Explore every episode of the podcast Queen of Parks

I’m back at Oogie Boogie Bash for 2026 — and I have thoughts! 🎃😈

In this episode of Queen of Parks, I’m sharing my full review of this year’s Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure, along with the things I think you need to know before you go.

We’re talking about the Disney Villains and treat trails, Villains Grove, the Headless Horseman, Madame Leota’s Swinging Wake Parade, costumes, crowds, ride wait times, and just how FAST those five party hours go.

I also share some tips for making the most of your night, what I think is worth prioritizing, and what you can realistically fit into those five official party hours.

And before the party even begins, we’re heading to Din Tai Fung at Downtown Disney! I’ll share our experience, what we ordered, and whether I think it’s a good choice for your Disneyland day. 🥟✨

I’ll also compare Oogie Boogie Bash with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World — including how the two parties feel, what each one does best, and which experience I personally prefer. 🎃🏰

If you’re heading to Oogie Boogie Bash in 2026, trying to decide whether it’s worth the ticket price, or just want to know what to expect — pull up a chair! We’re getting into all of it. 🎃✨

👑 Queen of Parks — theme parks, travel, and plenty of opinions from someone who actually loves being in the parks.

#OogieBoogieBash #OogieBoogieBash2026 #Disneyland #DisneyCaliforniaAdventure #DowntownDisney #DinTaiFung #MadameLeota #DisneyHalloween #DisneyVillains #QueenOfParks

This week, I pull up a chair with David, a film student in Brazil who creates amazing content exploring movies, storytelling, and all the little details we may not always notice.

We dive into Disney storytelling, live-action adaptations, villains, and what makes a story really work — and then bring that conversation into the parks. From Maleficent to the upcoming Villains Land, we talk about how storytelling translates from the screen into the lands and experiences we step into.

It’s a fun conversation about the details that make Disney feel like Disney, where storytelling can sometimes miss the mark, and what we hope to see as the parks continue to evolve.

✨ Find David:

TikTok/Instagram: ​⁠ 

Patrion/YouTube:@theeditorsarchive

🎙️ Follow Queen of Parks:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queenofparkspod/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@queenofparkspod

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/queen-of-parks/id1848966556

Pull up a chair and join us! 🏰✨

Sometimes life happens, plans change, and you reach into your back pocket for an episode you’ve been saving for exactly the right moment.

This week, I’m joined by my sister-in-law for a conversation about experiencing Disney while pregnant—from navigating the parks and figuring out what you can (and can’t) do, to what the experience actually feels like when you’re expecting.

But, as conversations tend to do around here, we don’t stay on one subject for long. We also get into bachelorette trips, traveling together, and one Airbnb experience that went very, very wrong.

This episode was recorded a while back, and listening to it again reminded me why I love these kinds of conversations so much. It’s relaxed, it wanders, we laugh, and it feels a whole lot like pulling up a chair and talking Disney with someone you know.

So grab a drink from the fridge, pull up a chair, and welcome to Queen of Parks. 👑✨

🌺 Welcome to the very first episode of the It’s a Small World series!

What happens when Disney’s version of a destination inspires you to experience the real thing?

In this episode, we’re taking a look at Hawaii—from the hula dancers of It’s a Small World to our own family adventure exploring Maui and Kauaʻi. We’ll share what surprised us, our favorite experiences, what we’d do differently, and whether Hawaii lived up to the dream.

Whether you’re planning your own Hawaiian vacation, love Disney parks, or just enjoy hearing about incredible destinations, pull up a chair and join the conversation.

✨ In this episode:

• 🌺 Our Maui & Kauaʻi highlights
• 🚗 Road to Hāna adventures
• 🐠 Molokini snorkeling
• 🏖️ Favorite beaches and local food
• 🎢 How Disney’s It’s a Small World connects us to real-world travel
• 💙 What we’d do differently next time

This is the first stop in a new series where we’ll explore destinations from around the world through the lens of Disney’s It’s a Small World—comparing the attraction’s inspiration with the places themselves.

