Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is back at Magic Kingdom after a lengthy refurbishment, and Disney fans wasted no time flooding Frontierland for the reopening. Lauren and Eric break down the surprisingly massive crowds, debate whether the updated coaster was really worth a multi-hour wait, and compare Walt Disney World’s version of Big Thunder to Disneyland’s and even Disneyland Paris’. They also dive into one of the week’s biggest travel stories: the shutdown of Spirit Airlines and what Disney travelers can do to keep finding affordable flights in an increasingly expensive travel landscape.

HIGHLIGHTS

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad officially reopens at Magic Kingdom after a lengthy refurbishment
Lauren and Eric react to the massive opening day crowds and multi-hour wait times
A coast-to-coast debate over whether Disneyland or Walt Disney World has the better versions of classic attractions
Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain, and It’s a Small World all enter the Disney attraction showdown
Why Disneyland’s Fantasyland feels different and more nostalgic to longtime Disney fans
Spirit Airlines officially shuts down after nearly 34 years in business
The impact Spirit’s closure could have on Disney travelers looking for budget-friendly vacations
Alternative budget airline options for Disney trips including Breeze, Allegiant, Frontier, and Southwest
Travel hacks and booking strategies that can help Disney fans save money on flights
Why flexibility and rebooking may be the key to cheaper Disney vacations moving forward

For this episode’s full show notes, click here.

HOSTS

FOLLOW – DIS & HERS

FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA

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