Having always been a fan of a good theme park adventure, I was excited to hear that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure had opened at Disneyland. I have been in love with The Princess and the Frog since the movie first came out, and I loved seeing Tiana’s story brought to life in a new way. Having ridden the attraction myself now, I can confidently say it’s one of the best new experiences at Disneyland, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite rides. The minute one steps into the queue, they are immediately transported right into the heart of the bayou.
It’s 1927, and Tiana is preparing to throw her big Mardi Gras party. It’s an energetic feeling in the air, and the details are simply amazing. The mood is set by the music, arranged by Terence Blanchard, in popular tracks from the film such as “Down in New Orleans,” but there are additional songs in the mix that give a new atmosphere to everything. The queue itself is immersive and builds up quite well in anticipation. Once I boarded the log flume, I was ready for it.
It’s a ride based on the premise that Tiana and her alligator buddy Louis are searching for musicians for her party. As you wind your way through the bayou, you encounter a host of fun new critters playing all types of music: Zydeco, Rara, and Afro-Cuban tunes. The scenes are packed with color and energy; there’s a real sense of fun as you travel through them. It was a fabulous highlight 50-foot drop. There’s something so thrilling about the way the ride could make you feel like you’re shrinking down to frog size before that plunge.
It’s a great mix of excitement and storytelling that makes you feel part of Tiana’s world. Finally, in the end, when you roll into her swingin’ Mardi Gras party, the vibe’s infectious. It’s just a complete celebration of music, lights, and color purely for fun. One of the cool touches has to do with how the ride uses the MagicBand+. As you go through the bayou, you turn into a firefly because your MagicBand+ lights up, which just adds that extra oomph of magic. I always liked those little details, and this one didn’t disappoint. Not to be outdone, the soundtrack is exceptional. The original song “Special Spice” by PJ Morton is catch-as-hell, and it is impossible not to get caught up in its rhythm. Plus, the fact that Disney brought on so many extremely talented artists to help create the music pays off. It truly feels like a collaboration that brings this story to life in fresh yet familiar ways.
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♬ Almost there – 👀
But besides the ride itself, there is more to see in the extended Bayou Country area. I took some time to browse shops-most notably Ray’s Berets and Louis’ Critter Club-that have cool Tiana-themed merchandise. Whether it be some Tiana-themed apparel, plushes, or even fun accessories, there is a little bit of something for everyone. I couldn’t help but pick up one of the firefly-themed accessories as a nice little keepsake to remember the ride by.
If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are some great offerings to be had at Tiana’s Palace of New Orleans-inspired cuisine such as gumbo and beignets. It’s great to complete the experience in its entirety and plunge deeper into the world of Tiana.
House Gumbo (Tiana’s Palace at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif.) – braised chicken, andouille sausage and heirloom rice. Available beginning Sept. 7, 2023. For more details, visit DisneyParksBlog.com. (David Nguyen/Disneyland Resort)
Now, I know Disneyland has much to offer when it comes to attractions, but Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is something different altogether. The way it blends storytelling, music, and thrill is something that makes it stand out in the park.
It’s perfect for families, Disney fans, or anyone looking for a fun, high-energy ride. I’ve ridden a lot of attractions at Disneyland, but this one might just be at the top of my list right now—right up there with classics like Space Mountain. If you’re planning on going to Disneyland, make sure to check that out. It’s an experience not to be missed.
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8 comments
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure 1000000x greater than Splash Mountain. I will die on this hill
okay so is there a reason why people are dragging tiana’s bayou adventure ALREADY? like a valid legitimate reason that isn’t rooted in racism… i’m so serious. from what i gather the ride itself is the literal same
I’ve never gotten in a boat on splash that was flooded like Tiana’s bayou and honestly I feel like I got way more wet on every drop. Other than that it’s a cute ride.
okay that’s valid, hopefully if the flooding is an issue they fix it but the ride itself sounds like a fun update!
Got to ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland yesterday. Ride was so fun and great theming. Water = way too much. Might as well have just swam in the Bayou. A moment I will never forget. Excellent experience at Disneyland. Clothes are still soaked.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is Disney’s “first attraction that is based on a Black character as a main driver of the narrative”, said Bethanee Bemis, a historian who studies how Disney theme parks reflect the nation’s identity.
The way Tiana’s Bayou Adventure blends in to New Orleans Square is infinitely better than Frontierland in Magic Kingdom. It makes sense for the land, the periphery shopping is well done. Looking forward to getting on it.
I love the video you posted on TikTok.