Bayou Country Delivers a Watery, Musical Celebration!
Our family has always loved the feeling of walking into the area at the back of Disneyland. This section of the park used to be known as Critter Country. It was designed to feel like a quiet, peaceful woodland tucked away from the rest of the park. It is still home to The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, a gentle dark ride. You can still enjoy the rustic and fun Hungry Bear Restaurant, which offers delicious food and a wonderful seating area overlooking the Rivers of America.
The New Bayou Country Experience
The biggest change in this land is a major, exciting transformation. Critter Country has been renamed Bayou Country, and it is now home to a brand-new adventure. The former Splash Mountain log flume ride was a controversial but beloved fixture for many years. It was permanently closed on May 31, 2023, to prepare for its complete reimagining. This has created a thrilling new experience.
The rethemed attraction, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, officially opened on November 15, 2024, just in time for the start of the holiday season at Disneyland. The new ride is inspired by the vibrant and musical world of the film, The Princess and the Frog. The entire area now flows beautifully with the nearby New Orleans Square.
Join the Mardi Gras Party
On the ride, you join Princess Tiana and her alligator friend, Louis, on a quest. They are looking for the final missing ingredient for a spectacular Mardi Gras party: a band! You will board a log flume and float through the lush, glowing bayou. This is a musical journey full of new, incredible details. Keep an eye out for dozens of all-new Audio-Animatronics figures. You will see Tiana, Louis, Mama Odie, and many friendly new critter friends. These critters form three different bands—Zydeco, Rara, and Afro-Cuban Jazz—using makeshift instruments. The music, featuring new arrangements of songs from the film, is absolutely fantastic and makes the whole ride feel like a celebration.
The ride has a delightful, celebratory story that is much more lighthearted than the previous ride. However, it still features the iconic, exhilarating 50-foot drop. When you crest the final hill and plunge into the water, get ready! You and your family will likely get soaked. The log flumes seat riders single file.
Travel Tip: The final drop is still a big thrill. The ride requires guests to be 40 inches (102cm) or taller. Be sure to check this before you get in line!
Getting on Board and Shopping the Bayou
Since this is a new and popular attraction, you have a few ways to ride. Tiana's Bayou Adventure currently uses a standby queue, but it may also offer a Single Rider Line and the paid Lightning Lane Multi Pass for quicker access. Be sure to check the Disneyland app on the day of your visit for the most current queuing options.
Travel Tip: This is a water ride, so you will get wet. If you or your kids want to stay dry, consider purchasing a lightweight poncho beforehand. You can also find ponchos, as well as new souvenirs, at the redesigned retail locations in Bayou Country.
The land has two new retail spots. Louis’ Critter Club is the place to find Tiana apparel, plushes of the latest critter band members, and unique ear headbands. Ray’s Berets is another great spot for themed merchandise. The charming little area where The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh is located still offers sweet treats at Pooh Corner.
The entire Bayou Country offers a joyful, musical celebration. It beautifully extends Princess Tiana's story from New Orleans Square right into the heart of the park's west side. The amazing animatronics and wonderful music will make you want to ride again and again!