June 4, 2025 • 17 mins
Disney World Summer 2025 Highlights
The Cool Kid Summer Program
Disney's new summer initiative brings spontaneous experiences across all four theme parks:
EPCOT:
- DJ Dance Party with Goofy at Communicore Hall
- Mickey and Minnie meet & greets
- Phineas and Ferb character appearances
Animal Kingdom:
- Hands-on pollinator crafts at Rafiki's Planet Watch
- New Wilderness Explorer badge opportunity
- Interactive sing-along with Dino Institute intern
Hollywood Studios:
- Games and crafts at Animation Courtyard
- Magic shows, jump rope performers, surprise character meet & greets
- Disney Villains "Unfairly Ever After" premiering May 27th
- Little Mermaid Musical Adventure
Magic Kingdom:
- Big Top Bash dance party at Storybook Circus
- Stitch Dance Party in Tomorrowland
- Crafts at Merchants of Venice
Water Parks & Resort Updates
Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach open simultaneously for first time in years. Guests booking vacation packages get first-day water park admission with choice of park.
New character greetings during early entry hours at theme parks, plus scheduled character visits at Pop Century, Art of Animation, Wilderness Lodge, and Caribbean Beach Resort.
Current Disney World Promotions
- 50% off kids tickets (3+ day purchases)
- 3-day, 3-park tickets starting at $89/day
- Disney resort room discounts
- Special rates for Florida residents, passholders, and Disney+ subscribers
Beat the Heat Strategy
- Utilize early entry and extended evening hours
- Plan indoor shows/attractions during peak heat
- Take midday breaks at resort pools or air-conditioned spaces
- Schedule longer lunch reservations to escape heat
Essential Packing List
- Ponchos (not raincoats)
- Stroller rain covers and fans
- Cooling pads and portable chargers
- Cooling towels and portable fever packs
- Extra clothing changes
- Insulated water bottles
Money-Saving Hydration Tips
Order water via grocery delivery instead of paying $4-5 per bottle at parks. Request free water cups at quick-service restaurants.
Weather Contingency Planning
Most attractions continue operating in heat and rain except outdoor rides. Monitor transportation (Skyliner, boats, monorail) via Disney app during inclement weather.
Contact: WonderAndBeyondTravel.com
Keywords: Disney World summer 2025, Disney vacation tips, Cool Kid Summer, Disney World heat survival, Disney promotions, theme park planning, family travel
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (00:00):
Hello and welcome to All Things Travel.
(00:02):
Summer is here and it's always agreat time for family travel
since kids are out of school inmost parts of the country.
Disney World being a popularvacation destination for
families today, we wannahighlight exciting new
experiences in the parks thissummer, and some tips for
surviving summer travel.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (00:22):
Listen in with travel advisors and
destination experts, Ryan andJulie.
I'm your travel professor, teachyou everything you need to know
to have a magical vacation, andshe's a Disney loving Maryland
mom of three and a specialist infamily travel.
Whether we're discussingincredible destinations, top
vacation tips, or sharingpersonal stories, it's always
(00:44):
all things travel.
Well, Julie, I'm excited to talkabout this topic because the
next time we see each other, weare going on a cruise and then
right after where we headed.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (00:58):
Walt Disney World.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:00):
All right, the last time I was at
Walt Disney World for a familyvacation was at the end of July.
I'm getting used to this summerheat when it comes to Disney and
also the thunderstorms.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (01:13):
I always forget about that.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:14):
Yeah,
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (01:14):
That's right.
it is gonna do that.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:16):
the thunderstorms are usually short
there.
There's not usually rain outs.
You just kind of wait'em out.
You find some alternate plansand you're good to go.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (01:26):
All right.
me of that when I have my threechildren in a downpour.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:30):
I'll, Jasmine and I will go off and
find a lounge.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (01:33):
I'm sure you'll leave us.
I'm fully anticipating it.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:37):
All right, well, before we get into
everything that's happening atWalt Disney World as far as
summertime, and then also sometips for planning your trip in
the summer, I wanna remind folksif you have not listened to last
week's episode, we talked allabout this idea of retirement
moons and you know, Walt DisneyWorld.
(01:57):
If that's your thing, might makea good retirement moon.
