Adventures of a Disney Dad: A Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Trip Planning Podcast

Beginner's Guide to Disney Cruise Line

In this episode of the 'Adventures of a Disney Dad' podcast, we dive into the essentials of planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Wevdiscuss the overwhelming demand and importance of early planning, the variety of stateroom options, and how to choose your ship based on key factors like destination, dates, and costs.
 
Additionally, we provide updates on Walt Disney World price changes and introduce the newly available Epic Universe ticket packages, highlighting the surprisingly affordable rates.
 
01:14 Planning Your Disney Cruise
02:12 Choosing the Right Cruise
05:38 Disney Cruise Ships and Itineraries
06:45 Booking and Pricing Tips
08:20 Dining and Onboard Experience
16:48 Selecting Your Stateroom
20:27 Choosing the Right State Room
21:13 Deciding on Deck Location
24:23 Booking Specific Rooms
25:24 Understanding Room Sizes and Cruise Basics
25:50 Disney Cruise Line Tips
27:05 Walt Disney World Price Increases
27:49 Rant on Cake Bake Shop Prices
32:41 Epic Universe Ticket Pricing
37:12 Comparing Hotel Prices
 
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 and www.planuniversal.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.

Walt Disney World's New Line Skipping Premier Pass! Yay or Nay?

In this episode of Adventures of a Disney Dad, hosts Matt and Chip delve into significant updates from Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts. They discuss Disney's new Lightning Lane Premier Pass, which allows guests to skip lines once per ride per park, comparing it to existing options like Multi Pass, Lightning Lane, and VIP tours.
 
 The conversation covers the pass's cost-effectiveness for different visitor types and park-specific benefits, concluding that it's best suited for certain markets.
 
The hosts also analyze the recurring pattern of Universal making big announcements following Disney. They provide in-depth details on the upcoming Epic Universe at Universal, revealing surprisingly reasonable ticket prices and new immersive attractions like the Donkey Kong roller coaster and Harry Potter areas. They discuss the upcoming ticket sale and grand opening dates.
 
00:12 Walt Disney World News and Universal Announcements
01:40 Premier Pass Overview
03:02 VIP Tours and Pricing
06:03 New Lightning Lane Premier Pass
08:03 Pricing and Availability
14:29 Comparing Parks and Services
16:31 Evaluating the Value of Multi-Pass
17:07 VIP Tours vs. Premier Pass
18:19 Universal's VIP Experience
20:41 Magic Kingdom's Ride Savings
21:38 The Hassle of Using Disney's App
22:38 Skepticism About Premier Pass
22:59 Epic Universe Opening Details
23:42 Booking Packages for Epic Universe
25:09 Helios Grand Hotel Insights
27:55 Excitement for Universal's New Attractions
 
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 and www.planuniversal.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.

Disney's Riviera Resort Review, VIP Tour Review and Hurricane Season at Disney World

Welcome back to The Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast! In this episode we discuss navigating Walt Disney World during hurricane season. The impact of recent hurricanes, noting the challenges of park closures and weather-related precautions. We also share insights from a recent trip to Disney’s Riviera Resort and discuss the upcoming Cake Bake Shop opening at the Boardwalk.
 
Additionally, the episode covers their experience with a VIP tour, emphasizing its value for maximizing park time, especially with kids, even amidst adverse weather conditions.
 
Looking for a free Disney 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
 
00:42 Disney's Hurricane Preparations
05:09 The Cake Bake Shop at the Boardwalk
09:48 Riviera Resort Review
21:02 VIP Tours with Kids
 
🎢 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.

Fantasmic Dining and Fireworks Dessert Packages... Worth it? Listener Questions!

In this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, Matt and Chip tackle your questions about Disney vacations.
 
From the best places to watch football games at Walt Disney World, to tips on what to do if a hurricane hits during your visit. They also discuss the pros and cons of travel insurance, unique ideas for character autographs, and whether certain Disney Dining Packages and Fireworks Dessert Parties are worth the extra cost.
 
Tune in for practical advice, insightful tips, and fun anecdotes as Matt gets ready for his upcoming trip to Walt Disney World.
 
00:00 Introduction and Listener Questions Overview
00:30 Travel Agent Services and Listener Shoutouts
01:43 Football at Disney: Best Spots to Watch the Game
07:26 Hurricane Preparedness at Disney
14:44 Choosing Between Art of Animation and Port Orleans Riverside
17:53 Creative Ideas for Character Autographs
19:43 Polaroid Memories and Creative Ideas
21:13 Navigating Hollywood Studios Closing and Phantasmic
23:22 Is the Fantasmic Dining Package Worth It?
28:15 Debating the Fireworks Dessert Package at Magic Kingdom
33:26 Wrapping Up and Listener Engagement
 
🎢 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?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfadventuresofadisneydad_C3Z3HN5F0MPW6BRT1BRP
 
 
🛠 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.

