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

Some trips are quick getaways…

And some trips?

They become part of your story.

In Episode 662 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I’m joined by one of our longtime Geeks — Kevin Curtis Allen — for Part 1 of an incredible three-week Walt Disney World trip report.

And if you’ve been around this community for a while…

You already know Kevin brings a unique perspective, great stories, and plenty of laughs every time he joins the show.

If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation…

My wife Margita and Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners.

Whether you’re booking Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, or beyond — they’ll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation from start to finish.

Already booked? You can transfer your reservation to us and still receive expert tips, strategy, and support — it’s a great way to support the show.

[email protected]

Kevin and Deborah’s trip was built around something really special:

Celebrating BOTH of their birthdays during the same trip
A full 21 days / 21 nights in Florida
A mix of relaxing time + Disney immersion

This is Disney at a completely different pace.

Kevin breaks down a smart split-stay approach:

And shares some real-world insights like:

Why Old Key West surprised him (location + walking path)
How Saratoga’s layout actually works once you understand it
Why that final resort stay at Wilderness Lodge feels like a “reward” at the end

One of the best tips in this episode:

The Old Key West nature walk to Disney Springs

A simple thing… but a huge upgrade to how you experience the resort.

Kevin brings a ton of value here:

If you’ve ever considered DVC — this is real, honest insight.

One of the biggest surprises of the trip:

The weather

And maybe even more surprising…

The crowds

Kevin makes a great point:
There really isn’t a “slow season” anymore.

This is where the magic of the community shows up…

Talking about meeting someone in the past…
Turning around…
And they’re sitting right there again

That’s Disney magic you just can’t plan.

You knew this was coming…

Highlights include:

The Boathouse

Cake Bake Shop

Big takeaway:
Portion size vs. value matters more than ever

Kevin —

This is exactly what the show is all about.

Not just Disney tips…

But hearing how trips evolve over time…
How traditions build…
And how Disney becomes part of your life story.

And the best part?

We’re just getting started.

In Part 2, we’ll dive into:

Have you ever taken a longer Disney trip —

like 2–3 weeks —

and experienced the parks in a totally different way?

I’d love to hear about it.

[email protected]

And don’t forget to join our Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Family Facebook group — one of the best Disney communities anywhere.

If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we’re building:

Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

The Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, and everywhere you listen.

The post Geek Meet Magic & a 3-Week Disney Adventure with Kevin Curtis-Allen (Part 1) – Ep. 662 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

There’s something really special about seeing Walt Disney World through fresh eyes…

And in Episode 661 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we get to do exactly that.

This week, I’m joined by Nick and Carlin — who just wrapped up an incredible 19-day Disney trip with their seven-month-old twins, Simon and Wiley Jean.

And let me tell you…

These two may have been the most popular Geeks at the entire meetup weekend

This episode is about more than just a trip report…

It’s about family, perspective, and what Disney means across generations.

If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation…

My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners.

Whether you’re booking Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, or beyond — they’ll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation from start to finish.

Already booked? You can transfer your reservation to us and still receive expert tips, strategy, and support — a great way to support the show.

[email protected]

Bonus: There are some great Summer travel discounts available right now, so it’s a perfect time to start planning!

Nick and Carlin stayed at multiple resorts during their trip, each offering something different:

One big takeaway:
If you’re traveling with little ones, space + convenience matters more than ever.

They had some fantastic meals (and a few honest takes):

This is where the episode really shines.

Nick and Carlin share real-world tips from doing Disney with twins:

Pre-pack and organize your stroller setup
Bring MORE supplies than you think (especially pacifiers!)
Use rider swap — but know it works differently at each ride
Take advantage of Disney’s baby amenities (cribs, pack & plays, etc.)
Consider room size — family suites can be game changers
Don’t overplan — flexibility is everything

One big insight:

Disney might actually be one of the easiest places to travel with babies — because of how accommodating everything is.

