Big changes are coming to the Magic Kingdom starting this year, but Disney World guests might have to hold off on some of their favorite attractions in order for them to happen.
Many massive changes were announced at this year’s D23 Expo, but the ones involving Disney’s Beyond Big Thunder project have several fans up in arms as several Magic Kingdom attractions will be refurbished, gutted, or otherwise altered to make room for the new additions.
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Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is one of the premier roller coasters on Disney property, and rumors persist that it will soon be closed to get the new renovations underway. However, it might not be the only one.
Shutdowns Predicted for Magic Kingdom Makeover
As the title would suggest, Beyond Big Thunder is slated to completely reimagine Frontierland and the focal point of the Magic Kingdom’s wild-west-inspired land. That being said, many Disney guests have noticed that another Magic Kingdom fixture might soon shut down after it recently opened to the public.
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A post on r/DisneyWorld asked, “Do you think Tiana’s will go down for refurbishment this year in November/December like Splash would?” referring to the seasonal shutdown for refurbishment and repairs. However, recent reports from the divisive ride might suggest more than a refurb is in order.
Do you think Tiana’s will go down for Refurbishment this year in November/December like Splash would?
byu/alexdionisos inDisneyWorld
u/alexdionisos writes in their post that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has had more than a few consistent issues, stating that “it can’t operate a full day and carry that section of [Magic Kingdom]. While this might feel like a case of standard issue complaining at first, it’s not the first time this week the ride has had some severe issues.
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Just yesterday, Inside the Magic published a report sharing multiple guest accounts of the ride shutting down, with some even rejoicing at its closure. Could this mean Tiana’s days are numbered?
The Reality of the Situation
In this writer’s opinion, this is the consequence of Disney’s attempt at quelling the flames of controversy left behind by the original Splash Mountain and its connection to the scandalous Song of the South (1946). Instead of replacing the vintage ride with a completely new experience, fans a re-skin of an arguably out-of-date model.
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Our previous coverage said it best,
“Many fans would agree that while the change was made in the name of equality and representation, it was truly made under pressure from the vocal minority. The Walt Disney Company has become so hesitant about even appearing to be controversial that it is willing to sacrifice beloved attractions to avoid the faintest whiff of scandal.”
If the rumors are true and Big Thunder Mountain might be shutting down, it likely won’t be the only one at risk. The massive overhaul of an entire portion of the Magic Kingdom might bring things to a grinding halt.
Do you think this puts the park at risk? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!