Splash Mountain, a beloved log flume ride, has been a staple in Disneyland since it opened in 1989. However, as of May 31, 2023, the ride has officially closed and is being transformed into a new ride called Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, inspired by the animated Disney film “The Princess and the Frog”. The new ride is scheduled to open at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom in late 2024.
Splash Mountain was located in the Critter Country area of Disneyland, California. However, as of May 31, 2023, the ride has officially closed and is being transformed into a new ride called Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, scheduled to open in late 2024.
Location of Splash Mountain in Disneyland
Before its closure, Splash Mountain was located in Disneyland, California, in the Critter Country area of the park. This was an ideal location as it provided a scenic backdrop for the ride’s Southern U.S. bayou theme.
History and Inspiration of Splash Mountain
Splash Mountain was originally conceived in the summer of 1983 by Imagineer Tony Baxter. The inspiration behind the creation of Splash Mountain was to attract guests to the often-empty Bear Country land in Disneyland, which at the time only had one attraction, the Country Bear Jamboree. The ride told the story of Br’er Rabbit, a mischievous character who leaves his home in search of adventure, based on the animated segments of the film Song of the South.
Despite its popularity, Splash Mountain has been the subject of controversy due to its connection to Song of the South, a film that has been criticized for its portrayal of African Americans and its romanticized view of the post-Civil War South. In response to these criticisms, Disney announced in 2020 that Splash Mountain would be re-themed to feature characters from the film The Princess and the Frog.
Features of Splash Mountain
Splash Mountain was known for its captivating storyline, memorable music, and thrilling water ride elements, including a breathtaking 52.5-foot drop that sent guests hurtling down at an exhilarating 40 mph. The ride covered more than half a mile, splashing through swamps, caves, and backwoods bayous before climaxing in a 52-foot plunge and Br’er Rabbit’s triumphant return home.
Age and Height Restrictions
The height requirement for Splash Mountain was that guests must be at least 40 inches tall to ride. As for age restrictions, children under the age of 7 must be accompanied by a person aged 14 years or older.
Best Times to Visit Splash Mountain to Avoid Long Lines
The best times to visit Splash Mountain to avoid long lines were early in the morning as soon as the park opens, or late in the evening before the park closes. However, these strategies may not always work, as wait times can vary based on factors such as the day of the week, the time of year, and the weather.
Special Events or Shows Associated with Splash Mountain
In the past, the opening of Splash Mountain was celebrated with a television special called “Ernest Goes to Splash Mountain.” The closing of the ride at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom was also marked with special events, with fans flocking to the parks for one last ride.
In conclusion, while Splash Mountain has closed its doors, the memories and experiences it provided to millions of visitors will live on. And as we look to the future, we can anticipate the arrival of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which promises to bring a new and exciting adventure to Disneyland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Splash Mountain re-themed to “The Princess and the Frog”?
Splash Mountain was re-themed to “The Princess and the Frog” in response to criticism over its connection to “Song of the South,” a film that has been criticized for its portrayal of African Americans and its romanticized view of the post-Civil War South. The re-theming is part of Disney’s efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in its parks.
Will the new ride, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, have the same water ride elements as Splash Mountain?
While Disney has not revealed specific details about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, it is expected to be a log flume ride like Splash Mountain, but with a different storyline and theme based on “The Princess and the Frog.”
Will there be any height or age restrictions for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure?
While specific height or age restrictions for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure have not been announced, it’s likely that it will have similar requirements to Splash Mountain, which required guests to be at least 40 inches tall and children under the age of 7 to be accompanied by a person aged 14 years or older.
When exactly will Tiana’s Bayou Adventure open?
Disney has announced that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is scheduled to open at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom in late 2024. However, the exact opening date has not been announced yet.
