Erica Shaffer at Wishes & Co. Travel Planning

05/29/2026

🚨 CONTROVERSIAL DISNEY OPINIONS AHEAD 🚨

This week, we’re talking about the Disney rides and attractions we usually skip during our park days, and some of these takes may upset a few Disney adults.

From attractions we don’t think are worth the wait to rides we tend to walk right past, we’re sharing our personal skip list for every Walt Disney World park and why. Some of these are popular. Some are nostalgic. And some, we’re still confused by the hype.

Do you agree with our picks, or are you already yelling at your phone?

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcast! 👇

Podcast Episode · Once Upon A Park · May 28 · 1h 13m

05/29/2026

You can count on me to find the glasses 🥂

05/29/2026

If you’re building a Universal day that’s equal parts thrills and fun, the Minions area at is one of those spots that always delivers a lighter, playful break in the middle of the action!

Between the attractions, character moments, and those over-the-top themed snacks that lean all the way into the humor, it’s the kind of area that doesn’t take itself seriously in the best way. It’s especially great for families with younger kids, but it works for anyone who wants a reset between bigger rides.

Those “in-between” experiences matter more than people realize. They help balance the day so it feels fun, not frantic, which is exactly what a good park day should be!

05/28/2026

: Disneyland edition

Before there was Batuu, there was Big Thunder Ranch BBQ tucked right in Frontierland.

It was an all-you-can-eat, full-service BBQ spot that felt like stepping into a Western ranch right in the middle of the park. Guests could wander through a walk-through log cabin, relax in rustic outdoor seating, and even explore a small petting zoo filled with goats, sheep, cows, and other farm animals. It was immersive in the most unexpected, charming way.

One of the more memorable little Disney details that I personally remember, were two turkeys from the ranch that were part of a presidential pardon tradition in 2008.

The area closed permanently in 2016 to make way for what is now, but for a lot of longtime Disneyland fans, this spot still holds a very specific kind of nostalgia, the kind that feels completely different from what replaced it, but equally tied to the park’s history.

Some Disney spaces don’t just disappear. They evolve into something entirely new, leaving behind stories that still get talked about years later.

05/27/2026

☀️ NATIONAL SUNSCREEN DAY TRAVEL TIP ☀️

Heading to Walt Disney World Resort? Don’t let cloudy skies fool you! Florida sun is sneaky! Even on overcast park days, UV rays can still leave you looking like Sebastian after a bad day under the sea.

Park Bag Reminder:

✔️ Pack sunscreen
✔️ Reapply throughout the day
✔️ Don’t forget ears, shoulders, and the tops of your feet if wearing non-sneakers (trust me on this one)

Long park days + heat + surprise sunshine = a recipe for vacation sunburn misery. Protect your skin so you can focus on the magic, snacks, and castle photos instead.

05/26/2026

Everything opening today at Walt Disney World:

🎸 Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets at Hollywood Studios

🇺🇸 Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT

✨ Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Hollywood Studios

⭐ Reimagined Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios

🏰 Jessie’s Roundup at the Diamond Horseshoe at Magic Kingdom

🌐 GoofyCore at EPCOT

💙 Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station at Animal Kingdom

05/25/2026

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. While many of us are spending the long weekend with family, friends, and maybe a little sunshine, Memorial Day is also a reminder of the freedoms we’re able to enjoy because of those who served and gave everything.

From my family to yours, I hope your weekend is filled with gratitude, meaningful moments, and plenty of memory making. ❤️

05/25/2026

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is hands-down one of the BEST times to visit!

From incredible food booths and specialty drinks to concerts, exclusive experiences, and all the little limited-time details Disney fans love, it basically turns EPCOT into one giant foodie paradise.

This year’s festival runs August 27 through November 21, which gives you plenty of time to snack your way around the world. You’re going to want a game plan because there is SO much to try.

Pro tip: pace yourself. What starts as “I’ll just grab one thing” quickly turns into seven festival booths and questioning every life choice in the best possible way.

Food & Wine isn’t just for families. It’s such a fun option for adults trips, couples getaways, girls weekends, or even a quick fall escape with friends.

If Food & Wine has been sitting on your Disney bucket list, I’d love to help you plan a trip that makes the most of it, without missing the snacks worth saving room for.