How to Plan a Walt Disney World Vacation Step-By-Step

Welcome back to The Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast! In today’s episode, we're diving deep into Walt Disney World vacation planning to help you create the ultimate Disney experience for your family. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney traveler, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect Disney World trip, step-by-step.
Looking for a free Disney 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
From choosing the best time to visit, to picking the right Walt Disney World resort for your budget, to making the most of Disney dining plans, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll share insider tips on how to score the best deals, how to be flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of Disney promotions, and how to navigate the complexities of park tickets, Park Hopper, and Memory Maker.
If you're planning a Walt Disney World vacation in 2024 or 2025, this episode is packed with essential advice, including how to handle flights, budgeting for a big family, and maximizing your time with the best Disney travel tips.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly Disney trip or splurging on a deluxe stay at the Polynesian Resort or Animal Kingdom Lodge, we’ll help you design a trip that fits your family’s needs.
Get ready to take the stress out of your vacation prep and discover how to plan a Walt Disney World trip like a pro!
[00:00] Introduction: The essentials of Disney vacation planning
[00:40] Picking dates and how they affect your budget and resort options
[01:21] Budgeting for flights, resorts, and accommodations
[03:20] Resort recommendations based on budget and travel style
[05:41] The importance of flexibility and how Disney promotions can change your plans
[06:58] Breaking down Disney’s value, moderate, and deluxe resorts
[10:00] Park tickets vs. resort focus: What to prioritize for your trip
[17:00] Add-ons like Memory Maker and Park Hopper – are they worth it?
[23:20] Dining strategies: From character meals to flexible options
[33:40] Advanced planning: How to avoid transportation hassles and maximize your time
🎢 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.

Listener Questions: Best Walt Disney World Character Meets and More

Listener Questions: Best Walt Disney World Character Meets and More
 
In this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad Podcast, hosts Matt and Chip cover exciting news from Walt Disney World, including the switch to a standby queue for the Tron Lightcycle Run starting in September.
 
They delve into listener questions about rope drop strategies, best character meet-and-greets at each park, and the value of park tickets for half-day visits.
 
They discuss the optimal times to visit Walt Disney World, particularly focusing on the month of December, and share insights on upcoming deals for January.
 
Finally, they answer a listener's question about the best holiday weekend for a Disney trip.
 
00:21 Tron Lightcycle Run Standby Queue Announcement
01:32 Rope Drop Strategy and Wait Times
06:42 Listener Questions: Party Day Wait Times
12:32 Best Character Meet and Greets at Disney Parks
20:28 Favorite Character Meets at Animal Kingdom
21:58 Top Character Meets at Magic Kingdom
24:46 Is a Park Ticket Worth It for a Half Day?
28:48 Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World
31:37 Upcoming Deals and Promotions
37:23 Favorite Holidays for a Disney Trip
41:01 Conclusion and Travel Planning Services
 
🎢 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 [Affiliate Link]
 
🛠 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.

Navigating Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2024

In this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, Matt and Chip return from a brief hiatus to discuss their recent activities and dive into the latest Disney announcements from D23.
They express their excitement over new cruise ships, Magic Kingdom expansions, and the possibility of a Monsters, Inc. coaster.
They also discuss the new 'Multi Pass' system replacing Genie Plus and its impact on park experiences.
The main focus of the episode is to provide insights and tips for attending Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and setting realistic expectations.
00:00 Welcome Back and Updates
01:03 D23 Announcements and Reactions
02:16 Disney Resort and Park Expansions
02:50 Avatar and Cars in Disney Parks
07:05 Disney Transportation and Resort Needs
10:25 Multi Pass vs. Genie Plus
18:47 Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tips
32:24 Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast. If you enjoyed our insights and stories, please like, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. For more information and to plan your next magical vacation, visit our website at www.adventuresofadisneydad.com. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for the latest updates and exclusive content. Links: Guide: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/blog/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party Map: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/walt-disney-world/event-maps/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-map Costume Ideas: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/blog/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-costume-ideas Changes for 2024: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/blog/new-changes-to-mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party Merchandise: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/blog/2024-walt-disney-world-halloween-merchandise

Planning Disney World with Rachel Cruze

Planning a Disney Vacation with Rachel Cruze: Tips, Tricks, and Financial Wisdom
 
In this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, we welcomes Rachel Cruze, a financial coach, author, and mom. Rachel shares valuable insights on budgeting for Disney trips, managing family expectations, and balancing fun with financial principles.
 
