids. Exact plan with rope drop strategy, Lightning Lane Multipass picks, must see shows, best character meets, can’t miss food, hidden trails, and how to handle evenings. It’s not just a zoo and not just a place for thrill rides. We show how to balance Flight of Passage or Kilimanjaro Safari at rope drop with a chill, animal forward day that still hits the headliners. 01:00 Skip park or half day debate with kids 02:30 Rope drop philosophy with Multipass basics and pricing 03:30 Flight of Passage vs Safari at rope drop, how to pair with Multipass 05:30 First three Multipass picks that work all day 07:30 Characters you should prioritize and where to find them 09:00 Trails, photo spots, and “side quests” around Tree of Life 11:00 3 2 1 family plan: 3 rides, 2 characters or shows, 1 meal 13:00 Use Tusker House to meet Mickey and friends fast 15:00 Quick eats that hit, what to skip for food 18:00 Kali River Rapids: when to ride and when to skip 20:00 Park hours, Pandora at night, and evening hop strategy 22:00 Half day vs full day and cutting table service if time is tight   Plan your next trip with me (free): https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote

This week we are sharing how to save money and time at Walt Disney World with 10 Disney World things to skip! I sat down with Disney Content Creator, Jay, to discuss some popular dining, parties, add-ons and strategies that we think are NOT worth the time or money. 00:24 Meet Jay: Disney Content Creator 01:28 Resort Reviews: Contemporary vs. Boardwalk 03:13 Dining at Disney: Steakhouse 71 and More 04:11 Jay's Disney Content Journey 09:44 10 Things Not Worth Your Time or Money at Disney 21:05 Is Park Hopper Worth It for First Timers? 22:19 The Pitfalls of Overplanning Your Disney Vacation 23:24 The Importance of Flexibility in Your Disney Schedule 25:56 Saving Money on Disney Resort Views 28:21 The Downside of Too Many Table Service Restaurants 30:19 Avoiding Long Waits for Peter Pan's Flight 32:05 The Hassle of Booking Dining at Other Resorts 34:48 Skipping Water Rides to Stay Dry 36:53 The Fantasmic Dining Package Debate   📱 Connect with Jay! • Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/king.jayscorner Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kingjay9   📌 Planning a Disney vacation? Let’s work together: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote Blog: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/  

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tips for 2025. Learn how to avoid common mistakes at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, beat the crowds, and plan the perfect night at Magic Kingdom with your family. You paid over $150 for one night at Disney World’s Halloween party. In this episode, I’m sharing 9 practical strategies based on years of experience taking my kids to MNSSHP. From character meets to parade timing, this guide will help you save time, skip stress, and make the most of your night. Watch this if you want to enjoy MNSSHP without wasting time, missing out on characters, or melting down in a parade crowd. 📍 Chapters: 01:03 The Crowd Myth You Need to Know 02:40 How Early to Arrive (and Why) 04:00 Group Costume Strategy 05:10 Set Priorities, Not Schedules 06:55 Rare Characters and Wait Times 08:45 Best Time for Boo-To-You Parade 10:15 When to Ride Rides 11:10 Florida Weather Realities 12:20 Candy Bag Hacks 13:10 Why We Skip Table Service Meals   📌 Planning a Disney vacation? Let’s work together: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote

In this episode, we’re joined by AJ Wolfe, the founder of Disney Food Blog and owner of AllEars, to talk about the heart behind her new book Disney Adults. We explore what it really means to be an adult Disney fan, how the term has evolved over time, and why this audience plays such a vital role in Disney’s future. AJ also shares her perspective on how content creation has shifted, which food trends need to end, and what it’s like running two of the most influential platforms in the Disney space. This is a real conversation about nostalgia, burnout, honesty, and how to hold onto the magic even when the parks feel more complicated than ever. 👇 Watch this if you’re a Disney fan who’s ever been told to “grow out of it.” 📘 Grab AJ Wolfe’s book Disney Adults: https://amzn.to/41aIluL   📍 Chapters:01:16 AJ Wolfe's Disney Journey 05:45 The Birth of Disney Food Blog 08:20 Running a Disney Media Empire 16:52 Writing the Book on Disney Adults 24:32 Influencer and Fan Stories 28:17 The Power of Disney Adults 31:50 Navigating Disney's Evolution 34:03 Personal Disney Favorites 40:12 Disney Dining Insights   📌 Planning a Disney vacation? Let’s work together:https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote

