California Theme Parks Summer 2024

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to two insiders about the latest and greatest happenings at California’s theme parks. Along the way he also discovers tips and tricks for extracting maximum value from a theme park visit, as well as recommendations for tasty treats you can only get on the other side of the turnstiles. 

Johnson first interviews Robert Niles, founder of Theme Park Insider. Niles shares the newest developments in California’s theme parks, including thrilling new rides, special anniversary celebrations, and exciting park expansions. Niles also highlights his personal favorite theme park attractions across the Golden State—roller coasters, live shows, and more.

After that Johnson chats with family travel expert Katrina Hunt, who offers wallet-friendly tips for optimizing your theme park experience. Hunt discusses ways to unlock the best deals, shares money-saving strategies, and explores when it might make sense to pay extra to skip the lines. She also reveals some of the must-try theme park treats, from beloved classics like Disney’s Dole Whip to limited-edition snacks.

GUESTS

Robert Niles, founder of Theme Park Insider

Katrina Hunt, family travel expert 

RESOURCES

Robert Niles is the founder of Theme Park Insider, a comprehensive resource for news on the world’s top theme parks.

LEGOLAND California

SeaWorld San Diego

Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience

Pixar Fest 

Pixar Fest Foodie Guide

Pixar Pals Parade 

Disneyland Resort

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Disney California Adventure Park

Glendale

Universal Studios Hollywood

The World-Famous Studio Tour 60th Anniversary

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Knott’s Berry Farm

Camp Snoopy

Knott’s Summer Nights

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Twisted Colossus

Santa Clarita

California’s Great America

Santa Clara

Knott’s Scary Farm

Halloween Horror Nights

DisneylandForward

Anaheim

Katrina Hunt is a family travel expert based in San Diego County.

Sesame Place San Diego

Kids Free San Diego

San Diego

Gilroy Gardens

Gilroy

California’s Great America 

Visit Anaheim Deals & Special Offers

Visit Buena Park Deals Page

Visit San Diego Deals & Offers

Visit Santa Clarita Special Offers

Pacific Park

Santa Monica

Belmont Park

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Santa Cruz

Disney Pin Trading

Minifigure Trading at LEGOLAND

Disney Genie+

California Road Trips Guide

Knotts Boysenberry Festival

Granny’s Apple Fries

Seven Seas Food Festival

Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant

The World-Famous Studio Tour 60th Anniversary

Castroville Corners

Castroville

ABOUT THE HOST

Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on New York radio station WNYC, has been the host of the California Now Podcast since its inception in 2018.

OUR TEAM

Host, Soterios Johnson

Editorial Director, John Godfrey

Producer, Kate Eplboim

Technical Producer, Jessica Marshall

Theme music, Aaron Taos