Six years after the COVID closures shut the gates on March 15, 2020, Walt Disney World still feels different. Today, we're taking an honest look at what’s still missing from the guest experience- from beloved nighttime spectaculars and atmosphere performers to everyday perks like Extra Magic Hours, Disney’s Magical Express, free FastPasses, and so much more.

We’ll talk about how the pandemic gave Disney the opportunity to quietly reset expectations and make permanent changes that continue to impact every visit. I cover the big losses, the smaller details that added up to real magic, and the projects that were cancelled or heavily delayed.

But this isn’t just a list of what’s gone. I also share why I’m feeling hopeful about the future and why I believe the best days at Walt Disney World are still ahead.

If you’ve ever wondered why your Disney trips don’t quite feel the same as they used to, this episode is for you.

Get ready for an action-packed summer at Walt Disney World! In this episode of the Living by Disney podcast, we break down all the biggest March 2026 announcements that will shape your next family vacation.

From the new leadership team at Disney Experiences to Cinderella Castle’s stunning new look, Buzz Lightyear and Big Thunder Mountain re-openings, the Muppets takeover of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Soarin’ Across America, Bluey’s Wild World, and a brand-new Disney Jr. show — we’ve got every opening date and detail you need.

Plus: Cool Kids’ Summer event (May 26 – Sept 8), ticket deals from $109/day, free dining offers, resort perks, and a behind-the-scenes look at the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival.

Whether you’re planning a summer trip with kids or just love staying in the know, this episode is your complete guide to making the most of Disney World in 2026.

Disney Unscripted video mentioned:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izHfsAX3kLg

Spring is here and that means it's time for the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival! This is your full guide to visiting, including all the best activities, my top 10 food and drink picks, and tips on when to visit and how to get the most out of your day.

Here's a link to the app Serena recommends to plan your food:

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wdw-food-wine/id1037609346

Value, moderate, deluxe, family, adult-only vibes- no matter your travel style, Serena has the top 10 Walt Disney World resorts that actually deliver for every type of guest. In this episode, she'll walk you through her favorites with real talk on prices, theming, food, location perks (hello Skyliner & monorail!), pools, views, and the honest downsides. Whether you’re booking your first family trip or hunting that perfect adults-only escape, this list has your next Disney home base. Tune in and start planning!

Ever wondered which Disney World restaurants live up to the endless hype... and which ones are total tourist traps? In this episode of Living by Disney, we dive deep into the ultimate foodie debate: overrated vs. underrated dining spots across the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs!

Joining me is the no-holds-barred expert herself—Kristen from Wright Down Main Street YouTube channel. With her honest, straightforward reviews (and zero fear of calling out the flops), Kristen has built a loyal following by tasting everything and grading it like a real restaurant—not just on "Disney magic."

We start with Kristen's origin story: how she got hooked on Disney food content, what sparked her honest style, and the changes she's seen in the dining scene over the years. Then, we follow her personal list of the most overrated classics (the ones everyone waits hours for but might disappoint) and the criminally underrated hidden gems (the spots locals and repeat visitors rave about but most guests overlook).

Whether you're planning your next Walt Disney World trip, rethinking reservations, or just love a good food debate—this episode is packed with real-talk insights to help you eat smarter and save your appetite (and wallet) for the winners.

Kristen drops hot takes, favorite dishes, value breakdowns, and more. Don't miss it!

Subscribe to Wright Down Main Street on YouTube for her full video reviews:

https://www.youtube.com/@wrightdownmainstreet and on Instagram at

https://www.instagram.com/wrightdownmainstreet

In this special episode, Serena dives into the biggest NEWS of the year at The Walt Disney Company: Josh D'Amaro has been named the next CEO, effective March 18, 2026, succeeding Bob Iger. As a lifelong "parks guy" who started as a cast member and rose to Chairman of Disney Experiences, Josh's appointment has parks enthusiasts buzzing about what’s next for Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and beyond.

Joined by special guest Adam Bankhurst, Disney writer for IGN.com and author of the in-depth article on this transition, Serena breaks down:

• Why Josh D'Amaro was chosen and what his operational, guest-first background could mean for theme park magic
• Dana Walden’s promotion to President and Chief Creative Officer – and how her creative vision might supercharge park attractions and IP tie-ins
• The real talk on fan hopes (bolder expansions, better guest experiences) vs. concerns (rising costs, Genie+, IP over originality)
• Who might step into Josh’s old role as Chairman of Disney Experiences – with a look at top contenders

Whether you're a die-hard Annual Passholder, a once-a-year visitor, or just love debating the future of Disney parks, this episode gives you the full scoop from an insider perspective.

Tune in for candid discussion, fan-focused analysis, and a peek at what the next era of Disney magic could look like.

Thanks to guest Adam Bankhurst for joining today!

Read Adam's article on IGN

Follow Adam on Instagram

Check out Adam's podcast, Talking Disney Magic

Big changes coming to Star Wars Galaxy's Edge in Disneyland- Serena talks about why they matter and whether we will see them come to Disney World. Plus all the latest park news that you'll want to know, including the castle painting project, two new dining locations announced, and festival concert updates!

Here's your guide to Epcot Festival of the Arts this year! My top 10 must-do list, covering my favorite sips and bites and all the free things to see and do. PLUS an interview with Disney artist Dom Corona on fulfilling a childhood dream of making Disney art! (Interview at 17.40)

The free app for planning your Epcot Festival visit: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wdw-food-wine/id1037609346

Check out Dom Corona on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/domcorona?igsh=c252c3I0ZnpwYm5k