There were so many special moments, but a few really stood out:

Seeing the twins react to characters for the first time
A magical fireworks moment from the hub grass after park close
A sunset safari with a roaring lion at Animal Kingdom
Watching the babies take in shows like Festival of the Lion King
That first “Disney awareness” moment — when everything starts clicking

And for me personally…

Holding Wiley during the trip and thinking about my upcoming granddaughter…

That was a moment I won’t forget.

This episode isn’t just about traveling with kids.

It’s about something bigger.

It’s about:

As Nick said…

These might be moments the kids won’t remember…

But we will.

Have you ever experienced Disney in a totally new way?

Maybe:

I’d love to hear your story!

[email protected]

And come join the conversation in our Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Facebook Group — one of the best Disney communities anywhere.

A huge thank-you to everyone supporting us over on Patreon.

Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

And stay tuned — I’ve got an EPIC Universe + Disney trip coming up in May that I’ll be sharing with all of you!

Podcast available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen.

The post Disney with Twins: A 19-Day Adventure with Nick and Carlin – Ep. 661 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

In Episode 660 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we’re back with Part 2 of our Geek meetup weekend — and this is where the trip really comes to life.

If Part 1 was about getting everyone together…

Part 2 is about what happens when this community is fully in motion.

From a full-scale Epcot scavenger hunt… to late-night adventures… to unforgettable emotional moments — this episode captures what makes these Geek meetups so special.

Saturday was the big day.

Dan put together an incredibly detailed custom scavenger hunt that had teams of Geeks running all around Epcot solving clues, completing challenges, and hunting down… ducks.

Yes — ducks.

What made it even cooler?

Dan’s son Matt was running “command center” from home, verifying answers in real time and tracking scores.

It wasn’t just a game — it was an experience, and one that brought everyone together in a really unique way.

As always… no Geek meetup is complete without some incredible food stops along the way:

And for some of the group…

A truly unique experience at the Epilogue Speakeasy inside the Four Seasons, featuring:

Meanwhile, others enjoyed a private Epcot fireworks cruise, proving once again that there’s no “one way” to do Disney.

And this is where the episode really hits home.

Because beyond the rides, food, and planning…

This trip was about people.

Curtis shares a powerful moment reflecting on:

There were also quieter, personal moments:

These are the moments that don’t show up on a park map… but define the trip.

Before heading home, the group squeezed in one more day:

And just like that…

Another incredible Geek weekend came to a close.

This episode is a perfect reminder that:

Disney trips aren’t just about rides…

They’re about connection, community, and shared experiences.

What started as a podcast has grown into something much bigger:

A group of people who show up for each other
A place where friendships are formed
And a community that continues to grow, one trip at a time

If you’re thinking about planning your next trip…

My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners.

Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Universal…

They’ll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation.

[email protected]

If you enjoy these trip reports and want to support the podcast:

Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

You’ll get bonus content, live recordings, and even more ways to be part of this amazing community.

Be sure to check out Part 2 of this Geek meetup weekend — and relive all the fun, laughter, and meaningful moments with us.

If you want, I can also create:
• SEO-optimized keywords + tags for this post
• Pinterest pins or graphics ideas
• Or help turn this into an email newsletter for your list

The post The Geek Scavenger Hunt and a Weekend of Disney Friendships (Part 2) – Ep. 660 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

In Episode 660 of the Geekin' on Walt Disney World Podcast, we're back with Part 2 of our Geek meetup weekend — and this is where the trip really comes to life.

If Part 1 was about getting everyone together…

Part 2 is about what happens when this community is fully in motion.

From a full-scale Epcot scavenger hunt… to late-night adventures… to unforgettable emotional moments — this episode captures what makes these Geek meetups so special.

Saturday was the big day.

Dan put together an incredibly detailed custom scavenger hunt that had teams of Geeks running all around Epcot solving clues, completing challenges, and hunting down… ducks. 🦆

Yes — ducks.

• Teams used a web-based app with geolocation
• Clues ranged from easy finds to deep Disney details
• Bonus points came from hidden "duck nests"
• And a live leaderboard kept the competition intense

What made it even cooler?

