Magic Kingdom ParkNews

Disney Makes Big Change to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Effective Immediately

Another operational shift is underway at Magic Kingdom Park, with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure now accommodating fewer visitors.

Princess Tiana and Louis animatronics on Tiana's Bayou Adventure.
Credit: Disney

Launching in June 2024, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was introduced to bring a new wave of storytelling inspired by Disney’s hit film, The Princess and the Frog. The reimagined ride took the place of the iconic Splash Mountain, which closed in January 2023 after facing criticism for its connection to the controversial 1946 film, Song of the South. While some Disney enthusiasts have embraced the new attraction, others continue to long for the original experience.

Since its grand opening at The Most Magical Place on Earth, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has faced complaints regarding inconsistent performance. Disney also sparked discourse when it incorporated two beloved characters—Ray and Evangeline—into the attraction’s mural, with some fans urging the company to focus on larger enhancements as Universal Epic Universe looms on the horizon.

Guests descending the final drop on Tiana's Bayou Adventure.
Credit: Disney

A recent operational modification has quietly taken effect, reducing the number of guests experiencing Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. According to the official Walt Disney World Resort website, the attraction will shut down at 6 p.m. on January 23, 27, 28, and 29, as well as February 3, 5, and 6—despite Magic Kingdom remaining open until hours later.

There has been no official statement regarding the change, but given that it occurs only on weekdays, maintenance could be a factor. Additionally, the park, including Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, will close early at 4:30 p.m. on January 30 to accommodate the annual cast member celebration at Magic Kingdom Park.

Guests can still access Tiana’s Bayou Adventure by purchasing either the Lightning Lane Multi Pass or the Lightning Lane Premier Pass. Alternatively, the virtual queue system remains available twice daily for those eager to experience the attraction.

Animatronics on Tiana's Bayou Adventure
Credit: Disney

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Removed From After Hours

In another recent development, Walt Disney World has withdrawn Tiana’s Bayou Adventure from its Disney After Hours lineup at Magic Kingdom—without offering any explanation.

Running from January 6 through May 19, 2025, Disney After Hours offers guests the chance to enjoy Magic Kingdom after dark without needing a regular park ticket. The event runs from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., with early entry beginning at 7 p.m., allowing attendees to experience beloved attractions such as TRON Lightcycle / Run with shorter wait times.

Tickets are priced between $175 and $185, depending on the date. However, the exclusion of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure from the list of attractions has left guests bewildered.

Cinderella Castle at Disney World
Credit: Disney

Meanwhile, Disney Enchantment, first unveiled during the park’s 50th anniversary celebration, has returned. Despite its stunning visuals, the nighttime show previously faced criticism for lacking the heartfelt charm of its predecessor, Happily Ever After, which returned in 2023 following high demand from fans.

Outside of Magic Kingdom, Disney After Hours events will continue at EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, giving visitors additional opportunities to explore the parks without the usual daytime hustle.

What are your thoughts on the earlier closures and removal of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure from After Hours? Share your opinion with us in the comments below!

Thomas Hitchen

When he’s not thinking about the Magic Kingdom, Thomas is usually reading a book, becoming desperately obsessed with fictional characters, or baking something delicious (his favorite is chocolate cake -- to bake and to eat). He's a dreamer and grew up on Mulan saving the world, Jim Hawkins soaring through the stars, and Padmé Amidala fighting a Nexu. At the Parks, he loves to ride Everest, stroll down Main Street with an overstuffed pin lanyard around his neck, and eat as many Mickey-shaped ice creams as possible. His favorite character is Han Solo (yes, he did shoot first), and his favorite TV show is Buffy the Vampire Slayer except when it's One Tree Hill. He loves sandy beach walks, forest hikes, and foodie days out in the Big City. Thomas lives in England, UK, with his fiancée, baby, and their dog, a Border Collie called Luna.

One Comment

  1. First of all, the Princess & Frog movie, wasn’t a ” hit”. It was a flop!
    The only thing it had going for it was , it one of the last hand drawn movies.
    Disney needed a ” token ride” to appease those that complained about ” Song of the South.

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