Traveling with kids is always memorable—for better and for worse—and we can’t wait to explore, laugh, and learn right along with you! Where are the best family-friendly destinations? What actually belongs on your packing list? How do you survive your child’s first flight, inaugural cruise, or Disney parks trip? On the Kids Travel Tales podcast, Jenn and Mia (aka “Mama and Mia”) talk with fellow families about making the most of family travel time. Each episode dives into favorite destinations, the best kids’ travel products, road-trip hacks, and plenty of laugh-out-loud stories from the road. Produced by Kids Travel Tales. Kids Travel Tales podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with any company, organization, or product mentioned in this episode. For more information about locations or topics discussed, please contact your travel agent or the organization directly.
Did I Pick the WRONG Disney Christmas Party? 🎄 Mickey's Very Merry vs. Jollywood Nights
22 min
Planning a Disney World holiday vacation? 🎄 Before you book Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party or Disney Jollywood Nights , listen to this episode! Disney travel planner Sammie Fay joins us to compare Disney World's two biggest holiday events, share her favorite Halloween and Christmas party traditions, and help families decide which special event is the best fit for their vacation. From exclusive characters and holiday treats to fireworks, entertainment, and budget-saving ticket strategies, we're covering everything parents need to know before visiting Walt Disney World during the holidays. In this episode: 🎄 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party vs. Jollywood Nights—which is the better value? 🎃 What makes Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party so popular with families 🍪 The can't-miss holiday food, exclusive characters, and entertainment at Disney World ✨ Money-saving tips for Disney's separately ticketed holiday events and how to choose the right one for your family Whether you're planning your first Disney Christmas vacation or deciding between Disney's Halloween and Christmas parties, this episode is packed with family travel tips to help you create magical holiday memories.
Autism and Beaches Resorts 💙 Special Support for Families
5 min
After the incredible response to our episode "Autism and Disney World: Tips from a Former Disney Princess," we're back with a special bonus conversation featuring travel fairy and former Disney princess, Dez, and autism advocate Dawn. This time, we're exploring why Beaches Resorts has become one of the most recommended vacation destinations for families traveling with autistic children and those with sensory needs. From autism-certified staff and sensory-friendly spaces to one-on-one buddy programs and Sesame Street's inclusive programming, this episode highlights how thoughtful accommodations can help make family vacations more relaxing—for kids and parents alike.
Disney World vs. Royal Caribbean 🚢 A Mom of Two Toddlers Weighs In
23 min
Disney World or Royal Caribbean—which vacation is the better fit for a young family? Cruise content creator Sarah LeJeune joins us to share why her family keeps choosing Royal Caribbean for vacations with toddlers, what has made them loyal to the cruise line, but why they're seriously considering making the switch to MSC Cruises for future sailings. Also in this episode: 👶 Toddler cruise hacks, nap schedules on vacations, packing tips, and managing toddler tantrums at sea 💰 Why older Royal Caribbean cruise ships can be one of the smartest values for young families
Before Booking an Alaska Cruise 🏔️ Tips from a Mom Who's Taken 12 Cruises
19 min
After sailing on 12 Caribbean cruises, travel advisor Amber McAleer or Travelmation never expected an Alaska cruise to become her favorite family vacation. In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Amber shares honest advice for families considering an Alaska cruise—from the best age for kids and the biggest packing mistakes to how to save money on excursions and why shoulder season may be the smartest time to sail.
Universal Kids Resort Gets HATE 💥 A Paying Mom Shares Her Honest Review
25 min
Universal Kids Resort has been one of the most talked-about new theme parks of the year—but is the criticism deserved? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn sits down with Samantha, one of the first paying guests to visit during the soft opening, to separate social media hype from the real experience. From rides and character meet-and-greets to food, pricing, and splash pads, Samantha shares what surprised her most—and why she thinks parents should stop judging the park based on TikTok photos alone. In this episode, you'll hear: Why one of the first paying guests gave Universal Kids Resort a 10 out of 10 The best rides, themed food, and character experiences for kid Whether the ticket price is worth it for families with young children The truth about the shade, landscaping, and other viral complaints Why this may be the perfect first theme park before a trip to Universal Orlando
Washington, DC with Kids 🇺🇸 Best FREE Things to Do
11 min
Planning a family trip to Washington, DC? From Smithsonian museum favorites to July 4th survival tips, you'll get practical advice for exploring the nation's capital with babies, toddlers, and older kids—all without breaking the bank. In this episode, you'll hear: Why Washington, DC is one of the best family vacations in America Hot takes on the most overrated attractions (yes, even the Air & Space Museum!) Why you don't need a car—and how locals use the Metro Tips for July 4th fireworks, where to stay, and hidden gems tourists often miss
Is Grand Floridian Worth It? ✨ Disney Luxury Without Breaking the Bank
