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Ready to conquer every ride at Walt Disney World like a pro? Steph and Ed share their tried-and-true ride strategies for all four Disney World parks, from when to hit Magic Kingdom on a party day to how to squeeze the most value out of Lightning Lanes and virtual queues. Whether you're planning your first visit or your fiftieth, this episode is packed with insider timing tips, smart shortcuts, and even a few snack detours along the way.

🕒 Episode Highlights & Time Stamps

00:00 – Why accurate crowd calendars are your best trip-planning tool

01:15 – Early Theme Park Entry vs. After Hours: What's worth it

02:40 – The pros and cons of staying at a Deluxe resort (and sneaky point-redemption options!)

04:10 – Magic Kingdom tips: early entry strategy, party-day hacks, and must-ride priorities

07:20 – Lightning Lane Multi Pass 101 — how to budget, stack, and modify reservations

10:00 – Which rides sell out fastest (and which to skip in early entry)

13:00 – Haunted Mansion, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, and crowd shifts since Big Thunder's closure

15:20 – Epcot strategy: single-rider secrets, food-and-ride balance, and best entrances

20:25 – Hollywood Studios: rope-drop vs. Lightning Lane, and the best way to tackle Star Wars + Toy Story lands

27:35 – Why Toy Story Mania is easier to ride at Disney World than Disneyland

28:05 – Animal Kingdom in half a day: best rope-drop route, food favorites, and when to safari

33:40 – Hidden gem: paid nighttime safaris and after-hours park options

36:00 – Ed and Steph's hot takes on after-hours events, costs, and when they're worth it

37:23 – Wrap-up and listener Q&A invitation

✨ Key Takeaways Use crowd calendars and early/after-hours access to beat long lines. Lightning Lanes can be worth it, but plan which parks deserve your budget. Single-rider lines at Epcot and Hollywood Studios are big time-savers. Animal Kingdom + Epcot make a perfect same-day park-hop combo. Eat well, plan smart, and rope drop early — the castle (and the rides) await!