Over 40 million riders have faced the 52.5-foot drop. But now, the big question is: what did they change Splash Mountain to? Disney has introduced Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. It’s a lively makeover that keeps the excitement but tells a new story with New Orleans flair.
The new theme is inspired by The Princess and the Frog. It mixes culture, food, and music with the classic log flume ride. The ride’s look remains, but the story is new, filled with Louisiana spirit.
The ride opens on June 28, 2024, at Magic Kingdom and November 15, 2024, at Disneyland. It keeps the famous drop but adds new Audio-Animatronics, songs, and set pieces. It’s a modern twist on a classic, thanks to Disney’s “plussing” approach.
For those eager to know all the changes, this article covers the story, timeline, and thrills. It explores the splash mountain new theme from Florida to California.
Overview of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disney Parks
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure brings a fresh New Orleans spirit to the classic Disney log ride format. Guests drift past cypress groves and glowing fireflies before meeting familiar faces from The Princess and the Frog. This ride is the modern answer to what is splash mountain now, blending music, food lore, and river magic into a lively journey.
Fans searching for splash mountain magic kingdom details will find a faithful transformation. The experience honors the original layout while highlighting new scenes, scents, and sounds. It’s a vibrant update to the beloved log flume ride Disney guests grew up with.
What is Splash Mountain now at Magic Kingdom and Disneyland
At Magic Kingdom and Disneyland, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is the answer to what is splash mountain now. The retheme keeps the iconic path and tells a post-film chapter with Tiana at the helm. It’s the most talked-about Disney log ride update of the decade.
Opening dates: June 28, 2024 in Florida and November 15, 2024 in California
In Disney World Florida, the attraction opened on June 28, 2024, welcoming summer crowds with a jazzy splash. Disneyland followed on November 15, 2024, timed for the holiday season. For those asking, does Disneyland have splash mountain, the classic name is gone, but the spirit lives on under its new title.
Ride type and drop: log flume with a 52.5-foot plunge
This is a high-capacity log flume ride Disney fans know well, now scored with brass and bayou rhythms. The finale features a 52.5-foot plunge, delivering a brisk drop, mist, and cheers. The layout mixes an outdoor float-through with dark-ride scenes that build to the indoor finale.
Location changes: Frontierland and Bayou Country
Guests will find splash mountain magic kingdom reborn in Frontierland, framed by rustic bridges and riverside views. In Anaheim, the ride anchors the renamed Bayou Country, replacing Critter Country to match the setting. Together, both coasts showcase a shared story with regional flair and a familiar route that fans instantly recognize.
Development and Retheme Origins
Walt Disney Imagineering started a new journey for the flume in 2019. They asked a question many guests had: did splash mountain close, and why is splash mountain closing at both resorts? This led to a full retheme that celebrated New Orleans music and food. It also tackled a long-standing debate about the ride’s origins and the splash mountain closure.
From concept in 2019 to announcement in 2020
By mid-2019, teams were working on a Princess Tiana story that fit the flume’s layout. In June 2020, Disney officially confirmed the change. This ended the speculation about why splash mountain closed and if it closed in only one park. The reimagining was set for both Magic Kingdom and Disneyland.
Why did Splash Mountain close: retiring Song of the South ties
The decision to close splash mountain was a big change for many fans. It was made to retire themes from the 1946 film Song of the South, which was criticized for racist portrayals. This move was a cultural update, reflecting current values and addressing why splash mountain closed.
Leadership and advisors: Charita Carter and Tony Baxter
Charita Carter, a senior creative producer, led the creative team. She worked on the story, music, and technology. Tony Baxter, the original Splash Mountain Imagineer, came back as a creative advisor. He made sure the flume’s spirit lived on, even as new stories were added.
“Plussing” strategy within Disney Parks investment
Bob Weis, a former Imagineering leader, called this move classic Disney “plussing.” It’s like what happened with Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!. This approach combines storytelling upgrades with capital spending. It shows how Disney keeps attractions fresh without losing what fans love.
Main Storyline and Setting
The story takes place in New Orleans and focuses on Tiana’s world. It introduces a new theme centered on music, food, and community. Yet, it keeps the essence of a classic log flume ride. This change brings a fresh, vibrant twist to the bayou journey.
