90s Disney

AJ, Mike, and Chris spent a wild weekend in Anaheim for BizzCon, hanging out in Disneyland, and visiting Club 33! Yes, thanks to a generous invite from a listener, we got to experience an extraordinary visit to one of Disneyland's most fabled locations. We also visited Oogie Boogie's Bash at Disney's California Adventure, road a runaway mine train through explosions, met Walt Disney, and bowed before royalty (it'll all make sense in the episode). 01:34 Why Disneyland BlizzCon 02:27 Trader Sam's Kickoff 04:35 DCA Before the Bash 05:24 Soarin Over America Review 06:45 Radiator Springs Halloween Fun 08:01 Avengers Campus Web Slingers 10:59 Guardians Monsters After Dark 13:30 Pixar Pier Rides and Dinner 15:27 Kingdom Hearts Meet and Greet 16:37 Oogie Boogie Villain Trails 24:39 Haunted Mansion Parade Show 27:16 Late Night Mishaps and Wrap 30:10 Next Day Rope Drop Plans 31:11 Peter Pan Praise 31:47 Ronto Wrap Breakfast 31:57 Coffee Quest Fails 32:59 Blue Milk Denied 34:30 Rise Cannons Talk 35:27 Smugglers Run…

Join us for one of our favorite 90s Disney traditions, the annual cocktail party. We've got three Disney cocktails plus a fourth sent in by a listener. We also have a variety of conversations and topics far too varied to list here. Come hang out with us and grab a beverage! If you're listening to this and want to watch, check out the VoD on Spotify! 00:00 Backyard Cocktail Kickoff 01:32 Mikey’s T-Rex Mojito Memory 03:51 Bartender Cam and Trip Talk 06:33 Oogie Boogie and Cartoon Nostalgia 12:14 Blender Drama and Rum Math 15:57 Mojito Taste Test 21:21 Disney Springs Bar Debate 23:36 Sake Boxes and Rum Rabbit Hole 26:02 Vodka Smuggling Storytime 27:05 Random Russian References 27:22 Blender Talk and Frozen Drinks 28:57 Disney Bars Wishlist 30:01 Haunted Mansion Bar Rumors 32:03 Universal Epic Universe Plans 36:32 Trip Dining and Epcot Ideas 40:34 Mint Debates and Movie Quotes 43:17 Banana Old Fashioned 46:49 Whiskey, Scotch, and Peaty Tastes 48:47 Bananas and Arepas 49:56 Allspice Drink Talk 50:35 Bitters…

We've got an action packed bonus episode! First we give our thoughts and reactions to the big park announcements at last week's D23! Then AJ tells us about his recent family trip to Walt Disney World. The kiddos dipped their toes into some new coasters, and the family got to experience the new Soarin' Across America, the updated Frozen Ever After, and the first night of Mickey's Not-so-Scary Halloween Party. 01:04 D23 Horizons Setup 01:51 Opening Number Reactions 02:31 Monstropolis Door Coaster 04:37 Villains Land Rumors 06:05 Wicked Queen Ride Debate 07:36 Tomorrowland and Figment News 09:50 Paris Space Mountain and Yeti Fix 10:58 Avengers and Encanto Reveals 13:39 Indy Jade Serpent Details 16:37 Piston Peak Cars Land 19:05 Carousel Progress and Spaceship Earth 24:01 Trip Report Begins 25:01 Typhoon Lagoon Logistics 26:19 Typhoon Lagoon Ride Highlights 27:17 Typhoon Lagoon Crowds 28:43 Storm Shutdown Escape 29:20 Dwight Bus Driver Rules 31:04 Boardwalk Night Tradition 32:51 Magic Kingdom Rope Drop 33:43…

Chris takes the driver's wheel as he recounts his family's most recent road trip to Texas which included stops at three different theme parks! Their first stop was at King's Island in Cincinnati, OH. After years of waiting, Chris and his son finally got to tame the legendary wooden roller coaster, The Best. Once in Texas, Chris tells us about their experience at the newly opened Universal Kids Resort! While some have complained about sparse offerings and half baked theming, it sounds like Chris's kiddos had a great time exploring this barely two week old theme park. Finally on the way home they checked off a Minotti family bucket list park, Dollywood! After years of accolades, Chris tells us if this park and its many attractions and roller coasters are worth the hype. 01:26 Three Parks Overview 02:10 Kings Island Beast Hype 04:50 Park Vibes and Phantom Theater 06:34 Jungle Jim's and Road Trip Stops 08:21 Slugger Museum Bat Surprise 10:21 Bucee's and Butter Knife Detour 13:08 Frisco and Dude Perfect Visit…

Get ready for a real slobber knocker as we throw down to list the top 20 things at Epcot. Between top tier attractions, fine shops, and exquisite dining, Epcot has a lot to offer. Find out if your favorite thing made the list! 01:36 Rules and Format 02:27 Test Track 3.0 Glow Up 04:05 Spaceship Earth Debate 05:31 Garden Grill Favorite Meal 09:01 Dreamlights Night Show 11:16 Club Cool Tasting Stop 12:52 La Cava del Tequila 17:51 Guardians Cosmic Rewind 21:09 American Adventure 25:32 Caramel Küche Treats 28:43 Moana Walkthrough Vibes 30:20 Ranking Night Lights 31:42 Ratatouille Without 3D 33:46 Living with the Land Love 37:23 Via Napoli Debate 40:12 Luminous Fireworks Talk 43:40 Frozen Ever After Hot Take 45:42 Teppan Edo Nostalgia 47:35 Soarin Versus Classics 51:08 Grand Fiesta Tour Charm 54:52 Reflections of China 56:27 Space 220 Theming 57:45 Rankings Recap 58:15 Biergarten Debate 01:00:04 Geo '82 Adults Only Lounge 01:03:08 Les Halles Breakfast Favorite 01:05:22 Regal Eagle BBQ Hype 01:08:22 Connections…

