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Credit: Edited by ITMAnother beloved attraction at Walt Disney World Resort is set to join Splash Mountain and shut down permanently.
Splash Mountain emerged as a pinnacle attraction in Disney theme parks, blending thrilling drops with whimsical storytelling. Inspired by the animated film Song of the South (1946), the attraction seamlessly integrates classic Disney characters with a Southern-themed narrative. Guests embark on a log flume journey through the colorful world of Br’er Rabbit, Br’er Fox, and Br’er Bear as they follow Br’er Rabbit’s mischievous adventures in pursuit of his “laughing place.”
What are the latest developments with Splash Mountain’s replacement?
Debuting in Disneyland in 1989 and later replicated in Walt Disney World Resort and Tokyo Disneyland, Splash Mountain quickly became a fan favorite, renowned for its catchy soundtrack, vibrant animatronics, and exhilarating finale plunge. The attraction’s immersive theming transports guests into the heart of the Deep South, with detailed sets depicting swamps, bayous, and bustling critters.
As riders wind through the attraction’s winding waterways, they encounter iconic scenes from the film, including Br’er Rabbit’s encounter with the sly Br’er Fox and the jubilant celebration at the “laughing place.” However, it also became the subject of much controversy, particularly in the last decade, ultimately leading to its demise.
That’s why, in January 2023, Disney World permanently closed down the ride to make way for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. After almost a year and a half of construction, the attraction is nearing its opening. There have been rumors that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure could open as soon as June, but Disney hasn’t confirmed this. The company remains quiet on the actual opening date of the attraction, other than saying “summer of 2024.”
The Splash Mountain replacement is also set to bring with it some changes to Frontierland. Two new retail locations are opening with Princess and the Frog theming, and it might not stop there. There have been rumors that Disney World will introduce New Orleans Square to Magic Kingdom Park when the attraction opens. This would essentially split Frontierland in half, but it’s important to note that these changes have not been confirmed by Disney.
In a press release, Disney shared more information about the upcoming attraction, including a first-look at what Disney World guests can expect.
“This ride will be all about Tiana after she made her own dreams come true and how we all have the potential to make our dreams a reality. In Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, she’s throwing a festive party during Mardi Gras season to thank her family, friends and the entire community for all the support they’ve given her as a successful business owner; it’s incredibly special that we get to celebrate with her.”
@disneyparks FIRST LOOK 👀 at one of the new Audio-Animatronics figures coming to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ✨💚 #Disney #DisneyParks #DisneyWorld #Tiana #TianasBayouAdventure #DisneyNews #MardiGras #Technology
While all eyes are on the soon-to-open log flume ride, there is also one iconic attraction that is set to close permanently here in the near future.
The next Disney World attraction to close permanently
It’s Tough to Be a Bug! debuted as an original and innovative attraction in Disney’s Animal Kingdom when the park opened its gates in 1998. Nestled within the iconic Tree of Life, the 3D show delighted audiences with its whimsical exploration of the insect world, featuring characters from Disney-Pixar’s A Bug’s Life (1998). Guests were shrunk down to the size of bugs and treated to a humorous and educational journey led by Flik, the plucky protagonist of the film.
Over the years, It’s Tough to Be a Bug! became a beloved staple of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, offering a unique blend of entertainment and environmental education. The attraction’s immersive effects, including startling surprises like simulated stings and sprays, delighted guests of all ages while imparting valuable lessons about the importance of insects in the ecosystem.
However, with Disney’s constant drive for innovation and expansion, changes are inevitable. In a move that signals the park’s evolution and commitment to fresh experiences, Disney announced plans to close It’s Tough to Be a Bug! to make way for a new Zootopia-themed attraction. Based on the popular animated film Zootopia (2016), the new attraction promises to transport guests into the vibrant and bustling world of anthropomorphic animals, offering an immersive and entertaining experience inspired by the beloved movie.
While Disney has yet to provide a specific timeline for the closure of It’s Tough to Be a Bug!, speculation suggests that the show will bid farewell to audiences later this year. As fans prepare to say goodbye to this longtime favorite, anticipation builds for the arrival of the Zootopia-themed attraction, which is expected to breathe new life into the space formerly occupied by It’s Tough to Be a Bug.