So you want to go back and takea listen to that.
j_1_05-21-2025_20085 (02:04):
Definitely my thing.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (02:06):
All right, Julie, let's talk about
some of these fun special thingsthat are coming to Walt Disney
World summer of 2025.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (02:13):
Okay, so this summer Disney has released
this plan called The Cool KidSummer, so a lot of really fun
experiences for kids going onthroughout the parks and
throughout the resorts.
And I just think it's reallycool that they've added some of
this in.
Some of this is a lot of somespontaneity type
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (02:31):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (02:32):
You know, we used to have all the time at
the park, so I'm hoping it'ssomething that sticks around and
becomes, more frequent.
So first over at Epcot there'sgonna be a DJ dance Party with
Goofy at Communo Hall.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (02:45):
Very cool.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (02:46):
meet and greets that go on there, but
this is really just all focusedon Goofy.
And then you can also do yourMickey and Min meet and greets
as well in the separate area.
Phineas and Fur will also greetguests at the front of Epcot.
And I know they have their ownlittle cult following.
That wasn't really like when Igrew up or
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (03:03):
Yeah, that wasn't really my thing
either, but yeah, that's great.
I agree with you.
Anytime there's these smallerthings that pop up.
I'm glad that Disney is takingadvantage of that.
j_1_05-21-2025_2008 (03:14):
Absolutely.
over at Animal Kingdom, when yougo to RAF's Planet Watch, you
can do some hands on craftingactivities, that are also a
little bit educational aboutpollinators like bees and
butterflies.
my kids would love that they, ifwe were going to animal Kingdom
the summer, we'd have to do that'cause.
What kid doesn't love crafts.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (03:32):
Yep.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (03:33):
There's also gonna be a new Wilderness
Explorer badge that you can earnand an interactive sing along
with the Dino Institute internin Discovery Island.
So I love that.
Not only are these fun add-onexperiences, but there's still a
story behind them.
Like, this guy's an intern atthe institute.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (03:50):
Yeah.
there's always a story, even ifit's a popup, there's gonna be
pages and pages of imagineeringbackstory there, right?
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (03:58):
Ryan, tell us about Hollywood Studios
and Magic Kingdom.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (04:01):
Yeah, so if you go to Animation
Courtyard in Hollywood Studios,there's gonna be games and
crafts.
kind of taking the Kid Cot thingand Epcot and really applying it
to the other.
The other park.
So you've got games and crafts,including a magician, jump rope,
performers, surprise charactermeet and greets.
(04:22):
And then starting May 27th,you've got Disney villains
unfairly ever after, and theLittle Mermaid musical adventure
premiering.
So you've got these showspopping up.
It's gonna be fun to, to seethese and it's gonna give kind
of that.
I've been to Hollywood studios,you know, multiple, multiple
times now.
There's something else to tocheck out, especially if some
(04:44):
things are leaving.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (04:45):
Mm.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (04:45):
Over at Magic Kingdom, we've got the
big Top Bash at StorybookCircus, which is often a part
that people overlook whenthey're doing their big planning
of Magic Kingdom.
that is a summertime dance partywith Pluto Stilt Walkers
jugglers, and then there's aStitch Dance party in
Tomorrowland, at the RocketTower Plaza stage and crafts
(05:08):
inside merchants of Venice.
So again, a lot of hands-ontype.
Activities.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (05:14):
Yeah, I love the crafting and'cause kids
just really love that stuff andespecially maybe some of these
will get you indoors for alittle bit,
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (05:21):
Yeah, it takes advantage of the shade
and the air conditioning, whichis never a bad idea.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (05:27):
At each of those parks, at least one of
those activities is inside,which is great.
a couple other things going onat Disney this summer.
Both Typhoon Lagoon and BlizzardBeach are open for the first
time in a long time.
Usually one is open while theother is closed, and then they
flip flop.
so that's exciting because ifyou remember for 2025 and also
(05:50):
now extended into 2026 when youbook a vacation package with the
Wat Disney World Travel Company,you get admission into the water
park, your first day of yourtrip, and that's been decided
for you of which park you'regonna go
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (06:06):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (06:07):
For the summer, you get to pick.
there's also character greetingsduring early entry at the theme
park.
everyone staying on site at aDisney resort, can access early
entry at every theme park everyday.
But there's never been charactergreetings during that time.
So that's really exciting.
it's kind of like surprise ones,like you're not gonna know who's
there, what time, that kind ofstuff.