AJ, Mike, and Chris travel back to the golden age of the dinosaurs. That is, the animatronic ones design by Jim Henson's Creature Shop. That's right, we delving into the history and creation of the hit ABC family sitcom Dinosaurs. We explore the show's origins as a feature film idea from Jim Henson himself into a biting satirical sitcom that tackled ideas like warfare, drug use, and corporate greed. The sitcom used groundbreaking technology to create dinosaurs that utilized traditional puppetry and advanced animatronics. With each character requiring at least three performers, this show was a production unlike any in history. 00:00 Intro 01:23 Why Dinosaurs Rules 01:44 1991 Pop Culture Check 02:31 Henson Origins and Tech 03:33 From Film to Sitcom 04:41 After Henson and Disney Deal 05:47 Straight to Series Costs 06:36 Showrunners and Catchphrases 08:12 Satire and Environmental Themes 10:34 Designing Dinosaur Everymen 12:46 Triple Casting Explained 13:08 Main Cast Breakdown 21:49 Supporting Cast and Guests…

We decided to try a near impossible task. We rank the top 20 things at Disneyland park. We consider rides, food, places, and more. Tough decisions are made, battles are fought and won, and tears are shed. Let us know if we got it right or missed your favorite. 00:00 Bonus Episode Kickoff 01:08 Top 20 Disneyland Rules 02:06 Mark Twain Riverboat Love 03:09 Main Street Corn Dog Debate 05:10 Indiana Jones Adventure Pick 06:40 Big Thunder Mountain Praise 08:14 Small World Facade Vibes 10:13 Oga's Cantina Immersion 14:11 Churros and Snack Rankings 15:02 Matterhorn Night Ride Talk 17:21 Tiki Room Nostalgia 18:53 Dole Whip Hideaway Showdown 22:09 Mint Julep Beignets Mess 25:16 Pirates Classic Upgrade 25:52 Pirates Ranking Debate 27:09 List Recap and Reset 27:35 Millennium Falcon Love 30:25 Falcon Placement Fight 31:23 Fantasmic! Logistics 34:29 Disneyland Railroad Chill Ride 36:42 Rise vs. Indy Showdown 42:17 Lincoln and Haunted Mansion 46:08 Space Mountain Soundtrack 48:54 Monorail and Mr. Toad 51:52 Star Tours…

AJ, Mike, and Chris take a trip down to Disney's BoardWalk. Join us as we explore its earliest origins as an expansion to DVC, a standalone entertainment district, and even a mini amusement park. We talk about the changes over the years, and our own trips and memories. 00:00 Podcast Intro 01:17 Mission Space Debate 01:49 Ranking The Simulator 02:26 Guardians Versus Orange 03:01 BoardWalk Resort Intro 03:13 1996 Pop Culture Check 04:50 Early DVC Expansion Plans 08:04 BoardWalk Entertainment Vision 18:53 Stern Design Philosophy 21:55 DVC Timeline And Hilton Head 24:54 Vero Beach And Bad Googling 25:28 Vero Beach Surprise 25:48 BoardWalk Room Counts 27:08 Convention Space Talk 28:00 Why Visit BoardWalk 30:54 Opening Day Brochure 31:21 Clown Slide Debate 33:30 Atlantic Dance Hall 34:51 Jellyrolls Memories 35:58 Big River Brewery 36:18 Flying Fish Favorite 37:59 Spoodles And Zoop 39:43 ESPN Club Glory Days 42:51 Closures And Replacements 45:27 Abracadabar And Trader Sams 48:25 Streetmosphere and Midway 49:22…

What can be more fun than getting into a box and shaking around while watching a movie screen? We're ranking every simulator attraction at the US based Disney and Universal parks. Find out where your favorite ranks! 00:00 Intro 01:44 Rules and Park Plan 02:28 Epcot Body Wars 04:16 Soarin Counts as Simulator 05:52 Soarin Versions Ranked 08:01 Journey to Jerusalem Deep Cut 09:19 What Counts as Simulator 10:00 Hollywood Studios Star Tours 11:30 Smugglers Run Debate 13:40 Flight of Passage 17:12 Universal Enters the Chat 17:23 Hanna-Barbera Classic 20:34 Nicktoon Blast Era 21:55 Minion Mayhem Today 23:04 Minions Ride Talk 23:40 Jimmy Fallon Debate 26:10 Back to the Future Love 27:54 Simpsons Ride Rankings 29:37 What Counts as Simulator 33:58 Final Ranking Readout 34:45 Fast and Furious Sidebar 36:54 Listener Mailbag 42:18 Disney Park Outfit Memories 44:47 Wrap Up and Anniversary Follow Us Blue Sky | Facebook | Threads | Instagram Email: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

Lightspeed for the Moon of Endor as AJ, Mike, and Chris welcome you aboard Star Tours! This classic Disney attraction brought George Lucas's Star Wars universe to the Disney parks around the world in a big way, and its legacy continues today. Learn how motion simulators were first planned for Disneyland, the initial ideas for Star Wars attractions, and how this journey continues today. 00:00 May the Fourth Banter 01:44 Why Star Tours Now 02:25 1987 Pop Culture Time Capsule 03:39 Origins of Simulator Rides 08:30 Eisner Pushes New IP 09:59 Early Star Wars Ride Concepts 12:34 Lucas Partnership and Tech 15:06 Building the Ride Film 18:11 From Inner Space to Star Tours 19:25 Grand Opening Hype 20:38 Queue Storytelling Begins 25:18 Droids and Maintenance Bay 27:27 Safety Video and Loading 29:28 Boarding the Star Speeder 30:46 Cast Member Comedy 31:33 Rex Animatronic Reveal 32:24 Maintenance Bay Drop 33:30 Lightspeed and Comets 35:36 Death Star Trench Run 37:12 Canon Timeline Debate 38:38 Landing and Exit Music…