Other Disney World attractions that could be on the chopping block
Tomorrowland Speedway
Despite its nostalgic charm, the Tomorrowland Speedway at Magic Kingdom feels increasingly out of place in a land dedicated to futuristic innovation. With the push towards sustainability and cleaner energy sources, the noisy, gasoline-powered cars may not align with Disney’s vision for Tomorrowland’s future, at least according to many Disney park fans who have expressed backlash toward the attraction in recent years. The space it occupies could be repurposed for a more environmentally friendly and immersive experience.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Positioned as a spinner ride in Adventureland, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin provides a whimsical experience but lacks the depth and engagement found in other attractions. With the recent success of Disney’s live-action adaptations of classic animated films, the space could be utilized for a more immersive Aladdin-themed experience that incorporates elements from the beloved movie.
Journey Into Imagination with Figment
Despite Figment’s enduring popularity among Disney fans, the attraction has undergone significant changes over the years, leading to mixed reviews from EPCOT guests. The outdated technology and disjointed narrative may make it a candidate for a major overhaul or replacement with a new, cutting-edge dark ride that celebrates imagination in a more cohesive and modern way. We don’t expect Figment to go away forever, but it wouldn’t be surprising if Disney overhauled the attraction in the near future.
The Hall of Presidents
While historically significant, The Hall of Presidents faces criticism for its slow pace and lack of interactivity, especially in comparison to newer attractions that offer more immersive storytelling experiences. With advancements in animatronic technology and a desire to appeal to younger audiences, Disney may consider replacing it with a more dynamic and engaging attraction that celebrates American history in a fresh and innovative way.
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
This attraction has received mixed reviews and sparked controversy among fans for its departure from the original show’s charm and nostalgia. Of course, it was later changed. After a fire forced the attraction to close temporarily in 2011, Disney took the opportunity to return it to its classic format. However, given its turbulent history and the popularity of the original version, Disney may eventually opt to reimagine the space with a new, updated experience that stays true to the attraction’s roots.
Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
Despite its status as a beloved classic and a testament to Walt Disney’s vision of progress and innovation, the Carousel of Progress has faced speculation about its future due to its dated animatronics and nostalgic but somewhat outdated depiction of technological advancements. Disney may consider updating the attraction with state-of-the-art animatronics and incorporating new technologies to bring the story of progress into the 21st century while preserving its nostalgic charm and heartwarming message.
Please keep in mind that these attractions are just speculations and haven’t been confirmed by Disney. Still, there are some major developments coming to Walt Disney World Resort.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
While the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster continues to draw crowds with its thrilling launches, inversions, and high-speed maneuvers set to the pulsating beats of Aerosmith’s greatest hits, its future at Disney’s Hollywood Studios remains uncertain. With Disney constantly seeking to innovate and update its attractions to meet evolving guest preferences, rumors swirl about potential changes or closures for the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.
One factor that fuels speculation about the attraction’s future is its tie-in with the band Aerosmith, whose popularity may wane over time or no longer resonate with younger generations. Additionally, the ride’s reliance on outdated technology and theming could make it a candidate for a major overhaul or reimagining to align with current trends and storytelling techniques.
Projects on the horizon at Walt Disney World Resort
Outside of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, there are some other projects on the horizon for Walt Disney World Resort that guests can be excited to see.
First, CommuniCore Hall & Plaza is set to open in EPCOT this summer. When it first opens, the new area will provide guests with an immersive Encanto show, but it will also be a place where guests can relax and enjoy “slowing down” and enjoying all that EPCOT has to offer. When the location opens, it will signal the official end of the construction work at the Disney World park, which has been happening for nearly a decade.
Second, a new Little Mermaid show is set to come to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this fall. The show, which is reimagining The Voyage of the Little Mermaid, will finally have an attraction back in the Animation Courtyard Theater after more than four years abandoned.
We’ve already mentioned the projects happening with new attractions coming to Magic Kingdom Park in Frontierland, and It’s Tough to be a Bug! on its way out, but there are also major expansion projects that are set to come to the Disney Park, as well.
Disney World has already teased “Beyond Big Thunder Mountain,” which will serve as a major expansion at Magic Kingdom. In addition, Disney has also teased the complete overhaul of Dinoland, U.S.A. While neither has been greenlighted yet, they are on the horizon, and it won’t be long before we hear major updates pertaining to their future.
What attraction would you like to see replaced in Walt Disney World Resort? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!