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

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

Welcome to the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast – your weekly dose of magic for family trips to Disney World and Universal Studios! Dive deep into the world of theme parks with a dad’s perspective, as we embark on a journey of planning, tips, stories, and adventures that resonate with families everywhere. Every week, we explore: Insider Tips & Tricks: Navigate the parks and resorts like a pro with tried and true strategies. Family Planning: Strategies for families of all sizes, ages, and needs, from toddlers to teens. Hidden Gems: Discover off-the-beaten-path attractions, dining spots, and magical moments often overlooked. Special Guest Appearances: Hear from other Disney dads, Universal enthusiasts, and industry insiders sharing their stories and expertise. Universal Adventures: While our heart may belong to Disney, we can’t resist the call of the Wizarding World and other Universal Studios gems. Reviews & Recommendations: Honest opinions on rides, shows, dining, resorts, and more. Q&A Sessions: Addressing listener questions, concerns, and curiosities. Join us on this journey and let’s create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned theme park veteran, the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast is your friendly guide to the most magical places on Earth. For more visit: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com

  1. NOV 21

    Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights Review and Survival Guide!

    In this episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, we recap the recent experiences at Walt Disney World's Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights.   The episode covers highlights and recommendations for both events, including character meet and greets, entertainment, food options, and crowds. We provide our feedback and tips on how to strategize for both parties to maximize your experience.   00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 00:59 Christmas Spirit and Decorations 01:35 Disney Ride Memories 04:28 Jollywood Nights Review 06:31 Character Meet and Greets 13:10 Rides, Merch, and More 19:00 Jollywood Nights Review Continued 19:35 Entertainment and Dining Options 21:35 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 24:53 Character Meet and Greets 30:04 Parades and Shows 33:44 Food and Snacks 36:55 Final Thoughts and Recommendations 38:55 Podcast Wrap-Up   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.

    37 min
  2. NOV 1

    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.

    41 min
  3. OCT 18

    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.

    31 min
  4. OCT 11

    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.

    35 min
  5. SEP 27

    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.

    38 min
  6. SEP 13

    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.

    42 min
  7. SEP 6

    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.

    42 min
  8. AUG 30

    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

    34 min
5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast – your weekly dose of magic for family trips to Disney World and Universal Studios! Dive deep into the world of theme parks with a dad’s perspective, as we embark on a journey of planning, tips, stories, and adventures that resonate with families everywhere. Every week, we explore: Insider Tips & Tricks: Navigate the parks and resorts like a pro with tried and true strategies. Family Planning: Strategies for families of all sizes, ages, and needs, from toddlers to teens. Hidden Gems: Discover off-the-beaten-path attractions, dining spots, and magical moments often overlooked. Special Guest Appearances: Hear from other Disney dads, Universal enthusiasts, and industry insiders sharing their stories and expertise. Universal Adventures: While our heart may belong to Disney, we can’t resist the call of the Wizarding World and other Universal Studios gems. Reviews & Recommendations: Honest opinions on rides, shows, dining, resorts, and more. Q&A Sessions: Addressing listener questions, concerns, and curiosities. Join us on this journey and let’s create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned theme park veteran, the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast is your friendly guide to the most magical places on Earth. For more visit: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com

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