AJ is joined by Jeff Blyth, the director of The Timekeeper! Jeff discusses his early film career working as a helicopter cinematographer, his first time working with Circle-Vision, and the development of The Timekeeper. We debunk a long standing myth, uncover previously unknown details about the cast, and learn more about the challenges of filming in 360 degrees. You won't want to miss this! 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:28 Early Filmmaking Roots 02:31 Helicopter Work on The Shining 04:29 Wonders of China for Epcot 08:40 Learning Circle-Vision Basics 13:17 Hiding the Crew in 360 17:58 Pushing Tech and Complexity 26:47 Timekeeper Development and Eisner Notes 30:26 Building Nine Eye for the Mirror 31:53 International Cuts and Missing Scenes 32:25 Japan Version Effects 34:28 International Cut Decisions 35:46 Directing Voice Talent 37:15 Nerd Vision Scrutiny 40:52 Robin Williams Myth 47:54 French Timekeeper Debate 49:38 Can Timekeeper Return 52:05 Alex Mack Adventures 55:58 Future of Circle Vision 57:11 Book…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as we travel back in time to 1994 to visit the Timekeeper. This beloved Circle-Vision 360 attraction revolutionized the format with innovative film techniques, special in-theater effects, and elaborate audio-animatronics. With memorable performances from the likes of Robin Williams and Jeremy Irons, this global attraction delighted guests in France, Florida, and Tokyo. We'd love to take the time to take you through time, so join us! 00:00 Podcast Welcome 02:03 1994 Pop Culture Check 03:08 Circle Vision Explained 05:03 From Travelogue to Story 05:51 Creative Team Spotlight 06:35 The Cast 09:07 International Versions 14:20 Animatronics in 360 15:07 Origins Paris and Tokyo 19:34 Almost Came to Disneyland 20:45 Plot Walkthrough Begins 22:16 Time Travel Misadventures 24:30 Jules Verne in Present 25:37 Modern World Montage 26:54 Future Paris Finale 27:24 Production Challenges 30:03 Mozart Scene Secrets 33:38 Train and Car Stunts 36:36 Underwater Camera Rig 37:47 Underwater Close Call 38:46…

For this bonus episode of 90s Disney, we rank theme park weenies! From castles to golf balls and ski jumps, we decide which park icons look the best. 00:00 Intro 00:32 What Is a Park Weenie 01:48 Cinderella Castle 04:04 Spaceship Earth 07:06 Animal Kingdom Tree of Life 09:55 Other Animal Kingdom Weenies 11:54 Hollywood Studios Weenie Fight 16:14 Disney World Rankings Recap 16:45 Water Parks Icons 19:52 Universal Orlando Icons 24:47 Volcano Bay and Epic Universe 29:39 California Parks Begin 30:01 Castle Icon Debate 30:50 Ranking the Castle 32:31 California Adventure Icon Hunt 35:28 Mickey Wheel Verdict 39:22 Universal Globe Showdown 40:12 Final Weenie Rankings 41:55 Mailbag 44:30 Bread Service 46:19 Coaster Fear Tips 47:29 Villains Land Reactions 49:37 Off Brand Park Shirts 51:49 Trip Report Highlights 54:43 Live Chat Food Questions 56:30 Bat Versus Knife Debate 58:24 Next Episode Teaser 01:00:34 Wrap Up and Farewell Follow Us ⁠Blue Sky⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Threads⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ Email: ⁠90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

AJ, Mike, and Chris Minotti celebrate Cinderella Castle's return to its classic grey and blue color scheme by exploring the history of the 25th Anniversary Cinderella Castle Cake. We reveal the creators behind this architectural confection, the surprising building materials utilized, and the one brand name of candy that was allowed to be included. While it was polarizing during its 15 month run, we always had a sweet spot for this special bit of Disney magic. Did the castle cake ruin your wedding photos or disrupt your Walt Disney World vacation? 00:00 Introduction 00:41 Why the Cake Castle 01:27 1996 Pop Culture Check 03:05 Designing Cinderella Castle 05:05 Myths Materials and Scale 11:43 Other Disney Castles 13:00 Epcot Icon Idea Scrapped 15:48 Eisner Goes Full Cake 19:58 Candy Design Challenges 23:08 Building with Balloons 28:43 Cake Castle Stats Timeline 29:55 Love It or Hate It 32:14 50th Anniversary Critique 33:08 Happily Ever After Projections 34:12 Millennium Wand and Epcot Decor 35:41 Studios Icons…

AJ, Mike, and Chris are here to discuss AJ's recent three day trip to Walt Disney World with our dad! In 72 hours, we hit all four parks, and thanks to minimal sleep, we did a lot! Check out AJ's opinions on some newer attractions he got to experience for the first time including Tron Lightcycle/Run, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, and Test Track 3.0. Hear his thoughts on some excellent meals and drinks at old and new favorite places ranging from California Grill to Beak and Barrel. AJ just may have found a new favorite Disney cocktail on this trip! 03:06 Day 1 - Magic Kingdom & Epcot After Hours 26:14 Day 2 - Epcot 41:16 Day 3 - Animal Kingdom & Hollywood Studios 01:08:03 Listener Emails 01:15:33 Wrap-Up Follow Us ⁠Blue Sky⁠ | ⁠Twitter/X⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Threads⁠ | ⁠@90sdisneypodcast⁠ Email: ⁠90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

AJ, Mike, and Chris play a diabolical game. Starting in Walt Disney World then moving to Universal Orlando, we are only allowed to save one ride, one show, one shop, one quick service, and one table service restaurant at each park. Will your favorite make the cut? Did we forget something? Give us your picks! 0:00 Introduction and Game Setup 01:20 Magic Kingdom 15:04 Epcot 22:00 Hollywood Studios 30:10 Animal Kingdom 36:16 The Ultimate Choice Ultimate Choice 40:15 Universal Studios 46:32 Islands of Adventure 51:51 Epic Universe 01:02:49 Listener Emails