This one is really cool too.
(06:28):
guests at Pop Century Art ofAnimation, wilderness Lodge and
Caribbean Beach Resort will beable to access more Disney
themed activities and charactervisits that will have set times.
in the past you may have been atyour resort and seen some
characters walking around,
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (06:45):
Right.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (06:45):
never knew when they were coming, who
was coming where they would be.
so now at these select resorts,you will know when they're
coming and I think that's reallya great sprinkle of that Disney
magic, right?
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (06:57):
I think it gives people a reason
to spend a little more time atthe resort
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (07:01):
Yeah.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (07:02):
I always say, you're staying at
these world class resorts andyou barely spend time there
'cause you wanna focus on theparks.
let's have some more resorttime.
So I love it.
All right, let's talk about someof the current promos.
just to give you an idea of someof the things you can take
advantage of this summer, thereis a 50% off on kids tickets.
(07:23):
When you purchase three days orlonger.
There is a three day, three parkticket starting at a discounted
price of$89 a day.
So that can be very attractive.
There's also a Disney resortroom deal.
there are discounted rooms andif you have any special status
(07:45):
with Disney, so that can bethings like Florida residents
and you'll pass holders, Disneyplus subscribers.
you can get some room promotionsthat way too.
make sure to check those outwhen you're thinking about
summer because I bet.
One of those will apply to yourstay.
Alright, Julie, before we talkabout some tips for planning the
(08:08):
best summer trip to Walt DisneyWorld, I'm gonna talk about
where in the world is all thingstravel.
I.
When I looked at new locationsthis week for us, a new one that
popped up was Watertown, SouthDakota.
And that is a town in thenortheastern part of South
Dakota.
what I loved when I started toresearch Watertown is it is the
(08:31):
classic small town where theyhave really put in effort to
make their downtown.
Amazing.
So there is an arts district, ashopping district.
They have a historic opera housethat they have restored.
They have a museum dedicated toTerry Redland, one of the most
(08:54):
iconic wildlife scene artists.
There is an art and sculpturetrail.
There is a zoo in Watertown.
There is so much to see.
I just love these little townsthat really dive into this is
who we are and this is thecharacter for our small town.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (09:13):
I love that.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (09:15):
Hey, Watertown, South Dakota, we
would love to send a littlethank you gift all the way out
there.
So do us a favor, get on Wonderand beyond travel.com and reach
out, because I would love to saythank you with a little gift.
All right, Julie, what are sometips for folks when there's
(09:35):
thinking specifically about WaltDisney World in the summertime?
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (09:39):
I feel like this is the end of almost
every episode we do where wetalk about tips for
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (09:44):
Yep.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (09:45):
we love sharing these to make your
travel easier, more enjoyable,More stress free, all those
great things.
before we get into the tips, alot of people think that Disney
is very crowded during thesummer, but actually the last
few years it's been theopposite.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (10:02):
I think as far as travel advising,
what I'm finding is Christmastime and fall break are the
busiest times for when I book.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (10:09):
Yeah, I agree.
summer travel at Disney is.
the crowds are low.
people used to think, I'm gonnawait in so many lines, and
that's just not the case rightnow.
That being said, the reason that
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (10:22):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (10:23):
it's so hot, and that's
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (10:24):
Yes.
j_1_05-21-2025_20085 (10:24):
attractive to people.
So a lot of these tips are howto survive traveling to Disney
in the summer, specificallybecause of that heat.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (10:33):
Yes.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (10:34):
and most important I think, is to utilize
early entry and extended eveninghours if they're available to
you to avoid the heat.
you do not wanna be there in themiddle of the day.
Plan to spend time seeing indoorshows or experiencing indoor
attractions to get a break fromthe heat.
Or if you are gonna leave thepark, go back and go to the
(10:57):
pool, sit in your room in theair conditioning for a little
bit, but do not up to the parkat noon.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (11:04):
yes.
This next one is a tip that Ialmost do regardless of what
time of year.
I go to Wal Disney World andthat's make dining reservations
at a time to avoid the heat.
I would much rather, to behonest, have a longer lunch
inside sit down, relax, take abreath, kind of recharge, and
(11:25):
then head back out to the park.
really the last couple timeswe've gone, that's really been
our strategy and, and I like it.