Disney World on a budget is possible — and in this episode, financial expert Rachel Cruze shares how her family plans affordable Disney vacations without debt, guilt, or overspending. Rachel is a New York Times bestselling author, host of The Rachel Cruze Show, and co-host of Smart Money Happy Hour. She joined me on the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast to break down how she saves, budgets, and balances family expectations when planning trips to Walt Disney World. 🎢 From $15,000 Disney vacation headlines to real travel agent numbers💰 How to avoid debt and plan smarter over time👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Navigating money and marriage while planning Disney🍦 When to say “yes” to bubble wands and treats — and when to pass🏰 Why Rachel skips some character meals (and the one she’ll always book) Whether you’re a first-time Disney planner or trying to make the most of your next trip, this episode is packed with practical strategies and honest advice that will help you plan a magical Disney vacation without the financial stress. 👇 Need help planning your trip? I’m a Disney-focused travel agent — and my services are 100% free:🔗 https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adventuresofadisneydad/🌐 Blog & planning tools: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com #RachelCruze #DisneyWorldOnABudget #DisneyVacationPlanning #DebtFreeDisney #FamilyTravelTips #DisneyDad #DisneyPlanning #BudgetDisney #WaltDisneyWorld

In this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad Podcast, we’re sharing 10 fun and relaxing activities to do at Walt Disney World without a park ticket. Whether you're planning a rest day, trying to save money, or looking for unique Disney experiences, these non-park day tips are perfect for families, first-timers, and Disney veterans.   We also break down the latest updates to Test Track, EPCOT’s new Multipass strategy, and a Disney Cruise Line safety incident you need to hear about (don’t worry—everyone’s okay).   🧳 Planning your Disney vacation? Get a free quote  👉 https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   📒 Show Notes & Resources 📒   🚀 Free Disney Planning Tools ➤ Vacation Quote Form: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote ➤ Dining Plan Calculator: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/disney-dining-plan-calculator ➤ Key Dates Calculator: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/disney-vacation-date-calculator   🧠 What We Cover in This Episode:   01:58 – Test Track 3.0 & Multipass Strategy Updates 05:15 – Overboard Incident on the Disney Dream (Everyone is Safe) 10:00 – 10 Best Things to Do at Disney Outside the Parks 12:00 – Resort-Only Day: What Chip Learned 14:00 – Disney Springs Dining, Shopping & Entertainment Tips 17:00 – Free Water Park Day Hack at Disney Resorts 20:30 – Blizzard Beach vs Typhoon Lagoon: Which Is Better? 22:00 – Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue Experience 26:00 – Campfires, S’mores & Character Meet-and-Greets at Resorts 28:00 – Monorail & Skyliner Resort Hopping Tips 30:30 – Is Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Right for You?   ✨ Need help planning your Disney World or Disney Cruise Line trip? Matt offers free expert vacation planning as a travel agent with The Magic for Less Travel. 🎟️ Get your free quote now: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   #DisneyWorldPlanning #ThingsToDoAtDisney #DisneyWithoutParkTickets #DisneyVacationTips #Multipass #DisneyCruise #DisneyResorts #WaltDisneyWorld #DisneyDadPodcast

In this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, Matt and Chip dive into some of Disney's most pressing questions, discussing ride closures, the criteria for keeping attractions, and why some outdated rides remain open. They also analyze whether  travel insurance for Disney Cruises is worth it and share insights on the current free Disney gift card offer. Additionally, we explore Multipass and Single Pass Lightning Lanes and provides updates on this summer's crowd expectations at Walt Disney World. Tune in to learn how to plan a smarter Disney vacation and make the most out of your visit. 01:11 Debating Attraction Closures 01:38 The Criteria for Keeping Attractions Open 04:25 Nostalgia vs. Practicality in Disney Parks 11:10 Travel Insurance for Disney Cruises 18:39 Disney's $200 Gift Card Offer 21:01 Summer Crowds at Disney Parks 27:51 Booking Multipass and Lightning LanesLooking for a free Travel Agent to plan your next trip? Want to plan with us? Fill our a quote form at https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote

In this episode of Adventures of a Disney Dad, Matt delves into the essentials of navigating Lightning Lane Multipass at Walt Disney World. He shares 7 of his top tips to maximize the use of Multipass, covering the basics of the service and beyond. Matt also discusses strategies for booking rides, the importance of timing, and how to effectively combine Multipass with park hopping and standby strategies. 00:58 Understanding the Basics of Multipass 01:56 Is Multipass Worth It? 03:04 How to Use Multipass Effectively 04:35 Individual Lightning Lanes and Premier Pass 06:43 Seven Tips for Using Multipass 16:46 Advanced Tips and Strategies 23:37 Conclusion and Additional ResourcesLooking for a free Travel Agent to plan your next trip? Want to plan with us? Fill our a quote form at https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   🎢 Don't miss our in-depth guides and magical adventures around Walt Disney World and Universal Studios!   