In this episode of 90s Disney, we kick off a new tradition by hopping back exactly 30 years to explore what Walt Disney World was like in 1996. We talk about what was new, what was changing, and what was on the horizon, as Walt Disney World continued to grow into a true multi-day destination. From evolving attractions and live entertainment to shifting priorities across the resort, 1996 captures Disney in a moment of transition, balancing experimentation, expansion, and the expectations of a rapidly growing audience.Outside the parks, we also dig into how the resort itself was expanding, with new places to stay, shop, and spend time that reshaped how guests experienced Walt Disney World beyond the gates. Along the way, we share memories, listener emails, and reflections on how this era of Disney felt at the time, and how it looks in hindsight. Whether you lived it firsthand or are discovering it through old photos and home videos, this episode is a relaxed, nostalgic look at a year that helped define the…

It’s a very special holiday episode of 90s Disney as we celebrate both the Christmas season and Mikey’s birthday with a full Walt Disney World trip report! Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they unwrap a whirlwind week of festive experiences across the parks and resorts. Mike kicks off the trip at the brand-new Polynesian tower, a first look inside the Pirates of the Caribbean–themed lounge, Beak & Barrel, live jazz at Scat Cat’s Lounge, and and Jollywood Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Mike also makes time for a visit to Epic Universe, checking out Donkey Kong Country, Celestial Park, rooftop drinks at the Grand Helios Hotel, and a standout dining experience at The Atlantic.The trip comes to a magical close at EPCOT with the Candlelight Processional, this time narrated by the incredible Susan Egan — Belle from Broadway and Megara from Disney’s Hercules. All that, plus listener emails about future Disney bar concepts, how theme parks balance story and spectacle, standout holiday traditions, and the eternal…

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, AJ, Mike, and Chris take on a challenge no one asked for but every Disney fan will have an opinion about: ranking every Walt Disney World Resort lobby! From the opulent grandeur of the Grand Floridian to the cozy, cabin comfort of Wilderness Lodge, the brothers go resort by resort, debating atmosphere, theming, nostalgia, smells (yes, the smells), and those special details that make each lobby unique. It’s a fun, chaotic journey full of tangents about Christmas trees, elevator races, cereal from the 90s, and even who has the best lobby bar. Whether you’re a fan of tiki torches or towering totems, this episode will make you want to visit every resort just to sit in the lobby. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:05 Ranking Disney World Hotel Lobbies 01:45 Grand Floridian Lobby Discussion 06:45 Contemporary Resort Lobby Insights 10:03 Polynesian Resort Lobby Review 14:16 Wilderness Lodge Lobby Impressions 16:39 Port Orleans and Old Key West Lobbies 20:09 Yacht and Beach Club…

AJ, Mike, and Chris go back to Disneyland in 1997 to explore the infamous, short-lived nighttime spectacular Light Magic, the ill-fated “spiritual successor” to the beloved Main Street Electrical Parade. Opening on May 23, 1997, Light Magic promised guests a high-tech evolution of the classic parade. What they got instead was something… different. Does Light Magic deserve its bad reputation, or was it simply a misunderstood experiment ahead of its time? We compare it to later nighttime “misses” like Rivers of Light and Harmonious. And of course, there’s talk of creepy pixie masks, Baroque Hoedown remixes, and how many cast members it really takes to sweep up confetti. 00:00 Introduction 01:05 Late Night Recording and World Series 01:10 Daylight Savings Debate 01:57 Light and Magic: The Ill-Fated Disneyland Spectacular 02:57 Main Street Electrical Parade History 06:21 The Rise and Fall of Light Magic 07:26 Technical Aspects and Challenges 20:03 Premiere and Public Reception 26:16 Legacy and Final Thoughts…

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, hosts AJ, Mike, and Chris discuss what it really means to “plus” a Disney attraction — that time-honored Imagineering term for enhancing or improving an existing ride without completely replacing it. Inspired by recent announcements about updates to attractions like Frozen Ever After and Ratatouille: The Adventure, the trio goes park by park through Walt Disney World to decide which attractions could use a little “plus” of their own — and which ones should be left alone. Plus, the brothers read listener emails about Epic Universe tips, favorite Disney holiday traditions, and must-try dining picks for upcoming trips. 00:00 Introduction and Announcements 02:30 Magic Kingdom: Tomorrowland Updates 05:45 Magic Kingdom: Fantasyland Enhancements 08:18 Magic Kingdom: Liberty Square and Frontierland 10:51 Magic Kingdom: Adventureland Improvements 12:34 Epcot: Future World and World Showcase 23:07 Hollywood Studios: Sunset Boulevard and Toy Story Land 26:24 Thought Experiment:…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as we dive into the history of Festival of the Lion King, one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved stage shows. Opening alongside Disney’s Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998, the show was originally designed as a quick, temporary solution, but it grew into a fan-favorite production that’s still running today. We explore the fascinating journey of the show, including: The origins of Camp Minnie-Mickey and the companion show Pocahontas and Her Forest Friends. How the Lion King Celebration Parade at Disneyland influenced Animal Kingdom’s show. Michael Eisner’s last-minute push for characters and stage shows at Animal Kingdom. Disney Legend Ron Logan’s leadership and the recycling of parade floats to create the production. Writer and director Reed Jones, his early Disney career, and his vision for a celebratory musical revue rather than a simple retelling of the film. A detailed walkthrough of the show itself from the Tumble Monkeys to the fire knife dancer to the aerial “Can You Feel the…

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, the Minotti decide the top 5 picks for the best live shows in the history of Disney-MGM Studios and Disney’s Hollywood Studios! From Broadway-style musicals to stunt spectaculars, atmospheric streetmosphere acts, and fan-favorite singalongs, we cover the entire run of Hollywood Studios’ entertainment offerings—past and present. Which ones made us laugh? Which ones made us cry? Which ones starred us? Expect arguments. Expect nostalgia. Expect Muppets. What’s your favorite show in the Studios? Let us know! 00:00 Introduction and Host Banter 01:27 Top 5 Live Shows at Disney Hollywood Studios 02:32 Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular 03:10 Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage 06:40 The Hunchback of Notre Dame Show 08:49 Voyage of The Little Mermaid 10:27 Here Come The Muppets 13:32 Ace Ventura and Other Oddities 16:51 Superstar Television Memories 20:43 Doug Live and Other Shows 30:06 Fantasmic! 32:06 Dick Tracy Diamond Double Cross 34:22 Hollywood's Pretty Woman and Other…