I, I like it as a theme park wayto go, especially when it's hot
out.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (11:36):
Yeah, that's like the quiet time for
adults, right?
Like the kids have quiet time.
That's like your quiet time.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (11:43):
All right.
Bring extra changes of clothes.
because of the heat, the sweat,the wetness if it's raining,
have those extra change ofclothes, especially if you're
going back and, and swimmingTaking a shower before dinner or
even just, if you know your kidsare going to get wet in the
splash pads, around the parks,having that extra shirt, maybe
(12:06):
that extra pair of shorts makesa lot of sense.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:10):
And along with some other items to make
sure you pack.
Ponchos.
I don't like raincoats at WalDisney World.
They're, they're heavy.
They're hot.
Bring your ponchos
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (12:18):
Yep.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:19):
a poncho.
Get a rain cover for yourstroller.
With your stroller, bring yourstroller fans, make sure they're
charged.
And you have portable chargersfor those.
There's cooling pads that youcan buy to put on the stroller
so the kids don't overheat.
'cause it can get really hot inthere if you've got the sunshade
down and all that.
portable fever packs issomething I've had some clients
(12:41):
do recently and
ryan_2_05-21-2025_ (12:42):
Interesting.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:43):
they're like these little gel packs that
you can put on your neck or onyour forehead.
They're really.
For kids, but
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (12:49):
Yeah.
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:50):
the idea is to bring their fever down.
Right.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (12:52):
Yep.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:52):
a lot of people have been taking them to
Disney recently.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (12:55):
And I'm old school with the cooling
towels.
Cooling towels I think aregreat.
Just make sure to bring a littlebaggy.
so when those cooling tiles arewet, or if you wanna bring them
to the park kind of wet and coldand have them in a baggie,
that's a good idea too.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (13:12):
we've used those a lot.
Order water from a grocerydelivery and then bring an
insulated, refillable waterbottle into the park with you.
When you're in the parks, whenyou're at your resort, a bottle
of water is probably going to bebetween four and$5, but you
could order a 24 pack fromAmazon or Instacart for.
Much, much, much
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (13:33):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (13:34):
Even after delivery fees at quick
service restaurants, you can goup and just ask for a cup of
water, but it's gonna be a smallcup and you really wanna have
water available to you all daylong.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (13:45):
Yep.
my last one is, keep in mindthat not much changes at Disney
when the weather's hot andrainy, except for outside rides.
People keep going.
So, your strategy should be ifthe weather's inclement that you
go.
the one thing that I have hadsituations with is
(14:05):
transportation.
the skyliner, the boat, themonorail, keeping tabs on that
either on the app or talking toa cast member.
I love Riviera and I'm stayingat Riviera this summer.
The one issue I've had is.
Yeah, the skyliners closed'causeof weather.
I walk up to the front of Epcot,they say the skyliners back on,
(14:26):
it's like, let's get on the samepage folks.
so just keeping in mind that youmay have to change your plane of
attack when it comes totransportation,
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (14:34):
Disney will always offer a second
option.
if we are at those Skylinerresorts, there's not usually a
bus to Epcot or HollywoodStudios.
You're just supposed to take theSkyliner.
But if there is weather that
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (14:45):
Sure.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (14:45):
the skyline, they will offer the
bus.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (14:47):
Yes.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (14:48):
there's gonna be a sign at the
International Gateway.
It's gonna say, go to the frontof the park for the bus and
then.
By then it's reopened.
I've actually just parked myselfon that bench at the
International
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (14:58):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (14:59):
hour before, and just waited,
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (15:01):
as we wrap up, Julie, we're going this
summer.
What is a must do strategy foryou and your family?
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (15:09):
We are gonna be doing early entry,
going early, as early as we canget to the parks, and then
coming back and doing the pool.
So we are at yacht club, soclose to you.
we booked that for the pool,specifically for the summer
because they're refurbing thepool right now.
It'll be brand new when we go.
The kids will need that break.
(15:29):
I'll need that break.
And I think that's just a greatarea to chill for a while and
enjoy, we've been to Disney manytimes.
We don't need to do all therides, we're gonna go in the
morning, do the rides we wannado, come back and hang out at
the pool.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (15:42):
So for me it's bringing hydration
powder and it's also bringingwater flavoring because there's
nothing worse than Florida waterand you have to keep drinking
throughout the day.
