Main Street Magic - A Walt Disney World Podcast

Main Street Magic Podcast

Main Street Magic is an informative, realistic, unbiased and entertaining podcast to help serve the Disney and Universal community for both veterans and rookies.

  1. 2D AGO

    838: Festival of the Arts Food: Past Favorites & New Must-Tries

    We’re setting the table for EPCOT’s most creative festival and getting you ready for opening weekend. Before we head into the parks for our full review next week, we’re taking a step back to talk expectations, favorites, and a whole lot of food. First, we break down where EPCOT Festival of the Arts ranks for us among EPCOT’s four annual festivals and why it continues to punch above its weight despite being the shortest of the bunch. From there, we each reveal our Top 5 returning Festival of the Arts dishes, sharing the items that have stuck with us year after year and seeing just how much overlap there is between our lists. These are the bites we still think about, still recommend, and would absolutely order again without hesitation. Then it’s time to look ahead as we each share our Top 5 new dishes we’re most excited to try this year, based purely on menus, descriptions, and presentation. No reviews yet — just hype, curiosity, and a little healthy skepticism. We wrap things up by talking about which booths we’re heading to first, which dishes have the most pressure to live up to expectations, and teasing our full opening weekend review coming next Friday. Whether you’re attending Festival of the Arts for the first time or already planning your must-do food stops, this episode is the perfect appetizer for what’s to come. 🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin! 📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic: Facebook Group – Main Street Magic CommunityFacebook: @MainStMagicInstagram: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastX (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic🌐Visit Us Online Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.comDisney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally! 🤝Support & Discover Our Friends Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/ 🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions Because every great show deserves a great beat.

    35 min
  2. 5D AGO

    837: From Checklists to Chill: Our Disney Evolution

    We’re taking a look at how our Disney opinions have changed over time — from the way we plan and tour to how we handle crowds, dining, resorts, and even souvenirs. Some of these shifts came from experience, some from necessity, and some from simply realizing that what worked years ago doesn’t always work now. We talk through big-picture topics like how much planning is actually too much, whether rope drop is always worth it, and how our thoughts on table-service dining and midday breaks have evolved. We also dive into crowd tolerance, how much time to spend at the resort, traveling with kids at different ages, and why Disney Springs has slowly become a bigger part of our trips. This isn’t about saying one way is right and another is wrong — it’s about understanding that Disney trips change as you do. Whether you’re a first-timer, a seasoned visitor, traveling with kids, or just looking for a more relaxed approach, this episode is all about finding what works best for you. If you’ve ever looked back at an old Disney habit and thought, “Why did we do it that way?” — this one’s for you. 🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin! 📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic: Facebook Group – Main Street Magic CommunityFacebook: @MainStMagicInstagram: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastX (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic🌐Visit Us Online Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.comDisney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally! 🤝Support & Discover Our Friends Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/ 🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions Because every great show deserves a great beat.

    51 min
  3. JAN 9

    836: Resort Wars: Old Key West vs. Saratoga Springs

    We’re putting Disney’s Old Key West Resort head-to-head with Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa to see which laid-back villa resort comes out on top. Both resorts offer spacious accommodations, boat access to Disney Springs, and a slower, more relaxed pace than your typical theme park hotel—but they go about it in very different ways. Old Key West brings Florida Keys charm, oversized villas, and that “this feels like home” energy that longtime DVC fans love. Saratoga Springs counters with elegant Victorian theming, newer-feeling rooms, Treehouse Villas, and one of the best locations for easy Disney Springs access. We break things down round by round, comparing theming and atmosphere, room size and comfort, dining options, transportation and walkability, recreation and amenities, and overall value for your vacation dollars or DVC points.  As always, we leave the final decision open during the episode so you can play along at home and decide which resort deserves the crown. Is bigger always better? Does location beat nostalgia? And which one truly delivers the best Disney resort experience? Grab your scorecard, settle in, and let the Resort Wars begin.  🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin! 📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic: Facebook Group – Main Street Magic CommunityFacebook: @MainStMagicInstagram: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastX (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic🌐Visit Us Online Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.comDisney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally! 🤝Support & Discover Our Friends Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/ 🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions Because every great show deserves a great beat.

    41 min
  4. JAN 6

    835: The Line vs The Payoff: Disney Wait Time Debates

    I’m joined by my friend Sean from But Mostly Disney, and we’re putting Walt Disney World’s wait times officially on trial. Using real guest data — including polls, reviews, ratings, historic wait times from Thrill Data, and actual ride length — we break down the top fifteen Walt Disney World attractions to answer the question every Disney fan has asked while standing in a long line: is this ride actually worth the wait? This isn’t just a list of the longest lines or the most popular rides. We dig into the numbers behind each attraction, compare average and peak wait times, and then stack that data up against what really matters — the experience. From immersion and theming to thrills, pacing, re-ride value, and emotional payoff, we look at what each ride gives back once you finally step off. Along the way, we debate if nostalgia earns certain attractions a little extra grace, and whether short, one-and-done rides can ever justify 90+ minute waits. We also talk about queue theming, first-time riders versus annual passholders, and which attractions hold up ride after ride — and which ones might be living off reputation alone. Expect strong opinions, friendly discussion, and plenty of “I can’t believe this wait” moments as we break it all down. 🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin! 📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic: Facebook Group – Main Street Magic CommunityFacebook: @MainStMagicInstagram: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastX (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic🌐Visit Us Online Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.comDisney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally! 🤝Support & Discover Our Friends Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/ 🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions Because every great show deserves a great beat.