Dan's son Matt was running "command center" from home, verifying answers in real time and tracking scores.

It wasn't just a game — it was an experience, and one that brought everyone together in a really unique way.

As always… no Geek meetup is complete without some incredible food stops along the way:

• 🍖 50's Prime Time Café – classic comfort food and hilarious server interactions
• 🍺 Baseline Tap House – a perfect hangout spot for Geeks to regroup
• 🥃 GEO-82 – charcuterie, bourbon flights, and elevated lounge vibes
• 🍔 Three Bridges at Coronado – continuing the unofficial "burger challenge"

And for some of the group…

A truly unique experience at the Epilogue Speakeasy inside the Four Seasons, featuring:

• Hidden entrance and immersive storytelling
• Florida-inspired craft cocktails
• A full-on "experience" — not just drinks

Meanwhile, others enjoyed a private Epcot fireworks cruise, proving once again that there's no "one way" to do Disney.

And this is where the episode really hits home.

Because beyond the rides, food, and planning…

This trip was about people.

Curtis shares a powerful moment reflecting on:

• The friendships built over 12+ years of the podcast
• Meeting listeners who have become real-life friends
• And even witnessing a meaningful, almost "meant-to-be" reunion between community members

There were also quieter, personal moments:

• Holding a baby and thinking about becoming a grandfather
• Seeing how welcoming and supportive this community is to new members
• Watching complete strangers become fast friends over a shared Disney love

These are the moments that don't show up on a park map… but define the trip.

Before heading home, the group squeezed in one more day:

• Animal Kingdom adventures
• First-time experiences like Festival of the Lion King
• Snacks at Nomad Lounge and Satuli Canteen
• Final meals at Homecomin' and Brown Derby

And just like that…

Another incredible Geek weekend came to a close.

This episode is a perfect reminder that:

Disney trips aren't just about rides…

They're about connection, community, and shared experiences.

What started as a podcast has grown into something much bigger:

👉 A group of people who show up for each other 👉 A place where friendships are formed 👉 And a community that continues to grow, one trip at a time

If you're thinking about planning your next trip…

My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin' Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners.

Whether it's Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Universal…

They'll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation.

📧 [email protected]

If you enjoy these trip reports and want to support the podcast:

👉 Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

You'll get bonus content, live recordings, and even more ways to be part of this amazing community.

Be sure to check out Part 2 of this Geek meetup weekend — and relive all the fun, laughter, and meaningful moments with us.

One of the best parts of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast community is that it eventually jumps off the internet and into the parks.

In Episode 659, we kick off a two-part trip report from a recent Geek Meet weekend at Walt Disney World where a group of longtime friends and listeners gathered to spend a few days enjoying the parks together.

For this trip, Dan, Andy, and I shared a family suite at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, which turned out to be a surprisingly great option for a small group traveling together. The suite setup—with separate sleeping areas and a small kitchen space—worked perfectly for our home base during the weekend.

The meetup was inspired by longtime Geek Kevin Curtis-Allen and his wife Deborah coming down to Florida. That gave us the perfect excuse to organize a larger Geek Meet, with around 25–30 members of the community joining throughout the weekend depending on their travel schedules.

From the very beginning, the trip was less about rides and more about spending time together—meeting up in the parks, sharing meals, and bouncing from place to place the way Disney trips often unfold when you’re with friends.

Some of the early moments from the weekend included:

Along the way we also started an unofficial “burger challenge”—trying burgers at different restaurants throughout the trip and debating which one might be the best on property.

Because that’s the kind of totally unnecessary but very Geek-style challenge that happens when you put a group like this together.

As fun as the parks and food were, the best part of the weekend was simply spending time with friends who all share the same love for Disney.

Over the years this podcast has introduced me to hundreds of amazing people, and weekends like this are a reminder that the Geekin’ community is something truly special.

From longtime friends reconnecting to first-time meetups between listeners, the trip was filled with the kind of moments that make Disney trips memorable.

This episode covers the first half of the Geek Meet weekend.

In Episode 660, we’ll continue the trip report with:

There’s still plenty more Disney magic ahead.

