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Episode 477: Welcome back to Traveling with the Mouse! In this week’s episode, Adam takes us on a journey through his recent trip to Walt Disney World during the most wonderful time of the year—the Christmas season! From twinkling lights to festive treats, he shares his magical experiences and offers tips for making the most out of your own holiday visit.

It’s no secret that Disney knows how to deck the halls, and this year was no exception. Adam breaks down the highlights, including the awe-inspiring holiday decor at each park. From the towering Christmas tree at Magic Kingdom to the glimmering lights on Spaceship Earth at Epcot, the parks were truly a winter wonderland.

Candlelight Processional: A Highlight of the Season

One of the trip’s standout moments was Adam’s visit to Epcot for the Candlelight Processional. Featuring Josh Gad as the celebrity narrator, this iconic Disney tradition brought warmth, laughter, and goosebumps as the story of Christmas was told through powerful music and narration. Adam opted for the dining package to secure guaranteed seating—and let’s just say it was worth it.

Testing the Multi-Pass System

Adam also took this trip as an opportunity to test the Multi-Pass system, Disney’s newest take on skipping the lines. He dives into the pros and cons of the system, comparing it to past offerings like Genie+, FastPass+, and even the old paper FastPass days. While the convenience of bundling several attractions into a single pass was a game-changer, he critiques some of the challenges, including availability and cost. Tune in to hear his thoughts on whether the Multi-Pass is worth it for your next trip.

From Christmas magic to thoughtful critiques of Disney’s evolving offerings, this episode has something for every Disney fan. Whether you’re planning your own holiday visit or just want to live vicariously through Adam’s adventures, Episode 477 is packed with festive fun and practical advice.

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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 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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Welcome back to another episode of Traveling with the Mouse! On this week’s show, we’re diving into the latest Disney news, and then we’re shaking things up with a fun, yet thought-provoking, hypothetical game. We’re asking ourselves: of the attractions on the chopping block, which one would we save?

We discuss some things in the news like the points chart for the new Tower rooms at the Polynesian set to open in December. We have an update on both of the new housing projects that Disney is undertaking on both coasts. Dok-Ondar is back at his shop in Galaxy’s edge and we are still trying to figure out what exactly is happening over at Woody’s Lunchbox.

To wrap up the episode, we take a walk down memory lane and highlight some major milestones that happened this week in Disney history. Whether it’s a ride debut, a key film release, or a landmark event, we look back on the moments that shaped the parks and the company we all love. From classic ride openings to the launch of iconic films, this segment is filled with Disney nostalgia and celebrates the moments that made us fans for life.

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Welcome back to another exciting episode of Traveling with the Mouse! In today’s show, we dive into the latest Disney news and give our thoughts on the changes and updates happening around Walt Disney World. We’ve got a lot to cover in episode 467, so let’s jump right in!

How’s Tron Holding Up Without the Virtual Queue?

It’s been a full week since Tron Lightcycle Run dropped its virtual queue, and we’ve been watching closely to see how things play out. If you remember, the virtual queue was both a blessing and a headache—helping to manage lines but also adding an extra layer of stress for guests hoping to ride. Now that it’s gone, standby lines are the new reality, and in this episode, we break down how wait times have fared, the pros and cons of this change, and what it might mean for how guests will rope drop at Magic Kingdom.

Next up, we’ve got updates on the ongoing refurbishment of Jungle Cruise. Then, we dive into the progress on the Pirates Tavern construction in Magic Kingdom. Set to bring some new life to Adventureland, this upcoming tavern has generated a lot of excitement.

Test Track 3.0 – What’s Next?

You know we love a good ride revamp, and Test Track is on deck for a makeover with the upcoming 3.0 version. In this episode, we talk about what we’ve learned so far about the changes coming to this fan-favorite ride. Will it live up to the hype? What can we expect from the new design and technology? We break down everything we know, plus some of our wild speculations. Stay tuned for all the latest details!

Walt Disney World Restaurant Rankings: Agree or Disagree?

Lastly, we couldn’t resist talking about food. If you’ve been to Disney World, you know that dining is a huge part of the experience. Recently, some trusted travel sites have ranked the top places to eat at Disney World, and let’s just say… we’ve got opinions! In this episode, we review the rankings and weigh in with our own thoughts on which restaurants deserve the top spots and which ones might be overrated. From signature dining experiences to quick-service favorites, we’ve got the inside scoop on what’s worth your time (and money) during your next Disney trip.

