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Episode 511: This week on Traveling with the Mouse, we’re diving into the latest Disney (and theme park) news before tackling a topic that everyone can relate to, how to do Walt Disney World on a budget!

In the News

There’s never a dull moment in the world of Disney and theme parks, and this week proved it: The Firing (and Un-Firing) of Jimmy Kimmel – In true entertainment industry fashion, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was announced as “out,” only to be brought “back in” shortly after. We break down what happened, what it means, and why Disney always seems to find itself at the center of these public kerfuffles.

Robbery at Disney Springs – A Disney Springs restaurant made headlines after an unfortunate robbery incident. We share what we know about the situation and how it could have happened.

Candlelight Processional Narrator Lineup – The holiday season is approaching, and Disney has unveiled this year’s list of celebrity narrators for the Candlelight Processional at EPCOT. But one very surprising name is missing from the list this year. We talk about who’s in, who’s out, and what the absence might signal.

Epic Universe Coaster Incident – Over at Universal’s upcoming Epic Universe, there was an unfortunate incident on one of the new coasters. We discuss what happened and what we know about this tragic event.

After covering the headlines, we shift gears to talk about saving money at Walt Disney World. We all know Disney trips can get pricey, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank.

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This week’s episode is a special one, folks. Episode 500. That’s right five hundred episodes of Disney banter, ride breakdowns, trip reports, armchair imagineering, and more Magical opinions than any one podcast probably needs.

We start this milestone episode by hopping in our time-traveling Doombuggy and heading all the way back to Episode 1. Yep, remember when we nervously hit record in 2017 and started talking about what drew us to Disney in the first place? Back when FastPass+ was still a thing and we all couldn’t wait for Galaxy’s Edge to open? Good times.

But, we couldn’t just celebrate the past we had to speculate wildly about the future too. So what will we be talking about in another 500 episodes?

Will there be a 5th Gate or at least blue sky concept art for one?

Will Spaceship Earth finally get that long-promised update?

Will Figment finally get a new ride?

Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just hopped on for the ride recently, we’re so grateful you’re part of this community. Here’s to another 500 episodes filled with magic, mayhem, and Mickey pretzels.

Thank you!

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Episode 499: On today’s episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we’re throwing open the gates of possibility—and imagining what could happen if Disney finally decided to build a fifth theme park at Walt Disney World.

We kick things off by discussing the recent news that Disney has the approval to Build a 5th theme park at Walt Disney World should they choose to do so. This is still at least a decade away but we can’t help but speculate what we would like to see as a new park. We explore everything from villain-themed lands and Disney mythology to international legends, space exploration and Music inspired attractions.

What Would Walt Do?

We channel Walt’s spirit via AI and ask: would he go retro-futuristic and build a new EPCOT-style experimental city? Would he create something focused on storytelling and innovation? Or would he surprise us with something we never saw coming?

We share our thoughts on how Disney could honor the original vision while creating something new something that invites wonder, progress, and joy for the next generation of dreamers.

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Episode 498: In this week’s episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we’re casting our nets into the beautiful, mysterious waters of Bay Lake! Don’t worry, it’s a metaphorical dive, no SCUBA gear required. But before we dip into history, we kick things off with some exciting updates from around the Disney Parks!

Test Track 3.0 Gets a re-opening Date!
The long-rumored reimagining of Test Track now has an official re-opening date of July 22nd! Not only are we getting a fresh new look at the exterior, but Disney has also given us a sneak peek at what some of the interior scenes will look like. We do know that there will be cast member previews as well as Annual Passholder and DVC but what we don’t know yet is exactly when. The other thing we don’t know yet is will Disney use Virtual Queue or Single Pass for Test Track for the first few weeks.

Construction World: Turbocharged Edition

As part of Disney’s promise to turbocharge the parks, we’re seeing a lot of construction progress across property:

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is laying down new track faster than a runaway mine train.
  • Dinoland U.S.A. area is seeing a lot of construction activity as it transforms into the lush and vibrant Tropical Americas.
  • And right on the shimmering shores of Bay Lake, the Lakeshore Lodge is rising up with faced paces construction.