If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation…

My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras, and they would love to help you plan your next magical adventure.

Their planning services are completely free, and they can help with:

Email: [email protected]

If you’d like to support the show and help keep the podcast going strong, you can join our community on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/geekinonwdw

Thank you so much for listening and going Geekin’ on Walt Disney World with us.

We love this community and we love YOU, Geeks.

Until next time—keep taking care of each other, have a magical day, and may all your dreams come true!

The post From Beak & Barrel to EPCOT Nights: Inside Our Geek Meet Weekend – Ep. 659 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

Some Disney trips are about Lightning Lanes and ride counts.

Some are about checking boxes.

And then there are the trips that slow down… breathe a little… and become something bigger than you expected.

Episode 658 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast features longtime listeners Jeremy and Bridget Ardoin, who brought Jeremy’s 65- and 66-year-old parents to Walt Disney World for their very first visit.

And what unfolded was part nostalgia, part gratitude, part community magic… and 100% heart.

If you’ve ever brought someone to Disney who’s never been before, you know the feeling.

Will they be overwhelmed?
Will they be tired?
Will they “get it”?

Jeremy admitted he was nervous about keeping up with the pace. But what actually happened?

They slowed down.

And it turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip.

Instead of racing from ride to ride, they:

And that slower rhythm made space for something really special.

Jeremy shared his most emotional moment of the trip:

Standing next to his parents during the Magic Kingdom fireworks… watching his mom stare at Cinderella Castle with her mouth open like a three-year-old seeing magic for the first time.

His dad? Silent. Completely locked in.

Those are the moments you don’t forget.

And it’s a reminder that Disney isn’t just for kids.

It’s for firsts — at any age.

In one of the best “Who are you and what did you do with my mom?” moments of the trip…

Jeremy’s mom rode Soarin’… loved it… and immediately stomped her foot and said:

“I want to do that again.”

Back in line they went.

We also had a full-on defense of Carousel of Progress (Bridget’s favorite), Living with the Land heartbreak when it broke down, and appreciation for the classics that only true Geeks understand.

PeopleMover naps?
Approved.
Monorail naps?
Also approved.

One of the most meaningful parts of this episode was hearing Bridget reflect on returning to Disney after finishing cancer treatment.

She talked about noticing celebration buttons in the parks — “Finished Chemo,” “Cancer Free” — and intentionally walking up to those guests to congratulate them.

That perspective changes everything.

There was even a special meetup moment with fellow Geek and cancer survivor Kate — one of those “divine intervention” park moments that only Disney seems to orchestrate.

This wasn’t just a vacation.

It was gratitude in motion.

One of the sweetest stories we’ve heard on the podcast in a long time came near the end.

Jeremy’s sister and brother-in-law are foster parents to a precious three-year-old little girl who joined the trip.

While riding the train at Magic Kingdom, they unexpectedly stopped right in front of Donald and Daisy.

Shoes were left behind.
Scooters were parked elsewhere.
Plans were abandoned.

And Bridget jumped off the train, scooped her up, and made sure that little girl got her moment with Donald and Daisy.

Because sometimes…

You don’t worry about logistics.

You make the magic happen.

It was beautiful.

A few favorites from the trip:

(And no, the ones at Walmart are NOT the same.)

With multiple scooters in the group, Jeremy and Bridget shared some practical advice:

That last one might be the biggest takeaway.

After years of “rip and run” Disney trips, Jeremy said this slower, more intentional approach made this one even more meaningful.

If you love these long-form trip reports, heartfelt community stories, and weekly Disney conversations…

Consider supporting the show on Patreon.

Your support helps keep the podcast going, funds equipment and hosting costs, and allows us to continue building this incredible Geek community.

For bonus content, live recordings, behind-the-scenes fun, and more:

Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

Every single supporter makes a difference — and we are truly grateful for you.

If you’re thinking about bringing parents, grandparents, or little ones for their first visit…

The Travelin’ Tiaras would love to help.

My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy specialize in helping families create smart, stress-free Disney vacations.