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Episode 466: In this week’s episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we sit down with one of our absolute favorite cast members, Jose Barbas, from La Cava del Tequila! Barbas brings his infectious energy and deep passion for his work to the show as we explore what drives him as a cast member. We dive into his love for creating magical moments for guests, his journey at Disney, and why La Cava del Tequila holds such a special place in his heart.

Barbas takes us behind the scenes of La Cava, sharing what sets it apart from the many other lounges and bars around Disney World. Whether you’re a tequila aficionado or someone just dipping your toes into the world of agave spirits, La Cava has something for everyone, and Barbas helps us break down the diverse menu. We go over everything from the perfect beginner’s margarita to rare and premium tequila options for the more adventurous guest. No matter your taste or experience level, you’ll leave knowing more about this not so hidden gem in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion!

Of course, we also sprinkle in some of our classic Disney news updates. This week, we discuss the big change for Tron Lightcycle Run as it moves away from virtual queue and what that could mean for your future visits. It’s an episode packed with great insights, fun stories, and some essential Disney news.

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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 464: Welcome back, Disney fans, to another exciting episode of Traveling with the Mouse! Today we dive deep into the ripple effects of the recent D23 announcements and how they’re shaping the future of Walt Disney World. Now that a couple of weeks have passed since the dust settled, we’ve had time to digest the news and reflect on what these changes mean for the parks, the resorts, and our beloved Disney experience.

Shifting gears, we take a look at the highly anticipated Polynesian DVC Tower, which is set to open later this year. There’s no doubt this new addition will be a hit, especially with the DVC crowd. But, as we reflect on the history of changes at the Polynesian, it’s clear that not all updates have been warmly received. The Polynesian is a resort that’s very dear to many Disney fans, and with each renovation, there’s always a question of whether it will enhance or detract from its iconic status.

While we’re on the topic of resorts, we also take a moment to reflect on the value of staying at Disney resorts in general. There’s no denying that location is the biggest draw for many of Disney’s on-property hotels. Being able to hop on a monorail, walk to a park, or be a short bus ride away from the magic is a convenience that’s hard to beat. But with the prices of these resorts climbing higher and higher, we have to ask: is location the only thing keeping these resorts relevant?

Lastly, we wrap up the episode with a discussion on Virtual Queues. Disney has kept Virtual Queues around for the most popular attractions, like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and TRON Lightcycle / Run, and now, the big question is: when will they retire the Virtual Queue for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure?

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Episode 462: Hey Disney fans! In this week’s episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we dive deep into all the major announcements from this past weekend’s D23 parks panel. If you missed it, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with all the details, updates, and, of course, our own thoughts and speculations.

The Monster’s Inc. Land Surprise
Let’s start with the biggest surprise of the event – the announcement of a brand new Monster’s Inc. land coming to Hollywood Studios! Ever since the film first graced our screens, fans have been dreaming of a roller coaster that lets us experience the wild ride of those suspended doors, and now it’s finally happening! The only question now is – where exactly is this land going to fit in Hollywood Studios? We discuss the potential locations and what it could mean for the future layout of the park.

Goodbye Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer’s Island
In a twist that left us all stunned, Disney also announced (after D23) the closure of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer’s Island to make way for a Cars attraction at Magic Kingdom. The loss of these iconic areas is sure to be felt by many long-time Disney goers, but we’re curious to see how the Cars theme will be integrated into the Magic Kingdom experience. Will it be worth the trade-off? Only time will tell.

Villains Land – It’s Official!

On the flip side, one of the most highly anticipated announcements was the official confirmation of Villains Land. After years of speculation and fan theories, it’s finally happening! Will it live up to the hype? We discuss our expectations and what we hope to see when it finally opens.

Worldwide Parks Updates

But it wasn’t just the domestic parks that got some love during the panel – there were announcements for Disney parks worldwide. We go over the key highlights and what they mean for Disney fans globally.

The Missing Announcements
While we were thrilled with most of what we heard, there were a few things that left us scratching our heads. We share our disappointments and speculate on what might be coming down the pipeline, even if it wasn’t ready for the D23 stage.

What are you most excited about, and what left you wanting more? Let us know in the comments or over on our social media!

Until next time, keep traveling with the mouse!

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Welcome back, Disney fans! In this episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we dive into our hopes and predictions for the upcoming D23 Parks panel. From anticipated announcements to our ultimate wish list, we cover it all. Plus, we review Inside Out 2 and discuss the new Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass system. Let’s get started!

