When Is Splash Mountain Reopening at Disney World?

The question on everyone’s mind: Splash Mountain at Walt Disney World is permanently closed as of January 23, 2023. It is being reimagined into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which is scheduled to open in late 2024. Buckle up, buttercups, because we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about this transformation!

The End of an Era: Splash Mountain’s Closure

Splash Mountain, a beloved log flume ride based on the controversial 1946 Disney film Song of the South, had been a fixture at Magic Kingdom since 1992. Its catchy tunes, thrilling drops, and animatronic characters made it a favorite for many. However, increasing concerns regarding the film’s problematic portrayal of the American South led Disney to announce plans for a retheming in June 2020. The last day for the ride was January 22, 2023, with the official closure happening on January 23, 2023.

Why the Change?

The decision to reimagine Splash Mountain stemmed from a desire to create a more inclusive and representative experience for all guests. Song of the South has been criticized for its romanticized depiction of the post-Civil War South and its problematic portrayals of African American characters. Given Disney’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, the decision to move away from this source material was seen as a necessary step.

Hello, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!

Enter Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a vibrant and exciting new attraction based on the 2009 animated film The Princess and the Frog. This reimagining promises to bring the magic of New Orleans and the spirit of Princess Tiana to Frontierland.

What to Expect from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will take guests on a musical adventure through the Louisiana bayou, joining Tiana, Louis, and other familiar characters as they prepare for Mardi Gras. The ride will feature new animatronics, music, and special effects, all while retaining the thrilling drop that made Splash Mountain so popular.

• Storyline: The ride’s story is set after the events of The Princess and the Frog. Tiana is hosting a party, and riders will join her and Louis on an adventure to find a special ingredient.

• Music: Expect plenty of upbeat, New Orleans-inspired music throughout the attraction.

• Theming: The exterior of the ride will be transformed to reflect the beauty and charm of the Louisiana bayou, complete with lush landscaping and intricate details.

• Inclusivity: This retheming ensures the ride offers a fun, inclusive experience for every guest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let’s dive into some of the most pressing questions surrounding the transformation of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

1. Will the Ride System Stay the Same?

Yes, the ride system for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will largely remain the same as Splash Mountain. Expect the familiar log flume experience, including the thrilling drop, but with a completely new story and theme.

2. What about the Drop? Is it Still There?

Fear not, thrill-seekers! The iconic drop is indeed staying. It’s a signature element of the ride experience that will be incorporated into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

3. Will the Animatronics Be Different?

Absolutely! Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will feature entirely new animatronics of Tiana, Louis, and other characters from The Princess and the Frog. They’ll be more advanced and expressive than the previous ones.

4. Is Splash Mountain Closed at Disneyland Too?

Yes, Splash Mountain at Disneyland also closed on May 31, 2023, and will be reimagined into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. The opening date for the Disneyland version is also slated for late 2024.

5. Will There Be New Merchandise Available?

You bet! Disney is planning to release a wide range of new merchandise to coincide with the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Expect everything from plush toys and apparel to souvenirs and collectibles.

6. Will the New Ride Be Scarier?

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is not expected to be scarier than Splash Mountain. The focus is on creating a fun, family-friendly experience that celebrates the spirit of The Princess and the Frog. While the drop remains, the overall tone will be more lighthearted and joyful.

7. How Will the Queue Be Different?

The queue for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will be completely re-themed to reflect the world of The Princess and the Frog. Expect to see immersive details and nods to the film’s story and characters.

8. What Happens to the Old Splash Mountain Animatronics?

The fate of the old Splash Mountain animatronics is currently unconfirmed. Disney has not yet announced plans for what will happen to them. Some may be archived, while others may be repurposed in other projects.

9. Will FastPass/Lightning Lane Be Available?

It is highly likely that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will offer Lightning Lane access, similar to how Splash Mountain operated. Lightning Lane allows guests to bypass the regular standby line and experience the ride with a shorter wait time.

10. How Has This Change Affected the Value of Splash Mountain Memorabilia?

The closure of Splash Mountain has caused a surge in value for certain memorabilia related to the ride. Items like maps, signs, and even pieces of the attraction have become highly sought-after by collectors. The more unique and rare the item, the more valuable it tends to be.

11. Will the Food Options Around the Ride Change?

It’s anticipated that the food options near Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will also reflect the new theme. Expect to see New Orleans-inspired cuisine and snacks, complementing the overall experience of the attraction.

12. How Can I Stay Updated on the Progress of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure?

The best way to stay updated on the progress of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is to follow Disney Parks on social media, check the Disney Parks Blog, and visit the official Walt Disney World website.

Final Thoughts

While saying goodbye to Splash Mountain may be bittersweet, the arrival of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure promises an exciting new chapter for Magic Kingdom. With its focus on inclusivity, compelling storytelling, and stunning theming, this reimagined attraction is sure to become a beloved favorite for years to come. Keep your eyes peeled for that late 2024 opening, and get ready to experience the magic of New Orleans in a whole new way!