Excitement is bubbling over at Walt Disney World as the highly anticipated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to open on June 28. I had the fortune to preview this reimagined attraction at Magic Kingdom, and I’m here to share all the magical moments that await you.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure breathes new life into the former Splash Mountain ride, which opened in 1992 and was originally themed after the controversial 1946 film *Song of the South*. Reflecting Disney’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a testament to the company’s commitment to evolving alongside its audience. We wave goodbye to the Br’er Rabbit and Br’er Fox tales and say hello to Tiana, Disney’s first African-American princess.
Keeping the same log flume track, the new ride takes inspiration from the delightful 2009 film *The Princess and the Frog*. Set in the vibrant 1920s New Orleans, the ride features Tiana and her friends in a jubilant post-third-act celebration. Unlike other Disney attractions that meticulously follow a movie’s plot, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure invites visitors into a lavish Mardi Gras party. Imagineers have weaved a rich tapestry of authentic New Orleans culture, from spirited music to mouthwatering scents—yes, you can practically smell the beignets!
Navigating through Tiana’s flourishing business offices, the ride queue itself is a feast for the senses, setting the stage for the joyous journey ahead. As you embark on this musical adventure led by Tiana and her trumpet-playing alligator friend Louis, you’ll be serenaded by various animal bands performing upbeat, infectious tunes. Each scene is bursting with color, life, and advanced animatronics, making every moment more immersive than the last.
Of course, the ride wouldn’t be complete without the iconic 50-foot plunge that Splash Mountain was famed for. Fans will delight in this thrilling descent that culminates in a celebratory finale of music and merriment. Whether you believe the drop symbolizes a magical resizing back to normal or a shortcut to the Mardi Gras festivities, there’s no denying the exhilarating rush it provides.
Disney has been on a creative roll with hits like TRON Lightcycle / Run, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure continues this trend, promising a fun-filled, family-friendly experience that honors diversity while delivering the thrills Disney fans crave.
I can’t wait to hear what you think of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let’s get the conversation started among Disney enthusiasts! If you’re excited about this new addition to Magic Kingdom, don’t forget to share this story with your friends and family. Let’s keep the magic alive together!
*Photo credits: Ruben Bolling and Olga Thompson. Special thanks to Disney Experiences for granting a sneak peek. Read more about this amazing ride on the official [Mickey News](https://mymickeynews.com) website.*
