Table of Contents

What Rides Are Closed at Disneyland Right Now? Your Expert Guide

Alright, let’s cut straight to the chase. As of today, October 26, 2024, several attractions are currently closed at Disneyland Park. The most notable closures include Splash Mountain (currently undergoing its transformation into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure), the Sailing Ship Columbia (currently undergoing refurbishment), and Pirates of the Caribbean (undergoing a short refurbishment). It’s always a good idea to check the Disneyland app on the day of your visit, as unscheduled closures can pop up due to maintenance or other unforeseen circumstances. Let’s dive deeper into the specifics and uncover the reasons behind these temporary farewells.

Understanding Disneyland Ride Closures

Disneyland, that magical kingdom where dreams come to life, is also a complex machine requiring constant upkeep. Ride closures are an unavoidable part of this process, serving several vital purposes:

Scheduled Refurbishments: These planned downtimes allow Imagineers and maintenance teams to perform essential upgrades, repairs, and enhancements to the ride’s mechanics, safety features, and theming.
Unexpected Maintenance: Sometimes, things break. Unexpected mechanical issues, weather-related damage, or other incidents can necessitate temporary closures.
Major Overhauls and Re-theming: In some cases, rides undergo significant transformations, requiring extensive closures, as is the case with Splash Mountain’s evolution into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

Understanding these reasons helps put ride closures into perspective. They’re not meant to disappoint guests but to ensure the long-term safety, reliability, and overall quality of the Disneyland experience.

Current Ride Closures in Detail

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Formerly Splash Mountain)

Status: Permanently Closed (for transformation)
Reason: Retheming from Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, inspired by “The Princess and the Frog.”
Expected Reopening: Late 2024. This is a highly anticipated re-imagining and one of the biggest closures currently impacting the park. The closure is a major undertaking and is expected to introduce significant new animatronics and storytelling elements.

Sailing Ship Columbia

Status: Temporarily Closed
Reason: Refurbishment. Specific details about the refurbishment are limited, but it typically involves routine maintenance and repairs to ensure the ship’s smooth operation.
Expected Reopening: November 15, 2024 (Subject to change).

Pirates of the Caribbean

Status: Temporarily Closed
Reason: Refurbishment. This usually involves fixing small details or updating mechanical elements.
Expected Reopening: November 5, 2024 (Subject to change).

Other Potential Closures

It’s crucial to remember that unscheduled closures can occur at any time. Before and during your visit, always check the Disneyland app or the official Disneyland website for the most up-to-date information. Cast Members stationed throughout the park are also excellent resources for real-time closure updates.

Minimizing the Impact of Ride Closures

Okay, so some of your favorite rides are temporarily unavailable. Don’t fret! Here are some strategies to maximize your Disneyland experience despite the closures:

Plan Strategically: Before your visit, use the Disneyland app or website to identify any scheduled closures. Adjust your itinerary accordingly, focusing on attractions that are open and have shorter wait times.
Utilize Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane: These services allow you to reserve time slots for select attractions, significantly reducing your wait times. This can be particularly helpful when popular rides are closed, as demand for other attractions increases.
Explore Less Popular Attractions: Disneyland has a wealth of hidden gems and often overlooked attractions. Take the opportunity to discover these hidden treasures, such as the Disneyland Railroad, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, or the Mark Twain Riverboat.
Check the Disneyland App Frequently: The app provides real-time updates on ride closures, wait times, and other important information. Stay informed throughout the day to make the most of your time.
Enjoy the Atmosphere: Disneyland is more than just its rides. Take time to soak in the atmosphere, watch the parades and shows, meet the characters, and enjoy the delicious food and snacks.
Be Flexible: Unexpected closures can happen. Be prepared to adjust your plans and embrace the spontaneity of the day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Disneyland Ride Closures

1. How can I find out which rides are closed on the day of my visit to Disneyland?

The Disneyland app is your best resource for real-time ride closure information. You can also check the official Disneyland website or ask a Cast Member inside the park.

2. Why does Disneyland close rides for refurbishment?

Refurbishments are necessary for routine maintenance, safety upgrades, thematic enhancements, and overall improvements to the ride experience. These closures ensure the long-term reliability and quality of the attractions.

3. How often does Disneyland close rides for maintenance?

The frequency varies depending on the ride and its complexity. Some rides may only require occasional closures, while others may undergo more frequent maintenance.

4. What is the difference between a refurbishment and a re-theming?

A refurbishment typically involves routine maintenance, repairs, and minor upgrades. A re-theming involves a more significant transformation of the ride’s theme, storyline, and overall experience, as seen with Splash Mountain becoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

5. How long do Disneyland ride closures typically last?

The duration of a closure depends on the scope of the work being done. Simple maintenance may only take a few days, while major refurbishments or re-theming projects can last several months.

6. Will I be compensated if a ride I was looking forward to riding is closed during my visit?

Disneyland does not typically offer compensation for individual ride closures. However, if a significant number of attractions are closed or if the park experiences operational issues, you may contact Guest Services to discuss potential options.

7. Can I still ride Splash Mountain before it becomes Tiana’s Bayou Adventure?

No, Splash Mountain is permanently closed and is currently undergoing its transformation.

8. When is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure expected to open at Disneyland?

The current estimated opening timeframe for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is late 2024. Stay tuned to the Disneyland website and app for the most up-to-date information.

9. Does Disney Genie+ cover all rides, even those that are temporarily closed?

No, Disney Genie+ only covers rides that are currently operating. If a ride is closed, you will not be able to make a Lightning Lane reservation for it.

10. Are there any rides that are never closed at Disneyland?

While it’s rare for a ride to never close, some attractions tend to experience fewer and shorter closures than others. However, all rides are subject to occasional maintenance or unexpected closures.

11. How far in advance are ride closures announced?

Disneyland typically announces scheduled closures a few weeks in advance, but sometimes announcements are made further out. Check the Disneyland website and app regularly for updates.

12. What happens if a ride breaks down while I’m in line?

If a ride breaks down while you’re in line, Cast Members will typically provide instructions and options, such as offering a Lightning Lane pass for another attraction or allowing you to return to the ride later once it has reopened.