So I want to make sure thatwhat, you don't do that,
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (15:56):
I've never
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (15:57):
are
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (15:58):
before.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (15:58):
you serious?
Oh, I do it every single time.
I don't like Florida water, butI have to drink it
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (16:04):
Okay.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (16:05):
so I, I'm so old.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (16:07):
Oh, man.
I just feel like that'ssomething my grandmother would
do.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (16:09):
Man.
Okay, well that's my tip.
And you're gonna be drinkingwater that doesn't taste good
and I'm gonna be drinking waterthat doesn't taste good, but I
won't be able to taste itbecause of my drinking powder.
The world is full of wonder andyour next great adventure is
waiting at Wonder and BeyondTravel.
We work with you to create a oneof a kind journey, taking the
(16:30):
stress off your plate so you canfocus on the joy of exploring
and the memories that will staywith you forever.
If you're ready to startplanning or just wanna dream a
little bigger, head on over toWonder and beyond travel.com.
We look forward to talking toyou next week on all Things
Travel.
When I talk about my amazingtrip to Universal Studios and
(16:52):
specifically Epic Universe.
Hello and welcome to All Things Travel.
(00:02):
Summer is here and it's always agreat time for family travel
since kids are out of school inmost parts of the country.
Disney World being a popularvacation destination for
families today, we wannahighlight exciting new
experiences in the parks thissummer, and some tips for
surviving summer travel.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (00:22):
Listen in with travel advisors and
destination experts, Ryan andJulie.
I'm your travel professor, teachyou everything you need to know
to have a magical vacation, andshe's a Disney loving Maryland
mom of three and a specialist infamily travel.
Whether we're discussingincredible destinations, top
vacation tips, or sharingpersonal stories, it's always
(00:44):
all things travel.
Well, Julie, I'm excited to talkabout this topic because the
next time we see each other, weare going on a cruise and then
right after where we headed.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (00:58):
Walt Disney World.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:00):
All right, the last time I was at
Walt Disney World for a familyvacation was at the end of July.
I'm getting used to this summerheat when it comes to Disney and
also the thunderstorms.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (01:13):
I always forget about that.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:14):
Yeah,
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (01:14):
That's right.
it is gonna do that.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:16):
the thunderstorms are usually short
there.
There's not usually rain outs.
You just kind of wait'em out.
You find some alternate plansand you're good to go.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (01:26):
All right.
me of that when I have my threechildren in a downpour.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:30):
I'll, Jasmine and I will go off and
find a lounge.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (01:33):
I'm sure you'll leave us.
I'm fully anticipating it.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (01:37):
All right, well, before we get into
everything that's happening atWalt Disney World as far as
summertime, and then also sometips for planning your trip in
the summer, I wanna remind folksif you have not listened to last
week's episode, we talked allabout this idea of retirement
moons and you know, Walt DisneyWorld.
(01:57):
If that's your thing, might makea good retirement moon.
So you want to go back and takea listen to that.
j_1_05-21-2025_20085 (02:04):
Definitely my thing.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (02:06):
All right, Julie, let's talk about
some of these fun special thingsthat are coming to Walt Disney
World summer of 2025.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (02:13):
Okay, so this summer Disney has released
this plan called The Cool KidSummer, so a lot of really fun
experiences for kids going onthroughout the parks and
throughout the resorts.
And I just think it's reallycool that they've added some of
this in.
Some of this is a lot of somespontaneity type
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (02:31):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (02:32):
You know, we used to have all the time at
the park, so I'm hoping it'ssomething that sticks around and
becomes, more frequent.
So first over at Epcot there'sgonna be a DJ dance Party with
Goofy at Communo Hall.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (02:45):
Very cool.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (02:46):
meet and greets that go on there, but
this is really just all focusedon Goofy.
And then you can also do yourMickey and Min meet and greets
as well in the separate area.
Phineas and Fur will also greetguests at the front of Epcot.
And I know they have their ownlittle cult following.
That wasn't really like when Igrew up or
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (03:03):
Yeah, that wasn't really my thing
either, but yeah, that's great.
I agree with you.
Anytime there's these smallerthings that pop up.
