Castle Talk Radio

What’s In Our Disneyland Park Bags

We are dumping out those purses, backpacks and fanny packs to tell you what is in our bags for a day in the park with our family. From items you have thought about, to items we have learned about the hard way, and even what popular items you should just leave at home, we are spilling our tips for what you need in the parks. Join us on this episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast and don't forget to subscribe on your favorite podcast service! What To Put In Your Disneyland Park Bags From the minimalist to the "I have a pharmacy in my purse" mom (cough*Becca*cough), everyone has their own packing style. As moms who have been to Disneyland dozens, if not hundreds of times between the two of us, we have tips on what to take, no matter your packing style. (Photo Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort) Before You Pack, You Need To Book Your Trip! Before we get to this week's episode, just a reminder that our partners at Get Away Today have discounted tickets, free hotel nights and more! Plus use code DisneyKids on your vacation stay of 2 nights or more to save extra. BOOK NOW! In This Episode - What To Put In Your Disney Parks Bag In this episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast, Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, and Jessica, from The Happiest Blog On Earth, discuss what we have in our bags for a day at the parks. Special shout out to Julie, from Mom Rewritten, as she created some talking points as we originally tried to record this episode with her, but had technical issues. In This Episode We Cover What is our packing style The no bag line at Disneyland security Our favorite bags for a day at Disneyland 5 must-take items for a day at the park Items to pack for a day at Disneyland with young kids What to pack for a day at Disneyland with tweens and teens Great tips on giving older kids more freedom in the parks Items we have learned we like to have in our bags from experience Where to get important items if you forget them Taking food into Disneyland Disneyland Picnic area Disneyland Lockers What to leave at home Not to brag, but this episode has a lot of great tips in it and I definitely think everyone from the over-packer to the notorious under-packer can learn something from it. Did we miss one of your favorite park essentials? Come tell us what you are packing in the Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group. You Might Also Like After listening to this episode be sure to check out these other great episodes and articles to plan your Disneyland vacation: Disneyland App (Podcast Episode) Disney Genie Preview (Podcast Episode) Sick at Disneyland (Podcast Episode) What To Pack In Your Disneyland Bag (Article) Bringing Food Into Disneyland (Article) Disneyland Picnic Area (Article) Disneyland Lockers (Article) Keeping Kids Entertained In Line (Article)

Planning A Disneyland Vacation? Start Here!

So you have decided to head to Disneyland. This episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast will make sure your vacation gets off on a magical start. If you are heading to Disneyland, there are some important steps you need to take, before you even book your vacation. Start here, whether you are a first-time visitor or an old pro! Photo credit: Becca Robins, This Crazy Adventure Called Life Disneyland has changed a lot over the years, and especially just in the last two years. Gone are the days of planning a last-minute trip, just showing up to the park, and walking in. We touch on some of the most important things that guests, old and new, should know before heading to Disneyland. From buying tickets and reservations to virtual queues, and beyond. Start Here When Planning A Disneyland Vacation There is so much information out there about Disneyland that it can be a bit overwhelming for those who want to know where to start. While it may be fun to look up the 20 best foods to try while at the parks if you skip the steps about buying tickets and making reservations, you won't ever get to try them. So this episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast is your "Start Here" guide for planning your vacation. If you are already a Disneyland pro, bookmark this episode to send to friends planning their vacation so that you don't have to write out 20 pages of notes. Before we get into this episode, just a reminder that we have negotiated a super-secret rate for our followers/listeners and Disneyland with Kids Facebook Group Members on Disneyland tickets. This rate is available through our partners at Get Away Today, and can be used on just tickets, or combined with their hotel deals. You must visit our unique link to get our rate, so be sure to CLICK HERE. In this episode, Jessica, from The Happiest Blog On Earth, and Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, are breaking down the most important, start here, do not pass go things to know and do for your Disneyland with Kids vacation (or without kids... we don't judge). In this episode we cover: Buying Disneyland tickets and what to know Making Disneyland Park reservations How to score your Disneyland dining reservations (including our new favorite tip - Mouse Dining) How technology is a big part of your Disneyland Vacation Disneyland App Disney Genie (be sure to check out our previous episode) What rides require Virtual Queues Items banned at Disney Parks How to check current park info for your trip Planning a Disneyland day After you finish listening, you might also like to check out these other episodes and articles on our websites. Disney Genie Preview (podcast episode) Disneyland App (podcast episode) Top Hotel Picks for Disneyland with Kids (podcast episode) Monthly Guides to Disneyland (articles for the month of your visit) Disneyland VIP Plans (printables and service) Sign up for Mouse Dining (A free service)

