Coaster Radio: The Original Theme Park Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of CoasterRadio, Mike and EB discuss the recent announcement of the "Big Bad Wolf" roller coaster reboot at Busch Gardens, a cancelled project in Orlando, and the changes at Cedar Point's Millennium Force. The conversation also covers enhancements to Disney's Tiana's Bayou Adventure, the testing of the Stardust Racers at Universal's Epic Universe, and listener engagement for Halloween haunts. The episode concludes with a thrilling trip report from Fear Farm in Canada, showcasing the excitement of local haunts. Finally, the guys delve into the question of whether being a coaster enthusiast is perceived as cool or scary, sharing listener perspectives and personal anecdotes. The conversation highlights the community aspect of theme park enthusiasts and the joy of sharing experiences with others.

This week, Mike and EB discuss the highly anticipated opening of Universal's Epic Universe, set for May 22, 2025. They delve into the ticketing structure, which requires multi-day purchases for access to the new park, and the implications of high ticket prices at both Universal and Disney parks. The conversation shifts to the rising costs of theme park experiences, including the new Lightning Lane Premier Pass at Disney, and how these changes affect the average family's ability to enjoy these attractions. The hosts express concerns about crowd management, the quality of experiences, and the overall affordability of theme park vacations. In this episode, the hosts discuss their experiences at theme parks, particularly Kings Dominion, and the excitement surrounding new attractions like Rapterra. They share stories about family adventures during Halloween events, the value of theme park memorabilia, and the immersive experiences found in haunted attractions. The conversation also highlights listener engagement and community interaction, emphasizing the fun and excitement of being part of the theme park enthusiast community.

This week, thanks to your listener questions, we get into some really interesting theme park talk. We discuss new rides, strange rumors and some interesting changes coming to the parks in 2025 and beyond!

This week, a lot of new rides were announced. We'll run them down for you. We also have news about how you can take a FREE behind-the-scenes tour of some of your favorite roller coasters. Plus, dark days for a major park chain and teenagers in Orlando.

We're joined by Nancy Heard from Glenwood Caverns to talk about their newest coaster "Defiance."

We also talk about changes at Carowinds, possible themes for Halloween Horror Nights, rumors out of Dollywood and a Harry Potter themed attraction near Mike.

Through the miracle of podcasting (and with the help of our listeners), we hear live reports from 10 different parks around the world!

On this week's show...

New photos from inside a higthly anticipated attraction, Teens cause a park to close early and  Mike has a review of Tumbili at Kings Dominion.

Lost Island Theme Park is reportedly having trouble attracting guests to its beautiful new theme park. Our listeners chime in about what they could do to get more people through the gates.

We also talk about Hersheypark's new Halloween event, Avengers at Disneyland Paris and rumors about Montezooma's Revenge at Knotts.

PLUS, your Live Trip Reports and the CR Mailbag!

A headlining attraction takes a step backwards. An anticipated ride won't open this year. A hacker takes control of Disneyland's Instagram. Plus, Live Trip Reports from parks around the country!

EB had three park visits in a week! He'll tell you all about his trips to Holiday World and Worlds of Fun. Plus, news about the closing of a major amusement park in the United States!