In part three of the Disney Dining Plan series, hosts Abbie and Rob turn their attention to Disney's Hollywood Studios. This episode dives into how the Disney Dining Plan works at this specific park, covering everything from quick service favorites to full-service restaurants. They compare the two dining styles, explain what guests can expect from each, and share practical tips to help visitors get the most value out of their dining credits.

Listeners will hear reviews of popular locations like Docking Bay 7, Woody’s Lunch Box, and the Hollywood Brown Derby, along with helpful insights about shaded seating, mobile ordering, and crowd-friendly dining strategies. The conversation also highlights top snack options around the park, especially those eligible for snack credits under the dining plan. The hosts also reveal their picks for where their family is going to use their DDP credits this summer.

To close the episode, Abbie and Rob offer a quick look at new happenings at Universal Studios, Epcot's new lounge, and preview what’s coming in the final part of their four-part series on Disney dining. This episode is a helpful resource for planning a stress-free, flavor-filled day at Hollywood Studios. You can reach Abbie and Rob: 📸 Instagram: @DisneyFamilyTravelPlanner 🎥 TikTok: @FamilyTravelPlanner ▶️ YouTube: Family Travel Planner 👍 Facebook: Disney Family Travel Planner Website: https://familytravelplanner.com Chapters

Chapters

00:00 – Intro & Welcome 01:00 – Disney Dining Plan Overview 09:39 – Table Service Rundown at Hollywood Studios 20:15 – Best Table Service Value with Fantasmic Dining Package 32:00 – Quick Service Dining at Hollywood Studios 42:00 – Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit Picks 45:30 – Hosts' Top Picks for Meals & Snacks 49:30 – Disney & Universal Park News 58:00 – Closing & Next Episode Preview

In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, hosts Abbie and Rob continue their Disney Dining Plan series with a detailed look at Animal Kingdom dining options. They review restaurants like Tiffins, Yak & Yeti, Rainforest Café, Tusker House, and Nomad Lounge, sharing insights on how to use the 2025 Disney Dining Plan effectively. From unique snacks to standout quick service and table service meals, they offer practical advice for families planning where to eat at Animal Kingdom.

The hosts explain how dining credits apply at each location, what meals offer the best value, and how each restaurant’s atmosphere contributes to the overall experience. The episode also covers recent updates from the parks, including new details about Epic Universe ride wait times, upcoming Disney events, and a look back at the 50th anniversary of Jaws.

This episode offers helpful information for families organizing a Disney World trip, Disney food lovers, and guests aiming to use the dining plan wisely. With clear tips, personal experiences, and recent park news, listeners can better plan their visit to get the most out of their time and meals at Animal Kingdom. You can reach Abbie and Rob: 📸 Instagram: @DisneyFamilyTravelPlanner 🎥 TikTok: @FamilyTravelPlanner ▶️ YouTube: Family Travel Planner 👍 Facebook: Disney Family Travel Planner Website: https://familytravelplanner.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Disney Dining Plan Series 00:54 Exploring Animal Kingdom Table Service Options 03:50 Tiffin's Restaurant: A Signature Experience 08:01 Rainforest Cafe: A Unique Dining Adventure 12:00 Tusker House: Character Dining Experience 16:10 Yak & Yeti: Pan-Asian Cuisine 19:53 Nomad Lounge: A Relaxing Retreat 26:37 Exploring the Nomad Lounge 28:17 Dining Options and Family Considerations 29:58 Dawa Bar and Relaxation Spots 32:15 Restaurantasaurus Lounge and Dining Plans 34:02 Quick Service Restaurants Overview 37:56 Unique Offerings at Satuli Canteen 38:23 Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafe: A Culinary Focal Point 40:30 Snack Options and Seasonal Treats 42:32 Pongu Pongu and Unique Snacks 50:50 Desserts and Sweet Treats 53:29 Exploring Breakfast Tachoes and Animal Kingdom Dining 57:10 Sit Down vs Quick Service Dining Choices 01:00:31 Exciting News from Disney Parks 01:06:14 Celebrating Jaws' 50th Anniversary 01:08:54 Epic Universe Opening and Wait Times

In this first episode of a four-part Disney Dining Plan series, Abbie and Rob break down everything you need to know about using the dining plan at Walt Disney World and take a deep look on how to use it in Magic Kingdom. This episode focuses on understanding the basics of the Disney Dining Plan, comparing Quick Service vs. Standard options, and offering money-saving tips to help you get the most value out of your vacation meals. While the episode opens with personal stories from a memorable Mother’s Day and a visit to Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the main focus is helping families navigate the Disney Dining Plan with confidence.

