Geekin' On WDW | Trip Reports From A Community of Disney World Fans

Geekin' On WDW | Trip Reports From A Community of Disney World Fans

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Geekin' On WDW | Trip Reports From A Community of Disney World Fans episodes

  • A Solo Christmas Trip, Light Crowds & A Look Back at Disney World in 2025 with Andy Hoffman – Ep. 649

    Some Disney trips are planned down to the minute… and some turn out magical because they aren’t.

    In Episode 649 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Curtis is joined by longtime Super Geek and close friend Andy Hoffman, who surprised the Geekin’ community with a last-minute, solo Disney World trip right before Christmas.

    No dining reservations.
    No early planning.
    No rigid agenda.

    Just a renewed Annual Pass, light crowds, holiday décor, and the freedom to do Disney completely on his own terms.

    Finishing the show, Curtis and Andy also take time to look back at Disney World in 2025, reviewing the year-end polls submitted by the Geekin’ community — making this episode part trip recap, part strategy discussion, and part Disney year-in-review as we head into a brand-new year.

    Episode Highlights
    • A last-minute solo holiday trip — why Andy went and why it worked so well
    • All-Star Movies stay — a preferred room surprise and great value location
    • Renewing an Annual Pass — how quick and easy it was to do on arrival
    • Party-day Magic Kingdom strategy — riding Haunted Mansion, Tiana’s, Pirates, and more with minimal waits
    • The PeopleMover paradox — when a “quiet” ride becomes the longest wait
    • Geyser Point’s bison burger — still one of Disney’s best burgers
    • Wilderness Lodge Christmas décor — finally seeing the iconic tree in person
    • Hollywood Studios at Christmas — vintage décor, Echo Lake vibes, and crowd swings
    • Geek meetups — Bar Riva with Rob, quick visits with Wendy Fox and Amy Rhodes
    • Animal Kingdom highlights — Zootopia show, active Safaris, and holiday pacing
    • Satu’li Canteen wins — chimichurri beef & garlic shrimp bowls (so good he went back twice)
    • Single-rider success — Smugglers Run, Test Track, and Remy
    • First-ever Country Bear Jamboree — yes… after all these years
    • One last Dinosaur ride — and grabbing a final souvenir tee

    • Andy’s story is a great example of how Disney can feel completely different — and incredibly refreshing — when you slow down and let the trip unfold naturally.

      Looking Back: The Geekin’ on WDW Year-End Poll Review

      As the trip winds down, Curtis and Andy shift gears and take a thoughtful (and fun) look back at Disney World in 2025, reviewing the year-end polls shared with the Geekin’ community.

      Favorite New Attraction or Show
      • Villains Live emerged as the clear favorite
      • Test Track Reimagined and the refreshed Little Mermaid show followed closely
      • Zootopia earned praise as a fun, family-friendly update

      • Best New Lounge or Restaurant
        • Geo-82 dominated the poll results
        • Cake Bake Shop, Barrel, and Wailulu Bar & Grill also received strong support

        • The Moment That Best Summed Up Disney in 2025

          From “planning for months and winging it by day two” to “spending more time on food and drinks than rides,” the poll responses perfectly captured how our Geeks really experience the parks.

          The discussion becomes a warm, reflective conversation about how Disney continues to evolve — and how our relationship with it changes over time.

          Why You’ll Love This Episode

          This episode is for you if:

          • You’ve ever thought about taking a solo Disney trip
          • You want holiday crowd strategy without the stress
          • You love hearing real-world, unscripted trip reports
          • You enjoy looking back at Disney’s year as a whole
          • You appreciate the friendships and community that Disney creates

          • It’s a reminder that Disney magic isn’t just about new attractions — it’s about moments, flexibility, and the people you share it with.

            Listen to Episode 649

            You can listen to Episode 649 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast on:

            Apple Podcasts
            Spotify
            Or wherever you get your podcasts

            (Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!)

            Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Trip?

            Thinking about heading to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Universal?

            Curtis’s wife Margita and their good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — trusted Disney travel planners who help listeners create stress-free, magical vacations.

            Already booked? You can even transfer your reservation for expert help and advice.

