California Theme Parks Summer 2023

[Note: For more updated information on what’s new at Golden State theme parks, see our more recent episode California Theme Parks 2024.]

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns what’s new at California’s top theme parks. To kick things off, Johnson chats with Disneyland Ambassador Nataly Guzman Garcia, a 13-year veteran of the resort who previously served as a tour guide. The two discuss Disney’s 100th anniversary celebration, new rides like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a musical event featuring the Avengers, her love of Dole Whip, and much more.

Next, Johnson levels up at Super Nintendo World with Jon Corfino, vice president of creative at Universal Studios Hollywood. Corfino offers a detailed look at the themed land, including Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, an interactive ride that features cutting-edge technology. Guests will feel like they’re walking through a video game, Corfino notes, whether they’re eating a mushroom-themed dish at Toadstool Cafe or simply spotting the countless Easter eggs scattered across the attraction.

Finally, Johnson is joined by theme park expert and travel writer Katrina Hunt. Hunt discusses everything from new coasters to her favorite foods in theme parks across the Golden State. She also shares some cost-saving tips and simple ways to streamline your theme park experience whether you’re exploring Sesame Place San Diego or Gilroy Gardens.

GUESTS

Nataly Guzman Garcia, Disneyland ambassador

Jon Corfino, vice president, creative at Universal Studios Hollywood

Katrina Hunt, theme park expert and travel writer

RESOURCES

Nataly Guzman Garcia is a Disneyland ambassador and longtime cast member at the Anaheim park.

Disneyland Resort

Anaheim

Inland Empire

Disney 100 Celebration

“Magic Happens” Parade

Wondrous Journeys

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway

Mickey's Toontown

San Fransokyo Square

Disneyland California Adventure Park

Rogers: The Musical

Avengers Campus

Jon Corfino is vice president, creative at Universal Creative for Universal Studios Hollywood.

Universal Studios Hollywood

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

Toadstool Cafe

Los Angeles

Katrina Hunt is a theme park expert and travel writer based in San Diego County.

Sesame Place San Diego

Chula Vista

SeaWorld San Diego

Arctic Rescue

LEGOLAND California

Carlsbad

Miniland USA

Petco Park

Hotel del Coronado

Knott's Berry Farm

Buena Park

Knott's Soak City

Knott's Summer Nights

Ghost Town Alive!

Knott's Boysenberry Festival

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Flavors of the World

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Gilroy Gardens

Gilroy

Gil and Roy's Slumber Party

ABOUT THE HOST

Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on radio station WNYC, moved from New York City to Davis in 2016. By combining his journalistic instincts with his personal curiosity, Johnson uses the California Now Podcast platform to develop a deeper understanding of his adopted home.