Disney Genie Preview

We are all missing Fastpass and MaxPass, but don't worry, Disney has announced the newest version of in-park planning help and line cutting systems... Disney Genie. In this episode, we are breaking down everything we know about Disney Genie, Disney Genie+, Lightning Lanes, and pay-per-ride Fastpass? Will Disney Genie be a hit or a flop for families planning Disneyland vacations? How will this affect your park plan? Take a listen to the latest Disneyland with Kids Podcast as we break down what we know, and what we think we might see with the new Disney Genie, coming this fall. In this Episode - What To Know About Disney Genie Now In this episode, Leslie, from Trips with Tykes, and Julie, from Mom Rewritten, are breaking down everything we know so far about Disney Genie - a new planning tool, line access system, and more coming to Disneyland (and Walt Disney World) Fall 2021. Leslie and Julie talk about everything we know, and some educated guesses on what we might see when this new offering rolls out to Disneyland guests later this season. In this episode we cover: Fastpass and MaxPass - Goodbye dear friends What is Disney Genie - a free planning tool Disney Genie+ - A replacement for MaxPass What is a Lightning Lane How many attractions will have Lightning Lane Access through Disney Genie+ Paid a la carte Lightning Lane attractions Estimated pricing for the a la carte options How will this affect families on a budget Disney Genie release and Virtual Queues Questions we still have about the Disney Genie system Just an hour after this episode was recorded, OC Register published an article stating the a la carte Lightning Lane options will be called Lightning Lane Select. After listening to this episode of the podcast, you might also find these episodes and articles helpful: Disney Genie+ - Your Questions Answered (article on Trips with Tykes) Things To Do While Waiting In Line (article on Mom Rewritten) The Disneyland App (Podcast Episode) Avengers Campus (Podcast Episode that talks about virtual queues)

Disneyland - Please Bring These Things Back (S3 Ep1)

Disneyland has a changed a lot over the years, but it seems announcements about upcoming changes are coming faster than ever. At the same time, we still have plenty of experiences that have yet to return to the parks. It is a strange time, and we are reflecting on favorites and what we want Disneyland to bring back. It is season 3 of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast and we are kicking it off with our season opener, recorded in Disneyland in the Wine Country Trattoria area. So sit back, listen in, and enjoy the background sounds of the park. In this Episode - What we love and what we miss In this episode, Becca, Jessica, Julie and Leslie gather together after a busy day of exploring Halloween Time at Disneyland. We take a moment to reflect as it was our first time with all four of us IN the parks together since the reopening. We play a somewhat rapid fire pick 3, so play along with us. What are our top 3 food picks? Which attractions are the most underrated that people should be sure not to miss? What 3 things do we want Disneyland to please bring back! After listening to this episode, you might also like these episodes of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast: Best Disneyland Souvenirs Best and Worst Disneyland Foods Top Hotel Picks for Disneyland with Kids Disney's Aulani after Reopening

Magic Key - Secret Ways to Save and More

Information about Disneyland's new Annual Pass program - Magic Key - has been released. What will the cost be, are there blackout dates, and what about payment arrangements? Get all the answers from this episode of the Disneyland with Kids podcast. Disneyland's New Magic Key Pass Disneyland's Magic Key Pass will go on sale on August 25, 2021. Before you wait in what will probably be a multi-hour virtual queue to purchase your Magic Key, be sure to listen to this episode. We have secret ways to save, plus reasons why you might want to wait to purchase that pass. In This Episode - Magic Key Details In this episode of the Disneyland with Kids podcast, Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, and Jessica, from The Happiest Blog On Earth, went live, minutes after the details were released about Disneyland's Magic Key Pass, the new annual pass program. We have turned the first part of that live stream into a podcast for our listeners. Before we get into the show notes, one of our tips involves purchase tickets through our partners at Get Away Today. Did you know that Disneyland with Kids members have an exclusive discount? Be sure to book via our link, plus use code DisneyKids to save an additional $10 on hotel bookings of 2 nights or more. What We Cover In Our Magic Key Episode: We break down the 4 different Magic Key Pass options, their perks, costs, and yes, payment plans General info on black out dates Why the top key doesn't say "no blackout dates" even though there are none When will Magic Keys go on sale (hint: August 25th) Special Gift for those purchasing the first 66 days Magical Extras during September Why you should buy a park ticket now, and your Magic Key later Secret ways to save on your Magic Key Which Magic Key will we be getting Note: We have confirmed that the California Resident Tickets cannot be upgraded to Annual Passes You Might Also Like After finishing this episode you may also like: Top Hotel Picks for Disneyland With Kids (podcast episode) Best and Worst Disneyland Souvenirs (podcast episode) Best and Worst Disneyland Foods (podcast episode) Disneyland New Magic Key Pass Details (article) How to make Disneyland Reservations (article)

Stay Cool at Disneyland with Kids

It is heating up and Disneyland is welcoming back guests. Thinking a Disneyland vacation sounds good right now but not sure about the heat? We have tips to help you stay cool while visiting Disneyland with Kids in this episode of the podcast.