6 min
Dreaming of a more luxurious Disney vacation? In this bonus episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn is joined by Disney travel advisor Jamie McMahon of Travelmation and Alli from Happily Ever Taylor Fam on YouTube to share their favorite ways to elevate a Walt Disney World vacation—from iconic deluxe resorts to hidden splurges that make a trip feel extra magical. In this episode, you'll hear: Why the Grand Floridian remains Disney's most iconic luxury resort Hidden ways to experience deluxe Disney resorts without staying there Why Minnie Vans may be Disney's most underrated luxury upgrade Other simple ways to add luxury touches to your vacation on almost any budget
BORED on Royal Caribbean 👀 Cruise Expert Ranks 5 Cruise Lines
17 min
Which cruise line is actually best for families? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn chats with travel advisor and cruise expert Sam from Gabriel Getaways, who has sailed on FIVE major cruise lines — Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, and Celebrity. And yes… she has some HOT TAKES. 👀 From why Carnival is her family’s favorite cruise line to why Royal Caribbean left her bored (and hungry), Sam breaks down the biggest cruise line rumors, mistakes first-time cruisers make, and what families should really consider before booking. In this episode, you’ll hear: Which cruise line has the best food, entertainment & kids activities Why she STILL hasn’t booked a Disney Cruise Cruise tips every first-time family cruiser should know
Is a Disney VIP Tour Worth the Cost? 💰 Disney Experts Break It Down
21 min
Is a Disney VIP Tour actually worth the price tag? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn is joined by Disney creators Alli from Happily Ever Taylor Fam and travel advisor Jamie McMahon to break down the luxury side of Walt Disney World vacations — from private VIP guides to deluxe dining and bucket-list Disney experiences. Plus, Alli shares the viral bet she made with her husband to earn a Disney VIP Tour by growing her YouTube channel! In this episode, you’ll hear: • What a Disney VIP Tour actually includes (and costs) • How families use VIP tours to ride more with less stress • Smart ways to add “luxury Disney” touches without overspending
OVERRATED Disney World Restaurants 🍽️
18 min
Is Cinderella’s Royal Table actually worth the price? Why does Space 220 get so much hate? And are Disney food influencers setting expectations too high? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn chats with Disney travel advisor Brittany Adams about the most talked-about restaurants at Walt Disney World — including the ones families love, hate, and debate nonstop online. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why some Disney restaurants are massively overrated Best Disney World restaurants for kids vs. adults How to balance dining reservations with ride planning The most underrated Disney restaurant families are missing
Autism and Disney World 💙 Tips from a Former Disney Princess
29 min
Traveling with a child on the autism spectrum or sensory issues can feel overwhelming — especially when it comes to busy destinations like Walt Disney World. In this special Autism Awareness Month episode of Kids Travel Tales, two moms share real-life strategies for making family travel more accessible, predictable, and enjoyable. From first flights to navigating Disney parks and cruises, this episode is filled with practical advice for parents planning trips with sensory needs in mind. In this episode, you’ll hear: How to prepare kids with autism or sensory needs for the airport and travel days What to know about Disability Access Service (DAS) at Walt Disney World Resort and queue re-entry options Why Disney Cruise Line may be a better fit for some families Small Disney planning details that can prevent big meltdowns
Disney Cruise on a Budget? 🚢 What to Splurge On (and What to Skip!)
30 min
What should you actually spend money on during a Disney Cruise Line vacation — and what’s totally not worth it? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales, we are joined by Disney travel expert Sammie Fay, a Mickey Guru Travel Advisor, to break down the ultimate Disney Cruise money-saving guide. From placeholder bookings to fish extenders, specialty dining, and those pricey princess experiences, this episode is full of honest opinions and detailed strategies to help families cruise smarter with DCL. In this episode, you’ll hear: The best time to book a Disney cruise for the lowest price What’s worth the splurge (and what to skip) onboard How a Disney cruise placeholder can save you money Tips for choosing the right ship at the right budget for your family
Disney for Military Families 🇺🇸: Hidden Discounts and Shades of Green Explained
5 min
Planning a Disney World vacation as a military family ? You might be missing out on some of the biggest savings available. In this bonus episode of Kids Travel Tales, Jenn sits down with travel advisor Tracy from Trace of Magic Travel to break down how military families can access exclusive Disney discounts — and why working with a travel planner can make the process so much easier. From military salute tickets to the ins and outs of staying at Shades of Green, this episode is packed with practical tips and insider insights. In this episode, you’ll hear: How military families can access discounted Disney tickets The difference between base tickets vs. Shades of Green tickets Who qualifies for Disney’s military discounts What it’s like staying at Shades of Green (and its perks) Why using a travel advisor can simplify booking
My Husband Liked Great Wolf Lodge MORE Than Disney World?!👀💦
17 min