The discussion includes tips on making Disney vacations cost-effective, handling marital dynamics while planning, and the benefits of different ways you can plan and pay for a Disney vacation long-term.
 
We also touch on favorite rides, resorts, and dining options at Walt Disney World!
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:51 Disney Budgeting Tips for Families
04:02 Understanding Disney Vacation Costs
08:30 Balancing Money and Marriage at Disney
12:54 Parenting and Contentment at Disney
20:04 Rachel's Favorite Disney Experiences
23:58 Star Wars, Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings
25:38 Universal Studios and Harry Potter Experience
27:06 Saving for Disney Vacations
31:23 Character Meals and Disney Dining Tips
34:49 Money-Saving Tips for Disney Trips
37:45 Handling Multi-Generational Trips
40:25 Disney Fireworks and Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast. If you enjoyed our insights and stories, please like, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. For more information and to plan your next magical vacation, visit our website at www.adventuresofadisneydad.com. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for the latest updates and exclusive content. See you in the parks!
Connect with Rachel Cruze: Instagram, Every Dollar Budgeting App

Reviews! Our Disney VIP Tour and Hollywood Studios After Hours

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast! This week, we are joined by Lauren, founder and owner of Main Street Tourist. Together with Chip, we had an incredible experience at Walt Disney World, including a VIP tour and an After Hours event at Hollywood Studios. We’ll dive into our experiences, discuss who these events are best suited for, and catch up with Lauren about what’s new with Main Street Tourist.
Summary of Key Topics:
Introduction to the Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction and welcome to Lauren from Main Street Tourist.
[00:00:16] Shoutout to friends who invited us on the VIP tour.
[00:00:39] Overview of the episode's topics.
Main Street Tourist Updates:
[00:01:02] Lauren discusses the latest updates from Main Street Tourist.
[00:01:20] Cosmic Rewind merchandise and upcoming Halloween collection.
Ride Storylines and Experiences:
[00:02:00] Discussion on the importance of ride storylines, focusing on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Cosmic Rewind.
[00:05:40] Reflections on the storyline and overall experience of these rides.
Hollywood Studios After Hours Event:
[00:06:17] Our experience at the After Hours event.
[00:06:40] Pros and cons, including crowd levels and available attractions.
[00:10:20] Unique character meet-and-greets and their appeal.
[00:12:00] Comparisons with Magic Kingdom’s After Hours event.
Disney Cruise and Summer Attendance:
[00:17:20] Discussion on Disney cruises and tips for first-time cruisers.
[00:17:40] Insights into expected lower summer attendance at Disney parks.
VIP Tour Experience:
[00:21:00] Detailed review of our VIP tour, including logistics and highlights.
[00:22:40] Benefits and unique experiences of the VIP tour.
[00:24:56] Reflections on the value and experience of the VIP tour.
Tips and Recommendations:
[00:30:00] Ideal itineraries and maximizing a VIP tour for different types of visitors.
[00:36:20] Ideal candidate for a VIP tour and why it’s worth considering for first or second-time visitors.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast. If you enjoyed our insights and stories, please like, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. For more information and to plan your next magical vacation, visit our website at www.adventuresofadisneydad.com. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for the latest updates and exclusive content. See you in the parks!
Connect with Us:
Lauren (Main Street Tourist): Instagram and TikTok @MainStreetTourist
Chip: Instagram @RobinsonDadLife
Matt (Adventures of a Disney Dad): Instagram, TikTok, Facebook @AdventuresOfADisneyDad
Website: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com
Thank you for listening, and we’ll see you in the parks!

Be Our Guest Podcast Crossover Episode!

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad Podcast! This week, we are joined by Mike and Pam, two of the original hosts of the Be Our Guest Podcast which is celebrating 15 years! We chat all things podcast, the history of BOGP, the BOGP Lizards running group and some Walt Disney World vacation fun. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of one, we've got you covered.
For more theme park adventures, tips, and everything in-between, make sure to visit our website at www.adventuresofadisneydad.com.
Connect with us: https://www.instagram.com/adventuresofadisneydad/
Get a Free Quote: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote
Find the BOGP Podcast: https://beourguestpodcast.com/