VTPM245: My California Adventure - Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier & Disneyland Plus Theme Park News

Welcome to Episode 245 of the Vacationeers Theme Parks & More Podcast!

Tom is joined by Jon Self (@pastorJonSelf) for a jam-packed episode featuring a fiery week of theme park news — literally! From Universal’s Rip Ride Rockit catching fire during demolition to Disney’s latest ticket price hikes, we cover every spark, shock, and surprise across the parks.

Then, Tom breaks down his California weekend getaway, with stops at Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood, and a full day at Disneyland that included Oogie Boogie Bash, 20 attractions, 8 Lightning Lanes, and a breakfast chimichanga that might just top Dole Whip.

📰 News Rundown Includes:

• Busch Gardens Tampa: Iron Gwazi locker crackdown (paid lockers now enforced)
• Busch Gardens Williamsburg: Guest climbs Tempesto coaster (and gets arrested)
• Icon Park: 100,000 sq. ft. expansion with new Arte Museum coming in 2027
• Disney Parks: Ticket price increases, PhilharMagic refurbishment, virtual queue return
• Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby coming to Downtown Disney
• Muppets takeover of Rock ’n Roller Coaster confirmed for 2026
• Haunted Mansion guest incident at Disneyland
• Universal Orlando: Rip Ride Rockit fire during demolition
• Stardust Racers reopens after safety investigation
• Epic Universe teases Christmas events in Celestial Park and Wizarding World
• Banana Ball coming to ESPN Wide World of Sports (May 29–30, 2026)

✈️ Tom’s California Weekend

• Stayed at Whiskey Hotel Hollywood and The Anaheim Hotel
• Lunch at Seaside on the Pier, Bloody Marys & bottomless mimosas
• Explored Santa Monica, Hollywood & Disneyland (20 attractions in one day!)
• Total cost: $2,425.55

🎢 A perfect mix of sunshine, churros, coasters, and chaos!