We’re heading to EPCOT for a snack-filled adventure around World Showcase and beyond, where we put some of the park’s most popular bites to the test in our ongoing series: Eat It or Beat It. This time, we’re diving fork-first into ten of EPCOT’s most talked-about treats—judging each one based on taste, value, portion size, and overall experience to help you decide if they’re worth your time (and money) or if you should skip them altogether. We’re talking about long-standing staples like School B...
Apr 01, 2025•47 min•Ep 774•Transcript available on Metacast It’s March Madness season, and the tournament fun continues on this episode of the Main Street Magic Podcast—but this time, we’re heading into the delicious world of table service dining at Walt Disney World. We are back to break down a bracket challenge featuring some of the most popular, iconic, and flavorful dining locations across the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs to find out which restaurant will be crowned the ultimate champion. This culinary showdown spans four themed regions: Magic ...
Mar 28, 2025•45 min•Ep 773•Transcript available on Metacast It’s time for some March Madness—with a Disney twist. We are diving into a bracket challenge that pits Walt Disney World’s most beloved rides and attractions against each other to determine the ultimate champion. Inspired by the format of the NCAA tournament, this bracket showdown is broken into four regions: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each region features eight attractions, seeded and matched up for a series of head-to-head battles. But this isn’t just about pe...
Mar 25, 2025•1 hr•Ep 772•Transcript available on Metacast We’re staring straight at Cinderella Castle with a Theme Park View at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and diving into an unforgettable stay filled with iconic eats, stunning sights, and plenty of Disney magic. We kick things off with a full breakdown of Chef Mickey’s breakfast buffet, sharing our thoughts on the food quality, character interactions, and whether the experience is worth the price tag. From smoked salmon and carved ham to omelets, croissant beignets, and Mickey himself, we cover it al...
Mar 21, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Ep 771•Transcript available on Metacast We’re recapping an unforgettable weekend filled with great food, live music, and plenty of Disney magic! We stayed at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, giving our thoughts on the resort’s location, amenities, transportation, and how it stacks up against other Value Resorts. Then, we dive into our EPCOT dining experiences, including reviews of Nine Dragons in the China Pavilion and Spice Road Table in Morocco, both paired with Garden Rocks Concert Series dining packages. Was the cost worth it for guar...
Mar 20, 2025•1 hr 20 min•Ep 770•Transcript available on Metacast Quick update on this week’s episodes. Don’t worry—you’re still getting two, just not in the usual Tuesday and Friday order. We just got back from four days at Disney, where we saw Blue October at the Garden Rocks Series, ate a ton of amazing food, and stayed at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in the Main Tower for the first time. Plus, I had the chance to see my brother speak over at the Dolphin. We got back late Monday night, so we didn’t have time to record for Tuesday’s episode. Instead, we’ll b...
Mar 18, 2025•1 min•Transcript available on Metacast We’re recapping the second half of our recent Disney trip, including our stay at All-Star Sports, nighttime fun at Hollywood Studios, and a full breakdown of our EPCOT rope drop strategy. We’ll share our experience staying at All-Star Sports, what worked, what didn’t, and how it compares to other value resorts. Plus, we’ll talk about updates at the resort, including the removal of AI ordering machines and how it affected the overall experience as well as what it is like to stay at the value reso...
Mar 14, 2025•51 min•Ep 769•Transcript available on Metacast Spring is in full bloom at Walt Disney World, and we’re diving into everything EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival has to offer this year! From March 5 to June 2, 2025, the park transforms into a vibrant celebration of nature, food, and entertainment, and we’re here to break it all down. In this episode, we’ll share our top festival tips, including the best places to stay, how to plan your visit, and how to make the most of your time (and budget). We’ll also highlight must-try dishes,...
Mar 11, 2025•2 hr 53 min•Ep 768•Transcript available on Metacast In this heartfelt episode, I am honored to share the inspiring story of Liz Hatton, a talented young photographer whose passion for Disney, love for photography, and unwavering strength left a lasting impact on everyone she met. We’ll take a look at how Liz’s love for Disney first began, how her family fell in love with Disney Cruise Line, and the special connections they made along the way, including meeting Jessica and Landon (former Disney Cast Members and owners of Vacation Grocery Delivery)...
Mar 07, 2025•47 min•Ep 767•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving deep into the most immersive rides at Walt Disney World, breaking down what makes these attractions feel like more than just a ride—they’re fully realized worlds that transport guests into adventure, fantasy, and storytelling like never before. From the eerie halls of the Haunted Mansion to the high-speed thrills of Cosmic Rewind, we’re ranking the top 10 most immersive rides based on theme, queue experience, ride elements, and Cast Member interactions. We’ll discuss how each attrac...