Post-film timeline: a year after The Princess and the Frog
The tale begins a year after The Princess and the Frog. Tiana and Prince Naveen live in the city, surrounded by friends. This setup allows the story to explore their growth and new adventures.
Tiana’s Foods cooperative and the salt dome backstory
Tiana has started Tiana’s Foods, an employee-owned business. It sits atop a Louisiana salt dome, inspired by Avery Island. This setting transforms the log flume into a bustling kitchen garden and riverside scene, all within New Orleans.
Carnival season and the search for a bayou band
Carnival season is here, and Tiana seeks music for a party. She and Louis embark on a quest to find a bayou band. Along the way, they meet Charlotte La Bouff, Eudora, Eli “Big Daddy” La Bouff, and the King and Queen of Maldonia. Their journey weaves through lively music, proving that the spirit of adventure lives on.
Ride Experience and Layout Details
Guests start in a sunny bayou, then move into lively indoor scenes. They hear music and chatter from Tiana, Naveen, and Louis. This ride mixes calm floats with exciting drops, keeping the river journey feel alive.
Outdoor float-through to dark-ride scenes
The ride begins outside with beautiful bayou views. It then moves indoors, showing animated scenes and projections. This creates a magical journey, like the best parts of Splash Mountain.
The two lift hills, mini drop, and finale plunge
The ride builds excitement with two lift hills. A short waterfall drop adds a thrill. The final drop is steep, reaching speeds of 40 mph before ending indoors.
Side-by-side seating at Magic Kingdom vs. single-file at Disneyland
At Magic Kingdom, riders sit side-by-side. This makes the experience more shared. At Disneyland, single-file seating makes the drops feel bigger.
Lightning Lane availability and accessibility notes
Both parks offer Lightning Lane and single rider lines to reduce wait times. The ride requires a 40-inch height and wheelchair transfer. The new version keeps the classic feel but offers a modern twist.
Characters, Animatronics, and New Critters
New faces and old friends make the bayou scene lively. This answers questions about the closure of Disney World’s Splash Mountain. The result is a cast that feels real and true to New Orleans.
Returning voices: Tiana, Naveen, Louis, and Mama Odie
Original stars shine in the ride. Anika Noni Rose is back as Tiana, with Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen in the preshow. Michael-Leon Wooley and Jenifer Lewis bring Louis and Mama Odie to life.
Eric Goldberg helped keep the film’s spirit alive. Their work sets the story and music’s tone.
Dozens of new Audio-Animatronics, including advanced electronic figures
About 48 new figures fill the bayou, many electronic for better motion. Imagineers used 3‑D printing to make them lighter and more precise.
These updates make scenes flow smoothly. The detail is impressive, easing worries after Splash Mountain’s closure.
Critter bands: Zydeco, Rara, and Afro-Cuban frog jazz ensemble
The critter lineup bursts with regional sound. The Zydeco crew includes Byhalia the beaver and Gritty the rabbit. Beau the opossum, Apollo the raccoon, Rufus the turtle, and Timoléon the otter also join.
A Rara group adds to the mix: Phina the gray fox and the bobcat family Pawpaw and Octavia. Black bears Claude, Bernadette, and Sebastián also join. The “Ranitas Verdes Club” performs Afro‑Cuban swing with frogs Mondo, Mayra, Felipe, and Isabel singing Dig a Little Deeper.
New faces: Gloria, Delores, and Lari the armadillo
Newcomers add charm and texture. Frogs Gloria and Delores trade riffs, while Lari the nine‑banded armadillo scampers through the reeds. Laura West designed these additions, with Walt Disney Animation Studios providing animation support.
The mix of new and returning talent shows why the change was more than a name swap. For those wondering, did Disney get rid of Splash Mountain, the answer lies in this vibrant cast and the craftsmanship behind every scene.
Music and Soundtrack Highlights
The score is filled with New Orleans rhythm and soul. It signals the splash mountain new theme with brass, gospel lift, and second-line swagger. Listeners feel like they’re in a living street parade as they glide on the flume.
Original song “Special Spice” by PJ Morton
Grammy winner PJ Morton wrote Special Spice, a warm, joyous anthem. Anika Noni Rose performs it. The melody rides on piano and horns, then opens into a call-and-response chorus.
It debuted on streaming on May 31, 2024. This gives fans a taste before they board.