The hosts explain how the dining plan works, what’s included in each tier, and how snack credits, beverage choices, and meal entitlements can be used across the parks. They share real-life examples of dining at Magic Kingdom and offer tips on using mobile ordering, managing credits, and choosing meals that give you the best bang for your buck.

Restaurants like Be Our Guest and Cinderella’s Royal Table are highlighted as premium experiences where dining credits can stretch further, but are they the best value in Magic Kingdom? The episode also touches on character dining, the history of alcohol availability in the park, and how buffets and family-style meals can maximize your plan—especially for families.

This episode is a must-listen for Disney vacation planners looking to optimize their dining plan and avoid common mistakes. Be sure to tune in to the rest of this four-part series for detailed park-by-park guides, snack hacks, and expert meal planning strategies. You can reach Abbie and Rob: 📸 Instagram: @DisneyFamilyTravelPlanner 🎥 TikTok: @FamilyTravelPlanner ▶️ YouTube: Family Travel Planner 👍 Facebook: Disney Family Travel Planner Website: https://familytravelplanner.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 03:00 Mother's Day Experience and Broadway Play Review 05:58 Theater Experience and Immersive Elements 08:57 Emotional Impact of the Play 12:02 Discussion on Harry Potter Characters and Future Adaptations 14:53 Disney Dining Plans Overview 17:59 Quick Service vs. Standard Dining Plans 21:08 Cost Analysis of Dining Plans 23:55 Alcohol and Beverage Options in Dining Plans 27:01 Kids Menu and Dining Plan Eligibility 28:36 Mobile Ordering and Dining Experience 30:50 Dining Options at Magic Kingdom 35:20 Signature Dining Experiences 38:10 Character Dining and Buffets 41:27 Family Style Dining vs. Buffets 45:44 Pricing and Value of Dining Credits 54:34 Alcohol in Magic Kingdom and Quick Service Options 56:27 Exploring Quick Service Dining Options 01:00:38 Understanding Snack Credits and Their Value 01:03:51 Choosing the Right Dining Plan for Your Trip 01:06:37 Planning Meals: Snacks to Table Service 01:12:04 Navigating Quick Service Restaurants 01:16:09 Finalizing Dining Plans and Upcoming Events

In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob catch up with returning guest Tink, who shares her recent experiences aboard the Disney Fantasy cruise and her visit to Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe theme park. Tink starts by detailing her time on the Disney Fantasy, including a standout dinner at Remy, and a laid-back visit to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. She discusses what sets the ship apart, from the dining quality to the mix of entertainment options for all ages.

The episode then shifts to a preview of Epic Universe, with a focus on the attractions inside Super Nintendo World, such as the Mario-themed rides, and the eerie atmosphere of the Dark Universe area. Tink also shares her take on the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter section, noting how it builds on the immersive detail fans have come to expect. The hosts break down how the virtual queue system works, the range of dining choices inside the park, and what visitors should know ahead of time. They also discuss Celestial Park and its potential for unique nighttime experiences.

Throughout the episode, Abbie, Rob, and Tink offer grounded, practical advice and firsthand observations to help families and theme park fans plan their next trip. Instead of hype, they focus on what actually works—and what might not—at both Disney and Universal’s latest offerings. Got questions for Tink? Contact her at: Email - tink@familytravelplanner.com Instagram - tinkfamilytravelplanner You can reach Abbie and Rob: 📸 Instagram: @DisneyFamilyTravelPlanner 🎥 TikTok: @FamilyTravelPlanner ▶️ YouTube: Family Travel Planner 👍 Facebook: Disney Family Travel Planner Website: https://familytravelplanner.com