🎢 Subscribe for more theme park tips, family fun, and insider secrets! ➡️ www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   🏰 Ready to make the most of your next Disney trip? Check out our Disney travel essentials here: ➡️ AMAZON https://www.amazon.com/shop/adventuresofadisneydad/list/5T6YDRM8JVFB?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfadventuresofadisneydad_MFJFEAAM9F990Y0RVG0N    🛠 Our favorite Disney Hats • Park Adventures Apparel: ➡️ www.parkadventuresapparel.com    📱 Connect with Adventures of a Disney Dad! • Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/adventuresofadisneydad/    #AdventuresofaDisneyDad #DisneyWorld #FamilyTravel   Our mission is to bring the magic of Disney into every home and help families create unforgettable memories through expert advice and fun-filled adventures.   ✨ Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of The Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, hosts Matt and Chip dive into a plethora of updates from Walt Disney World, including a new discount for Disney Cruise Line and upcoming changes in the parks. They discuss a range of topics like the new Starlight Parade at Magic Kingdom, construction updates for Cars Land in Frontierland, and the closure of Muppet Courtyard and Rivers of America. They also share insights on the park's new relaxation lounge Geo 82 at Epcot and the current trends in crowd levels at Epic Universe. Additionally, Matt offers travel planning tips and highlights the importance of not over-planning your Disney vacation. 01:24 Disney Cruise Line Deals and Offers 05:23 Universal's Rumored Cruise Line 06:32 Galveston and Fort Lauderdale Ports 08:49 New Nighttime Parade: Starlight 14:47 Cars Land Construction Begins 17:19 Discussing Magic Kingdom's Haunted Mansion Changes 17:50 Villains Land and Concept Art Insights 20:28 Geo 82: The New Lounge at Epcot 22:37 Comparing Theme Park and Event Prices 25:45 Planning Your First Walt Disney World Trip 32:16 Final Thoughts and Wrap-UpLooking for a free Travel Agent to plan your next trip? Want to plan with us? Fill our a quote form at https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   🎢 Don't miss our in-depth guides and magical adventures around Walt Disney World and Universal Studios!   🎢 Subscribe for more theme park tips, family fun, and insider secrets! ➡️ www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   🏰 Ready to make the most of your next Disney trip? Check out our Disney travel essentials here: ➡️ AMAZON https://www.amazon.com/shop/adventuresofadisneydad/list/5T6YDRM8JVFB?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfadventuresofadisneydad_MFJFEAAM9F990Y0RVG0N    🛠 Our favorite Disney Hats • Park Adventures Apparel: ➡️ www.parkadventuresapparel.com    📱 Connect with Adventures of a Disney Dad! • Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/adventuresofadisneydad/    #AdventuresofaDisneyDad #DisneyWorld #FamilyTravel   Our mission is to bring the magic of Disney into every home and help families create unforgettable memories through expert advice and fun-filled adventures.   ✨ Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of The Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, Matt and Chip delve into updates at Walt Disney World and discuss strategies for visiting 4 parks in 2 days. They cover upcoming events including the Halloween and Christmas parties, ticket sales for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, and the 70th-anniversary celebration at Disneyland. They also address listener questions about navigating four parks in two days and discuss realistic expectations. Additionally, they highlight the grand opening of Epic Universe, discuss new shows at Hollywood Studios, and mention current deal offerings at Walt Disney World resorts. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:17 Halloween and Christmas Party Updates 00:40 Back to School and Summer Plans 01:44 Disneyland's 70th Anniversary Celebration 03:13 Lilo and Stitch Movie Excitement 04:11 Epic Universe Grand Opening 04:52 Harry Potter Theming and Ride Discussion 12:33 Epic Universe vs. Walt Disney World 14:50 New Shows at Walt Disney World 15:34 Discussing Disneyland's Nighttime Parades 16:59 Hollywood Studios: New Shows and Attractions 20:07 Planning a Two-Day Disney World Trip 24:22 Strategies for Maximizing Park Visits 30:32 Budget-Friendly Disney World Tips 31:19 Podcast Wrap-Up and Upcoming Guests Looking for a free Travel Agent to plan your next trip? Want to plan with us? Fill our a quote form at https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   🎢 Don't miss our in-depth guides and magical adventures around Walt Disney World and Universal Studios!   🎢 Subscribe for more theme park tips, family fun, and insider secrets! ➡️ www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   🏰 Ready to make the most of your next Disney trip? Check out our Disney travel essentials here: ➡️ AMAZON https://www.amazon.com/shop/adventuresofadisneydad/list/5T6YDRM8JVFB?