Queue music curated by Terence Blanchard and New Orleans artists
Terence Blanchard, who played Louis’s trumpet in the film, shaped the queue. He mixed Crescent City greats and rising stars. The playlist moves from classic standards to modern grooves.
This turns wait time into a street set. It helps guests hear how disney world splash mountain now walks in step with real New Orleans sounds.
- Basin Street Blues — Terence Blanchard
- The Second Line — Julian Gosin
- Down in New Orleans — Victor Goines
- Tailgate Ramble — Charlie Gabriel
- St. James Infirmary — Ronell Johnson, Mark Braud
- Louisiana Fairytale — Clinton Maegden
- When We’re Human — Terence Blanchard
- Bourbon Street Parade — Mark Braud
- El La Bas — Ronell Johnson
- Big Chief — Kyle Roussel, Ivan Neville
- Li’l Liza Jane — Herlin Riley
- Gonna Take You There — Terrance Simien
- Doctor Jazz — Kyle Roussel, Mark Braud
- They All Ask’d for You — Gregory Davis
- Ma Belle Evangeline — Terence Blanchard
- Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans — Leah Chase Kamata
- It Ain’t My Fault — Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Cast
Film favorites woven in: Down in New Orleans, Almost There, Dig a Little Deeper
Inside the ride, familiar songs return with fresh brass charts and choir lifts. Guests glide past scenes scored to “Down in New Orleans,” surge with “Almost There,” and rise on “Dig a Little Deeper,” before “Special Spice” ties it together.
The result is a tuneful arc that reintroduces splash mountain while celebrating its new voice.
| Track | Role in Experience | Lead Artists | Notable Sound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Spice | Anthem and finale uplift | PJ Morton, Anika Noni Rose | Gospel call-and-response, bright brass |
| Down in New Orleans | Scene-setting groove | Victor Goines | Clarinet lead, street parade swing |
| Almost There | Momentum and aspiration | Ensemble arrangement | Piano drive, tight horn hits |
| Dig a Little Deeper | Spiritual lift | Ensemble with choir | Handclaps, organ, choir harmonies |
| Gonna Take You There | Swamp-to-bayou transition | Terrance Simien | Zydeco accordion and rubboard |
| When We’re Human | Character energy | Terence Blanchard | Trumpet flourishes, stride rhythm |
| St. James Infirmary | Atmospheric texture | Ronell Johnson, Mark Braud | Trombone moan, muted trumpet |
With this lineup, the soundtrack anchors the splash mountain new theme while respecting roots. It is a living score that welcomes every rider and marks how disney world splash mountain steps into a brighter, brassier era.
Design Research and New Orleans Authenticity
Imagineers went to Louisiana to learn about real culture. They took notes from Mardi Gras, market talks, and bayou rides. This helped them make big and small choices for the retheme.
This research also helps explain why Disney closed Splash Mountain. It shows how place and people influenced the changes.
Field trips to the French Market and bayous
Teams explored the French Market and bayous. They studied details in New Orleans neighborhoods. They took in food stalls, ironwork, and street music.
These experiences influenced the attraction’s design. It adds charm and answers questions about Splash Mountain’s closure.
Local collaborations with artists, chefs, and cultural institutions
Experts from New Orleans helped with the project. They included academics, chefs, and musicians. Partnerships with YAYA Arts Center and artist Sharika Mahdi guided the design.
These collaborations were showcased at ESSENCE Fest and Preservation Hall. They show the attraction’s respect for the community.
Avery Island salt dome inspiration and exterior details
The attraction’s design is inspired by Avery Island’s salt dome. Tiana’s Foods is placed to match the Gulf Coast’s ecology.
This approach makes the building feel like it belongs in Louisiana. It helps guests understand the history behind the changes.
Malaika Favorite mural and hand-forged weathervane
A mural by Malaika Favorite celebrates Louisiana’s culture inside the queue. A hand-forged weathervane outside reflects the city’s ironwork.
These elements bring the story to life. They show how the changes respect Louisiana’s traditions.
What Happened to Splash Mountain and Why It Closed
For years, fans wondered: is splash mountain closed, is splash mountain closing, and why did it close. Disney decided after looking at the ride’s link to a 1946 film and listening to guests. The U.S. versions then paused operations to start a full retheme.
Social reaction was swift and emotional. After the final rides, the hashtag “goodbyesplashmountain” became popular on TikTok. Even resale listings offered “Splash Mountain water.” This news analysis showed the long lines, debate, and the move to a new story.