            [email protected]
            Or reach out via Facebook Messenger

            Support the Podcast

            A huge thank-you to everyone supporting the podcast on Patreon.

            Your support keeps the show going and helps us continue sharing Disney stories from this amazing community.

            Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

            The post A Solo Christmas Trip, Light Crowds & A Look Back at Disney World in 2025 with Andy Hoffman – Ep. 649 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

            1 hr 8 min
          • Annual Pass Magic, Holiday Crowds & Once-in-a-Lifetime Disney Moments with Dana – Ep. 648

            Sometimes a Disney trip hits every note — strategy, emotion, surprises, and unforgettable family moments. Episode 648 is one of those trips.

            This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Curtis welcomes back longtime Super Geek Dana, who returns to the show after six years with a detailed, honest, and joy-filled 10-day Walt Disney World vacation report.

            This trip marked a major milestone for Dana and her family:
            Their first visit as Annual Passholders
            A stay during the holiday season
            A family vacation packed with firsts, special events, and Disney bucket-list moments

            From Food & Wine favorites to holiday strategy, from surprise magic to behind-the-scenes experiences, this episode is loaded with practical advice and heartfelt storytelling.

            Episode Highlights
            • Becoming Annual Passholders — when the Disney math finally made sense
            • Coronado Springs Resort review — tower vs. cabanas and why it’s such a hidden gem
            • EPCOT Food & Wine Festival — favorite booths, repeat must-tries, and budgeting tips
            • Holiday décor timing — why Christmas doesn’t appear all at once
            • New character meet-and-greets — Mary Poppins, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Bert & Mr. Penguin
            • Sword in the Stone surprise — a true Disney bucket-list moment
            • Living with the Land evacuation — an unexpected behind-the-scenes greenhouse exit
            • Eat to the Beat Concert Series — seeing the Beach Boys with a dining package
            • Jollywood Nights — first impressions and how it compares to other Disney parties
            • Dining reviews — Cítricos, Whispering Canyon Café, Sanaa, Tusker House, and more
            • Up Close with Rhinos — a powerful Animal Kingdom experience for an animal-loving kid
            • Unique souvenirs — Pick-a-Pearl and glass art creations
            • Smart park strategy — party days, rope drop, mobile checkout, and end-of-night rides
            • A timeless Disney moment — why Tinker Bell flying still brings tears after decades

            • This episode is a perfect mix of planning insight, honest opinions, and emotional Disney magic.

              Resort Stay: Coronado Springs

              Dana shares a thoughtful breakdown of staying at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, including:

              • Differences between the Gran Destino Tower and the outer buildings
              • Why the tower is especially clutch during rainy season
              • Favorite resort dining and lounge spots
              • Pool access, walkability, and overall vibe

              • It’s a great reminder that Coronado Springs continues to be one of Disney’s most versatile and underrated moderate resorts.

                Holiday Events & Entertainment

                This trip lined up perfectly with seasonal offerings, including:

                • Eat to the Beat Concert Series with the Beach Boys
                • Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios
                • Seasonal character costumes and meet-and-greets
                • Holiday overlays and festive entertainment

                • Dana also shares why dining packages can be a game-changer for popular concert nights — especially when crowds spike.

                  Dining, Lounges & Honest Food Takes

                  You’ll hear candid opinions on:

                  • Festival booths vs. table-service meals
                  • Whispering Canyon Café hijinks and family fun
                  • Why late dining reservations can mean better character interactions
                  • Lounge hopping favorites like Baseline Tap House and Space 220 Lounge
                  • A refreshingly honest take on some over-hyped meals

                  • If you love balanced, real-world food reviews, this episode delivers.

                    Animal Kingdom Magic & Paid Experiences

                    One of the most powerful moments of the trip came at Animal Kingdom, where Dana’s daughter participated in Up Close with Rhinos — a behind-the-scenes experience that left a lasting impression.

