In 2020, while Disney fans were waiting for the theme parks to reopen after their forced COVID-19 closures, Disney made an announcement that many did not see coming. The company revealed that its iconic Splash Mountain attraction would be closing at Disneyland Resort and the Walt Disney World Resort. The attraction would be receiving a Princess and the Frog (2009) retheme.
In recent years, Splash Mountain has been looked at with a critical new eye. The attraction was based on the 1946 film Song of the South, which had some blatantly racist overtones.
Related: Splash Mountain Merchandise Still Being Sold at Disneyland as New ‘Tiana’ Ride Opens
Splash Mountain officially closed at Walt Disney World in January 2023 and in May 2023 at Disneyland Resort. After more than a year of hard work, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened on June 28, 2024, in the Magic Kingdom.
The attraction is set to open in Disneyland Park on November 15, just days before the Thanksgiving crowds descend upon The Happiest Place on Earth.
As excitement builds, Disneyland fans and attendees are also informed of a special preview opportunity for Magic Key Holders taking place from October 21 to November 12. This early access allows loyal Key Holders to experience Tiana’s Bayou Adventure before the general public, creating a sense of exclusivity and anticipation among Disneyland’s dedicated visitors.
Related: Disney World’s Most Controversial Attraction IS NOT Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
It is important to note that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Magic Key previews will only take place during select times during the day. Here are the dates and times of the Magic Key previews, courtesy of The Orange County Register:
- Monday, Oct. 21, 3-9 p.m.
- Tuesday, Oct. 22, 3-9 p.m.
- Wednesday, Oct. 23, 3-9 p.m.
- Friday, Oct. 25, 3-9 p.m.
- Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Tuesday, Oct. 29, 3-9 p.m.
- Friday, Nov. 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 3, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 5, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Friday, Nov. 8, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 10, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Related: Disney Seemingly Cracks the One Issue Plaguing Its Problematic ‘Tiana’ Thrill Ride
To manage the influx of guests eager to experience Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Disney has introduced a virtual queue system. Magic Key Holders will be required to make a valid theme park reservation and join a virtual queue, which opens twice daily at 7 a.m. and noon. This system allows guests increased flexibility and reduces wait times.
Additionally, Magic Key Holders who participate in the preview dates will receive a commemorative souvenir, enhancing the experience and providing a memorable keepsake to celebrate their first ride on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Specific time slots will be available to maximize guest experiences during these preview days.
Related: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Disappoints Voodoo Fans At Disney World
The storyline of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure expands upon the beloved narrative of Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, focusing on Princess Tiana and her friend Louis as they prepare for an important Mardi Gras celebration. The attraction will immerse guests in a vibrant Louisiana landscape, filled with new characters and musical critters.
Furthermore, the transformation of Critter Country into Bayou Country includes exciting new rides and thematic elements, ensuring a cohesive experience for visitors. The Hungry Bear Restaurant is also undergoing a makeover and will reopen as the Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree, aligning with the new theme and providing an enhanced dining experience for guests.
In addition to Splash Mountain’s transformation into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Disneyland’s legendary Haunted Mansion attraction — located next door in New Orleans Square — is also getting some big upgrades. Disney is giving the ride queue a gorgeous makeover and is even adding a brand-new store at the ride’s exit!
Will you be trying to secure a spot on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure during the Magic Key preview dates? Are you excited for the new ride to open? Let us know in the comments!