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfadventuresofadisneydad_MFJFEAAM9F990Y0RVG0N    🛠 Our favorite Disney Hats • Park Adventures Apparel: ➡️ www.parkadventuresapparel.com    📱 Connect with Adventures of a Disney Dad! • Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/adventuresofadisneydad/    #AdventuresofaDisneyDad #DisneyWorld #FamilyTravel   Our mission is to bring the magic of Disney into every home and help families create unforgettable memories through expert advice and fun-filled adventures.   ✨ Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of The Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, hosts Matt and Chip welcome a special guest, Danielle Kelly (@thedapperdanielle), to discuss her new book 'I Love Disney's Magic Kingdom,' which just released nationwide! They delve into Danielle’s background, her journey as a content creator, and her firsthand Disney knowledge accrued from her time as a cast member.   Listeners get a taste of the book's unique approach that combines fun tidbits and historical insights, making it a great travel companion for your next Walt Disney World vacation to Magic Kingdom.   The episode also highlights her transformation from a Disney enthusiast to a published author and what to expect from the book. Danielle shares her favorite Disney facts, insights on Magic Kingdom, and tips for making the most of a Disney trip. This episode is perfect for Disney fans and families planning their next adventure to Magic Kingdom!   00:20 Danielle's New Book: I Love Disney's Magic Kingdom 00:55 The Writing Process and Book Details 04:37 Danielle's Disney Background and Family 09:33 Becoming a Content Creator During COVID 18:04 Challenges and Successes in Content Creation 20:09 From Content Creator to Author 21:36 The Origin of Dapper Danielle 22:05 Vintage Disney Collection 22:43 The Dapper Danielle Persona 23:59 Churro Talk and Spirit Jerseys 26:44 Magic Kingdom Tips for Families 28:49 Disney Food Opinions 33:50 Favorite Disney Facts and Lore 34:31 Mount Rushmore of Magic Kingdom 37:47 Country Bear Jamboree Trivia   Connect with Danielle: https://linktr.ee/thedapperdanielleBuy the Book: https://amzn.to/3S89p9j Looking for a free Travel Agent to plan your next trip? Want to plan with us? Fill our a quote form at https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   🎢 Don't miss our in-depth guides and magical adventures around Walt Disney World and Universal Studios!   🎢 Subscribe for more theme park tips, family fun, and insider secrets! ➡️ www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   🏰 Ready to make the most of your next Disney trip? Check out our Disney travel essentials here: ➡️ AMAZON https://www.amazon.com/shop/adventuresofadisneydad/list/5T6YDRM8JVFB?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfadventuresofadisneydad_MFJFEAAM9F990Y0RVG0N    🛠 Our favorite Disney Hats • Park Adventures Apparel: ➡️ www.parkadventuresapparel.com    📱 Connect with Adventures of a Disney Dad! • Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/adventuresofadisneydad/    #AdventuresofaDisneyDad #DisneyWorld #FamilyTravel   Our mission is to bring the magic of Disney into every home and help families create unforgettable memories through expert advice and fun-filled adventures.   ✨ Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of The Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, hosts Matt and Chip discuss Matt’s experience at the Epic Universe preview thanks to Universal Orlando. Matt provides a detailed and honest review, touching on various aspects of the new park, including attractions, food, and logistics.   They also compare Epic Universe to Disney parks, pondering the potential impact on Disney and whether the new park is a one-day or multi-day experience.   Key highlights include the Harry Potter 'Battle at the Ministry' ride, Super Nintendo Land, and the challenges with accessibility and shade. Additionally, there's a discussion on strategies for park hopping and maximizing family vacations at Universal.   01:23 Epic Universe Experience and Highlights 03:35 Coca-Cola Freestyle Machines: A Game Changer 05:58 Accessibility and Design Observations 13:33 Harry Potter and Other Attractions 21:00 Shortcomings of the Ride 21:39 Stardust Racers: A Rollercoaster Review 22:09 Family Preferences and Ride Restrictions 22:46 Exploring Celestial Park 23:05 Epic Universe: A One-Day Experience? 23:35 Comparing Disney and Universal Attractions 24:21 Dark Universe: A Surprising Favorite 27:38 Logistics and Rope Drop Strategy 30:19 Universal's Locker System and Ride Efficiency 31:53 Planning Your Universal Vacation 33:40 Dining at Epic Universe 39:30 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsLooking for a free Travel Agent to plan your next trip? Want to plan with us? Fill our a quote form at https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   🎢 Don't miss our in-depth guides and magical adventures around Walt Disney World and Universal Studios!   