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Disney Hour Express 00:54 Cruising on the Disney Fantasy 06:03 Dining Experiences on the Cruise 12:01 Excursions and Activities at Castaway Cay 19:51 Exploring Epic Universe 29:55 Rides and Attractions in Mario World 36:03 Dark Universe and Its Attractions 37:05 The Evolution of Theme Park Rides 41:27 Navigating the New Dark Universe 46:04 Virtual Queue Challenges 48:27 Dining Experiences in Epic Universe 54:24 Exploring the Harry Potter World 01:00:00 Celestial Park and Nighttime Magic 01:06:22 Reflections on the Preview Experience

In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob are joined by Tink, a Disney and Universal travel expert and FTP Travel Specialist, to dive into an exciting conversation about her upcoming visit to Universal’s Epic Universe. The trio explores major differences between Disney and Universal annual passes, shares family travel tips, and offers insight into how to navigate parks with kids.

They also discuss the importance of capturing magical vacation memories through photos, must-try Disney snacks, and which portal is a must travel in Epic Universe. Listeners get a sneak peek at new attractions, updated dining options, and the construction progress at both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.

This episode is perfect for theme park fans planning a Disney or Universal vacation, especially those curious about the Epic Universe opening, thrill rides for families, and the latest news from both parks. Thanks for listening! Got questions for Tink? Get in touch with her: Email - tink@familytravelplanner.com Instagram - tinkfamilytravelplanner You can reach Abbie and Rob: 📸 Instagram: @DisneyFamilyTravelPlanner 🎥 TikTok: @FamilyTravelPlanner ▶️ YouTube: Family Travel Planner 👍 Facebook: Disney Family Travel Planner Website: https://familytravelplanner.com

00:00 Welcome to the Disney Hour Express 00:54 Introducing Tink and Epic Universe Preview 03:55 Growing Up with Disney: Memories and Experiences 09:52 Cruising Adventures and Tips 11:58 Disney vs. Universal: A Family Perspective 18:01 Lightning Round: Disney Favorites 27:59 Anticipating Epic Universe: Plans and Strategies 35:04 Exploring the Power-Up Bands 36:19 Immersive Experiences in Theme Parks 38:09 Navigating Thrill Rides with Kids 40:15 Anticipating New Attractions 43:41 The Excitement of Epic Universe 45:53 Dining Experiences in Theme Parks 47:46 Food Preferences and Experiences 50:55 Water Park Experiences and Preferences 52:41 Universal's Epic Universe and Its Appeal 56:14 News and Updates from the Parks

In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob dive into a fun and personal discussion packed with Disney magic! They explore the latest Disney World dining plans for kids, including tips for making the most of your meals at the parks. The hosts play a lively round of "Would You Rather," choosing between iconic rides like Haunted Mansion vs. It's a Small World, and debating whether they'd rather be a Disney princess or be followed around by squawking Donald Duck.

They also break down thrilling ride matchups, like Space Mountain vs. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and even have a sweet showdown between Disney churros and the blockbuster attraction, Rise of the Resistance. Along the way, they share insider tips about Disney World nighttime events, recent renovations at the Grand Floridian Resort, and exciting news about Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe theme park opening.

If you're planning a Disney vacation or just love staying updated on Disney parks, dining, rides, and Universal Orlando news, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in for personal stories, expert tips, and a fun-filled Disney experience. Thanks for listening! Socials:

• 📸 Instagram: @DisneyFamilyTravelPlanner

• 🎥 TikTok: @FamilyTravelPlanner

• ▶️ YouTube: Family Travel Planner

• 👍 Facebook: Disney Family Travel Planner Website https://familytravelplanner.com

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Disney Hour Express 02:54 Disney Park Perks and Dining Plans 06:12 Would You Rather: Disney Edition Begins 09:09 Haunted Mansion vs. It's a Small World 11:57 Nighttime Rides: Haunted Mansion or Tower of Terror? 15:05 Disney Meals: Turkey Legs vs. Ice Cream Bars 17:56 Annual Pass Holder Dilemma 21:00 Being a Disney Princess vs. Donald Duck's Shade 23:50 Epic Universe vs. Wet Shoes 29:33 Footwear and Ride Preferences 32:01 Space Mountain vs. Tiana's Bayou 34:25 Choosing Between Iconic Rides 36:22 Churros vs. Rise of the Resistance 39:58 Nighttime Events at Disney 44:31 Disney News and Updates 46:03 Grand Floridian Refurbishments 51:26 Universal's Epic Universe Updates