I'm glad that Disney is takingadvantage of that.
j_1_05-21-2025_2008 (03:14):
Absolutely.
over at Animal Kingdom, when yougo to RAF's Planet Watch, you
can do some hands on craftingactivities, that are also a
little bit educational aboutpollinators like bees and
butterflies.
my kids would love that they, ifwe were going to animal Kingdom
the summer, we'd have to do that'cause.
What kid doesn't love crafts.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (03:32):
Yep.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (03:33):
There's also gonna be a new Wilderness
Explorer badge that you can earnand an interactive sing along
with the Dino Institute internin Discovery Island.
So I love that.
Not only are these fun add-onexperiences, but there's still a
story behind them.
Like, this guy's an intern atthe institute.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (03:50):
Yeah.
there's always a story, even ifit's a popup, there's gonna be
pages and pages of imagineeringbackstory there, right?
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (03:58):
Ryan, tell us about Hollywood Studios
and Magic Kingdom.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (04:01):
Yeah, so if you go to Animation
Courtyard in Hollywood Studios,there's gonna be games and
crafts.
kind of taking the Kid Cot thingand Epcot and really applying it
to the other.
The other park.
So you've got games and crafts,including a magician, jump rope,
performers, surprise charactermeet and greets.
(04:22):
And then starting May 27th,you've got Disney villains
unfairly ever after, and theLittle Mermaid musical adventure
premiering.
So you've got these showspopping up.
It's gonna be fun to, to seethese and it's gonna give kind
of that.
I've been to Hollywood studios,you know, multiple, multiple
times now.
There's something else to tocheck out, especially if some
(04:44):
things are leaving.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (04:45):
Mm.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (04:45):
Over at Magic Kingdom, we've got the
big Top Bash at StorybookCircus, which is often a part
that people overlook whenthey're doing their big planning
of Magic Kingdom.
that is a summertime dance partywith Pluto Stilt Walkers
jugglers, and then there's aStitch Dance party in
Tomorrowland, at the RocketTower Plaza stage and crafts
(05:08):
inside merchants of Venice.
So again, a lot of hands-ontype.
Activities.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (05:14):
Yeah, I love the crafting and'cause kids
just really love that stuff andespecially maybe some of these
will get you indoors for alittle bit,
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (05:21):
Yeah, it takes advantage of the shade
and the air conditioning, whichis never a bad idea.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (05:27):
At each of those parks, at least one of
those activities is inside,which is great.
a couple other things going onat Disney this summer.
Both Typhoon Lagoon and BlizzardBeach are open for the first
time in a long time.
Usually one is open while theother is closed, and then they
flip flop.
so that's exciting because ifyou remember for 2025 and also
(05:50):
now extended into 2026 when youbook a vacation package with the
Wat Disney World Travel Company,you get admission into the water
park, your first day of yourtrip, and that's been decided
for you of which park you'regonna go
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (06:06):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (06:07):
For the summer, you get to pick.
there's also character greetingsduring early entry at the theme
park.
everyone staying on site at aDisney resort, can access early
entry at every theme park everyday.
But there's never been charactergreetings during that time.
So that's really exciting.
it's kind of like surprise ones,like you're not gonna know who's
there, what time, that kind ofstuff.
This one is really cool too.
(06:28):
guests at Pop Century Art ofAnimation, wilderness Lodge and
Caribbean Beach Resort will beable to access more Disney
themed activities and charactervisits that will have set times.
in the past you may have been atyour resort and seen some
characters walking around,
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (06:45):
Right.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (06:45):
never knew when they were coming, who
was coming where they would be.
so now at these select resorts,you will know when they're
coming and I think that's reallya great sprinkle of that Disney
magic, right?
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (06:57):
I think it gives people a reason
to spend a little more time atthe resort
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (07:01):
Yeah.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (07:02):
I always say, you're staying at
these world class resorts andyou barely spend time there
'cause you wanna focus on theparks.
let's have some more resorttime.
So I love it.
All right, let's talk about someof the current promos.
just to give you an idea of someof the things you can take
advantage of this summer, thereis a 50% off on kids tickets.
(07:23):
When you purchase three days orlonger.
There is a three day, three parkticket starting at a discounted
price of$89 a day.
So that can be very attractive.
There's also a Disney resortroom deal.
there are discounted rooms andif you have any special status
(07:45):
with Disney, so that can bethings like Florida residents
and you'll pass holders, Disneyplus subscribers.
you can get some room promotionsthat way too.
make sure to check those outwhen you're thinking about
summer because I bet.