It belongs in a museum… or maybe just the theme park stage! This week on 90s Disney, we’re cracking the whip and diving into the boulder-sized legacy of Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! at Disney-MGM Studios. We explore the origins of this groundbreaking live-action stunt show, its connections to the opening of Disney’s third park in 1989, and the impact of Indy mania on everything from casting to explosions to theme park lore. From its high-flying choreography to its crowd-pleasing humor and behind-the-scenes gags, the Epic Stunt Spectacular has earned its place in the Hall of Theme Park Legends. We also talk about the real stunt work, rotating casts, audience volunteers, fire effects, and why this show remains one of the longest-running stage productions in theme park history, even as the rest of the park has changed around it. Plus, we share our own memories of seeing the show as kids and reflect on why the Epic Stunt Spectacular still holds up (even if the fedora is a little dusty).\ 00:00 Welcome…

Welcome to the great Moderate Resort Showdown! In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, AJ, Mike, and Chris debate and discuss the best—and maybe not-so-best—of Walt Disney World’s Moderate resort hotels. We cover each resort in the category: Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans Riverside, and Port Orleans French Quarter. Along the way, we talk themes, dining, transportation, pool vibes, price, and more—then we each rank our favorites. What makes a Moderate feel “just right”? Is the Skyliner a game-changer? Does a certain sweet treat tip the scale? Resorts Discussed: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter Whether you're planning your next stay or just like a good resort debate, this one’s for you. 00:00 Introduction and Host Banter 01:26 Ranking Disney's Moderate Resorts 01:53 Reflecting on Past Episodes and Experiences 03:03 Deep Dive into Disney's Moderate Resorts 07:04 Caribbean Beach Resort Review…

In this episode of 90s Disney, join hosts AJ, Mike, and Chris as they take you on a journey through a summer cocktail adventure, Disney style! The episode kicks off with the trio preparing for a fun-filled night of cocktail-making while reminiscing about their past Disney experiences. Each host introduces and makes a unique Disney-themed cocktail. This third annual summer cocktail episode promises new drink ideas, fun banter, and a dash of nostalgia for Disney fans. Be sure to try these amazing cocktails yourself and share your results with us! 00:00 Disclaimer 01:05 Introduction to the Podcast 02:04 Summer Cocktail Episode Begins 02:45 First Cocktail 03:15 Mixing and Tasting the Cocktail 03:57 Discussion on Cocktail Ingredients and Techniques 05:37 Memorable Drinking Experiences 21:49 Preparing the Next Cocktail 33:29 The Cranberry Juice Experience 34:00 Holiday Cocktails and Memories 35:42 Bartending Stories and Lounge Experiences 36:48 Exploring Unique Drink Recipes 39:33 Disney Lounge Favorites 40:46…

Sometimes you don’t have time for a sit-down meal in the parks, and honestly, sometimes you just want a really good cheeseburger. In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, the Minotti brothers share their favorite quick service meals from across Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando! From mobile order go-tos and cult-favorite entrees to hidden gems and legendary snacks, we’re serving up personal picks, strong opinions, and plenty of theme park food nostalgia. Share your go-to quick service meal with us! 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 01:13 Mike's Disney World Trip and Test Track 3.0 Preview 01:23 Favorite Quick Service Restaurants 01:41 Test Track 3.0 Experience 06:44 Magic Kingdom Highlights 08:32 Hollywood Studios and New Shows 11:54 Dining at the Mexico Pavilion 14:39 Universal Studios Adventures 17:22 Magic Kingdom Quick Service Debate 26:54 Epcot Quick Service Memories 28:57 Memories of the Land Pavilion 30:00 Epcot's Culinary Delights 36:17 Hollywood Studios Quick Service Options 44:27 Animal Kingdom's Best…

This week, we're setting sail with Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo, and Tim Curry as we revisit Muppet Treasure Island, Disney’s 1996 swashbuckling adventure that proved you can never have too many pirates... or Muppets. We explore how the Muppets returned to adapting literary classics after the success of Muppet Christmas Carol, why Gonzo and Rizzo were almost the stars of this film, and how Tim Curry's unforgettable Long John Silver performance (and laugh) practically made him a human Muppet. Along the way, we look at the film’s memorable songs by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, Hans Zimmer’s rousing score, and the challenges of filming on a full-size gimbaled ship set without sending the entire cast to the sick bay. We also share our memories of the movie’s 90s marketing, its reception, and why it remains such a fun retelling of a literary classic. 00:00 Welcome to 90s Disney Podcast 01:35 Introduction to Muppet Treasure Island 02:10 Muppet Treasure Island Release and Reception 04:14 Casting and Character Insights…

