Splash Mountain, a beloved log flume ride, has officially closed on May 30, 2023 at Disneyland California after more than 33 years of delighting visitors at the California resort. The ride was also present at Magic Kingdom in Florida and Tokyo Disneyland 2.
Background
Theme Change Petition:
The decision to close Splash Mountain was prompted by a petition that gained traction, urging Disney to change the ride’s theme. The original theme was tied to the 1946 Disney film “Song of the South”, which has faced criticism for its idealized portrayal of plantation life. The petition gained significant traction, urging Disney to change the theme of Splash Mountain.
“Song of the South” has faced criticism for its idealized portrayal of plantation life, which is considered inappropriate by today’s standards.
Disney’s Decision:
The petition prompted Disney to take action and reevaluate the ride’s theme. Disney CEO Bob Iger expressed that even with a disclaimer, the film was not appropriate for today’s world.
In 2020, Disney officially announced plans to close Splash Mountain at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World.
The decision to change the theme had been in the works since 2019, but the petition accelerated the process.
Walt Disney World Closure:
The Walt Disney World version of Splash Mountain closed on January 22.
However, there are currently no plans to change Splash Mountain at Tokyo Disney Resort.
So, what will replace Splash Mountain? Say hello to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure! Inspired by the animated Disney film “The Princess and the Frog”, this new ride picks up after the final kiss in the movie.
Guests will embark on a musical journey with Princess Tiana and Louis, set against the backdrop of New Orleans and the Louisiana bayou. Award-winning artists PJ Morton and Terence Blanchard are collaborating with Disney to create the music for this enchanting experience.
Here are some fast facts about the original Splash Mountain:
- It opened on July 17, 1989, at Disneyland Resort.
- The ride featured iconic songs like “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah”, “The Laughin’ Place”, and “How Do You Do?”.
- The 52-foot drop was the longest flume ride drop in the world at the time of its opening.
While we bid farewell to Splash Mountain, we eagerly await the magic of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!
Co-Founder of the OFT Blog. Mother of 2 who disguises as a 9 to 5 finance professional on most days. She loves to travel, is an amateur website builder and cook. And given her day job, she loves travel planning and saving money. Follow along!