Addressing Song of the South and cultural concerns
Disney retired the theme because of the film’s outdated and harmful views of Black characters. Leaders, including Bob Iger, had already said the movie wouldn’t be on Disney+, showing why splash mountain closed. This change aimed to welcome more guests into a story that reflects today’s values.
Timeline of closures: Disney World January 23, 2023; Disneyland May 31, 2023
Magic Kingdom ended operations on January 23, 2023. Disneyland followed on May 31, 2023. These dates answer two common questions at once: is splash mountain closed and is splash mountain closing. In both U.S. parks, the closure has already happened to allow construction.
Is Splash Mountain closed, gone, or is it open anywhere
In the United States, the name is splash mountain gone from the park maps, and the attraction is splash mountain closed as its former self. For Tokyo, Disney has not issued the same public timeline, so fans keep asking: is splash mountain open overseas. The U.S. answer remains final.
What did they change Splash Mountain to
So, did they change splash mountain into a whole new ride. The log flume system stays, but the story, sets, and music now celebrate The Princess and the Frog. That means Tiana’s Bayou Adventure replaces the old theme, resolving the question of what’s next and why splash mountain closed for good in the U.S.
| Location | Status | Key Date | New Theme | Common Question Answered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom (Florida) | Closed as Splash Mountain | January 23, 2023 | Tiana’s Bayou Adventure | is splash mountain closed: Yes, now rethemed |
| Disneyland Park (California) | Closed as Splash Mountain | May 31, 2023 | Tiana’s Bayou Adventure | is splash mountain closing: Already closed and replaced |
| Tokyo Disneyland | Operating details not updated in this context | N/A | Original Splash Mountain theme | is splash mountain open: U.S. no, Tokyo status may differ |
Key Dates, Park Areas, and Naming Updates
Guests can now track the changes to Splash Mountain by date and location. These updates answer two big questions: when did splash mountain close, and is splash mountain at disneyland. Each park has moved the retheme to a new location that fits the New Orleans story.
Magic Kingdom opening: June 28, 2024 in Frontierland
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened on June 28, 2024 in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom. This happened after the Walt Disney World closure on January 23, 2023. This timeline helps clarify when did splash mountain close for Florida and frames disneyland splash mountain closing as a separate milestone.
Disneyland opening: November 15, 2024 in Bayou Country
Disneyland welcomed its version on November 15, 2024. For fans asking is splash mountain at disneyland or what happened to splash mountain in Anaheim, the answer is a full retheme debuting on that date with a refreshed land identity.
Disneyland’s Critter Country retitled as Bayou Country
To match the setting, Disneyland retitled Critter Country as Bayou Country. This was announced during D23 in August 2024. The rename complements the attraction’s New Orleans focus and provides closure to disneyland splash mountain closing while explaining what happened to splash mountain within the park’s map.
Ride Thrills, Height Requirements, and Accessibility
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure brings back the excitement of Splash Mountain but welcomes more guests. People often wonder if Splash Mountain is open or if it’s closed for good. The answer is yes, the spirit of Splash Mountain lives on in this new ride. It now features Tiana and brings a fresh vibe with a New Orleans twist.
Height restriction of 40 inches
The ride requires a minimum height of 40 inches, or 102 cm. Families can check if a child is tall enough right outside the queue. Just have them stand up, wear shoes, and keep their feet flat.
Cast Members are very helpful and accurate. They will check again at the loading platform. This keeps the line moving and ensures everyone’s safety.
The 52-foot drop as a celebratory “rite of passage”
The ride’s main drop is about 52.5 feet at a 45-degree angle. It reaches speeds close to 40 mph. The drop is designed to be exciting but also joyful.
The ride ends with a splashy finale that feels like a victory. Even though Splash Mountain is closed, the new ride keeps the same layout but with a happier atmosphere.
Must transfer from wheelchair; single rider and Lightning Lane options
Guests in wheelchairs need to transfer to the log to ride. There are transfer devices and help from teams to make boarding smooth and easy.