                    The family also discusses:

                    • Wilderness Explorers
                    • Paid tours and add-on experiences
                    • Why Animal Kingdom still shines, even during construction

                    • Why You’ll Love This Episode

                      This episode is for you if:

                      • You’re considering becoming an Annual Passholder
                      • You’re planning a holiday Disney trip
                      • You love hearing about family firsts and emotional moments
                      • You want practical strategy tips without losing the magic
                      • You enjoy honest, thoughtful Disney conversations

                      • It’s a reminder that even after decades of visits, Disney still finds new ways to surprise us.

                        Listen to Episode 648

                        You can listen to Episode 648 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast on:

                        Apple Podcasts
                        Spotify
                        Or wherever you get your podcasts

                        (Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!)

                        Ready to Plan Your Own Disney Adventure?

                        Thinking about planning a Disney vacation?

                        Curtis’s wife Margita and their good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — Disney travel planners who help listeners create stress-free, magical vacations.

                        Already booked? You can even transfer your reservation for expert help and advice.

                        [email protected]
                        Or reach out via Facebook Messenger

                        Support the Podcast

                        A huge thank-you to everyone supporting the show on Patreon.

                        Your support helps keep the podcast going and allows us to continue sharing incredible Disney stories from our community.

                        Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

                        The post Annual Pass Magic, Holiday Crowds & Once-in-a-Lifetime Disney Moments with Dana – Ep. 648 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

                        1 hr 21 min
                      • Guys Trip, Great Lounges & An Old Fashioned Ranking With Chris Futrell – Ep. 647

                        Sometimes the best Disney trips are the ones that break your normal routine — and Episode 647 is a perfect example of that.

                        This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I’m is joined by longtime Super Geek Chris Futrell, who returns to share a guys-only Disney World trip that turned into one of his most memorable vacations yet.

                        What started as a relaxed getaway quickly evolved into a rope-dropping, park-crushing, resort-hopping adventure, complete with incredible dining, unforgettable lounges, and a full-on mission to rank Disney’s best Old Fashioned cocktails — all while navigating the parks in a walking boot.

                        If you love hearing about Disney trips that mix smart strategy, great food and drinks, and honest reactions to new attractions, this episode is right up your alley.

                        Episode Highlights
                        • A Guys Trip to Disney World — how Chris and his friend Justin planned a different kind of vacation
                        • Port Orleans French Quarter stay — why the compact layout and vibe made it a huge win
                        • First-time reactions — Justin’s experiences on TRON and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
                        • Doing Disney with a walking boot — smart planning, lockers, and adapting on the fly
                        • Resort dining favorites — Sebastian’s Bistro, Homecomin’, Summer House, and more
                        • Ranking Disney’s Old Fashioneds — 15 drinks judged on balance, presentation, value, and drinkability
                        • Top lounge standouts — Geo-82, Wine Bar George, Topolino’s Terrace, Enchanted Rose, and Dahlia Lounge
                        • Birthday chaos at EPCOT — massive crowds thanks to a surprise celebrity concert appearance with the Beach Boys
                        • Park strategy tips — rope drop success, party-day Magic Kingdom planning, and low wait-time wins
                        • A great travel takeaway — why bringing an extrovert on your Disney trip might be the ultimate hack

                        • This episode blends trip report storytelling, food and lounge reviews, and practical Disney advice, all wrapped in the fun, conversational style the Geekin’ community loves.

                          Lounges, Dining & Drinks Discussed

                          Chris and Justin hit an impressive list of Disney locations, including:

                          • Port Orleans French Quarter lounges
                          • Wine Bar George
                          • Geo-82 at EPCOT
                          • Topolino’s Terrace Lounge
                          • Enchanted Rose
                          • Dahlia Lounge
                          • Sebastian’s Bistro
                          • Homecomin’
                          • Festival of the Arts & EPCOT festival booths

                          • Whether you’re a foodie, a lounge-lover, or just enjoy resort hopping, there’s plenty of inspiration here for your next trip.

                            Attractions & Entertainment Talked About
                            • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
                            • TRON Lightcycle / Run
                            • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
                            • Flight of Passage
                            • New Zootopia show
                            • The Little Mermaid (refreshed stage show)
                            • Villains Live

                            • Chris also shares thoughtful comparisons to past versions and what worked — and didn’t — for him this time around.

