Welcome back to Unlocking the Magic! In episode 516, we're unlocking the inbox and answering all your burning Disney questions — from cast member magic to solo resort-hopping strategies, what park we’d choose if we could only visit one, and even our favorite snacks and secret experiences.

Whether you're planning your first Disney vacation or you're a seasoned park-goer, this is a fun, heartfelt, and info-packed episode you're going to love.

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Food and wine menu:

https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/disney-eats-epcot-international-food-and-wine-festival-foodie-guide-2025/

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unlockingthemagic

And today we’re talking about that sweet middle spot in Walt Disney World hotels , the moderate resorts.  They’re not as pricey as the deluxes, but they give you more amenities and theming than the values.

In this episode of Unlocking the Magic, Bruce and Konstantina dive into your burning Disney questions—from Space 220 dining reviews to the Tonga Toast recipe change. Hear insider tips on resorts, hidden gems for breakfast, party night decisions, and even a hilarious social media “kidnap” scenario.

Whether you're a Club UTM member or just a Disney lover, this episode delivers the goods.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic

Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic

Welcome back to Unlocking the Magic! Today we’re stepping away from the parks and heading to a place that’s just as magical in a quieter, more personal way. We’re talking about the Walt Disney Family Museum, a hidden gem that every true Disney fan needs to experience at least once.

In this episode, we are going on an inspiring journey through the museum,.  a place that goes far beyond memorabilia and instead unlocking the man behind the magic.

This museum isn’t just a timeline of Walt’s life it’s his daughter Diane’s love letter to her father. It’s designed to show us the person Walt was before the suits and the success. And it does exactly that.

The museum walks you through Walt’s life in a way that feels almost like flipping through a family scrapbook from his childhood  to his days as a struggling animator, to the moment Mickey Mouse changed everything.  It’s filled with the voice of Walt himself, rare family photos, hand-drawn sketches, and heartfelt letters that give you an unfiltered view into who he really was: a dreamer, a doer, and someone who never stopped pushing boundaries.

Don't forget to use promo code UTM at ⁠reliefband.com⁠ for 20% off + free shipping!

Today we dive into one of Magic Kingdom's most overlooked dining spots: The Plaza Restaurant. Is it a hidden gem, or just forgettable? Connie and Bruce break it all down — from the location confusion to surprising food quality, hilarious Patreon comments, portion sizes, and what dessert you absolutely should (or shouldn't) order.

We also shout out our sponsor, Relief Band, and explore why you might not need it if you're eating here — but definitely will for Space Mountain.

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Join Connie and Bruce on this packed episode of Unlocking the Magic, where they uncover the biggest Disney and Universal updates. From the brand-new Test Track 3.0 to a $179 adult-only lounge in Epcot, and their behind-the-scenes look at Epic Universe and the Walt Disney Family Museum — it's a ride you don’t want to miss. Plus, hear their honest thoughts on Marvel's Thunderbolts and the expansion of Disneyland and Universal.

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Welcome back to Unlocking the Magic! In episode 508, Connie and Bruce dive deep into Disney's ever-evolving food scene, uncovering what's truly worth the price in 2025. From nostalgic bites to new favorites, and even a few duds, they spill the beans on meals, snacks, and experiences across Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of churros and fireworks, this one's for you!

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro & Today's Theme
01:02 - Shaved Ice & Family Favorites at Epcot
04:10 - The Great Waffle Comeback at Magic Kingdom
07:51 - Garden Grill Review & Shoutout to Lewis
11:22 - Is The Plaza Restaurant Underrated?
17:44 - Cosmic Ray's Controversy: Boats vs. Plates
22:08 - Loaded Nachos at La Cantina: Still Worth It?
27:34 - Ferrushi at Epcot: Yay or Nay?
32:52 - Staying Club Level at Disneyland Hotel
41:38 - Fireworks Dessert Party: Worth the Splurge?

👍 Like, Subscribe, and leave a review if this helped you plan your Disney trip!
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After two decades, we finally returned to the Garden Grill at Epcot—and it surprised us in the best ways! From the unforgettable rotating dining experience to unexpectedly incredible cornbread, this review dives deep into the food, character interactions, restaurant history, and what makes this one of Disney’s most unique dining spots.

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Chapters:
00:00 - Intro & Why We're Reviewing Garden Grill
01:08 - Convincing Dad to Do Character Dining Again
02:35 - What to Expect: Show Outline
03:13 - Disney's Official Description (and Bruce's Reactions)
04:47 - Character Dining: Then vs. Now
06:36 - Family Dynamics at the Table
07:57 - Garden Grill's Name History & Evolution
09:38 - The Rotating Restaurant Experience
11:01 - Dining Philosophy & Walt's Vision
13:22 - Character Interaction Highlights
15:14 - Booth Seating vs. Table Seating
16:43 - Breakfast Menu & Pricing Breakdown
18:05 - Lunch & Dinner Menu Review
20:10 - Cornbread Controversy: The Star of the Meal?
22:59 - Crush It or Flush It: Full Menu Breakdown
26:30 - Dessert Time & Custom Orders
28:13 - Plant-Based Menu Offerings
29:46 - The Rotating Experience: The Awkward Quarter Turn
32:22 - Google Reviews: What Other Guests Say
34:25 - Final Verdict: Is Garden Grill Worth It?
38:20 - Character Dining Tips for Families
40:00 - Important Things to Know Before You Book
42:42 - Closing Thoughts & Merch Mention