Deep Dive: The History and Legacy of Bay Lake

Now let’s row gently into the heart of today’s episode: Bay Lake the natural, spring-fed lake that predates Disney and has quietly witnessed every transformation of Walt Disney World since the very beginning. We take a look at the Past, present, and future of this natural wonder that is one of the best spots in all of Walt Disney World.

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Episode 496: This week on Traveling with the Mouse, we dive into Adam’s Memorial Day weekend trip to Walt Disney World. He arrived on opening day for Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe so naturally we were curious: Would Disney feel the ripple effects of the Epic excitement across town?

Adam takes us through his experiences over the long holiday weekend including opening day of the all-new Disney Villains show, and he gives us a full review.

We also discuss some of the recent Disney news. We will get to Piston Peak next week national park next week. But we do discuss the new details around Disney Starlight nighttime Parade and the many small improvement project that are going on all around Walt Disney World.

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Episode 480: Today, we’re taking a journey through the highs and lows of 2024 and casting our gaze forward to what 2025 has in store. It’s been quite a year for Disney fans, with exciting openings, bittersweet closures, and some major announcements that left us eager for the future. Let’s dive in!

2024: A Year to Remember

This past year brought us the closing and re-opening of the Country Bear Jamboree (now the country bear musical jamboree). Perhaps the most anticipated was the debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. When the attraction has everything working properly it truly is amazing. The introduction of the Lightning Lane Multi-Pass brought a new dimension to planning park visits. We’ll call it a hybrid of the different skip the line iterations that Disney has had recently. And, Of course, the D23 announcements signal a major investment to the parks in the coming years. The plans for “Beyond Big Thunder” the transformation of Dinoland into the Tropical Americas, Monster’s Inc land and Villains land all are ambitious, to say the least. While these projects are years away, 2024 set the stage for a new era in the parks.

2025: A Year of Transition

At first glance, 2025 might seem quieter compared to the big moments of 2024. But don’t let that fool you—this year is all about laying the groundwork for what could become an impressive new chapter in Disney history. If the promised investments in the parks come to fruition, 2025 could be the start of something truly transformative.

  • Continued Construction and Previews: The projects announced at D23 will likely see major progress in 2025. While we may not get to enjoy them just yet, seeing these projects take shape is important.
  • New Experiences: There are a few new things coming this year that have us excited. Test Track 3.0 is the obvious front runner this year. The new nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom also has me hopefully optimistic. As a Disney adult I am looking foward to the 2 new lounges opening this year. Also, the Disney Villains show at Hollywood studios is a good sign that Disney is investing significant capital into the parks again.

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Episode 479: Welcome back to another festive episode of Traveling with the Mouse! We’re thrilled to have Jason join us again as he shares all the magical details from his recent trip to Walt Disney World during the holiday season. From special ticketed events to delightful discoveries, Jason has plenty of insider info to get you in the holiday spirit.

Jollywood Nights: Year Two Impressions

Jason kicks things off with a review of the second year of Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. He compares this year’s event to its debut, highlighting what has improved and what still needs some pixie dust. From character encounters to the live entertainment and overall crowd levels, Jason provides a thorough breakdown of how Disney’s newest holiday offering is evolving.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Next, Jason dives into the beloved classic, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. He details the enchanting parade, snowfall on Main Street, and, of course, the free holiday treats. He also shares his thoughts on whether the fireworks dessert party is worth the extra cost and how it enhanced his viewing experience of Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks.

Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT

EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays is always a seasonal highlight, and Jason’s trip was no exception. He shares his favorite food and beverage picks from the holiday kitchens, as well as some new hidden gems he discovered for refreshments. If you’re looking for some unique spots to relax and enjoy a drink, Jason has you covered!

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Episode 473: Welcome to another episode of Traveling with the Mouse! We’re diving into some exciting Disney news, including a new option for skipping the lines, holiday updates, and even some breakfast news! Here’s what we cover in this episode.

