In 2020, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was announced to be replacing Disneyland‘s iconic Splash Mountain attraction. Imagineers have been hard at work designing an immersive experience inspired by “The Princess and the Frog,” and the heart and culture of New Orleans. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will take riders on a journey inspired by the story and characters, picking up where that story left off in the film.
We’ve gotten some sneak peeks during ESSENCE Fest and D23 Expo 2022. In the experience, you’ll join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis during Mardi Gras season as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind celebration for the people of New Orleans. Fireflies will light up and invite you deeper into the bayou, waving you forward to the tune of some zydeco music. Zydeco is a special blend of rhythm and blues that was born in Louisiana.
Carmen Smith, Senior Vice President of Creative Development, shared new concept art for the attraction. A full zydeco band including an otter, a rabbit, a racoon, a beaver, a turtle and others are featured. The band members sing and play instruments made of natural materials they found in the bayou. “They may have a bigger role to play in this story … but we’ll just have to wait and see on that one,” Smith hinted. The designs are certainly adorable, and Disney is known for their top-notch animatronics.
Splash Mountain will close January 23rd, 2023 to undergo the transformation into the new ride.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to make its way to Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2024. Start planning your trip now because even though Chapek is gone, that pesky reservation system is still in place.
