Family Travel Planning Blog
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Welcome to the Let's Make Memories Travel blog! Here you'll find Disney and Universal planning tips, cruise advice, family travel resources, hotel reviews, and my honest thoughts on the latest theme park news and updates. Use the categories below to explore the topics that interest you most.
Is Disney Quietly Cracking Down on Resort Hopping? My Thoughts on the Recent Transportation Changes
Is Disney Changing Resort Hopping? My Thoughts on Disney Springs Transportation Changes
Disney World Christmas 2026: What Was Announced (And Why It's My Favorite Time to Visit)
Disney has announced its 2026 Christmas season! Here's what's returning, plus why EPCOT Festival of the Holidays and Disney at Christmas are some of my family's favorite experiences.
Epic Universe Announces New Nighttime Spectacular: Universal Celestial Goodnight
Universal Orlando has announced Universal Celestial Goodnight, a new nighttime spectacular coming to Epic Universe’s Celestial Park beginning July 7. Here’s why families may want to plan a full park day and experience Epic Universe after dark.
New 2026 Disney World Deals: Which Discount Is Best for Your Family?
Disney just dropped a bunch of 2026 deals, but not every discount fits every family. In this post, I walk through each major offer—room, ticket, and dining—and share when I’d actually use it (and when I’d skip it).
Halloween Horror Nights 35 (2026) Guide: Tips, Houses & Planning From a Scaredy Cat Who Still Loves It
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando can look terrifying from the outside, but even as a scaredy‑cat I absolutely love it. This honest guide walks you through tickets, tours, houses, scare zones, and simple strategies to make HHN feel fun instead of overwhelming.
Big Thunder Opening Date Announced!
Big Thunder Mountain is finally reopening at Magic Kingdom in 2026 with a lower height requirement, making it our favorite beginner coaster for kids. Here’s why we love it and how to ride with less waiting.
Disney World Deals & Discounts 2026: Current Offers, Tips & How to Save More
Planning a Disney World vacation in 2026? Disney has already released several discounts, including room savings, ticket offers, and family-friendly promotions. Here’s a breakdown of every Disney World deal currently available—and tips to help you choose the best one for your trip.
Our Real Disney Lightning Lane Experience: Wins, Fails, Park Hopping & What I’d Do Differently
We just got back from Disney and are sharing our real Lightning Lane experience — the wins, the fails, park hopping to EPCOT, and what we would do differently next time.
Our First Cruise Experience: What First-Time Cruisers Should Know Before Booking
We share what we learned on our first cruise — from choosing the right itinerary to port experiences, sea days, and cruising with a child.
A Real-Life 2‑Day Disney World Itinerary for Thrill‑Loving Families
A step-by-step 2-day Disney World itinerary for families visiting Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, with flexible park hopping and a free printable itinerary.
Dollywood at Christmas: Pure Holiday Magic + 2026 Season Pass Guide
Experience the magic of Dollywood at Christmas — twinkling lights, festive shows, and delicious treats in the Smoky Mountains. Learn what makes the holidays unforgettable and get the scoop on 2026 Dollywood Season Passes, plus planning tips from Let’s Make Memories Travel.
Pygmy Puff Naming Ceremony at Universal Orlando, Wizarding World Tip
Tucked inside Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes at Universal Orlando is one of the most charming hidden gems in the Wizarding World—the Pygmy Puff naming ceremony. This quick, magical moment is a must-do for families visiting Diagon Alley. In this post, we share what to expect, how to experience it, and why it's one of our favorite little souvenirs.
So You’re Thinking About Halloween Horror Nights 2025?
Thinking about doing Halloween Horror Nights for the first time? In this guide, I’m walking you through everything to expect—scares, tips, ticket options, what house is confirmed so far, and why I ended up loving it even though I used to be terrified of haunted houses.
First HHN 34 House Revealed: Fallout Is Coming—And So Is Five Nights at Freddy’s in a New Way
Universal just revealed the first haunted house for Halloween Horror Nights 34—and it’s a big one. Fallout is coming to life in a post-apocalyptic maze, and Five Nights at Freddy’s will appear in a brand-new way. Tickets, tours, and Express Passes are now on sale. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your scream-worthy trip.
The Ultimate 2-Day Epic Universe Itinerary (2025 Guide)
Visiting Epic Universe for just two days? This detailed itinerary covers every land—from Super Nintendo World to the Ministry of Magic—so you can experience the best rides, snacks, and shows without feeling overwhelmed.
Cars-Themed Expansion Coming to Magic Kingdom… Meet Piston Peak National Park
A brand-new Cars-themed land is coming to Magic Kingdom! Disney just revealed Piston Peak National Park, inspired by Planes: Fire & Rescue, bringing natural beauty, thrilling rides, and new characters to Frontierland.
🌟 Save Money at Disney This Summer: Our Best Family-Friendly Tips
Planning a magical Disney vacation without overspending? Discover our favorite family-tested tips for saving money at Disney this summer — from promotions and park hacks to hidden ways to stretch your budget!
Big Universal Orlando Updates: HHN Teaser & Rip Ride Rockit Closing
Universal just dropped two major updates: Halloween Horror Nights 34 gets its first teaser (and confirms Five Nights at Freddy’s), while Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit gets a closing date. Here’s what’s coming — and what’s leaving — at Universal Orlando.
🎢 Theme Park News Roundup: Universal & Disney Announcements for the Week of June 1st.
Universal brings back JAWS, Disney debuts two new shows, and Magic Kingdom gets a new nighttime parade! Here’s your complete roundup of this week’s biggest theme park updates—plus travel tips for summer 2025.
Ultimate Guide to Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2025
Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2025 is here! 🎭 From dazzling parades to mouthwatering food and epic concerts, we’ve got your ultimate event guide. Find the best parade spots, must-try eats, and pro tips to make the most of your visit!