As the D23 Parks panel approaches, excitement is building for what Disney might unveil. We anticipate more details about the transformation of Dinoland into the tropical Americas. This new land will feature Encanto and Indiana Jones attractions. We also expect Updates on the Beyond Big Thunder expansion including potential new lands and attractions that will enhance the Magic Kingdom experience. We’re hoping for some unexpected surprises that will thrill Disney fans, such as new attractions or experiences across various parks.

We also take a look at Inside Out 2 and share our thoughts on the film. We share Ideas for how Inside Out 2 could be integrated into the Disney parks. There’s some existing structures that could easily house an attraction based on this franchise.

Finally, Disney’s new Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass system is rolling out, and we’ve got some early thoughts as this new system is rolling out. As with any new change Disney makes there’s pros and cons. Being able to book in advance and hold 3 lightning lanes at a time is a good thing but same day availability is in short supply. The kinks will get worked out and we hope with time that this system will have more positives than negatives.

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Episode 459: Welcome back, Disney fans! In this episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we take a delightful trip down memory lane, reminiscing about our favorite times visiting Disney parks in the 80s and 90s. Plus, we dive into some important updates and news from the world of Disney. Let’s get started!

Jon and Adam share their fondest memories of visiting Disney parks during their childhoods. We explore what made the 80s and 90s such magical decades for Disney fans and discuss what we believe was the best age to visit during those times.

We discuss the current reliability of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Rise of the Resistance. Both attractions have faced their share of technical issues, and we delve into what’s being done to improve their uptime and guest experience. Disney is testing a new single rider line for Rise of the Resistance, and we share our thoughts on how this could impact wait times and ride efficiency. We discuss the potential benefits and any concerns we might have.

Thank you for joining us on this nostalgic and informative journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media for more Disney news and updates. Until next time, keep dreaming big and keep traveling with the mouse!

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Episode:456 Welcome back, Disney fans! In this episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we’re diving into some firsthand experiences and exciting updates from the Disney parks. Grab your Mickey ears and join us as we explore the magic!

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: Passholder Preview

Adam and Jason had the incredible opportunity to preview Tiana’s Bayou Adventure twice this past weekend. With the official opening just around the corner on June 28th, we’re here to share all the details and our thoughts on this highly anticipated attraction. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a nice addition to the Disney parks, offering a fresh and engaging experience that honors the beloved film. We can’t wait for everyone to experience it starting June 28th!

Test Track

Test Track 2.0 has been a thrilling favorite, with its high-speed adventures and interactive design elements. Our last ride was filled with nostalgia and excitement, appreciating all the elements that made this version special. While we’re sad to see Test Track 2.0 go, we’re excited about the possibilities for its refurbishment. We discuss our hopes for the new version, including more immersive storytelling and cutting-edge technology.

Other Disney News

With the massive construction project at Epcot now complete, we discuss the new features and attractions that have been unveiled. Communicore Hall is very underwhelming especially after what was originally planned for Epcot prior to 2020. This entire area is the finally of a severely cut back and watered down project. It painfully shows with this lackluster area in my favorite park.

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Episode 455: Welcome back, Disney fans! In this episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we’re diving into some exciting Disney news and letting our imaginations run wild as we brainstorm new attractions for each World Showcase pavilion.

First up, the massive construction overhaul at Epcot is finally complete! This ambitious project has brought new life to the park with updated attractions, enhanced landscaping, and futuristic new areas. We discuss the highlights of the changes and what guests can look forward to on their next visit to Epcot. Next, we’ve got an exciting update for all you classic Disney fans. The Country Bear Musical Jamboree has an official opening date! We share the details and our thoughts on the revamped show, which promises to blend beloved classic elements with fresh, Disney-themed musical numbers. Last but certainly not least, passholder previews for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure have begun! We hope to experience the attraction ourselves and give our reviews next week.

Now, onto the main event of this episode! We let our imaginations soar as we brainstorm ideas for adding a ride to each existing World Showcase pavilion at Epcot. We hope you enjoy our ideas and invite you to share your own! If you could add rides/attractions to the world showcase what would they be? Would you base it on an existing Disney IP that would fit in that country?

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Episode 448: Hello Disney enthusiasts! Welcome back to another exciting episode of Traveling with the Mouse. This week, we’re joined by our very own Jason, fresh from his enchanting week at Walt Disney World. He’s here to share all the magical details and new experiences he enjoyed during his trip, including splashing around at Typhoon Lagoon, dining at Via Napoli, and being mesmerized by the new nighttime show, Luminous. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some of the latest Disney news.

