Once Upon A Park

It’s the final round of our attraction rating showdown with the Circle of Parks Podcast, and we’re closing things out at the most magical park of all: Magic Kingdom!  In this episode, we go attraction by attraction and call them like we see them—underrated, overrated, or properly rated. It’s all on the table, from beloved classics to thrill ride staples. And yes…there will be some controversial ta...

We're back with Round 3 of our attraction ranking showdown with our friends at the Circle of Parks Podcast! This week, we're heading into the wild and wonderful world of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and let’s just say, our takes might ruffle a few feathers.  From thrill rides to not-so-thrilling, we’re debating whether these attractions are underrated, overrated, or properly rated, and trust...

We’re back for Round Two of our attraction ranking challenge with our friends at the @circleofparkspodcast! This week, we’re diving into Disney’s Hollywood Studios and deciding which attractions are overrated, underrated, or properly rated. From thrill rides to immersive experiences, nothing is off-limits. And yes, opinions will fly. Get ready for some hot takes, a few laughs, and maybe even a lit...

It’s time for an EPCOT showdown! This week, we’re taking on our friends at Circle of Parks Podcast and challenging their recent ranking of EPCOT attractions. Do we agree with their top picks? Absolutely not. Are we ready to defend our favorites? You bet we are! Join us as we break down their list, debate which rides are overly rated, properly rated, or underrated, and see if we can come to a truce...

This week on Once Upon A Park, we’re diving into everything you need to know about Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort! As one of Walt Disney World’s Moderate Resorts, Caribbean Beach offers vibrant island theming, Skyliner access, and a variety of dining options, but is it the right fit for your next stay? We break down the resort’s room types, best (and worst) locations to stay, dining experiences l...

Thinking about adding the Disney Dining Plan to your next trip? This week, we're covering everything you need to know before adding it to your next Disney vacation and diving into the Table Service option. What’s included, how it works, and whether it’s worth the cost. From character meals to signature dining, we’re sharing tips to help you get the most value AND sharing the top 2 table servi...

The Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan sounds like a convenient way to enjoy meals in the parks, but is it really a good value? This week, we’re breaking down what’s included, crunching the numbers, and sharing who will get the most bang for their buck. Whether you're a theme park foodie or just looking to simplify your trip, we’ve got the details you need before adding it to your vacation pack...

If you could plan the perfect Disney day with no limits, no budget, no wait times, and no stress, what would it look like? In this episode, we’re letting our imaginations run wild as we design our ultimate Disney days from start to finish. Whether it’s thrilling rides, unforgettable dining, or special experiences we’ve always dreamed of, we’re building the perfect itinerary filled with magic. Plus...

This week, Erica is solo and diving into three of Disney's Value Resorts: All-Star Movies, All-Star Music, and All-Star Sports! She breaks down the room types, amenities, dining options, and overall vibe of each resort. Plus, Erica shares the pros and cons (including whether you should brace yourself for cheerleading squads at 6am). After exploring everything these resorts have to offer, she&...

This week on Once Upon A Park Podcast, we’re diving into the ultimate Disney debate, which park does it better? We’re putting Disneyland and Walt Disney World head-to-head, comparing iconic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and more! We break down what makes each version unique and (probably) argue about which one reigns supreme. Will this friendly debate...

This week we’re shining a spotlight on 5 of Disney’s most underrated experiences, the hidden gems that so many guests walk right past! From interactive adventures to tours packed with Disney history, we’re covering the lesser-known experiences that can add a whole new layer of magic to your trip.  If you think you’ve done it all at Disney…think again! Tune in to hear what made our list, and let us...

Hey, Disney fans! We’re back with another exciting episode of Once Upon A Park Podcast, and this one is all about Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom! Erica kicked off her Marathon Weekend trip with this exclusive late-night event, and we’re spilling all the details!  In this episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know about Disney After Hours, from the cost to the perks, the parks host...

This week on Once Upon A Park Podcast, we're revisiting our sleep deprived, wild and exhausting 3-Park Challenge Day right after Marathon Weekend! We break down exactly how we tackled three parks in one day, which Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass return times we booked, and whether our strategy held up as the day went on. Spoiler alert: sometimes, even the best-laid plans hit a wall!...