Masks and Social Distancing Removed at Disneyland (S2 Ep 24)

On June 15, 2021, Disneyland opened to out-of-state guests. With California's State Restrictions lifted, Disneyland quickly removed mask mandates and social distancing requirements. What are the parks like now that those are gone? And what else must guests planning a summer vacation to Disneyland know before visiting the parks? From what restrictions are in place, to grabbing a virtual queue boarding group, Disneyland tried to return to a "mostly normal" operation, but what was it really like? Becca and Leslie weigh in on how Disneyland is doing and if they think now is a good time to visit the parks. Disneyland Continues To Move Forward After Restrictions Lifted Before we get into this episode's show notes, we want to make sure that our listeners are prepared for their Disneyland vacation. Disneyland is requiring reservations to enter the parks. We suggest purchasing your tickets through our partners at Get Away Today (we have negotiated an exclusive low rate for our Disneyland with Kids members on park tickets) and then making your park reservations ASAP! You can book reservations up to 120 days in advance. In addition, you can also get great hotel deals, free nights, and discounted or free hotel parking, among other perks. Use code DisneyKids to save on hotel bookings of 2 nights or more. In This Episode In this episode of the podcast, Becca, from this Crazy Adventure Called Life, and Leslie, from Trips with Tykes, talk about the changes at Disneyland on June 15, 2021. Both of them were in the parks that week. From Leslie being their June 14th (the last day of restrictions) to June 16th, and Becca being there June 15 - 18th, they compare notes of their experiences and tell you what to be prepared for if you plan on visiting the parks soon. Here is what we cover in this episode of the podcast: California removes all restrictions and out-of-state guests are welcomed back to Disneyland The ever-changing experience of getting through security and into the Disneyland Resort area... what is the best way to enter and more Masks - Disneyland ditches masks with less than 24-hour notice, but some people still need to wear them (note: all guests must continue to mask on shuttles, monorail, etc) What percentage of people still masked What about the children and masks As we tired of talking about the pandemic, we moved on to talking about Virtual Queues and how they have changed Disneyland vacations (be sure to check out Leslie's article on Obtaining a Virtual Queue after you finish this episode) What were the crowds like and is it worth it to visit Disneyland right now After listening to this episode, you might also find these articles and past episodes helpful in planning your Disneyland visit: Avengers Campus (episode) Top Hotel Picks for Disneyland with Kids (episode) Best and Worst Disneyland Souvenirs (episode) How to Get Disneyland Park Reservations (article with video instructions) Discount Disney Gift Cards (article) Disneyland in July 2021 (article- guest guide)

Avengers Campus Disneyland with Kids (S 2 Ep 23)

On June 4, 2021 Avengers Campus opened at California Adventure Park at the Disneyland Resort. This much awaited "Marvel Land" brings super heroes from the MCU along with other nods to the popular franchise. But you can't just stroll into a top secret super hero training facility... That is why we are breaking down everything you should know about Avengers Campus if you plan to visit Disneyland this summer. From how to join the virtual queue, to mobile ordering, and beyond... we talk about it all. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort) Visiting Avengers Campus - Tips You Need To Know In this episode of the Disneyland with Kids podcast, Julie, from Mom Rewritten, and Leslie, from Trips with Tykes, talk about previewing Avengers Campus and Julie's experience attending as a regular guests on opening day. This episode is chock-full of great tips and info, so you will want to be sure to download and listen to it a couple of times before visiting. Ready for a Super Hero Vacation? Before we get to the show notes, just a reminder that if you are ready for a visit to Disneyland you can book through our partners at Get Away Today for our super discount. In this episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast, we are giving you the most up to date information (as of June 9, 2021) on Avengers Campus. From how to get into the land, to how to eat some giant food, we are giving our best tips. We will talk about: How to get into Avengers Campus - Virtual Queues and Standby The new WEB SLINGERS attraction Why this is the time to ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout! Food in Avengers Campus Mobile Ordering and Walk-up ordering - why you may not get to eat at Pym Test Kitchen Merchandise in Avengers Campus Character interactions in Avengers Campus and why you can see all your favorites Can you ride both WEB SLINGERS and Rise of the Resistance in the same day In this episode, Leslie references Becca's flow chart to figure out the virtual queue systems. Here is a copy of that flow chart. Be sure to visit Becca's site as a thank you for taking the time to create this.

