Walt Disney World Resort has officially removed some of the last remaining traces of the iconic Splash Mountain from Magic Kingdom Park. The beloved log-flume ride closed permanently in January 2023 to make way for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, inspired by The Princess and the Frog (2009). The new version of the attraction officially opened in June 2024, and Disneyland Park followed suit in November.
Splash Mountain’s closure sparked mixed reactions from Disney Parks fans. Many welcomed the change, eager to see the attraction reimagined with a more inclusive storyline, moving away from the controversial Song of the South (1946). The film has long been banned for its racist portrayal of African American culture and use of offensive stereotypes. Others, however, expressed disappointment over the removal of a decades-old classic ride. Despite the backlash, Disney pressed forward with the transformation.
In the months following the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Park, some merchandise hinted at the past. A few items sold in the Critter Co-Op shop featured remnants of Splash Mountain, including log-flume toys and a 3D picture frame. These items featured Tiana’s Bayou Adventure characters riding the original Splash Mountain log with a wooden Br’er Rabbit head attached to the front.
Rumors had swirled that Br’er Rabbit would remain part of the attraction’s décor, based on early concept art and merchandise. However, when both the Disneyland and Magic Kingdom versions of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure officially opened, the Br’er Rabbit elements were gone. Now, Br’er Rabbit is disappearing from attraction merchandise.
According to WDWNT, Walt Disney World Resort has begun to phase out the Br’er Rabbit head from the log toys and 3D picture frames, so those hoping to grab a piece of the old attraction may need to act quickly. Some items featuring the former character are still available at Critter Co-Op, but these versions are quickly becoming harder to find as the new versions arrive.
Walt Disney World Resort’s last remaining tribute to Splash Mountain is tucked away in the queue of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Visitors will find fox, rabbit, frog, and bear figurines on a kitchen shelf, a subtle reference to the old characters from Song of the South: Br’er Fox, Br’er Frog, Br’er Rabbit, and Br’er Bear. A nearby riverboat figurine also echoes the one seen in the finale scene of Splash Mountain.
Do you prefer Splash Mountain or Tiana’s Bayou Adventure? Share your opinion with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
SPLASH MOUNTAIN FOREVER!!! ta’s can burn to the ground.
I have been coming since WWD opened. My daughter and son in law bonded during college over her extensive Disney VHS collection. And we have continued our love for all things Disney as adults! While I understand the feelings for the change, I truly hate that my granddaughter will never get to experience “Zip-A-Dee Doo Dah” on Splash Mountain.
How could that song not leave you skipping happily through the rest of your day! Tiana is a fine movie – however, I don’t think of it as an original, historic part of Walt Disney World.