There are Lightning Lane and single rider lines for quicker access. These options are great for families with tight schedules or nap times.
| Feature | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Height | 40 inches (102 cm) | Sets a clear benchmark for families planning who can ride. |
| Main Drop | 52.5 feet at 45 degrees, about 40 mph | Delivers a high-thrill moment framed as a celebratory milestone. |
| Accessibility | Must transfer from wheelchair to seat | Ensures safe restraint fit and proper posture during the plunge. |
| Queue Options | Lightning Lane and single rider available | Reduces wait times and adds flexibility for mixed groups. |
| Water Factor | Variable splash based on weight and seating | Guests can plan ponchos or seat choices to manage getting wet. |
| Ride Style | Log flume with outdoor and indoor scenes | Blends scenic float-through with a finale drop for broad appeal. |
Note: While fans may ask if Splash Mountain is open or wonder why it’s closed, this attraction builds on the legacy. It offers fresh storytelling, safer boarding, and a thrill profile tuned for celebration.
Planning Tips and What to Expect Now
Guests often ask if Splash Mountain is open at Disney World and Disneyland. The answer is yes, it’s now Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at both resorts. If you’re wondering if Disney World has Splash Mountain, it’s now Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
Expect upbeat music, bayou colors, and a finale party that feels like Mardi Gras night. The scene flows with brass, zydeco rhythms, and aromas hinting at New Orleans comfort food.
Is Splash Mountain open at Disney World and Disneyland
At Disney World, Splash Mountain is now Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom. The same change happened at Disneyland. If you ask if Disney World has Splash Mountain, the answer is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
How to ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure with minimal wait
Arrive early, line up during parades, or ride late at night. Use the Disney app to check wait times. Lightning Lane is helpful on busy days.
Stay flexible. Storms can make waits shorter. Keep ponchos ready and watch for queue updates.
Where to find Tiana’s Palace references and Mardi Gras vibes
The queue and scenes after the ride mention Tiana’s Palace. You’ll see recipe cards, spice motifs, and party decorations. Brass, beads, and bright banners add to the Mardi Gras feel.
Costumes and music bring the bayou spirit to life. You’ll find kitchen details and New Orleans market signs. It’s a new chapter for Splash Mountain.
Merchandise, snacks, and tie-in experiences
Shops near the exits sell Tiana-themed items. You can find hot sauces, spice blends, and treats like pralines and beignets. Look for photo spots and musical pop-ups.
| Plan Element | Best Move | Why It Helps | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Queue Strategy | Rope drop or late night | Shortest standby windows | Check waits during parades for surprise dips |
| Lightning Lane | Reserve early on peak days | Bypasses most of the line | Stack with nearby attractions to reduce walking |
| Single Rider | Use when posted | Fills empty seats fast | Split groups to ride sooner, then reunite for photos |
| Mardi Gras Atmosphere | Explore post-drop areas | Live-feel music and festive décor | Listen for second-line beats and spot bead details |
| Tiana’s Palace Nods | Scan queue displays | Story clues and recipe touches | Photograph the spice and produce labels for fun finds |
| Merch & Snacks | Exit shops and kiosks | Exclusive goods and flavors | Try hot sauces inspired by Tiana’s Foods with savory bites |
Conclusion
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure shows how Disney can honor a classic while moving the story forward. The team led by Charita Carter, with guidance from Tony Baxter, kept the beloved log flume and its big plunge. They shifted the narrative to New Orleans a year after The Princess and the Frog.
For anyone asking why did they shut down splash mountain or why did disney close splash mountain, the answer is clear. It’s about leaving Song of the South behind and embracing a richer, more authentic theme rooted in Louisiana culture.
The ride blends new technology and craft at a high level. Dozens of advanced Audio-Animatronics appear alongside music by PJ Morton. Queue curation by Terence Blanchard adds to the experience.
Research trips informed details from Avery Island’s salt dome look to artwork by Sharika Mahdi and Malaika Favorite. Guests who wonder does splash mountain disney world closed in January 2023, with the retheme opening June 28, 2024 at Magic Kingdom. Disneyland’s version closed in May 2023 and returns November 15, 2024 as part of Bayou Country.
Across both coasts, the experience reflects Disney’s “plussing” strategy. Keep what works, deepen the story, and elevate the craft.
In the end, the transformation answers years of conversation and gives families a new reason to ride. It preserves the rite-of-passage plunge and adds culture, character, and heart. Whether guests come for the music, the setting, or the splash, they step into a lively New Orleans adventure that feels both new and familiar at once.
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