Big Thunder Mountain Refurbishment Prep

You may have noticed a few changes around Big Thunder Mountain lately. Disney is already laying the groundwork for a major refurbishment of this classic attraction. While we don’t have all the details on what the refurbishment will entail, we talk about what this means for Big Thunder and speculate on the updates we might see. This wild ride is about to get wilder—or, at the very least, refreshed for future visitors!

Jingle Cruise Returns!

If you’re heading to Magic Kingdom for the holidays, you’ll be happy to hear that the Jingle Cruise is back! This holiday overlay of the Jungle Cruise ride brings festive decorations, themed jokes, and a dash of holiday spirit to Adventureland. We chat about why this seasonal favorite is a must-do and what you can expect if you’ve never taken a trip on this unique holiday adventure.

Breakfast at Satu’li Canteen

Finally, we’ve got a tasty update for those early risers! Satu’li Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has brought back breakfast service. This Pandora favorite is now serving breakfast, offering a great start for those looking to fuel up before exploring the beautiful landscape of Pandora and the rest of the park. We dive into the breakfast menu and recommend what we’re excited to try next time we’re there.

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Episode 472: In this week’s episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we dive into a hot topic that’s got everyone buzzing—Disney’s latest price hikes! From ticket prices to Annual Passes and even snacks, Disney recently rolled out some significant increases across the board. And with the grand opening of the newest, most opulently themed Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s BoardWalk, it’s clear that Disney is doubling down on luxury experiences. But with prices that are enough to make your wallet sweat, we have to ask: Is it really worth it?

While Disney’s prices continue to soar, there are still a few gems in the parks that we think offer great value for your money. We break down some of our favorite go-to spots for quality food, drinks, and experiences that won’t require a second mortgage. First up? The Baseline Taphouse. Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, it’s the perfect spot for grabbing a beer or cocktail without the Disney premium that other places carry. Not only is the atmosphere super chill, but the selection and prices make it a win for any park-goer looking to unwind. Then there’s the trusty quick-service options. While not as flashy as the table-service experiences, Disney’s quick-service restaurants offer some solid options that are worth every penny. Despite the price increases, there are certain experiences and treats we think are worth loosening the purse strings for.

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Episode 470: In this week’s episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we dive into the storm that shook things up at Walt Disney World—Hurricane Milton. We talk about how the parks responded, why Jon ultimately canceled his much-anticipated trip, and what this means for Disney fans going forward.

Beyond Milton, we take a journey through the history of every time Disney has had to close its doors over the past 53 years. From other hurricanes and 9/11 to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s fascinating to see how Disney has navigated these unprecedented challenges. These closures were rare, but are happening more frequently in recent years.

Finally, we wrap up the episode with some of the latest Disney news, including updates on park operations post-Milton.

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Episode 469: Hey there, Disney fans! Welcome back to another exciting episode of Traveling with the Mouse! After taking a week off to recharge, we’re diving headfirst into the latest happenings in the Disney world. We’ve got a lot to cover this week, so let’s get into it! First up, let’s talk about the weather. Hurricanes can impact travel plans, and we want all our listeners to stay safe out there. Whether you’re at home or planning a trip, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared.

Big Discounts for 2025

In more exciting news, Disney has already released some big discounts for 2025! That’s right—if you’re planning ahead (and we know you are!), now is the perfect time to start looking at options for your future trips. We’ll go over the best deals and how you can snag them before they disappear. It’s all about planning smart to get the most out of your Disney experience!

Jon’s Upcoming Trip to Walt Disney World

This week, we’re particularly excited to preview Jon’s upcoming trip to Walt Disney World! He’s got a packed itinerary, and he’s aiming to hit all the must-see attractions before they potentially change. Jon is making sure to explore The Rivers of America at Magic Kingdom, Dinoland at Animal Kingdom, and he’s even planning to visit Muppets Courtyard. Who knows what changes might be coming? So, he’ll definitely be stopping by Pizzarizzo and Muppet Vision 3D just in case! You never want to miss those classic experiences.

