Where In The Park Podcast - Discovering the Details of your Favorite Theme Parks

What does it take to transform SeaWorld San Diego into a world of nightmares, haunted houses, and hidden surprises?

In this special episode of the Where In The Park Podcast, Amanda and Kevin welcome Alexander Krikes, Entertainment Manager, Creative Show Operations at SeaWorld San Diego, for a behind-the-scenes conversation about Howl-O-Scream 2026!

We explore Alexander's journey into themed entertainment, his first project at SeaWorld, and the creative collaboration involved in bringing Howl-O-Scream to life.

From introducing I Know What You Did Last Summer as a licensed haunted house to developing the secret speakeasies hidden throughout the event, we discuss the ideas, planning, and storytelling behind this year's frightening festivities.

We also explore how returning haunted houses evolve, what inspired the Vile Vignettes, and which dream theme or intellectual property Alexander would be interested in bringing to a future Howl-O-Scream.

Whether you're a Halloween enthusiast, a fan of themed entertainment, or simply curious about the creative minds behind your favorite experiences, join us for a look at the work that goes into making the screams happen!

🎃 Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld San Diego is happening now through October 31, 2026, on select nights only! This is a separately ticketed nighttime event.

🎟️ Tickets and event information: https://seaworld.com/san-diego/events/howl-o-scream/tickets/

A special thank you to Alexander Krikes and Brooke Dixon at SeaWorld San Diego for making this conversation possible!

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

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👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

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Every haunted house has a story—and some of those stories began long before the fog rolled into Universal Studios Hollywood.

In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast, Kevin explores the history, inspiration, and backstories behind Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood 2026. Discover how this year’s eight haunted houses, four scare zones, Terror Tram experience, live show, and roaming characters connect to horror films, television, music, Latin American folklore, and decades of HHN history.

We’re digging into Sinners, Stranger Things 5, Hellraiser, Evil Dead Burn, Dead, Deader, Deadest, Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness, Killer Klowns from Outer Space, and KILLceañera: Music by Slash—along with Terrifier on the Terror Tram, Fortnitemares, El Circo de la Muerte, Blood Bog, Hackerz, the returning Death Eaters, and more.

Kevin also shares fascinating details learned during Universal’s Unmasking the Horror Tour, including reused pieces of theme park history, impressive practical effects, and hidden storytelling elements you may have walked right past.

Whether you’ve already braved the event, are preparing for your first visit, or prefer experiencing the scares safely through your headphones, come discover the stories lurking behind Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood 2026.

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

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We’re back behind the microphones—and we have a lot to catch up on!

After taking a little time away from the podcast, we’re sharing where we’ve been, what we’ve been working on, and what’s coming next for Where In The Park. We look back at our adventures at D23 and our recent appearances on Skywalking Through Neverland and Extra Magic Hour, before diving into several updates from the WITP Podcast.

You’ll hear about our completed Germany Pavilion episode, the latest chapter in our Windows with a View series featuring Bob Iger’s window, and the deep-dive episodes currently taking shape—including Avatar, Fast & Furious, the Italy Pavilion, and more Disney windows!

We’re also looking ahead to upcoming park visits and events, including Knott’s Scary Farm’s daytime fall festivities, a Disneyland day with our friends from IONOX, a special preview of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Bunnyfest, the Disneyana Fan Club Expo, and Mouse-Con Concord.

There is plenty on the horizon—and although new episodes may no longer arrive every week, we’ll release each one as soon as it has received the time, research, and detail it deserves. Thank you for sticking with us. We’re so happy to be back!

Skywalking Through Neverland ep 571: https://youtu.be/oz_LQ_lBEHI?si=bgG65w6VFkRP2jLI

Skywalking Through Neverland ep 572: https://youtu.be/C-tulEF4xKQ?si=4OdZ0LNOxl_cQ0Cj

Extra Magic Hour on Walt's Apartment Productions: https://www.youtube.com/@waltsapartmentpodcast/videos

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:

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YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@whereinthepark

Take a closer look at EPCOT’s Germany Pavilion and discover the stories hiding throughout its shops, architecture, artwork, and miniature villages.