    1h 16m
  5. JAN 2

    834: Another Year of Magic: Looking Back at 2025, Looking Ahead to 2026

    We’re hitting pause, looking back, and taking stock of just how big 2025 was for Disney — before turning our eyes forward to what 2026 has in store for Walt Disney World and beyond. From emotional goodbyes to major park areas, to brand-new lounges, shows, and even a brand-new Disney park announcement overseas, 2025 delivered some of the most impactful Disney news we’ve seen in years. We break down the biggest announcements from the past year, including park closures, major transformations, new entertainment, and the changes that are already reshaping the Disney parks we know and love. Then, we shift gears and look ahead to 2026, a year that’s shaping up to be absolutely packed. We talk through the Walt Disney World calendar, including festival dates, attraction reopenings, special events, and some guest perks. From refreshed classics like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, to re-themed experiences like the Muppets-themed Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, updated Frozen Ever After animatronics, new Soarin’ adventures, and more, there’s a lot to be excited about. We also cover returning favorites like After Hours events, seasonal parties, EPCOT festivals, and what families can look forward to throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a trip, keeping up with Disney news, or just love talking theme parks, this episode is your perfect reset heading into 2026 — full of context, excitement, and a little bit of Disney optimism. 🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin! 📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic: Facebook Group – Main Street Magic CommunityFacebook: @MainStMagicInstagram: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastX (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic🌐Visit Us Online Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.comDisney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally! 🤝Support & Discover Our Friends Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/ 🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions Because every great show deserves a great beat.

    58 min
  6. 12/30/2025

    833: Disney Behavior That Should Absolutely Be Socially Accepted Everywhere

    We’re diving into Disney behaviors that should absolutely be socially accepted everywhere, because somehow the parks figured out how humans actually want to function… and then we all had to go back home. From skipping lines like a pro to paying for everything with your wrist, Disney has quietly raised our expectations for daily life — and we’re not mad about it. We’re counting down our favorite habits, systems, and quirks that feel perfectly normal inside the Disney bubble but earn you very strange looks anywhere else. Things like Lightning Lanes for everyday errands, posted wait times for places that desperately need them (looking at you, DMV), mobile ordering everything, and treating Cast Members — aka employees — like the absolute legends they are. We’ll also talk about why these ideas actually make sense, how they could lower stress, save time, and maybe even make people a little nicer to each other. Shocking concept, right? This episode is lighthearted, relatable, and guaranteed to have you saying, “Why don’t we do it this way?” No trip planning, no ride rankings — just a fun, slightly chaotic look at how Disney logic might secretly be the blueprint for a better real world. And yes… Lightning Lanes is our hill to die on. 🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin! 📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic: Facebook Group – Main Street Magic CommunityFacebook: @MainStMagicInstagram: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastX (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic🌐Visit Us Online Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.comDisney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally! 🤝Support & Discover Our Friends Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/ 🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions Because every great show deserves a great beat.

    44 min
  7. 12/23/2025

    832: Good Food, Great Story: Garden Grill Dining Package & Gary Sinise at Candlelight

    We’re breaking down our full experience using the Candlelight Processional dining package at Garden Grill Restaurant, capped off with an unforgettable performance narrated by Gary Sinise. We walk you step-by-step through how the dining package works, what’s included with the prix-fixe meal, and why Garden Grill continues to be one of the better overall choices when it comes to Candlelight dining packages. From the rotating restaurant views inside The Land Pavilion to the all-you-care-to-enjoy holiday meal, we’ll share what stood out, what surprised us, and what you should know before booking. Of course, the highlight of the night was the Candlelight Processional itself. We’ll talk about the reserved seating process, how early you really need to arrive, and why having a guaranteed seat can completely change your holiday experience at EPCOT. We also dive into what makes Gary Sinise such a powerful and emotional narrator, and why his performances consistently rank among the most talked-about each year. Whether you’re visiting EPCOT during the Festival of the Holidays, trying to decide between standby and a dining package, or simply want a more relaxed way to experience Candlelight, this episode will help you decide if this is the right option for your trip. Grab a cozy drink, settle in, and let’s talk food, holiday traditions, and one of EPCOT’s most meaningful seasonal experiences. 🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin! 📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic: Facebook Group – Main Street Magic CommunityFacebook: @MainStMagicInstagram: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastX (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic🌐Visit Us Online Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.comDisney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally! 🤝Support & Discover Our Friends Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/ 🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions Because every great show deserves a great beat.

    49 min
  8. 12/19/2025

    831: A Very Merry Main Street Lounge

    This episode is a little different — because it was recorded live, unfiltered, and full of holiday chaos. No edits, no do-overs, just festive fun with the Main Street Magic community from start to finish. We kick things off by catching up and diving straight into Would You Rather: Disney Holiday Edition, letting the live chat decide between some tough holiday-themed Disney choices. From there, things get even more festive as we set the stage for a very special guest appearance. Santa himself joins the show live (with Rhonda holding down the Lounge), where he takes on Naughty or Nice: Disney Edition, judges questionable park behavior, and answers listener questions in real time. It’s unpredictable, hilarious, and exactly the kind of chaos you can only get when you go live. After Santa heads back to the North Pole and Jeremy returns, we wrap things up with Eat It or Beat It: Holiday Edition, breaking down holiday dishes from around the world and letting the audience vote on what they’d actually eat. This episode is pure Main Street Lounge — festive, interactive, a little messy, and completely uncut. Pour yourself something cozy and enjoy the holiday magic. 🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin! 📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic: Facebook Group – Main Street Magic CommunityFacebook: @MainStMagicInstagram: @MainStMagicTikTok: @MSMPodcastX (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic🌐Visit Us Online Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.comDisney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally! 🤝Support & Discover Our Friends Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/ 🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions Because every great show deserves a great beat.

    1h 9m

Trailer

4.6
out of 5
699 Ratings

About

Main Street Magic is an informative, realistic, unbiased and entertaining podcast to help serve the Disney and Universal community for both veterans and rookies.

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