🥤 Pull up a chair, grab a drink from the fridge, and welcome to Queen of Parks.

Think Walt Disney World is only worth visiting with a park ticket? Think again!

In this first episode of Beyond the Parks, Bree and I explore all the incredible Disney experiences you can enjoy without ever stepping inside a theme park. From resort hopping and mini golf to unique dining, transportation adventures, and hidden gems, we’re sharing our favorite ways to experience the magic beyond the gates.

Whether you’re taking a rest day, looking for a budget-friendly Disney experience, or planning a trip without park tickets, this episode will show you there’s so much more to Walt Disney World than the rides.

✨ In this episode:
• Resort hopping
• Fantasia Gardens Mini Golf
• Disney transportation adventures
• Unique dining experiences
• Hidden Disney magic
• Tips for no-park days

💬 What’s your favorite thing to do at Walt Disney World without a park ticket? Let me know in the comments!

🎧 Subscribe for more Disney, Universal, and theme park conversations every week.

#DisneyWorld #WaltDisneyWorld #DisneyResorts #DisneyVacation #DisneyTips #QueenOfParks #BeyondTheParks

🎙️Listen to more Queen of Parks episodes and please Follow the show! Leave a comment and give a Like👍On this episode I, Holly/Queen of Parks and my sidekick the Theme Park Princess dive into the world of theme park queues. From awe-inspiring lines and hidden details to time-saving strategies for avoiding the longest waits, we cover it all. Along the way , Officer Clawhauser even helps hand out a few playful queue citations for some questionable park queue behavior.🤨😂Come along as we travel through Disney and beyond to explore some of our favorite queues, biggest pet peeves, and best tips for making the most of your next park day!Come along as we travel all around the Parks and ...stand in some lines🫠✨

What happens when park fashion becomes part of the theme park experience?

This week on Queen of Parks, I’m joined by Heather from Ginger on Main Street for a fun conversation about the evolution of Disney style and what we’re wearing in the parks now.

✨ Follow Heather / Ginger on Main Street:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gingeronmainstreet

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gingeronmainstreet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gingeronmainstreet

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gingeronmainstreet

🎙️ Follow Queen of Parks:

Instagram: @queenofparkspodcast

YouTube: @queenofparkspodcast

We chat about DisneyBounding, park fashion trends, alternatives to matching family shirts, “dad wear,” and some of the creative ways families and friend groups make park outfits part of the fun. We also share money-saving tips, favorite park photo locations, packing advice, and ideas for creating memorable trips without breaking the budget.

Whether you’re planning your next Disney vacation, looking for outfit inspiration, or just curious about how theme park style has evolved over the years, we hope you’ll pull up a chair and join the conversation.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing the show with a fellow theme park fan.

Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you next time in the parks!

Bonjour! Join Holly on a journey to Disneyland Paris as she shares the good, the bad, and the downright crazy moments from her family’s adventure.

From transportation mistakes learned the hard way to hotel choices, surprising cultural differences, and the little details that make Disneyland Paris unlike any other Disney destination, this episode offers an honest look at what it’s really like to visit one of the most unique Disney parks in the world.

Whether you’re planning your own Disneyland Paris vacation or simply dreaming of a future trip, you’ll find practical travel tips, firsthand experiences, and plenty of laughs along the way.

🎢 In this episode:

• Transportation tips and lessons learned

• Where to stay (and where we’d stay differently next time)

• What makes Disneyland Paris unique

• Surprising differences from U.S. Disney parks

• Family travel stories and memorable moments

✨ Subscribe to Queen of Parks for theme park stories, travel tips, honest reviews, and adventures from parks around the world.

#DisneylandParis #DisneyParks #ThemeParkPodcast #DisneyTravel #queenofparks 

Why do modern coasters feel so different now?

In this episode of Queen of Parks, Holly is joined by fellow theme park creator Theme Park Bro for a conversation about the evolution of thrill rides, immersive storytelling, and the future of theme parks around the world.