One of those will apply to yourstay.
Alright, Julie, before we talkabout some tips for planning the
(08:08):
best summer trip to Walt DisneyWorld, I'm gonna talk about
where in the world is all thingstravel.
I.
When I looked at new locationsthis week for us, a new one that
popped up was Watertown, SouthDakota.
And that is a town in thenortheastern part of South
Dakota.
what I loved when I started toresearch Watertown is it is the
(08:31):
classic small town where theyhave really put in effort to
make their downtown.
Amazing.
So there is an arts district, ashopping district.
They have a historic opera housethat they have restored.
They have a museum dedicated toTerry Redland, one of the most
(08:54):
iconic wildlife scene artists.
There is an art and sculpturetrail.
There is a zoo in Watertown.
There is so much to see.
I just love these little townsthat really dive into this is
who we are and this is thecharacter for our small town.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (09:13):
I love that.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (09:15):
Hey, Watertown, South Dakota, we
would love to send a littlethank you gift all the way out
there.
So do us a favor, get on Wonderand beyond travel.com and reach
out, because I would love to saythank you with a little gift.
All right, Julie, what are sometips for folks when there's
(09:35):
thinking specifically about WaltDisney World in the summertime?
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (09:39):
I feel like this is the end of almost
every episode we do where wetalk about tips for
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (09:44):
Yep.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (09:45):
we love sharing these to make your
travel easier, more enjoyable,More stress free, all those
great things.
before we get into the tips, alot of people think that Disney
is very crowded during thesummer, but actually the last
few years it's been theopposite.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (10:02):
I think as far as travel advising,
what I'm finding is Christmastime and fall break are the
busiest times for when I book.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (10:09):
Yeah, I agree.
summer travel at Disney is.
the crowds are low.
people used to think, I'm gonnawait in so many lines, and
that's just not the case rightnow.
That being said, the reason that
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (10:22):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (10:23):
it's so hot, and that's
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (10:24):
Yes.
j_1_05-21-2025_20085 (10:24):
attractive to people.
So a lot of these tips are howto survive traveling to Disney
in the summer, specificallybecause of that heat.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (10:33):
Yes.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (10:34):
and most important I think, is to utilize
early entry and extended eveninghours if they're available to
you to avoid the heat.
you do not wanna be there in themiddle of the day.
Plan to spend time seeing indoorshows or experiencing indoor
attractions to get a break fromthe heat.
Or if you are gonna leave thepark, go back and go to the
(10:57):
pool, sit in your room in theair conditioning for a little
bit, but do not up to the parkat noon.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (11:04):
yes.
This next one is a tip that Ialmost do regardless of what
time of year.
I go to Wal Disney World andthat's make dining reservations
at a time to avoid the heat.
I would much rather, to behonest, have a longer lunch
inside sit down, relax, take abreath, kind of recharge, and
(11:25):
then head back out to the park.
really the last couple timeswe've gone, that's really been
our strategy and, and I like it.
I, I like it as a theme park wayto go, especially when it's hot
out.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (11:36):
Yeah, that's like the quiet time for
adults, right?
Like the kids have quiet time.
That's like your quiet time.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (11:43):
All right.
Bring extra changes of clothes.
because of the heat, the sweat,the wetness if it's raining,
have those extra change ofclothes, especially if you're
going back and, and swimmingTaking a shower before dinner or
even just, if you know your kidsare going to get wet in the
splash pads, around the parks,having that extra shirt, maybe
(12:06):
that extra pair of shorts makesa lot of sense.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:10):
And along with some other items to make
sure you pack.
Ponchos.
I don't like raincoats at WalDisney World.
They're, they're heavy.
They're hot.
Bring your ponchos
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (12:18):
Yep.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:19):
a poncho.
Get a rain cover for yourstroller.
With your stroller, bring yourstroller fans, make sure they're
charged.
And you have portable chargersfor those.
There's cooling pads that youcan buy to put on the stroller
so the kids don't overheat.
'cause it can get really hot inthere if you've got the sunshade
down and all that.
portable fever packs issomething I've had some clients
(12:41):
do recently and
ryan_2_05-21-2025_ (12:42):
Interesting.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:43):
they're like these little gel packs that
you can put on your neck or onyour forehead.