                              Why You’ll Love This Episode

                              This episode is a great reminder that Disney doesn’t have to look the same every trip.

                              Whether you’re:

                              • Traveling with friends instead of family
                              • Focusing on resorts and lounges
                              • Visiting with physical limitations
                              • Or showing Disney to someone experiencing new attractions for the first time

                              • …there’s always a new way to experience the magic.

                                Listen to Episode 647

                                You can listen to Episode 647 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast on:

                                Apple Podcasts
                                Spotify
                                Wherever you get your podcasts

                                (Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!)

                                Ready to Plan Your Own Disney Adventure?

                                Thinking about planning a Disney vacation?

                                Curtis’s wife Margita and their good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — trusted Disney travel planners who help listeners plan stress-free, magical vacations.

                                If you’ve already booked, you can even transfer your reservation to them for expert advice and support.

                                [email protected]
                                Or reach out via Facebook Messenger

                                Support the Podcast

                                A huge thank-you to everyone supporting the podcast on Patreon.

                                Your support helps keep the show going and allows us to continue sharing Disney stories from our amazing Geekin’ community.

                                Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

                                The post Guys Trip, Great Lounges & An Old Fashioned Ranking With Chris Futrell – Ep. 647 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

                                1 hr 26 min
                              • runDisney Triumphs, Friendship, First Halfs & Foodie Fun — The Wine & Dine Crew Returns! – Ep. 646

                                From pre-race jitters to finish-line tears, this episode takes you through every moment of Wine & Dine Weekend with honesty, humor, and heart. Holly and Laura completed their first Half Marathons, Kate returned triumphantly after beating cancer, and Samantha paced and cheered her crew every step of the way.

                                Along the journey, the group explored Disney dining favorites old and new, had hilarious expo moments, conquered early-morning wake-ups (and one late one!), celebrated Laura’s birthday in style, and shared the kind of emotional and uplifting stories that remind us exactly why we love this Disney running community.

                                Whether you’re a seasoned runDisney veteran or thinking about your first race, you’ll find inspiration, laughter, and plenty of Disney foodie goodness in this one.

                                Highlights from Episode 646
                                • Wine & Dine race weekend recap — from chaotic expo lines to the best moments out on the courses
                                • First half marathon victories — Holly and Laura’s emotional and triumphant journeys
                                • Kate’s comeback story — completing the 5K and 10K after cancer recovery
                                • Friendship on the course — linked-arm finishes, steady pacing, cheerleading, and shared strength
                                • Laura’s magical birthday — Skyliner adventures, Dapper Dans, room surprises, and community love
                                • Kitchen Sink fun at Beaches & Cream — and a few heated takes on tomato soup
                                • Delicious discoveries — Olivia’s fish entrée, the Cuban from Goods Food to Go, Food & Wine booth hits, and more
                                • Costumes and character stops — Frozen themes, Mickey Waffle ladies, and surprise meetups
                                • Balloon Lady sighting — and the panic that followed
                                • Plastic cheese as post-race recovery fuel — including the new Fritos twist
                                • Favorite sensory moments — from choir music to the sounds of each land as you move through the parks

                                • This episode is a celebration of friendship, perseverance, joy, and the Geekin’ family spirit. You’ll be smiling the whole way through.

                                  Plan Your Next Magical Vacation with the Travelin’ Tiaras

                                  Are you ready to plan your next Disney adventure?

                                  My wife Margita, our good friend Auntie Judy, and I would love to help you plan a magical Disney World, Disneyland, Universal, or Disney Cruise Line vacation.

                                  And if you’ve already booked your trip, we truly appreciate when listeners choose to transfer their reservation to us as a thank-you for the show.

                                  Contact us here:
                                  [email protected]
                                  Or reach out through our private Facebook group

                                  We love talking Disney trips and tips with you, and we’d love to help you create your next magical adventure!

                                  Support the Show on Patreon

                                  A huge thank-you to everyone supporting the podcast on Patreon!

                                  Your support helps keep the Geekin’ magic alive and allows us to share more heartfelt Disney stories every week.