Mar 04, 2025•49 min•Ep 766•Transcript available on Metacast We’re putting some of Magic Kingdom’s most iconic foods to the test. We’ll break down taste, value, portion size, and uniqueness to determine whether these fan-favorite Disney eats are truly worth your time and money—or if you should skip them. We’re diving into the most legendary snacks and meals, including the Nutella & Fresh Fruit Waffle from Sleepy Hollow, the cheeseburger spring rolls from the Adventureland cart, and the always-debated turkey leg. We’ll also take a look at sweet treats like...
Feb 28, 2025•49 min•Ep 765•Transcript available on Metacast We’re back with another installment of our Four for Forty for Four series, and this time, we’re taking on Disney’s Animal Kingdom! If you haven’t listened to our previous episodes covering Magic Kingdom (Ep. 720), EPCOT (Ep. 734), and Hollywood Studios (Ep. 743), be sure to check those out first. In this episode, we break down the best budget-friendly meals for a family of four under $40 at Animal Kingdom, exploring some of the park’s top quick-service spots. From Pizzafari’s shareable pizzas to...
Feb 25, 2025•40 min•Ep 764•Transcript available on Metacast If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of our Universal Orlando trip recap, be sure to go back and check it out first! We covered our stay at the Stella Nova Resort and our first time back in the Universal parks in quite some time. Now, in Part 2, we’re diving into one of the best parts of the trip—the food! Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is one of the best seasonal events, and this year’s Food and Beverage Booths did not disappoint! We’re breaking down some of our favorite dishes—all pac...
Feb 21, 2025•58 min•Ep 763•Transcript available on Metacast We made our way back to Disney and for the first time in a long time, also visited Universal Orlando, and in this two-part series, we’re sharing every detail of our adventure! In Part 1, we kick things off with our stay at the brand-new Stella Nova Resort, breaking down everything from the rooms and amenities to dining and overall value compared to Universal’s other hotels. Then, we step back into the Universal parks, revisiting some of our favorite attractions. From the intense thrills of Veloc...
Feb 18, 2025•1 hr•Ep 762•Transcript available on Metacast Love is in the air, and what better place to celebrate romance than Walt Disney World? In this special Valentine’s Day episode, we’re sharing the most magical date ideas for couples—from romantic dining and unique experiences to fun and playful Disney date nights. Plus, we’re featuring heartwarming listener love stories, proving that Disney truly is the most magical place to fall in love. You’ll hear incredible real-life Disney love stories, including first dates at Magic Kingdom, surprise propo...
Feb 14, 2025•50 min•Ep 761•Transcript available on Metacast Taking young kids to Walt Disney World can be magical, but let’s be real—it can also be overwhelming without the right plan! In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest questions parents ask: When is too young to take kids to Disney? Plus, we’re sharing our top tips, dining recommendations, and park strategies to make your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’ll cover the best resorts for families, must-know stroller hacks, how to navigate Lightning Lanes with little ones, an...
Feb 11, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep 760•Transcript available on Metacast Dining at Walt Disney World is a magical experience, but for picky eaters, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m joined by food blogger Jon Self to uncover the best dining spots, clever hacks, and must-know tips to make every meal a success for selective eaters! We’ll explore quick-service and table-service options across all four parks, as well as resort dining locations. From customizing orders with mobile ordering to navigating bufets, family dining and festivals, we’ll help you ...
Feb 07, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep 759•Transcript available on Metacast We’re back with another installment of our “Four Meals for Four People for $40” series, and this time, we’re heading to Disney’s Hollywood Studios! From Woody’s Lunchbox to Docking Bay 7, we’ve mapped out delicious and budget-friendly meals that prove you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy great food at Disney. Along the way, we’re sharing cost-saving dining tips, fun facts about Hollywood Studios dining locations, and even a bonus table-service meal for four under $80! Plus, did you know you...
Feb 04, 2025•36 min•Ep 758•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving back into our Listener Q&A series for Part 27 of our Mailbag! We’re tackling some fantastic questions from our listeners, covering everything from dream ride rethemes and World Showcase expansion ideas to building the ultimate Disney meal with dishes from different restaurants. We also break down Disney’s Memory Maker and PhotoPass, sharing insights on how to get the most out of it for your family trip. Plus, we brainstorm new character dining experiences, dream up Club 33 lounges f...
Jan 31, 2025•52 min•Ep 757•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving into all the highlights, and lowlights, from a quick, fun-filled trip where we spent time with friends and had a questionable stay at the Holiday Inn at Disney Springs, which for some may be a convenient and affordable resort right in the heart of all the action. From there, we’ll take you on a culinary journey, with stops at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ where we FINALLY try Art's Famous Fried Chicken, and Wailulu Bar & Grill, where we explored more of their unique and delicious menu...
