Soarin' Around WDW – Details, episodes & analysis

Happy Wednesday, foolish mortals! After a brief Haunted Mansion hiatus (thanks to all of our recent trip content), we’re finally climbing back into our doom buggies and continuing our journey through one of Disney’s most legendary attractions.

In this episode, we’re traveling around the globe to explore the different versions of the Haunted Mansion found in Disney parks worldwide. What originally started as a two-episode series has now expanded into four episodes, because every time we dig into this attraction’s history, we uncover even more fascinating details that are just too good not to share.

Today’s episode focuses entirely on the international variations of the Haunted Mansion, including how the story, setting, and even the tone change depending on the park and culture.

We’ll explore:

• Tokyo Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion, the only version located in Fantasyland and a bit of a time capsule that preserves scenes long removed from the American parks.

• Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris, the darkest and most story-driven version of the attraction, with a fully developed narrative tied directly to Frontierland and the tragic Ravenswood family.

• Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland, a completely reimagined take on the concept that removes ghosts entirely and replaces them with magical chaos inside the home of eccentric explorer Lord Henry Mystic.

Along the way we’ll talk about unique ride scenes, cultural influences, Imagineering choices, hidden Easter eggs, and even a fan-made Phantom Manor short film currently in production.

If you’re watching on YouTube, we’re also trying to include photos of each mansion’s exterior and some of the scenes we talk about throughout the episode.

Next week we’ll wrap up the series with the final episode covering holiday overlays, films inspired by the attraction, and some of our own Haunted Mansion stories.

So dim the lights, stay together please, and remember… there’s always room for one more.

YouTube link to Phantom Manor Bride's Song English Teaser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmkIYWaeUIY

In this episode, we’re taking you along for all the pre-trip planning for our upcoming Walt Disney World vacation! From rope drop strategies to snack must-haves and Lightning Lane plans, we’re sharing exactly how we’re preparing for a magical few days in the parks with our girls.

We walk through our full itinerary starting with arrival day and our first stay at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, plus a relaxing rest day that includes breakfast at Topolino's Terrace and dinner at Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' in Disney Springs.

Dad joins the episode to talk about the portion of the trip he’ll be joining us for, where he’s staying, and what he’s most excited to do when we head into Disney's Hollywood Studios together for the first time in years. We share our priorities for the day, including Slinky Dog Dash, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and OF COURSE ending the night with Fantasmic!.

We also break down our strategy for EPCOT rope drop (hello Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After), plus a potential ride on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. And of course we can’t forget Disney's Animal Kingdom, where our priorities include Avatar Flight of Passage, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and Expedition Everest before wrapping up the trip with dinner at Yak & Yeti Restaurant.

Along the way we’re also sharing:

• Our rope drop strategies

• Lightning Lane and ride priorities

• Our must-try snacks in each park

• Tips for traveling with kids (including stroller and packing plans)

• And how we’re balancing park time, pool time, and family time

If you love Disney planning, park strategies, and snack lists, this episode is for you!

Be sure to tune in because after the trip we’ll be sharing full trip recaps and a Trip Transparency episode where we break down exactly what we spent and how we save for our Disney vacations.

We’ll see ya real soon! ✨🏰✈️

In this episode of Soarin’ Around WDW, we’re checking into one of Walt Disney World’s most iconic attractions: the Hollywood Tower Hotel. Joined by my dad as co-host, we take a deep dive into the history, development, and legacy of The Twilight Zone: Tower of Terror.

We explore how the attraction came to life in the early 1990s as Disney-MGM Studios’ first true E-ticket, from its roots in abandoned Imagineering concepts to its opening alongside Sunset Boulevard on July 22, 1994. We discuss the creative minds behind the project, the decision to tie the story to The Twilight Zone, and the unexpected challenges, like a construction sinkhole, that shaped the final design.

Then we break down how the ride actually works, explaining the revolutionary elevator system, AGV ride vehicles, the Fifth Dimension illusion, and the powerful Otis motors that pull riders faster than gravity. We also talk about how the Tower evolved over time, from a single drop to today’s randomized drop sequences.

Along the way, we uncover some of our favorite Easter eggs hidden across the Tower’s versions around the world and discuss the 1997 Tower of Terror TV movie starring Kirsten Dunst and Steve Guttenberg.

From storytelling to engineering, this episode celebrates why the Tower of Terror remains one of Disney’s most beloved and brilliantly themed attractions.

Fasten your seatbelts and stow those tray tables, Flight Crew — because we’re officially cleared for takeoff into 2026! In today’s episode, I’m doing something I’ve never done before: ringing in the new year with six Disney trips already booked or in the works — spanning coast to coast, across the Atlantic, and even out to sea aboard the Disney Wish.

Think of this episode as my own personal Soarin’ Around the World, lifting off from California, gliding over to Florida, hopping across to Paris, and sailing the high seas — all packed with pixie dust, planning excitement, and big Disney dreams.

🎢 What’s on the 2026 flight path?
✈️ February 2026 – Adults-only Disneyland & Disney California Adventure trip (with a solo park day!)
🎂 March 2026 – Walt Disney World birthday surprise for Aili
🏰 June 2026 – Disneyland Paris + Disney Adventure Park before a family wedding in France
🏃 Late 2026 – Another attempt at the EveryRide Challenge with Reegan
🎃 October 2026 – A return to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
🛳️ BONUS – Planning ahead for a March 2027 girls cruise on the Disney Wish

We also share some exciting show updates, including guest appearances, collaborations with podcast friends, the launch of our brand-new Patreon, and our first affiliate partnership with TNT Shirts & Apparel with our new code SOARIN15 for 15% off of any purchase in their shop— plus exclusive show merch coming soon!