Could an indoor water park really compete with Disney World? In this special all-family episode of Kids Travel Tales , Jenn is joined by her husband Chris to recap their spring break adventures — from Great Wolf Lodge to a surprise day at GalaxyCon Richmond . From wave pool obsessions to Magic Quest marathons (and one minor dad injury 😅), they share what worked, what didn’t, and whether Great Wolf Lodge is actually worth it for families. Plus, Jenn breaks down why ComicCon might be one of the most unexpectedly fun outings for kids. In this episode, you’ll hear: Honest pros and cons of Great Wolf Lodge vs. Disney World What kids actually loved (and skipped!) at the water park Smart tips for staying warm and saving money at Great Wolf Lodge What to expect at a GalaxyCon event (costumes, crowds & costs) How to budget at a comic-con for souvenirs, food, and meet-and-greets
A FREE Day at Disney ✨ + Hidden Florida Gems (Including Peppa Pig!) 🐷
18 min
Can you really have a magical Disney day for FREE? We are chatting with Kayla from Adventurous Little Thinkers , a Tampa-based creator known for sharing low-cost family adventures. Kayla walks us through her viral “100% Free Disney Adventure Day” — a creative way families can enjoy Disney magic by exploring resorts, riding Disney transportation, and discovering hidden playgrounds without stepping inside the parks. In this episode, you’ll hear: How to plan a completely free Disney day at Walt Disney World The best resorts for kids to explore (including Art of Animation and Animal Kingdom Lodge) Fun Disney resort activities like playgrounds and hidden character scavenger hunts Free family travel ideas around Tampa and Central Florida Best family-friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay
Great Wolf Lodge 🐺 vs. Kalahari: Are Indoor Water Parks Worth It? 💦
9 min
Spring break is almost here, so we’re bringing back the very first episode of Kids Travel Tales — our deep dive into indoor water parks like Great Wolf Lodge, Kalahari, and DreamWorks Water Park . In this episode, you’ll hear: Great Wolf Lodge vs. Kalahari — which works better for younger kids What to pack for an indoor water park weekend Why one night is usually enough Tips for managing kids with different thrill levels A helpful listen for parents planning spring break trips, weekend getaways, or first-time indoor water park vacations .
Carnival, Royal or MSC? 🚢 Family Cruise Showdown
21 min
Which cruise line really has the worst food? After a viral TikTok debate, Jenn brings in Danielle from Happy Travel Mama — mom of five and cruise expert — to compare Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and MSC from a family perspective. From kids clubs and pool decks to main dining rooms and private islands, Danielle shares honest opinions after sailing all three cruise lines (including 10+ Carnival cruises!). In this episode, you’ll hear: • Which cruise line actually has the best (and worst) food • Carnival’s reputation — and whether it’s deserved • Differences between older vs. newer ships • Room layout tips for large families A must-listen for parents planning their next family cruise vacation and trying to decide which cruise line is right for them. 🌊✨
runDisney to Dollywood: Theme Park Travel with Toddlers 🎢
20 min
Can you train for 48.6 miles and still plan a magical Disney World family vacation? In this episode, Jenn chats with Haley Ragsdale of Academy Travel — runDisney veteran, Dopey Challenge finisher, and mom — about how to plan a successful runDisney weekend when toddlers are coming along . From 2 a.m. race wake-ups to stroller-packed finish lines, Haley shares practical tips for making race weekends work for families — including when to bring grandparents, where kids can cheer, and how to balance marathon training with mom life. Plus, the conversation shifts to Dollywood vs. Disney — including why Dollywood’s coaster lineup rivals Universal-level thrills, how it compares to Disney’s family-friendly rides, and whether the cinnamon bread really beats Magic Kingdom’s cinnamon rolls. In this episode, you’ll hear: • How to plan a runDisney trip with toddlers • Where families can cheer during race weekend • Postpartum training tips for busy moms • Water park differences: Disney vs. Dollywood • Why Dollywood is an underrated family theme park
Are All-Inclusive Resorts Worth It for Young Families? 🌴
20 min
Snowed in and dreaming of sunshine? In this episode of Kids Travel Tales , Jenn and Mia dive into the world of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts with Melissa from M&J Luxury Getaways . From Beaches Turks & Caicos to Dreams and beyond, we’re breaking down what “all-inclusive” really means — and whether it’s a smart alternative to a Disney vacation. In this episode, you’ll hear: • Hidden fees some brands charge — and how to avoid them • The difference between Luxury, Club Level, and Butler suites • Why room layout matters more than you think for families • Best ages for an all-inclusive vacation
Choosing the BEST Disney Resort for Kids 🏰 (and When to Stay Off-Property)
19 min
Picking the right Walt Disney World resort can feel just as overwhelming as planning the parks themselves. In this episode, Tracy ( Trace of Magic Travel ) breaks down how to actually choose the best Disney resort for your family — based on your kids’ ages, travel style, and budget. From stroller-friendly transportation to club level perks and hot takes on which resorts to skip, Tracy shares the real advice Disney parents wish they had before booking. In this episode, you’ll hear: What families should prioritize first when choosing a Disney resort The real differences between Value, Moderate, and Deluxe resorts Best Disney resorts for toddlers, elementary kids, preteens, and grandparents When staying off Disney property does make sense