From high-intensity launches and next-generation coaster technology to the emotional pacing of dark rides and immersive lands, we explore how parks are changing the way guests experience excitement, atmosphere, and even downtime inside the parks themselves.

We also dive into:
• International theme park experiences
• The balance between thrills and immersion
• Why some rides stay with us emotionally
• The energy of running ride-to-ride vs slowing down and taking it all in
• How modern parks are blending storytelling with coaster innovation
• Epic Universe, evolving ride systems, and where theme parks may be headed next

Whether you love massive coasters, atmospheric dark rides, or simply the feeling of being inside a great theme park, this episode is all about what makes modern parks feel different in the best way.

Follow Queen of Parks for more theme park conversations, travel tips, immersive experiences, and park storytelling from around the world. ✨

In this episode of Queen of Parks, I’m joined by a special guest to talk about something I’ve been thinking about for a while—why Disney parks can feel different, and sometimes even easier, especially for neurodivergent guests and families.

We get into real experiences inside the parks, the unexpected moments that can make a difference, and why Disney can feel more comfortable than other environments. This is an honest, thoughtful conversation about what actually happens in those spaces—and why it matters.

If you’ve ever felt like theme parks hit differently for you or your family, this episode is for you.

🎧 New episodes of Queen of Parks drop every other week
✨ Theme park tips, honest reviews, and real experiences from parks around the world

Connect with today’s guest:
👉 TikTok: Disney Dad Diary

Gluten free or not , this episode is packed with real Disney/theme park tips for food, heat, packing, and tried and tested strategies that actually work in real life!

If you’re gluten-free and planning a Disney trip, this episode is for you.

I’m joined by two frequent Disney visitors and DVC members who navigate the parks gluten-free every time they go. We’re talking what actually works, what to avoid, and how to make dining feel easy instead of stressful.

We also touch on navigating the parks with POTS and what helps make those long park days more manageable.

Whether you’re newly gluten-free or just want a smoother experience, this is the kind of real-life advice you don’t always hear.

✨ As always, everything mentioned is linked in the show notes.

After a last-minute shift in plans (including a Maui trip that didn’t go as expected), we found ourselves pivoting to Disneyland—and it turned into something really special.

In this episode, I’m sharing a mix of real-life moments, honest reviews, and little things I noticed along the way—from where we stayed to what we ate and what I’d actually recommend if you’re planning your own trip.

We kept this one a little lighter and more experience-based, so think: what it felt like, what stood out, and what I’d do again (or skip next time).

I’m talking about:

• Our stay at the Howard Johnson (HoJo) and how it worked for our trip

• Lamplight Lounge and whether it lived up to the hype

• The Plaza Inn Paint the Night dining package (and if it’s worth it)

• A fun surprise moment at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail

• Some small tips and observations that made a difference

• And of course… a little travel chaos and family antics along the way 😅

I also share a bit about our Airbnb situation and how everything shifted before we even got there.

If you love hearing what a trip is actually like—not just the highlight reel—you’re going to feel right at home in this one. ✨

If you’ve ever looked at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and wondered… is it actually worth it? — this episode is for you.

In this episode of Queen of Parks, I’m breaking down what the Aulani experience really feels like, what you’re actually paying for, and who this resort is truly for.

But we’re also going beyond the resort — from car rental tips to things to do around the island, I’m sharing how Aulani fits into a real Hawaii vacation and how to make the most of your time on Oahu.

And if staying at Aulani isn’t in your plans, I’ve got you covered with ways to still experience Aulani without staying there, so you don’t miss out completely.

✨ In this episode:

• What makes Aulani different from other Disney resorts

• What you’re really paying for

• Why Aulani can be a great fit — even for someone who doesn’t love the typical theme park chaos

• Car rental tips + getting around Oahu

• Things to do beyond the resort

• How to enjoy Aulani without staying there

• My honest experience + surprises

Whether you’re planning a Hawaii trip or just curious about Disney’s island resort, this will help you decide if Aulani belongs on your list.

The Disney Skyliner is one of the most talked-about transportation options at Walt Disney World — but is it actually worth using?