Which theme park lines are the most fun to stand in? Which queues are masterpieces of storytelling and design? In this bonus episode, the AJ, Mike, and Chris give their picks for the best lines (and maybe a few worst ones) across Disney and Universal theme parks. Whether it's for the set dressing, the nostalgia, or the sheer entertainment value, these are the places we're surprisingly happy to wait. From haunted mansions to enchanted forests to prehistoric jungles, queue up with us for a conversation full of laughs, surprises, and maybe even a few opinions you’ll disagree with. 00:00 Introduction 02:40 Favorite Theme Park Lines 05:09 Star Tours and Interactive Queues 09:21 Indiana Jones Adventure and Test Track 12:29 Avatar Flight of Passage and Space Mountain 17:59 Universal Studios and ET Adventure 19:58 Tower of Terror and Muppet Vision 3D 30:20 Dinosaur and Haunted Mansion 33:44 Disneyland's Seasonal Magic 33:59 The Best Outdoor Queues 35:12 Nostalgia for Body Wars 36:18 Universal's Unique Queues 36:47…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they dive deep into the legendary Adventurer’s Club at Walt Disney World’s Pleasure Island and explore how it inspired and connects to the global lore of Disney’s Society of Explorers and Adventurers (S.E.A.)! In this episode: The history of the Adventurer’s Club, its immersive theater roots, iconic characters, and quirky traditions like the famous “Kungaloosh!” What made the Club’s interactive shows, rooms, and animatronic moments so beloved and unforgettable The fan movement that tried to save it and where you can spot Easter eggs today How S.E.A. started in Tokyo DisneySea, key members like Harrison Hightower III, Lord Henry Mystic, and Mary Oceaneer, and how Disney has expanded the lore worldwide Details on the rumored Disney+ series and the planned S.E.A. feature film Fun drink recipes to recreate the spirit of the old Club at home 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 01:16 Podcast Milestones and Listener Appreciation 02:35 The Adventurous Club and Society of Explorers and…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris in this special bonus episode as they recount their recent adventures at Disney World and the unforgettable Epic Universe preview weekend. From thrilling rides to nostalgic moments, hear all about their experiences, favorite eats, and a surprising business announcement for Mike. Perfect for Disney enthusiasts and theme park lovers looking to live vicariously through their magical journey! 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 01:14 Disney World Trip Overview 01:55 Buc-ee’s First Impressions 03:01 Swan Hotel Experience 06:42 Epcot Adventures 12:36 Magic Kingdom Day 21:17 Animal Kingdom Day 30:50 Nostalgia for Dino Land 31:02 Harrison's First Rollercoaster 31:50 Waiting in Line for Flight of Passage 33:29 Dinner at Sana 34:57 Breakfast at 1900 Park Fair 40:31 Bippity Boppity Boutique Experience 44:52 Late Night at Magic Kingdom 53:49 Building Lightsabers at Galaxy's Edge 59:53 Farewell to Muppet Courtyard 01:02:39 Galaxy's Edge Adventures 01:02:52 Blue Milk Misadventures 01:03:08 Rise of the…

On your marks, get set, go! In this episode of 90s Disney, AJ, Mike, and Chris are racing through the magical history of runDisney, Disney’s official long-distance running series. Chris takes the lead with a look back at how Disney’s first road races began in the 1980s with "Jog with Jiminy," evolved into the Disney Endurance Series, and finally transformed into the runDisney events we know today. From humble beginnings to marathons through the theme parks, we explore how these events reshaped the Disney calendar, filled hotel rooms in the off-season, and inspired thousands of costumed runners to race for the medals, the memories—and the merch. Plus, we hear all about Chris’s firsthand experience running the Star Wars Half Marathon, complete with 4 AM start times, stormtrooper photo ops, and the joys and hazards of a 13.1-mile journey through Disney property. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a seasoned churro fan, this episode is your victory lap. Topics Covered The origins of runDisney: Jog with…

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, we’re going where no ranking has gone before—across the lands of both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure! Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they each bring their personal preferences, hot takes, and maybe a little bit of theme park chaos to the table. From nostalgia-soaked walkways to lands that are just “fine,” it’s time to figure out which parts of the Disneyland Resort reign supreme. One land must stand at the top… but getting there won’t be easy. Is it the immersive theming? The snacks? The rides? The bathrooms? It’s all fair game. Expect laughter, passionate debates, sibling rivalry, and maybe a few theme park truths you weren’t ready to hear. Follow Us: BlueSky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram Email us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

It’s Star Trek like you’ve never experienced it before… unless you were lucky enough to visit the Las Vegas Hilton in the late ’90s and early 2000s! This week, AJ, Mike, and Chris beam aboard Star Trek: The Experience, a one-of-a-kind immersive attraction that brought fans into the final frontier in the most Vegas way possible. From Klingon kidnappings to Quark’s Bar and even weddings on the bridge of the Enterprise, this was no ordinary theme park experience. We dive into how Las Vegas rebranded itself as a family destination in the ’90s, the abandoned dream of a full-size Enterprise downtown, and the Hilton’s transformation into a Trekker’s paradise. Relive iconic moments from Klingon Encounter, brave the Borg Invasion 4D, and explore everything from the gift shops and museum to the walkaround characters and their surprisingly deep lore. Plus, what killed this incredible attraction just before Trek’s 2009 comeback? And how did it influence the next generation of theme park storytelling? Things We Talked…

It's time for an extra special bonus episode of 90s Disney! This time, we're heading to Universal as Mike gets an exclusive first look at Universal Epic Universe! Thanks to a friend, Mike got to attend an employee preview of the highly anticipated new theme park, months before its grand opening. Mike walks AJ and Chris through the entire park, discussing his spoiler-free first impressions of Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and the Ministry of Magic. From groundbreaking ride technology to next-level theming and food, this episode is packed with early insights into the biggest new theme park in decades! Topics Discussed How Epic Universe compares to other major theme parks Celestial Park – The grand entrance and hub of the park Super Nintendo World – Bigger, better, and featuring Donkey Kong! Dark Universe – Universal Monsters come to life with an incredible dark ride and immersive theming How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk – A sleeper hit with…

All aboard! This week, we set sail on a deep dive into the history of the Disney Cruise Line. From its origins with the Big Red Boat to the launch of the Disney Magic in 1998, we explore how Disney transformed the cruise industry into a floating theme park experience. In This Episode: The fan-requested topic that led us to cover Disney Cruise Line history What pop culture looked like on July 30, 1998 – the launch date of the Disney Magic The evolution of Disney’s cruise offerings from the Big Red Boat partnership to their own fleet How Michael Eisner saw an opportunity to bring Disney magic to the seas The unique design and innovations of the early Disney Cruise Line ships The creation of Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay Expanding the fleet: The transition from the Magic and Wonder to the Dream, Fantasy, and beyond Recent expansions, including the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and upcoming ships What makes a Disney Cruise different from other cruise lines Mike’s first-hand experience on the Disney Wish…