Disneyland to Welcome Out of State Guests

Disneyland reopened to guests on April 30, 2021 after a 412 day closure... with one catch. Only California Residents could visit the parks. Finally, Disneyland has announced when they will be able to welcome back out-of-state guests. Plus, updates to the reservation system and more in this episode of the Disneyland with Kids Podcast. It is the day many of us, including 2 of our co-hosts, have been waiting for. Disneyland has finally announced when out-of-state guests may return to the parks. Before we begin, a reminder that our partners at Get Away Today have given our Disneyland with Kids members an exclusive discount on multi-day Disneyland tickets. You can get your tickets now and start booking your park reservations! Disneyland Announces Out-of-State Guests May Return mid-June In today's episode of the Disneyland with Kids podcast, Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, and Jessica, from The Happiest Blog On Earth, discuss Disneyland's announcement that out-of-state guests may return to the park, the change in how far in advance you can book your Disneyland Park Reservations, and will vaccines be required? In This Episode Disneyland announced the date out-of-state guests may return to the parks. June 15th can't come fast enough. Park reservations are now open 120 days in advance. When can out-of-state guests start making their reservations? Will vaccines or negative tests be required to visit Disneyland? Will face masks be required? Temperature checks are being dropped. Will Disneyland go to 100% capacity? Plus we answer some questions from our audience during the livestream. During this episode, we also talk about Disneyland Park capacity numbers. We also talk about how to make Disneyland Park Reservations. Ready to Book Your Disneyland Vacation? Be sure to book your vacation ASAP if you hope to go this summer. We think dates will start to fill up soon. Remember that in addition to our exclusive ticket discounts, Get Away Today has hotel deals and you can save even more on stays of 2 nights or more with code DisneyKids. Why you need the Disneyland App (podcast episode) Disneyland Reopening Day Recap (podcast episode) Avengers Campus Guide (article) Still have tickets from pre-Covid? Check if they are still valid (article)

Tips for Disneyland Summer 2021

If you are hoping to visit Disneyland in Summer 2021, it is going to look a lot different than the Disneyland of summers past. We are giving you the top tips and need-to-know info to plan a successful and magical Disneyland vacation as the parks continue their phased reopening. Disneyland Tips for Summer 2021 Vacations Gone are the days of a last-minute trip to Disneyland for summer vacation. Summer 2021 will require a lot more planning if you are heading to The Happiest Place On Earth. From who is allowed in the parks, to making reservations, lines, and characters, to mobile ordering. We have the best tips to help you enjoy some time at the parks as Disneyland continues a phased reopening. Before we get into this episode's content, just a reminder that we have negotiated a super-secret discounted rate on Disneyland tickets for our audience. CLICK HERE to book your vacation, and remember to use code DisneyKids if you book a hotel of two nights or more for even more savings. In this episode, Becca, from This Crazy Adventure Called Life, and Julie, from Mom Rewritten, are talking about their best tips for visiting Disneyland in Summer 2021. Of course, hours after we recorded this episode (the day before publishing) the guidelines changed so be sure to read below to get the updated information as well. In this episode we cover: Changes we have already seen from the parks reopening on April 30, 2021 to now... hint it has to do with crowds Who can go to the Disneyland Resort Disneyland Theme Park Reservations - How early do you need to make them and more What time to arrive at the parks and other reopening details you will want to take note of Where to Park at Disneyland The importance of the Disneyland App Virtual Queues - Changes and new rides utilizing this queuing option Where to take a break at Disneyland Mobile ordering and one extremely important tip if you hope to eat at the parks And many more insider tips Changes After This Episode Less than 2 hours after we finished recording this episode, Orange County was moved into the Yellow, least restrictive tier of California's Reopening Blueprint. This allows Disneyland to increase to a maximum 35% capacity and move to a 50% capacity for indoor dining. At this time, only California Residents are permitted to visit the parks. California hopes to fully reopen, with minimal mitigation efforts, beginning June 15, 2021 so be sure to join the Disneyland with Kids group (or sign up for our Newsletter) to stay up to date on all the information. Rise of the Resistance Episode Disneyland App Episode Magic Returns Episode (from reopening day) Characters at Disneyland Upon Reopening (article) Mom's Disney Packing List (article)