In this episode of Queen of Parks, I break down everything you need to know about the Disney Skyliner, from how it works and which resorts it serves to what it really feels like to ride (including if you’re nervous about heights). We’ll cover the pros, the cons, common misconceptions, and when the Skyliner can completely change how your Disney trip flows.

Whether you’re planning your first trip, choosing a resort, or just curious if the Skyliner is for you, this episode gives you a calm, honest look at it from every angle — no hype, no fear-mongering, just real talk.

✨ Grab a comfy seat and let’s talk Skyliner.

Come have a seat and chill out with your host Holly and co-pilot Coco, theme park princess, as they chat about their trip to Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea. They will also chat about staying at the newest hotel at Tokyo DisneySea the beautiful Fantasy Springs Hotel as well as the Toy Story Hotel. Should you get a vacation package? How much cheaper is it than Walt Disney World and lots of tips as well!

Don't forget to follow @queenofparkspod on Instagram to see photos and video clips of their experience!

If you would like to watch the video of this podcast you can find them on YouTube @queenofparkspodcast

In this episode of Queen of Parks, Holly and the Theme Park Princess share your Zootopia 2 movie review, chat about where Zootopia currently exists in the Disney parks, and have some fun imagining creative rethemes of existing attractions that could bring the world to life in a bigger way.

From what worked in the movie to why Zootopia feels underused in the parks, this episode is part review, part theme park deep dive, and part "Disney, please do this."

In this episode :

- Zootopia 2 spoilers

-light movie review

- Where Zootopia exists in Disney Parks around the globe today

- Why Zootopia deserves more park love

- Fun ride & land retime ideas using existing attractions

-Would you want a Zootopia land??

Listen to Queen of Parks biweekly for theme park talk, insider tips, and a little bit of magic.

Listen on Spotify , Apple Podcast and watch on YouTube

Follow Queen of Parks Instagram:  ⁨@queenofparkspodcast⁩ 

TikTok: @castthemagictravel

In this episode Holly from Queen of Parks podcast, takes you on a journey with her guest Bree, to Walt Disney World at Christmas time!We follow along Bree's fun at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party from this 2025 season! Including the Dessert Party, Christmas cookie trail, and hear all about her character encounters and Holiday fun at the Magic Kingdom park!!We also get to hear about her experience staying at Disney's Pop Century Resort and other resorts she visited to soak up the Christmas Vibes! And finally she wines and dines us at Disney Springs Maria and Enzo's Ristorante followed by a a fun Birthday treat and surprise at Cake Bake Shop!!We have so much fun chatting and can't wait for you to join us to talk Christmastime at Walt Disney World!

Thinking about celebrating Mardi Gras at Disney or Universal instead of Bourbon Street? Let's talk about what each park offers — and what the vibe actually feels like.

In this episode of Queen of Parks, I’m breaking down what you can expect at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Universal, including festive offerings, atmosphere, and even hotel experiences that keep the celebration going.

Grab your beads and listen along for colorful parades, Carnival-inspired eats, and theme park Mardi Gras magic. 🎭✨

✨ Follow for more theme park travel tips, seasonal events, and immersive park experiences.

Dear gentle reader… what if Bridgerton had its own theme park?

In this episode of Queen of Parks, I’m designing a Regency-inspired park experience built around atmosphere, promenade culture, immersive dining, grand houses, character meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, and beautifully curated merchandise worthy of the ton.

Think elegant strolls, social strategy, whispered scandals, and living inside the drama — without ever boarding a roller coaster.

This park doesn’t exist… but after today, you may wish it did.

Let’s step into society. ✨

In this episode of Queen of Parks, we review our March 2025 trip to Hong Kong Disneyland, including a full look at Disney Explorers Lodge, dining experiences at the hotel and inside the park, and a walkthrough of major attractions and park atmosphere.

I’m joined at the end of the episode by my husband for a 15-minute conversation about why he believes this park might be the best Disney park in the world.