Please excuse the tech issues with our sound and lack of intro music. Apparently, our system is still on vacay mode! This week on Once Upon A Park, we're back from the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, and we're spilling all of the magical details! From the thrill of running through Cinderella Castle to the excitement of spectating, we're sharing our firsthand experiences, un...

This week on Once Upon A Park, Erica sits down with Shelby Knopp, owner of Wishes & Co. Travel Planning! Get ready for an inspiring and heartwarming conversation about what motivated Shelby to create a travel business focused on supporting families in the special needs community. But here’s the best part: Wishes & Co. isn’t just for special needs travel! Shelby shares how everyone can bene...

This week on Once Upon A Park Podcast, it’s all about your questions! We put out a call on Instagram for anything you’ve been curious about, from Disney and traveling, to what it’s like to be a Travel Planner, and we're answering them all! It’s a fun, laid-back episode packed with stories, helpful insights, and laughs. Whether you’re a Disney pro or just love talking travel, there’s something...

Lace up your sneakers and get ready to run because this week we’re diving into all things Marathon Weekend 2025 at Walt Disney World! Erica is gearing up for her second Dopey Challenge, taking on four races in four days! Yes, that’s 48.6 magical miles! We’re spilling the details on her game plan, from where she’s fueling up with some must-try dining spots to how she’s conquering each race. Plus, w...

Get ready to deck the halls with Erica as she takes you on a jolly ride through Walt Disney World's two most magical holiday parties, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and the all-new Jollywood Nights! From festive parades and cookies galore to dazzling shows and retro-Hollywood vibes, Erica spills all the must-know details to help you decide which party (or both!) deserves a spot on y...

Get ready to pop into the magic! This week, we’re talking all about Disney’s Pop Century Resort — our go-to Value Resort at Walt Disney World. From the unbeatable Skyliner access to the retro vibes and budget-friendly perks, we’re sharing why this spot keeps us coming back. Whether you're a first-timer or a Disney pro, you’ll want to hear our tips for making the most of your stay at Pop Centu...

This week on Once Upon A Park Podcast, we're taking on the deliciously daunting task of exploring all things dining in Epcot! From a deep dive into the World Showcase’s must-try spots to the latest Disney news, including an exciting update on runDisney’s latest registration day, this episode is packed with magic and flavor!  With so many festival days happening almost year-round, it can be to...

In this week’s Once Upon A Park Podcast episode, we’re diving into all the buzz from Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Kermit’s out, Monsters are in, and we’re breaking down what this means for the park and our beloved PizzeRizzo. Plus, the stunning new runDisney Coast to Coast medal has been revealed, and Erica? Let’s just say she’s got all the feelings about it. 🔔 Be sure to follow us on IG @OnceUpon...

This week on Once Upon A Park Podcast, we’re diving deep into one of Disney’s best-kept secrets: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge! Get ready for an honest review of this stunning Deluxe Resort that blends rustic charm with Disney magic. From room types that suit every family size to dining options that’ll make your taste buds sing (hello, Whispering Canyon Café!), we’re covering it all—plus a few hidden...

Ever thought about exploring Disney without little ones in tow? We’re here to tell you why it might just be one of the best trips you’ll ever take! Join us as we share all the must-do experiences for adults—from relaxed, upscale dining to exclusive lounges and thrilling nighttime events. Whether you're planning a girls’ getaway, a romantic escape, or simply want to experience Disney in a whol...

It’s the most magical time of the year, and this week we’re unwrapping some of our absolute favorite things to do in and around the parks at Christmas! From enchanting decorations to cozy treats, and all the festive experiences in between, we're diving into everything that makes a Disney holiday season so special.  Grab a cup of cocoa, tune in, and get ready to add some holiday cheer to your...

In this week's episode, we're diving into the latest Disney news PLUS sharing our best tips for saving money on a runDisney weekend! We know those race costs can add up fast (trust us—Erica runs them!), so we’ve got some insider tricks to help make your next race weekend easier on the wallet. From travel hacks to smart park planning, you'll be ready to race and play without breaking...