Jan 28, 2025•1 hr 24 min•Ep 756•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving into a trip filled with delicious dining, unique accommodations, and unforgettable experiences! We kick things off with a review of the Delta Orlando Celebration Resort, where we explore everything from its location and amenities to the comfort, cleanliness, and overall value of the rooms. Whether you’re considering this resort for your next stay or just curious about its offerings, we’ll provide all the details you need. Next, we turn our attention to the food! From dining at Yak &...
Jan 24, 2025•48 min•Ep 755•Transcript available on Metacast We dive into the vibrant world of the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts! From jaw-dropping culinary creations to breathtaking artistic displays and captivating performances, we share our favorite moments, top food picks, and can’t-miss experiences. Whether it’s indulging in a deconstructed dish, marveling at chalk art masterpieces, or singing along to the Disney on Broadway concert series, there’s magic around every corner. We also discuss how this festival blends creativity, culture, and...
Jan 21, 2025•2 hr 51 min•Ep 754•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving into our Listener Q&A series for the 26th time! We’ll explore what Disney voice actor we’d love to interview and why, plus any interesting Disney facts we’ve recently learned. You’ll hear what we’d do if we hit the lottery and had $100,000 to spend on Disney Parks & Experiences, as well as our realistic picks for bands or artists to perform at Garden Rocks or Eat to the Beat. We’re also discussing our favorite Disney/Pixar animation styles, our top park, land, ride, resort, and rest...
Jan 17, 2025•52 min•Ep 753•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving into Part 25 of our Listener Q&A series and unpacking your magical questions! From playful hypotheticals to thoughtful Disney debates, we’ve got a mix of fun and insight you won’t want to miss. We’ll discuss which Disney characters we’d swap voices with for hilarious results, how to introduce a Disney newbie to the magic of Walt Disney World, and our thoughts on whether The Simpsons have a place in the parks. Plus, we explore how to convince a cruise skeptic to try a Disney cruise a...
Jan 14, 2025•48 min•Ep 752•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving into the magic, flavors, and fun of Epcot’s year-round festivals with an epic Festival Face-Off! From the artistic flair of the Festival of the Arts, to the blooms and bites of the Flower & Garden Festival, the global indulgence of the Food & Wine Festival, and the festive traditions of the Festival of the Holidays, we’ll compare entertainment, food, activities, and more. Which festival will come out on top? Grab your Festival Passport and join us as we debate and rank Epcot’s incre...
Jan 10, 2025•56 min•Ep 751•Transcript available on Metacast Step away from the hustle and bustle of the parks and join us for an exciting and fun-filled bracket challenge! In this episode, we explore the incredible world of Walt Disney World resorts and Disney Springs, pitting activities, dining experiences, and entertainment options against each other to crown the ultimate “Beyond the Parks” champion. Will a resort scavenger hunt outshine a relaxing spa day? Can live entertainment at Disney Springs top a Mickey-shaped tie-dye session? Tune in as we deba...
Jan 07, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep 750•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving back into our "Four For Forty For Four" series, and this time, we’re headed to EPCOT! Known for its diverse and delicious dining options, EPCOT can be a tricky spot for budget-friendly eats, but we’ve done the homework to bring you amazing meals that don’t break the bank. We’re sharing tips and tricks to feed your family of four for just $40. Tune in to discover how to enjoy EPCOT’s incredible flavors while sticking to your budget. Bon appétit, Disney style! MEI-Travel – Expertise. ...
Jan 03, 2025•32 min•Ep 749•Transcript available on Metacast As we close out another magical year, we’re taking a look back at 2024 to discuss the biggest Disney news, park highlights, and moments that stood out. Then, we’re turning our attention to 2025 to share what we’re most excited for, from attractions to special events. Join us for a fun and reflective episode as we celebrate the past and look forward to the future! MEI-Travel – Expertise. Ease. Value. No matter where you want to go, our trusted partner MEI-Travel, will handle the planning so you c...
Dec 31, 2024•56 min•Ep 748•Transcript available on Metacast We’re diving into an exciting blend of luxury and island vibes in this episode! First, we’ll share our experience staying at the newly refurbished Renaissance Orlando Resort & Spa, where contemporary design, upscale amenities, and prime location near Disney Springs set the stage for an unforgettable stay. Next, we’re heading over to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to explore the all-new Wailulu Bar and Grill, located at the stunning Island Tower of the Polynesian. From the fresh flavors to th...
Dec 27, 2024•55 min•Ep 747•Transcript available on Metacast Get ready for a festive celebration like no other! Join us for a holiday livestream spectacular filled with Christmas cheer and magical moments: ✨ Sip on a delicious Christmas mocktail. 🎁 Discover Disney holiday fun facts you never knew. 📽️ Share in the joy of our favorite Christmas movies. 🎅 Special guest appearance from Santa Claus himself! 🍿 Debate the best movie Santas of all time. 🌍 Play “Eat It or Beat It” as we explore traditional Christmas dishes from around the globe. 🎄 Reflect on...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Ep 746•Transcript available on Metacast 