We’ll also dive into the process of booking the Lightning Lane Multi-Pass in advance. With so many rides and attractions to experience, knowing how to navigate the Lightning Lane system can save you a lot of time and stress. We’ll share tips and tricks to make the most of this feature so you can maximize your park time and enjoy all your favorites without the long waits.

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Episode 465: Welcome back, Disney fans! In this week’s episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we dive into some of the hottest topics swirling around the Disney community right now. From a headline-grabbing lawsuit to perplexing hotel availability and a comparison of Halloween events at the parks, we’ve got a lot to cover. Let’s break it all down!

You might have seen the recent headlines about a wrongful death lawsuit involving Disney, and let’s be real—the news can make things sound wild! But as we dug deeper into the details, we found that while the situation is indeed serious, it’s important to separate fact from sensationalism. We take you through what’s really going on.

If you’ve tried booking a Disney hotel room for that one October weekend, you might’ve noticed something strange—limited availability across the board! We’re scratching our heads too. Is it a glitch in the system, or is something big happening that weekend?

With Halloween right around the corner, we couldn’t resist comparing two of Disney’s most popular seasonal events: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and the After Hours events.

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Episode: 457 Welcome back, Disney fans! In this special episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we’re joined by the incredible Ryan and Reagan, also known as The Brothers WDW. These two Disney enthusiasts recently completed not one, but two Parkeology runs back to back, conquering an impressive 52 rides in a single day across all four Walt Disney World Parks. Get ready for an action-packed episode filled with strategy, close calls, and the latest Disney updates!

We kick off the episode by welcoming our special guests, Ryan and Reagan. The Brothers WDW have taken on the Parkeology challenge and emerged victorious. They recently completed 2 back to back runs of 52 rides. They break down the key elements that helped them succeed, recounting some of the close calls and unexpected hurdles they faced along the way. Their quick thinking and teamwork ultimately tipped things in their favor.

As Disney prepares to implement changes to the Lightning Lane system, we discuss how these updates might impact future Parkeology challenges and regular park visits. We discuss how to run the challenge or just to get the most out of your Disney vacation you have to adapt and roll with whatever the day gives you.

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Episode 451: Finally, the wait is over! We’ve got all the scoop on Tian’s Bayou Adventure, and Disney is shaking things up for the passholder preview this time around. Instead of the usual long waits and frustrating virtual queues, passholders will need to be in the park on the date of the preview and snag a virtual queue spot at one of two times during the day. Fingers crossed this new system works better than the old one! But wait, there’s more! If you’re a DVC member or a D23 Gold member, you’ll also get a chance to preview Tian’s Bayou Adventure. However, these opportunities are a bit more restrictive, we go through those specific details.

And in other news, the drama at Gideon’s Bakehouse continues! We’ll dive into the latest developments. Stay tuned for the full story and our thoughts on how this might affect future visits. Now, let’s talk about something truly magical—the new drone show at Disney Springs! This new show is lighting up the skies later this week. Lastly, there’s a rumor circulating that the old 1.0 Magic Bands might be decommissioned soon. We’ll discuss what this could mean for park-goers and how to prepare if you still have one of these classic bands. Make sure to follow us on all our social media channels and subscribe to our podcast for the latest Disney news and adventures. See ya real soon!

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Welcome back to another episode of the Traveling with the Mouse Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of Disney, bringing you the latest news, reviews, and insider tips. This week, we’re unpacking the highlights from Disney’s Q1 earnings call and exploring other significant stories that have unfolded over the past week. The latest earnings call from Disney revealed that the parks continue to be a robust source of income for the entertainment giant. However, the big question on every Disney enthusiast’s mind is: when will we see further investment in the parks?