In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, Abbie and Rob explore the enchanting world of Disney jobs, discussing the various roles available at Disney parks, the experiences of cast members, and the magic behind the scenes. They share personal anecdotes, insights into the audition process, and the diverse opportunities that await those dreaming of working at Disney. From onstage roles to behind-the-scenes positions, the conversation highlights the importance of every cast member in creating the Disney experience. Additionally, updates from the Disney Parks and Universal are shared, highlighting upcoming events and changes. Thanks for listening! To reach Abbie and Rob and follow them on the socials, head to https://linktr.ee/familytravelplanner

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Disney Hour Express 02:59 The Anticipation of Epic Universe 06:00 Behind the Magic: Working at Disney 09:04 Onstage Roles: The Heart of Disney 12:12 Character Performers and Auditions 14:58 Diverse Job Opportunities at Disney 17:52 Food and Beverage Roles at Disney 20:57 Guest Services and Hospitality 23:57 Behind the Scenes: The Unsung Heroes 26:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 29:22 Housekeeping and Costuming Insights 31:47 Landscaping and Horticulture at Disney 33:32 The Role of Disney Imagineers 35:26 Behind the Scenes: Ride Mechanics and Security 36:37 Corporate and Creative Roles at Disney 42:11 The Scale of Disney Employment 44:52 The Magic of Disney vs. Reality 47:21 Universal Updates and Fan Events Disney, Disney jobs, Disney parks, Disney cast members, Disney experiences, Disney travel, Disney podcast, Disney universe, Disney careers, Disney magic, Disney, custodial staff, housekeeping, costuming, landscaping, Imagineers, ride mechanics, corporate roles, Disney employment, Universal updates

In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, hosts Abbie and Rob take listeners on a virtual tour of Universal Orlando’s highly anticipated new theme park — Epic Universe. Whether you're planning a family vacation to Universal or just love staying up-to-date on theme park news, this episode is packed with insider info.

• 🪐 Breakdown of Epic Universe’s Five Themed Lands:

  • Celestial Park

  • Isle of Berk (How to Train Your Dragon)

  • Ministry of Magic (Wizarding World of Harry Potter)

  • Dark Universe

  • Super Nintendo World

• 🍔 Dining Options in Epic Universe:

  • Discussion on the park’s limited sit-down restaurants

  • Tips for finding the best quick-service meals for families

• 🎟️ Ticketing and Previews:

  • What to know about Epic Universe preview tickets

  • Early access rumors and booking strategies

• 🌍 Bonus Updates from Disneyland Paris:

  • Sneak peeks at new attractions and park expansions

• 📅 Upcoming Universal Events:

  • What’s on the calendar for Universal fan events in 2025

Abbie and Rob also share their first impressions, offer planning tips, and explore how this new park stacks up for families traveling with kids. To reach Abbie and Rob and find their socials, please head to https://linktr.ee/familytravelplanner

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Disney Hour Express 00:54 Exploring Epic Universe: Overview and Anticipation 03:57 The Themed Lands of Epic Universe 08:59 Celestial Park: Attractions and Experiences 12:03 Isle of Berk: Dragon Adventures 17:04 Ministry of Magic: A Harry Potter Experience 19:11 Dark Universe: Thrills and Chills 23:00 Super Nintendo World: Gaming Comes to Life 28:07 Dining Options in Epic Universe 32:10 Dining Options and Entertainment Highlights 36:02 Epic Universe Preview and Opening Details 38:41 Family Friendliness and Kid-Friendly Attractions 41:53 Initial Impressions of Epic Universe 50:17 Disneyland Paris Updates and New Attractions 01:02:46 Universal Fan Events and Future Attractions

Disney, Universal, Epic Universe, theme parks, family travel, attractions, rides, immersive experiences, Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, Epic Universe, Universal Studios, theme parks, family friendly, dining options, attractions, Disneyland Paris, preview tickets, entertainment, kid-friendly