After months of anticipation, Tiana's Bayou Adventure is now open at Disneyland, officially welcoming guests starting November 15, 2024. This new ride, which held numerous previews leading up to the grand event, brings to life the enchanting tale of Princess Tiana and her friends, inviting families on a delightful excursion filled with music, culture, and adventure.
Located within the newly revamped Bayou Country area of Disneyland, Tiana's Bayou Adventure marks the evolution of the beloved Splash Mountain ride, which has been transformed to fit Tiana's story as told through Walt Disney Animation Studios' The Princess and the Frog. The grand opening itself was celebrated with performances by Anika Noni Rose, the voice of Tiana, and Jenifer Lewis, bringing even more excitement to the occasion.
This immersive experience begins as guests navigate through the recreated scenes of 1927 New Orleans, where Princess Tiana is now managing her own business, Tiana's Foods. Yet, the festivities she's preparing for Mardi Gras are missing one key ingredient—entertainment. Guests board log flumes to join Tiana and her companion, Louis, as they seek suitable musicians, meeting numerous critters along the way.
The ride features captivating animatronics and is family-friendly, ensuring all ages can enjoy the adventure together. One of the most thrilling aspects is the drop—spanning 50 feet—that must surely get everyone’s heart racing before arriving at the jubilant Mardi Gras celebration.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure doesn’t just stop at the ride; it extends to the overall experience at Disneyland. With the metamorphosis of Critter Country to Bayou Country, visitors can explore new retail spaces such as Ray’s Berets and Louis' Critter Club, which offer themed merchandise reflecting Tiana's exciting world.
Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock expressed the park's aim to deepen storytelling and provide magical experiences, stating, "We’re thrilled for our guests to experience the transformation of the westside of Disneyland Park with the joyful Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, reimagined Bayou Country and expanded New Orleans Square.”
The music plays a pivotal role within the attraction, with contributions from GRAMMY® Award-winning artists. Terence Blanchard has reimagined classic tracks, and the new original song, "Special Spice," composed by esteemed musician PJ Morton, is performed by Anika Noni Rose herself. This connection to music ties closely to the rich cultural backdrop of New Orleans, enhancing guests' experiences.
To access Tiana's Bayou Adventure, guests can use the new virtual queue system via the Disneyland app. This system eliminates the need for long lines as there is no standby option available at the moment. For those seeking quicker entry, Lightning Lane access can also be purchased, which allows families to enjoy the attraction without long waits.
A unique aspect for families is the Rider Switch feature. This allows guests traveling with younger children to enjoy the ride without needing to wait twice, making the experience smoother for all involved.
The ride is just one segment of the larger story being told at Disneyland. Nearby, Eudora's Chic Boutique Featuring Tiana’s Gourmet Secrets offers delightful home goods and accessories inspired by Tiana’s culinary heritage. For those with appetites, Tiana’s Palace restaurant provides delicious Southern-inspired fare, including gumbo and beignets, all set within the whimsical atmosphere of Tiana's world.
Disney fans can also take home souvenirs from their visit, with exclusive Tiana-themed merchandise ranging from apparel to cute firefly accessories, making perfect mementos of the experience. Exclusive artwork, inspired by New Orleans native Sharika Mahdi, also adorns various products, allowing visitors to carry these pieces of art back home.
Tiana's Bayou Adventure not only enhances the experience at Disneyland Park with vibrant storytelling and musical richness but serves as proof of Disney's dedication to its legacy of enchanting tales. From the adrenaline rush of the ride to the celebratory atmosphere, this attraction is set to become one of the must-visit destinations for guests at Disneyland. The magic of Tiana's Bayou Adventure beckons families to step inside and be part of Princess Tiana's joyous world.