They're really.
For kids, but
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (12:49):
Yeah.
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:50):
the idea is to bring their fever down.
Right.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (12:52):
Yep.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (12:52):
a lot of people have been taking them to
Disney recently.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (12:55):
And I'm old school with the cooling
towels.
Cooling towels I think aregreat.
Just make sure to bring a littlebaggy.
so when those cooling tiles arewet, or if you wanna bring them
to the park kind of wet and coldand have them in a baggie,
that's a good idea too.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (13:12):
we've used those a lot.
Order water from a grocerydelivery and then bring an
insulated, refillable waterbottle into the park with you.
When you're in the parks, whenyou're at your resort, a bottle
of water is probably going to bebetween four and$5, but you
could order a 24 pack fromAmazon or Instacart for.
Much, much, much
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (13:33):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (13:34):
Even after delivery fees at quick
service restaurants, you can goup and just ask for a cup of
water, but it's gonna be a smallcup and you really wanna have
water available to you all daylong.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (13:45):
Yep.
my last one is, keep in mindthat not much changes at Disney
when the weather's hot andrainy, except for outside rides.
People keep going.
So, your strategy should be ifthe weather's inclement that you
go.
the one thing that I have hadsituations with is
(14:05):
transportation.
the skyliner, the boat, themonorail, keeping tabs on that
either on the app or talking toa cast member.
I love Riviera and I'm stayingat Riviera this summer.
The one issue I've had is.
Yeah, the skyliners closed'causeof weather.
I walk up to the front of Epcot,they say the skyliners back on,
(14:26):
it's like, let's get on the samepage folks.
so just keeping in mind that youmay have to change your plane of
attack when it comes totransportation,
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (14:34):
Disney will always offer a second
option.
if we are at those Skylinerresorts, there's not usually a
bus to Epcot or HollywoodStudios.
You're just supposed to take theSkyliner.
But if there is weather that
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (14:45):
Sure.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (14:45):
the skyline, they will offer the
bus.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (14:47):
Yes.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (14:48):
there's gonna be a sign at the
International Gateway.
It's gonna say, go to the frontof the park for the bus and
then.
By then it's reopened.
I've actually just parked myselfon that bench at the
International
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (14:58):
Yeah.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (14:59):
hour before, and just waited,
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (15:01):
as we wrap up, Julie, we're going this
summer.
What is a must do strategy foryou and your family?
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (15:09):
We are gonna be doing early entry,
going early, as early as we canget to the parks, and then
coming back and doing the pool.
So we are at yacht club, soclose to you.
we booked that for the pool,specifically for the summer
because they're refurbing thepool right now.
It'll be brand new when we go.
The kids will need that break.
(15:29):
I'll need that break.
And I think that's just a greatarea to chill for a while and
enjoy, we've been to Disney manytimes.
We don't need to do all therides, we're gonna go in the
morning, do the rides we wannado, come back and hang out at
the pool.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (15:42):
So for me it's bringing hydration
powder and it's also bringingwater flavoring because there's
nothing worse than Florida waterand you have to keep drinking
throughout the day.
So I want to make sure thatwhat, you don't do that,
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (15:56):
I've never
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (15:57):
are
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (15:58):
before.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (15:58):
you serious?
Oh, I do it every single time.
I don't like Florida water, butI have to drink it
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (16:04):
Okay.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (16:05):
so I, I'm so old.
j_1_05-21-2025_200855 (16:07):
Oh, man.
I just feel like that'ssomething my grandmother would
do.
ryan_2_05-21-2025_200855 (16:09):
Man.
Okay, well that's my tip.
And you're gonna be drinkingwater that doesn't taste good
and I'm gonna be drinking waterthat doesn't taste good, but I
won't be able to taste itbecause of my drinking powder.
The world is full of wonder andyour next great adventure is
waiting at Wonder and BeyondTravel.
We work with you to create a oneof a kind journey, taking the
(16:30):
stress off your plate so you canfocus on the joy of exploring
and the memories that will staywith you forever.
If you're ready to startplanning or just wanna dream a
little bigger, head on over toWonder and beyond travel.com.
We look forward to talking toyou next week on all Things
Travel.
When I talk about my amazingtrip to Universal Studios and
(16:52):
specifically Epic Universe.
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