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Episode: 436. Welcome back to another episode of the Traveling with the Mouse Podcast! In Episode 436, we wrap up Adam’s boys trip report to Walt Disney World, dive into some delectable dining experiences, and bid an emotional adieu to a beloved classic, The Country Bear Jamboree. One of the most heartfelt moments of Adam’s trip was his final visit to The Country Bear Jamboree. This classic attraction, beloved by many, has been a staple at Disney parks since 1971. In this episode, we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, discussing the history of The Country Bear Jamboree, its inception, and the joy it has brought to generations of Disney fans. This episode is a blend of delightful culinary adventures and a heartfelt tribute to a Disney classic. The Country Bear Jamboree will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we eagerly await the new experiences Disney will bring to continue the legacy of this cherished attraction. Join us in celebrating the memories and looking forward to the future of Disney magic!

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Episode 433: If you’re planning a magical trip to Disney World in 2024 and want to avoid the crowds, our latest episode is a must-listen! We delve deep into the crowd data from 2022 and 2023 to uncover trends and clues for this year’s attendance patterns. We’ve pinpointed what are statistically the best times to visit Disney World in 2024. These periods promise lower crowd levels, offering a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. In this episode, we also cover the latest news and updates from Disney World. We preview the upcoming Festival of the Arts at Epcot and the new popcorn bucket that is sure to draw a crowd. Disney has also released a number of good discounts from the spring all the way through the fall.

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Episode 432: Happy New Year from all of us at “Traveling with the Mouse”! 🎉 We’re back with another exciting episode that’s all about what’s on the horizon for Disney parks and entertainment in 2024. We kick off 2024 with a sneak peek into the new attractions and experiences set to debut at Disney parks. From the main headliner this year, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to the new Little Mermaid show and a Country Bear Jamboree revamp in between. But it’s not all about the new; we also dive into the completion of ongoing construction projects that will enhance the magic of your Disney visits.

We also take a closer look at Disney’s film lineup for 2024. Is this year’s cinematic offering as enchanting as we’d hoped, or are we in for a more low-key year in the world of Disney entertainment? Our opinions might surprise you. As we embark on this new year of Disney discoveries, join us in Episode 432 for a lively discussion about what’s to come in the world of Disney, from the parks to the big screen. We’re your trusted guides to all things Disney

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Welcome back to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse,” where we dive deep into the latest Disney developments and share our candid thoughts and experiences. In Episode 431, we’re exploring the new wonders of EPCOT, reviewing the latest adventure from our favorite archaeologist, and reflecting on a family’s first Disney trip gone awry.

Luminous, has finally made its debut at EPCOT, and we’re here to spill our thoughts. Does it live up to the legacy of its predecessors like IllumiNations and How does it compare to Harmonious and EPCOT Forever? We discuss the visuals, music, and overall experience of this new show, providing you with everything you need to know before your next park visit.

The construction walls are (mostly) down, and EPCOT’s World Celebration area is now open to guests! We take you through the transformed space, discussing what’s new, what’s changed, and how it impacts the overall EPCOT experience.

Next, we switch gears to the silver screen with our review of the newest Indiana Jones movie, “The Dial of Destiny.” Jon and I delve into our perspectives on the film and its place in the iconic franchise. We also discuss the broader picture of how Lucasfilm has been managed under Disney’s stewardship.

Lastly, we dissect a post from a family whose first trip to Walt Disney World didn’t quite meet their expectations. We break down their experience, pinpoint where things may have gone off course, and offer advice on what could have been done differently. Whether you’re a Disney veteran or planning your first visit, there are lessons to be learned and tips to be gleaned from this discussion.

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Episode 427, Welcome back to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse” – your go-to audio guidebook for all things Disney. This week, in Episode 427, we’ve got a blend of the latest Disney news and a playful twist that will have you seeing the parks from a whole new angle! First up, we dive into the Disney headlines. The Monorail had some tire issues this week. The holiday season is now in full swing and Disney’s legal battle with the state of Florida is heating up. We continue on to our main topic this week where we ask and answer some questions that don’t normally get asked about Walt Disney World. Things like, Which ride has the most uncomfortable seats or the ride with the worst on-ride photo. We want to hear your thoughts on these quirky Disney questions. Share your opinions and your hilarious ride photos with us on our social media channels – because if you can’t laugh at a picture of yourself staring blankly on Haunted Mansion, then where’s the fun in that?