In this episode, Kevin traces the pavilion’s design to real locations across Germany, including Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Frankfurt, and Freiburg. Along the way, he uncovers the history behind Karamell-Küche and Werther’s Original, explains why Disney’s version of Pinocchio looks more German than Italian, and investigates everything from beer steins and cuckoo clocks to Snow White’s wishing well.

You’ll also hear about the Rhine River Cruise attraction that was planned but never built, the meaning behind the pavilion’s sixteen state crests, the return of Der Teddybar, and the unexpected Disney connection hidden inside EPCOT’s miniature train village.

The Germany Pavilion may appear to be one charming Bavarian town, but its details tell stories drawn from centuries of German history—and a few traditions that may not be quite as German as they claim!

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whereinthepark

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/whereinthepark

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@whereinthepark

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@whereinthepark

What happens when you visit four different theme parks in just three days to experience one of the biggest holidays of the year? That's exactly what we set out to do over Fourth of July weekend!

Join us as we compare the Independence Day celebrations at Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, Disneyland, and Disney California Adventure, exploring how each park puts its own unique spin on America's birthday.

From patriotic entertainment and limited-time food to fireworks, atmosphere, decorations, and unexpected surprises, we break down what each park did well, what stood out, what areas needed improvement, and which experiences are worth adding to your own Fourth of July plans.

Along the way, we share firsthand stories from our whirlwind weekend, compare the parks across a variety of categories, and discuss how each destination stays true to its own identity while celebrating the holiday.

If you've ever wondered where to spend the Fourth of July at a theme park—or simply love discovering the details that make each destination unique—this episode is for you.

Did you go to a theme park for America's 250th birthday? Let us know!

Check out our fireworks video at Knott's on VinceTheHatman's YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/0dxw2Znzslg?si=9G_9GADGDhcSPKEY

or on their Knott's Then & Now Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/900497253930693/

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whereinthepark

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/whereinthepark

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@whereinthepark

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@whereinthepark

It’s Kevin’s birthday week, and we’re celebrating with a special episode all about one of the creators behind Where In The Park! 🎉

This week, Amanda and Kim put Kevin in the hot seat with a fun round of questions covering everything from his favorite theme park memories and must-do attractions to the creation of Where In The Park and the little details that make the parks so special.

Learn more about Kevin’s love for theme parks, what inspires his creativity, some behind-the-scenes stories from building WITP, and maybe even a few surprising answers along the way!

Plus, our amazing Where In The Park community joined the celebration by submitting their own questions for Kevin to answer.

Whether you’ve played our games, listened from the beginning, or you’re just discovering Where In The Park, join us for a fun conversation celebrating the people, stories, and memories behind the magic. ✨

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whereinthepark

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TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@whereinthepark

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@whereinthepark

In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast, we continue our Windows With A View series along Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland, exploring the dedication windows hidden around the Carnation Café courtyard.

Discover the stories behind Fred Joerger, Disneyland's legendary rockwork expert; the mysterious "Sam the Tailor" window that many believe may reference Disney Legend Sam McKim; Ed Winger, the craftsman connected to the famous Burning Settler's Cabin and Mike Fink Keel Boats; and Renié Conley, the Hollywood costume designer who helped create Disneyland's original Cast Member costumes and designed the gowns worn by Betty Taylor in the Golden Horseshoe Revue.

Along the way, we'll uncover hidden details, forgotten attractions, the history of Frontierland, and the creative minds whose work still shapes Disneyland more than 70 years later.

Links referenced in this episode:

Imagine That! Ep. 22 - A Chat with Matt McKim - Pt. 1: https://youtu.be/rNtvYDubx4Y?si=JYP8Od0OJh5Zsn72

Imagine That! Ep. 23 - Disney Imagineer Matt McKim - Part 2: https://youtu.be/cCZFR4yzIqg?si=GUWZNn9GE2Yd6bFI

 Imagine That! Ep. 39: The Rockwork Architect: The Life and Legacy of Fred Joerger:
https://youtu.be/pkRvil_Uf2Q?si=xdztJ_MQncNZL0iL

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whereinthepark

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/whereinthepark

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@whereinthepark

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@whereinthepark

Welcome to the Park Press episode for June 2026 of the Where In The Park Podcast—your source for everything happening at WITP!