Welcome to a special bonus episode of 90s Disney! Inspired by an email from listener Manny, we embark on the ultimate challenge: ranking all the pavilions in EPCOT's World Showcase. Which country reigns supreme, and which one needs a little extra magic? From drinking strategies to pavilion expansions, we debate it all! Topics Covered Preferred routes for drinking around the world (Mexico vs. Canada vs. International Gateway) Ranking all 11 pavilions in the World Showcase Which pavilions need an upgrade? The best snacks, restaurants, and drinks in each country Where does China really belong in the rankings? Why Germany’s caramel and beer keep it strong The impact of Ratatouille on France’s pavilion status What’s missing from the UK pavilion? How Morocco’s potential remains untapped Drinking Around the World Picks Big thanks to Manny for inspiring this episode! Let us know how you would rank the World Showcase pavilions. Send us an email or drop a comment on Blue Sky! Follow & Contact Us…

Welcome, explorers! This time on 90s Disney, we’re stepping into the jungle and exploring the history of Rainforest Cafe. From its ambitious start in the '90s as an immersive dining experience to its expansion across Disney properties and beyond, we break down how this animatronic-filled restaurant became a staple of themed dining! In This Episode: The origins of Rainforest Cafe and its quirky, ambitious founder. How Disney got involved and why the restaurant ended up in multiple theme parks. The ups, downs, and lasting impact of Rainforest Cafe on themed dining. Our personal memories and thoughts on the experience of dining in the wild! Follow Us: Blue Sky Twitter/X Facebook Threads Instagram 📩 Email us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com

In this special bonus episode, we take a musical journey through some of the most iconic and beloved songs from Disney attractions. Join us as we revisit the soundtracks that made our favorite rides unforgettable and discuss how these tunes elevate the park-going experience. Whether you’re humming along to One Little Spark or grooving to Nothing Can Stop Us Now, this episode will strike a nostalgic chord for any Disney fan.

Grab your hard hards and safety goggles. We've got some wrecking to do! In this episode, we delve into the fascinating and somewhat tragic story of Disney's Horizons. This groundbreaking EPCOT attraction captured imaginations with its vision of the future but eventually faded into history. We explore its conception, its importance in the broader context of Disney history, and its enduring legacy among Disney fans. Get ready for nostalgia, intrigue, and a deeper understanding of a beloved Disney gem. What You'll Learn in This Episode The origins and concept behind Horizons. Why Horizons resonated so deeply with visitors. The factors that led to its closure and ultimate demolition. How Horizons continues to influence Disney attractions today. The passionate fan community that keeps the memory of Horizons alive. Links and Resources RetroWDW's Full Ride-Through Video of Horizons Martin’s Ultimate Tribute to Horizons Defunctland: The History of Disney’s Horizons Horizons Resurrected Project Disney History…

In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, we sit down with our longtime friend Jeff Grubb to hear all about his recent family trip to Walt Disney World! Jeff takes us through the highlights, surprises, and challenges of visiting the parks with his wife and two young daughters. From character dining and iconic rides to Genie+ successes and park navigation adventures, this episode is packed with insights and laughs. What We Cover: Jeff's history with Disney Parks. First-time family experiences at Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Delicious meals, from the Crystal Palace to Ohana. His daughters' reactions to attractions like Flight of Passage and Rise of the Resistance. A bonus report on Mike and Jeff's recent day spent at Universal Studios Hollywood. How Jeff became a theme park fan for life. Plus, hear Jeff's take on how Disney delivers the magic for first-timers!

Ho ho ho, all you rad dudes and dudettes! Christmas is here on 90s Disney! Join AJ, Mike, and Chris Minotti as they unwrap the often-overlooked holiday treasure, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas. From festive fun to Forte's chilling villainy, we dive into the magic, the music, and the madness of this direct-to-video Disney sequel. Whether you're nostalgic for your VHS collection or curious about forgotten Disney Christmas lore, this is the episode for you! In This Episode: 🎥 The Enchanted Christmas Origins: A deep dive into the 1997 direct-to-video release. How Disney expanded their animation studios in Canada to capitalize on direct-to-video success. The scrapped sequel concept featuring Gaston’s vengeful brother, Avernon. 🎶 Music and Magic: Meet Tim Curry as Forte, Disney’s first fully CG-animated villain. Explore the festive soundtrack by Rachel Portman, including As Long as There’s Christmas and Forte’s villain song Don’t Fall in Love. Paige O’Hara’s surprise Christmas carol album—yes, it’s…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris in a special bonus episode of 90s Disney as they dive into their favorite individual moments from Disney and Universal attractions. They discuss standout scenes, thrilling rides, and iconic animatronics, from the Wicked Witch of the West in the Great Movie Ride to the launch of the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. Plus, they share tips for balancing adult and kids' desires on a Disney trip. Don't miss this nostalgic and insightful conversation about the wow factors in your favorite theme park experiences! 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Spirit 01:55 Discussing Disney's Best Attraction Moments 02:28 Radiator Springs Racers Highlights 04:04 Great Movie Ride Memories 05:35 PeopleMover and Rise of the Resistance 08:43 American Adventure and Pirates of the Caribbean 11:30 Tower of Terror and Fantasmic! 14:52 Universal Studios Highlights 22:30 Muppet Vision 3D and Final Thoughts 23:27 Haunted Mansion Highlights 24:25 Avatar Flight of Passage: A Magical Moment 26:12 Mario Kart Ride: Cloudtop Cruise…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris, as we discuss Disney's ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter at Magic Kingdom. Learn about the attraction's history, including its terrifying effects and controversial nature, and how it was eventually retooled and replaced by Stitch's Great Escape. We highlight the initial endeavor to incorporate the Alien franchise, the involvement of key figures like Michael Eisner and George Lucas, its integration into the 1994 Tomorrowland overhaul, and the development challenges. The episode also notes the enduring influence of the attraction, with references in other Disney-related projects and the subsequent use of the attraction space. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 01:12 Halloween Vibes and Spooky Talk 01:39 Alien Encounter at Magic Kingdom 02:53 Nostalgia Trip to 1995 05:41 Michael Eisner's Disney Decade 09:51 Alien Franchise and Disney Parks 15:16 Tomorrowland's Evolution 16:00 Mission to Mars and Tomorrowland 2055 24:07 Disneyland's Abandoned Plans 27:24 Walt Disney World's New Tomorrowland…