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Episode 443: In this installment of “Traveling With The Mouse,” we dive into some of the latest Disney news, Spring break is in full force, and we share a unique trip report from a visitor experiencing the magic of Disney World after a hiatus of over three decades. Furthermore, we continue our nostalgic journey from last week’s episode, with a deeper dive into Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We share our own experiences, tracing the transformation of this iconic park over the years. From its early days as a tribute to the golden age of Hollywood to its current status as a hub of thrilling adventures and immersive storytelling, we discuss how Disney’s Hollywood Studios has grown and changed, shaping our memories and experiences along the way.

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Episode 442: Welcome back to “Traveling With The Mouse,” where in this episode, we dive into the latest happenings in the Disney universe and take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to celebrate the upcoming 35th anniversary of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. First up, we discuss the exciting news coming out of Disney, including the introduction of a new multi-day dining search feature soon to be available on the My Disney Experience app. This update promises to make meal planning easier for visitors, enhancing the overall park experience. We also touch on the fresh additions to “Living with the Land” at EPCOT. Also, the debut of the first projection-mapped topiary for the Flower and Garden Festival at EPCOT marks a new era of creativity and technological integration in the park’s displays.

The main topic today is Disney’s Hollywood Studios. As we approach its 35th anniversary, we reflect on the park’s evolution since its opening in 1989. From its early days as a working film studio to its current status as a land of immersive experiences and thrilling attractions, Hollywood Studios has undergone significant transformations. We’ll reminisce about past attractions, discuss the additions and changes that have shaped its identity. (or lack thereof).

Check out this video of then MGM Studios from May of 1989 from our Youtube Channel

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Episode 441: Welcome back to “Traveling With The Mouse,” where episode 441 brings us an exciting blend of Disney enchantment both at sea and on the tabletop. This time, Jason returns to the fold, not just with tales from the high seas aboard the Disney Magic but with an infectious new obsession – Disney Lorcana, the latest card game craze sweeping through the Disney fandom.

Jason takes us through a detailed exploration of the game, highlighting some of the most interesting and valuable cards in his collection. For those uninitiated, Disney Lorcana is more than just a card game; it’s a dive into a richly imagined world where Disney characters wield incredible powers in stunning artwork

Jason also just returned from a 5-night voyage on the Disney Magic, setting sail from New Orleans. Despite the Disney Magic being one of the fleet’s older members, Jason reveals how its recent updates breathe new life into the vessel, making it stand shoulder to shoulder with its larger counterparts. He walks us through the highlights of his journey, from the unique ports of call to the onboard entertainment that makes Disney cruises unforgettable.

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Episode 440: In this nostalgic journey of Traveling With The Mouse, we dive deep into the heart of Disney’s rich history, exploring the attractions that once brought magic to its parks. We’re not just reminiscing about the past; we’re reimagining it. Imagine a world where money is no object, and we have the power to bring back any Disney attraction, but with a twist: they’re updated with today’s technology and creative insights. We kick off the episode with the latest Disney news, catching up on the newest updates But the core of our discussion is a trip down memory lane, with a futuristic vision. What classic attraction would we bring back if we could? Listen to what our picks are and what we would do to modernize them. Then let us know, what classic Disney attraction would you like to see make a comeback?

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Episode 439: In this episode of “Traveling With The Mouse,” we delve into the latest happenings around Disney parks and share our curated list of must-do non-ride attractions across all four parks at Walt Disney World.

News Update: We kick off with exciting news about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, including the reveal of the new Tiana animatronic. With the ride currently in testing, anticipation is building for its summer opening at Walt Disney World. We speculate on possible opening dates and discuss what this means for the park.

Main Topic: Moving beyond the thrill of rides, we explore the essence of Disney magic through its non-ride attractions. From the immersive storytelling of the Enchanted Tiki Room to the serene beauty of the World Showcase at Epcot, we guide you through the experiences that offer a different pace but no less excitement. Whether it’s marveling at the intricacies of Animal Kingdom’s trails or enjoying the interactive exhibits in the parks, there’s a world of wonder awaiting beyond the queue lines.

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Episode 435: Today we have a mini episode (not a Minnie episode). Jon is under the weather this week so we will be back next week with a full episode. However, while we were at Walt Disney World last week, Jason and I recorded a mid-trip report while we were having dinner at Mama Melrose’s at Disney’s Hollywood studios. In this mid-trip report we discussed our experiences at Garden Grill, Space 220, 50’s prime time and a live review of Mama Melrose’s. We discuss how the trip was going at that point and what we were looking forward to for the second half of the trip. Jason and I recently went on a boys trip with our kids and stayed at Riviera.