We talk about transportation from the airport, hotel grounds and rooms, restaurant experiences, classic attractions like Jungle Cruise and it’s a small world, the Marvel attraction, the Moana show, and why this park feels like a thoughtful blend of Disney parks around the world.

If you’re curious about international Disney travel, hotel reviews, or how global Disney parks compare, this episode is for you.

Valentines Day is here, and we're counting down our top 5 favorite animated couples AND our picks for the most romantic rides at any theme park! Come gush and giggle as your host Holly and the Theme Park Princess duke it out for their Disney couples top spot! And then we give our favorite romantic ride..Which park and where do we go to experience it??💕🎢🌎

Whether you're planning a Valentine's park trip or just love a little romance magic, this episode is for you!

Listen for:

• Our top 5 animated couples🏰
• Most romantic ride🎢
• Fun banter & personal favorites!

This episode started as an EPCOT update — but it turned into something more personal than I expected.In this solo episode, I’m sharing honest thoughts on EPCOT’s recent changes, including Space 220, World Showcase, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. But I’m also opening up about a meaningful moment my son experienced at a new character meet and greet — one that caught me off guard and stayed with me long after we left the park.This episode is part planning, part reflection, and part reminder of why these parks can mean so much to families. If you’re planning an EPCOT visit or just love the emotional side of Disney, this one’s from the heart.

✨ Christmas around the World at the Disney Parks ✨

Celebrate the magic of the holidays as we explore Christmas festivities across Disney parks worldwide! From sparkling decorations at Disneyland Paris to seasonal treats at Tokyo Disney Resort, we dive into international holiday traditions, must-see shows, and insider tips to make your holiday park visits extra special.

Grab your cocoa, cozy up, and let’s travel the globe through the magic of Disney Christmas! 🎄✨

Today we're diving into all things Wicked!!

the new movie, our honest thoughts and reactions, and of course a theme-park spin, because this is Queen of Parks after all!

We break down what we loved, what surprised us, and how we have been changed for good. Then we shift into a fun "what-if" moment:

How could Wicked fit inside Universal's new Epic Universe Park?

From ride concepts to land design and even a few shops and food ideas, we explore what an Oz-themed space could look like if Universal ever wanted to bring it to life.

If you love movies, musical or theme parks, and especially Wicked, this is your cozy hang!

Thanks for listening!

It’s the most magical time of the year — and the coasts are glowing! In this festive episode of Queen of Parks, Holly takes you through Christmas at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort, comparing the vibes, the food, the entertainment, and everything new for 2025.

You’ll hear:
✨ The biggest differences between each coast during the holidays
🎄 What’s new for 2025
🍪 Festival of the Holidays highlights at EPCOT & DCA
📸 Best photo spots + cozy corners you’ll want to find
💫 Honest, calm, casually fun holiday storytelling

Whether you're planning a Christmas trip or just want to soak in the Disney vibes from home, this episode brings warmth, sparkle, and insider insight straight to your ears.

Holly from Queen of Parks and returning guest The Theme Park Princess give a fully honest review of Epic Universe the newest them park inUniversal Studios Orlando! From rides and shows throughout the portals to dining and one of their newest on-site hotels, they cover everything you need to know and what to expect before your visit!

Be sure to check out this episode on YouTube and Apple Podcast as well!

This week on Queen of Parks, Holly sits down with the Theme Park Princess~Coco for a first hand recap of Halloween Horror Nights 2025 at Universal Studios Orlando! From the haunted houses and Scream zones to the rides, show, and late night crowds, we're talking about everything she saw (and screamed through!).

Whether you're planning to go next year or just love the spooky side of the parks, this episode brings all the Halloween Horror Nights vibes straight to your ears.

Queen of Parks is your chill and magical escape into the world of theme parks- new episodes every other week!

Come along to Disney Worlds Magic Kingdom and explore Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party with me the Queen of Parks. We'll review the party together and we'll be talking Disney Magic and Swashbuckling fun at the Beak and Barrel. Tips,treats, tricks, and fun to be had here with the Queen of Parks!