Whether you’re planning your very first Disney trip or your fiftieth, this episode is all about dreaming big, planning boldly, and soaking up every magical moment along the way.
What Disney trips do you have planned for 2026? And which of these adventures are you most excited to hear more about? Let us know in the comments or over on Instagram!

Here’s to a year filled with magic, memories, and plenty of pixie dust — thanks for being part of the Flight Crew as we Soarin’ into 2026! ✨🎆

In this special holiday minisode, we’re cozying up with cocoa and sharing our Very Magical Disney Wish List: our dream Disney bucket list items that would make the ultimate magical moment. From once-in-a-lifetime experiences to the simple traditions we’d love to check off, Olivia and Dad each reveal their top ten Disney wishes.

Whether you're wrapping gifts, traveling, or enjoying a quiet Christmas Eve moment, we hope this episode brings you a little joy and a sprinkle of Disney magic.

And we want to hear from YOU:What’s on your Magical Disney Wish List? Share it with us in the comments or over on Instagram @soarinaroundwdwpod!

Happy Holidays, Flight Crew! 🎄✨

We’re back with Part 3 of our Nostalgic Nights series, and Madi is joining me once again to talk all things The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement. From the film’s fast-tracked production and cast changes to Chris Pine’s iconic film debut, we break down what worked, what felt different from the original, and why this sequel still holds a special place for so many fans.

We also dive into the peak early-2000s soundtrack, behind-the-scenes Disney trivia, box office and critical reception, and our thoughts on whether Princess Diaries 3 can live up to the hype over 20 years later. Plus—Nicholas or Michael? 👀 Let the royal debate begin!

Link to the Caribbean shirt mentioned in the show from our friends and affiliate TNT Shirts and Apparel: 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/1769242907/i-usually-say-caribbean-pirates-of-the?sr_prefetch=1&pf_from=shop_home&ga_search_query=caribbean&ref=shop_items_search_8&pro=1&sts=1&logging_key=ad6a252f47520aae40fa25a9bd6e0d8e7ccb128e%3A1769242907

And our favorite Pirates Shirt from TNT Shirts and Apparel: 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/1713701923/dead-men-tell-no-tales-pirates-of-the?sr_prefetch=1&pf_from=shop_home&ga_search_query=caribbean&ref=shop_items_search_1&pro=1&sts=1&logging_key=5b82ea7b8423a16cb861f962ed9624d0736b71e1%3A1713701923

Use code SOARIN15 for 15% off 

This week on Parks of the Present, your votes sent us to Hollywood Studios, and the WED Wheel told us to dream up a brand-new sit-down restaurant. We each share our own blue-sky concept for Sunset Boulevard:

Olivia brings the iconic Tip Top Club to life with a 1939 Art Deco atmosphere, live jazz, ghostly cast members, timed “Fifth Dimension” moments, and a menu inspired by elevated Depression-era dishes.

Dad follows the Yellow Brick Road with a nostalgic Wizard of Oz restaurant featuring classic-style animatronics, a Dorothy meet-and-greet, themed cocktails, and cozy family-style dining.

Two totally different visions, one spectral and glamorous, one whimsical and vintage, both adding much-needed dining magic to Hollywood Studios. Stick around as we spin the wheel to reveal what we’re dreaming up next!

Welcome back, Flight Crew! ✈️✨In this soothing episode, we’re slowing things down and exploring the most peaceful places around Walt Disney World. Whether you’re a commando-style rope-dropper or someone who hits that midday wall hard, everyone needs a moment to breathe in the magic.

We’re breaking down our favorite low-key rides, quiet corners, and hidden hangouts across all four parks — plus a few relaxing escapes outside the parks. From the shady paths of Animal Kingdom to tucked-away benches in Hollywood Studios, to serene World Showcase gardens, we’ve got your next zen moment covered.

In this episode we explore:🌿 Quiet Spots in Each Park🍽️ Calm Corners at Quick-Service Spots 🚠 Relaxing Spaces Outside the Parks😄 Bonus Chill Zones

If you’ve ever thought, “I love Disney… but I need a minute,” this one’s for you.

In this special minisode, we’re taking a moment before heading home for the holiday to share just how grateful we are for YOU. We’re celebrating the amazing Disney podcast friends we’ve made along the way, highlighting their shows, and sharing why their creativity, kindness, and passion mean so much to us. We’re also sending a huge thank you to all of our listeners around the world and of course to my co-hosts, Dad and Reeg! As well as the magic of Disney that continues to inspire us week after week. Wishing you all a warm, joyful Thanksgiving surrounded by the people you’re most thankful for. We’ll see you next week!

This includes highlighting our friends:

@idiotsimagineering

@makeitmagicalpod

@whereilongtobe

@backlottours

@mickeyinminutes

And a few other special mentions as well! @disneytripreportpod @parentsondiseney @forceperspective

Welcome back, Flight Crew! ✈️ This week, we’re slowing things down and taking a deep breath of that sweet park air. In Relax, Take It Easy Part 1, we’re focusing on the attractions that help you unwind, recharge, and just be in the magic.

From the gentle spin of the PeopleMover and the classic tunes of Carousel of Progress, to the calm waters of Na’vi River Journey and the quiet beauty of Living with the Land — we’re sharing our go-to rides and shows that let you take it easy without ever leaving the fun behind. 🌿🎢

Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds, cool off, or just reset between thrills, this episode is your guide to finding a little peace in the parks.

💭 Where’s your favorite spot to relax on a ride? Come chill with us and share your go-to “breathe and recharge” attractions on Instagram @SoarinAroundWDWPod!