🎢 Subscribe for more theme park tips, family fun, and insider secrets! ➡️ www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   🏰 Ready to make the most of your next Disney trip? Check out our Disney travel essentials here: ➡️ AMAZON https://www.amazon.com/shop/adventuresofadisneydad/list/5T6YDRM8JVFB?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfadventuresofadisneydad_MFJFEAAM9F990Y0RVG0N    🛠 Our favorite Disney Hats • Park Adventures Apparel: ➡️ www.parkadventuresapparel.com    📱 Connect with Adventures of a Disney Dad! • Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/adventuresofadisneydad/    #AdventuresofaDisneyDad #DisneyWorld #FamilyTravel   Our mission is to bring the magic of Disney into every home and help families create unforgettable memories through expert advice and fun-filled adventures.   ✨ Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of The Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, Matt and Chip dive into their favorite aspects of Walt Disney World, including their preferred parks, resorts, table service, and quick service dining options.   They discuss frequently asked questions from listeners and share their thoughts on splurges worth making during a Disney vacation. Additionally, Matt teases his upcoming preview visit to Universal's Epic Universe and highlights some key logistical details for those planning a visit. Tune in for a fun discussion and tips to enhance your Disney and Universal experiences.   00:53 Epic Universe Preview and Excitement 01:31 Universal's How to Train Your Dragon 02:45 Navigating Universal's Epic Universe 07:01 Disney's 2026 Vacation Packages and Dining Plans 15:14 Favorite Disney Parks 19:37 Dining Dilemmas at Hollywood Studios 21:23 Favorite Disney Resorts: Yacht Club and More 24:02 Top Table Service Meals at Disney 26:40 Best Quick Service at Disney 28:58 Favorite Disney Splurges and Upgrades 33:19 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward to Epic UniverseLooking for a free Travel Agent to plan your next trip? Want to plan with us? Fill our a quote form at https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote   🎢 Don't miss our in-depth guides and magical adventures around Walt Disney World and Universal Studios!   🎢 Subscribe for more theme park tips, family fun, and insider secrets! ➡️ www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   🏰 Ready to make the most of your next Disney trip? Check out our Disney travel essentials here: ➡️ AMAZON https://www.amazon.com/shop/adventuresofadisneydad/list/5T6YDRM8JVFB?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfadventuresofadisneydad_MFJFEAAM9F990Y0RVG0N    🛠 Our favorite Disney Hats • Park Adventures Apparel: ➡️ www.parkadventuresapparel.com    📱 Connect with Adventures of a Disney Dad! • Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/adventuresofadisneydad/    #AdventuresofaDisneyDad #DisneyWorld #FamilyTravel   Our mission is to bring the magic of Disney into every home and help families create unforgettable memories through expert advice and fun-filled adventures.   ✨ Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of The Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, Chip returns from his Disney Cruise Line vacation and shares highlights of the trip, including experiences on the Disney Magic ship and family activities on Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point.   Matt discusses his recent experience staying offsite and the challenges encountered, such as heavy traffic and difficulties booking Multipass rides. They also touch on current Disney discounts and considerations for booking Disney Cruise Lines, comparing the benefits of staying onsite versus offsite.   00:39 Disney's New Discounts 06:21 Chip's Disney Cruise Line Adventure 09:29 Private Islands: Castaway vs. Lighthouse Point 10:33 The Reality of Beach Vacations with Kids 13:43 Disney Cruise Highlights and First Disney Race 16:36 Disney Cruise Line Discounts and Booking Tips 19:45 Challenges of Staying Offsite at Walt Disney World 23:15 Navigating Disney's Lightning Lane System 31:36 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Plans   Looking for a free Travel Agent to plan your next trip? Want to plan with us? Fill our a quote form at https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.co...   🎢 Don't miss our in-depth guides and magical adventures around Walt Disney World and Universal Studios!   🎢 Subscribe for more theme park tips, family fun, and insider secrets! ➡️ www.adventuresofadisneydad.com   🏰 Ready to make the most of your next Disney trip? Check out our Disney travel essentials here: ➡️ AMAZON https://www.amazon.com/shop/adventure...    🛠 Our favorite Disney Hats • Park Adventures Apparel: ➡️ www.parkadventuresapparel.com    📱 Connect with Adventures of a Disney Dad! • Instagram: ➡️   / adventuresofadisneydad     #AdventuresofaDisneyDad #DisneyWorld #FamilyTravel   Our mission is to bring the magic of Disney into every home and help families create unforgettable memories through expert advice and fun-filled adventures.   ✨ Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you.