                                  Join the fun at:
                                  Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

                                  You’ll receive bonus content, behind-the-scenes clips, and recordings from our own Disney adventures.

                                  The post runDisney Triumphs, Friendship, First Halfs & Foodie Fun — The Wine & Dine Crew Returns! – Ep. 646 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

                                  1 hr 16 min
                                • Riviera Relaxation, runDisney Challenges & New Disney Dining — Lisa Green Returns! – Ep. 645

                                  This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I’m excited to welcome back someone incredibly special to the show — Lisa Green, my very first podcast guest from all the way back when we started this magical journey!

                                  Lisa returns with a beautifully balanced couples-style Disney trip filled with relaxation, foodie discoveries, runDisney achievements, and joyful moments that will make every Geek smile. If you love hearing from our original Super Geeks, you’re in for a treat.

                                  Episode 645 is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast apps!
                                  Just search “Geekin’ on WDW Podcast.”

                                  Episode Summary

                                  For this adventure, Lisa and Ray stayed at the stunning Disney’s Riviera Resort, where they soaked in the quiet beauty of a one-bedroom villa just steps from the Skyliner — complete with fireworks views from the patio.

                                  Lisa also completed both the 10K and Half Marathon during runDisney weekend, sharing inspirational stories from the course, the mental challenges, the mile-by-mile journey, and the moments of humor only a seasoned runner can tell.

                                  And then… the dining. Oh, the dining.
                                  This trip was packed with firsts: new table-service meals, charcuterie discoveries, character breakfasts, resort lounges, and even a dish recommended by a brand-new Cast Member from Japan because it “tastes just like my mom made.”

                                  Lisa brings warmth, wisdom, her infectious laugh, and that unbeatable Super Geek spirit we all love.

                                  Highlights from Episode 645
                                  • Riviera Resort magic — quiet room, perfect views, and being steps from the Skyliner
                                  • Lisa’s bottled “sensory memory” — the joy of simply riding the Skyliner on a perfect weather day
                                  • runDisney race weekend — humid mornings, Galaxy’s Edge grumpiness, a big Mile 7 comeback, and finishing with pride
                                  • First-time dining at Takumi-Tei — and a heartwarming Cast Member moment that led Lisa to order a “mom-made” chicken & rice dish
                                  • The BEST charcuterie board at Disney World — according to Lisa, a charcuterie queen
                                  • Topolino’s, crepes, Tiffins & more — amazing meals, wonderful servers, and why cheese is Lisa’s love language
                                  • The “terrible” bison burger at Geyser Point — which of course means it’s wonderful and no one else should go
                                  • A perfect moment of happiness — found while waiting for Animal Kingdom’s bird show to begin
                                  • Overwhelmed at Disney Springs — why they walked out empty-handed
                                  • Spreadsheet dining strategy — planning, revising, refining, and making every bite count
                                  • runDisney encouragement — Lisa’s message: “If I can do it, you can do it.”

                                  • This episode is packed with food talk, heartfelt moments, laughter, running motivation, and classic Super Geek charm.

                                    Plan Your Magical Vacation with the Travelin’ Tiaras

                                    Are you ready to plan your next Disney adventure?

                                    My wife Margita, our good friend Auntie Judy, and I would love to help you plan a magical Disney World, Disneyland, Universal, or Disney Cruise Line vacation.

                                    And if you’ve already booked your trip, we deeply appreciate listeners who transfer their reservation to us as a thank-you for the podcast.

                                    Contact us at:
                                    [email protected]
                                    Or reach out through our private Facebook group

                                    We love talking Disney trips and tips with you, and we’d love to help you create your next magical adventure!

                                    Support the Show on Patreon

                                    A huge thank you to everyone supporting the podcast on Patreon!

                                    Your support helps keep the Geekin’ magic alive and share more Disney stories from our amazing community.

                                    Join the fun at:
                                    Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

                                    You’ll get bonus audio, behind-the-scenes clips, and recordings from our own Disney adventures.

                                    The post Riviera Relaxation, runDisney Challenges & New Disney Dining — Lisa Green Returns! – Ep. 645 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

                                    1 hr 10 min

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