Join AJ, Chris, and Mike as we rank all of the currently open attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios! Did we snub your favorite? Do we overrate anything? Should Mike just get over it and ride Tower of Terror? Find out! 00:00 Introduction and Banter 00:30 Ranking Disney's Hollywood Studios Attractions 03:33 Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway Review 06:43 Star Tours: The Adventure Continues 11:10 Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular 14:33 Frozen Sing-Along Celebration 16:58 Muppet Vision 3D 20:41 Galaxy's Edge: Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run 23:41 Galaxy's Edge: Rise of the Resistance 26:34 Toy Story Land: Toy Story Mania 38:25 Embracing the Moment 38:36 Tower of Terror: A Timeless Classic 44:54 Rockin' Roller Coaster: A Ride Through Time 52:47 Ranking the Attractions 53:52 Nostalgia and Memories 01:10:09 Listener Feedback and Wrap-Up

In this episode of the '90s Disney podcast,' hosts AJ, Mike, and Chris Minotti dive into the nostalgic animated film 'The Rescuers Down Under,' discussing its production history, voice cast, and digital animation. They examine how its release coincided with 'Home Alone,' affecting its box office performance. The hosts also review various Disney attractions, debate the appeal of trackless rides, share a fan's experiences at Shanghai Disneyland, and reminisce about Halloween costumes and themed movie props. Listener questions, stories about Disney parks, and food experiences are also featured. 00:00 Introduction to 90s Disney Podcast 00:31 Discussing The Rescuers Down Under 01:20 Box Office Competition and Release Context 02:24 The Original Rescuers and Its Legacy 05:36 Production Insights and Key Figures 11:48 Voice Cast and Character Highlights 19:19 Animation Techniques and Innovations 27:08 Soundtrack and Musical Choices 30:51 Personal Memories and Final Thoughts 36:20 Discussing the Movie's Ending 37:08…

AJ, Mike, and Chris share their most memorable dining experiences in Disney parks and beyond. From high-end meals at Victoria & Albert's and California Grill to surprise delights at Nomad Lounge and Morimoto Asia, the episode dives into a variety of unique dishes and the exceptional service they've encountered over the years. The brothers reminisce about standout moments like the personalized touches at Victoria & Albert's, the incredible bread service at Sanaa, and the nostalgic experience at the now-closed Alfredo's in Epcot. Join us as we celebrate the culinary magic of Disney. 00:00 Welcome to the Bonus Episode! 01:29 Favorite Disney Meals: A Trip Down Memory Lane 02:16 Victoria and Albert's: A Culinary Experience 05:32 Nomad Lounge: Hidden Gem 09:11 California Grill Brunch: Post-Marathon Feast 10:44 Yachtsman Steakhouse: The Best Steak Ever 14:54 Sanaa: Bread Service and Beyond 23:07 Liberty Tree Tavern: A Nostalgic First 26:03 Sleepy Hollow: Waffle Sandwich Delight 27:05 Finnegan's at Universal: A Fun…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they host a nostalgic backyard cocktail party, crafting unique Disney-inspired cocktails: The Shipwreck, The Monorail Yellow, The Pineapple Mule, and the Blackberry Moonshine Sour. They share travel experiences, Disney trip memories, and delve into the history and preparation of each cocktail. The episode touches on the evolution of Disney's cocktail offerings, exclusive ingredient finds, and memorable bar experiences in Disney theme parks. They also recount dining adventures at Disney World restaurants like Morimoto's and Toledo, adding amusing anecdotes and listener recommendations for Tokyo Disney. The show wraps up with a toast to future cocktail explorations and humorous discussions about Disney villain lands. 00:00 Welcome to 90s Disney Podcast 01:24 Backyard Cocktail Party Begins 01:39 Mike's European Adventures 04:39 Disney Cocktail History 06:21 Making the Shipwreck Cocktail 09:25 Memories of Trader Sam's 28:26 Monorail Yellow Cocktail 36:07 Dirty Soda Cups and Fresh…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they dive into major announcements from the recent D23 Disney conference, covering exciting new attractions like an Avatar-themed land at Disneyland and a Villains Land at Magic Kingdom along with controversies surrounding the fate of Frontierlan, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Rivers of America for Cars. And where is the new Monsters Inc. land going?! Is Muppet Vision 3D safe?! We also share insights from AJ's latest Disneyland trip, including experiences at Avengers Campus, various dining adventures, and interactions with beloved characters. Listen in for details on bold Disney moves to reimagine iconic areas and the hosts' reactions to new rides and special events. 00:00 Introduction and Host Banter 01:23 D23 Reaction and Disneyland Trip 03:17 Avatar Land at Disneyland 07:39 Coco Boat Ride Announcement 10:27 Nighttime Parade at Magic Kingdom 11:49 Disneyland Paris Updates 13:38 Walt Disney Animatronic Show 16:59 Zootopia Show at Disneyland 18:03 Dinoland Replacement: Tropical…

Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they explore the radical history and attractions of Disney's Typhoon Lagoon. Discover the innovations behind the famous wave pool, the tropical theming, and thrilling water slides like Humunga Kowabunga and Miss Adventure Falls. Learn about iconic features such as Mount Mayday with its erupting geyser and the relaxing Castaway Creek. Filled with nostalgic memories, fun trivia, and listener emails, this episode captures the essence of one of Disney World’s cherished water parks. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 01:13 Typhoon Lagoon Overview 01:52 Wave Pool History 03:48 Early Wave Pool Innovations 08:40 Disney's Wave Machine 09:51 Typhoon Lagoon's Wave Pool Mechanics 30:01 Attractions at Typhoon Lagoon 40:15 Castaway Creek: The Lazy River Experience 46:17 Dining Options at Typhoon Lagoon 50:22 Trivia and Fun Facts 59:18 Emails and Listener Interactions 01:07:26 Upcoming Episodes and Closing Remarks