Already booked? You can transfer your reservation and still support the show.

[email protected]

Have you ever brought your parents to Disney for the first time?

Or watched a child experience their first character meet?

Share your story with us:

[email protected]

And join our Geekin’ on WDW Family Facebook group — one of the most welcoming Disney communities anywhere.

Thanks for reading… and thanks for being part of this incredible community.

Until next time — keep taking care of each other, have a magical day, and may all your dreams come true.

The post First-Time Parents Trip, Fireworks Tears & A Donald Duck Surprise With Jeremy and Bridget – Ep. 658 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

Some Disney trips are about rides.

Some are about food.

And some?

They’re about legacy.

In Episode 657 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Amanda and her daughter Cora join me to share a truly special mother–daughter trip — one that spanned three generations, featured a farewell to Dinosaur, included a five-month-old’s first Disney magic, and proved once again that flexibility is the ultimate Disney superpower.

This wasn’t just a trip.

It was a memory-maker.

Amanda and Cora kicked things off with a one-bedroom club level stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge — and it was a first for both of them.

Highlights included:

Traveling with baby Eli (just five months old!) completely changed the pacing — in the best way.

Instead of stacking Lightning Lanes and racing park to park, they leaned into a more intentional rhythm.

And it paid off.

One of the emotional anchors of the trip was riding Dinosaur before its closure.

It wasn’t just about checking off a ride.

It was about:

There’s something powerful about riding an attraction knowing it’s your final time. And you can feel that layered into their stories.

The trip also lined up with EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts.

Food booth favorites and surprises were part of the fun — with some strong opinions on what worked and what didn’t.

They also caught Disney on Broadway performances, which added that “this is why we love Disney” energy to the trip.

Festival trips just hit differently.

It wouldn’t be a modern Disney trip without some ride drama.

They navigated:

But instead of letting it derail the mood, they adjusted.

And that theme keeps coming back in this episode:

The magic wasn’t in perfect planning.

It was in flexible thinking.

Five months old.

First trip.

And yes — it was magical.

From character interactions to quiet stroller moments, there’s something deeply special about watching a baby experience Disney for the first time.

And for Amanda, seeing her daughter Cora step into the “mom” role added another emotional layer to the whole trip.

Three generations.

One park.

That’s Disney magic.

Not everything went smoothly.

A surprise 24-hour stomach bug forced some unexpected adjustments.

But instead of ending the trip on a sour note, they made a bold move:

They pivoted.

A last-minute resort change brought them to Pop Century — and it ended up being a highlight.

Sometimes the backup plan becomes the better story.

The energy shift.

The value resort vibe.

The fun, colorful atmosphere.

It was a reminder that Disney magic isn’t tied to price point — it’s tied to perspective.

This episode isn’t about ride counts.

It’s about:

Whether you’re bringing a baby, saying goodbye to a favorite attraction, or trying club level for the first time — this trip report is packed with relatable, real-world Disney insights.

If you’re thinking about planning a multi-generational Disney vacation — or traveling with little ones — my wife Margita and Auntie Judy would love to help.

The Travelin’ Tiaras specialize in thoughtful, personalized Disney trip planning — from resort selection to dining strategy to pacing your days right.

[email protected]

Already booked? You can transfer your reservation and still receive full planning support.

Want to share your own “Last Ride” story?

Planning a first trip with a baby?

Join our Geekin’ on WDW Family Facebook group — one of the most welcoming Disney communities anywhere.

And if you’d like to support the show and access bonus content:

Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW

Episode 657 is proof of something we talk about a lot around here:

You don’t need a perfect trip to have a meaningful one.

Sometimes the magic shows up in the pivots.

And sometimes?

It’s in that last roar of a dinosaur.

The post Last Ditch for Dino: A Mother–Daughter Disney Adventure With Amanda and Cora – Ep. 657 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.

Amanda and her daughter Cora join me to share a truly special mother–daughter trip — one that spanned three generations, featured a farewell to Dinosaur and included a grandson's first Disney magic