In this episode, we’re sharing some exciting new updates at WITP, including our newest member of the team! Then, we dive into our theme park connections during our road trip to Rogue Comic Con, upcoming events in June and July, and what's on tap for the WITP Podcast.

Whether you’re planning your next visit or just love staying in the loop, Park Press is here to keep you connected to the parks and the Where In The Park Team!

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whereinthepark

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This week on the Where In The Park Podcast, Amanda takes a heartfelt and detailed look at the life and legacy of Roger Tofte, creator of Enchanted Forest — the beloved family-owned theme park nestled in the forests of Oregon.

From Roger’s early life in Wisconsin and service in the Navy during the Korean War, to hand-building Enchanted Forest alongside his wife Mavis and their children, this episode explores the incredible story behind one of the Pacific Northwest’s most unique theme parks.

Join us as we journey through Storybook Lane, Tofteville Western Town, the Old European Village, the Challenge of Mondor, the Big Timber Log Ride, the Comedy Theatre, and more — while also sharing personal stories from our own visits to the park and reflecting on the craftsmanship, creativity, and heart that make Enchanted Forest so special.

We also discuss the hardships the park endured during COVID, the Oregon wildfires, and the devastating 2021 ice storm, along with the incredible community response that helped preserve Roger’s dream for future generations.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

•  Roger Tofte’s early life and inspiration for Enchanted Forest 
•  The seven-year construction process of the park 
•  Storybook Lane and the park’s handcrafted fairy tale scenes 
•  Tofteville Western Town and the Haunted House 
•  The Ice Mountain Bobsled Roller Coaster and Challenge of Mondor 
•  The Old European Village and live entertainment 
•  Possibly Irish and Susan Vaslev’s contributions to the park 
•  The park’s recovery after COVID, wildfires, and the 2021 ice storm 
•  Roger Tofte’s passing and Celebration of Life 
•  Why Enchanted Forest continues to inspire generations of families 

As partners with Enchanted Forest, we’re honored to share this story and celebrate the legacy of a man who proved that imagination, perseverance, and heart can create something truly timeless.

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whereinthepark

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YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@whereinthepark

Join Kevin as the EPCOT World Showcase series continues with a deep dive into the China Pavilion. From the massive paifang gate and the Temple of Heaven-inspired theater to roof guardians, Fu Dogs, hidden Chinese symbolism, and the history behind Nine Dragons Restaurant, this episode explores how Disney Imagineers brought elements of ancient China into the park. 

In this episode, you’ll discover:

•  why China was added to World Showcase after EPCOT construction had already begun 
•  the real-world inspirations behind the pavilion’s architecture 
•  the meaning of the rooftop “walking beasts” and dragon symbolism 
•  the story behind Nine Dragons Restaurant and the House of Good Fortune 
•  hidden Chinese characters, symbols, and cultural references throughout the pavilion 
•  the history of the Circle-Vision films Wonders of China and Reflections of China 
•  connections between the pavilion and Disney’s Mulan
•  how the pavilion blends influences from the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and Suzhou gardens 

Plus, Kevin shares some fascinating discoveries and theories from researching the pavilion’s many architectural details and cultural references. 

👉Ready to discover your favorite theme park? Check out our games at WhereInThePark.com, and use code PODCAST10 at checkout to take 10% off your next adventure!

👉Explore even more with a FREE Digital Game at Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and more! Go to WhereInThePark.com, and use code WITPDIGITAL

👉Become a WITP Explorer! Join the conversation on our Facebook Group here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/whereinthepark

👉Prefer to read along & see pictures instead of listening? Check out our Blog Page here: WhereInThePark.com/Podcast

👉Follow us @WhereInThePark on your favorite social media platforms:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whereinthepark

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/whereinthepark

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@whereinthepark

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@whereinthepark