Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is scheduled to close for a "routine refurbishment" this winter, with a reopening anticipated in December. The exact closure and reopening dates have not yet been announced.
This announcement comes two months after a safety incident at the Disneyland version of the attraction in Anaheim, California. In June, a 13-year-old boy exited a ride vehicle mid-journey and fell approximately 50 feet down the ride's track. While the boy sustained no critical injuries and was released from a hospital, the incident prompted an inspection by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, which approved the attraction to reopen the following day.
Following the Disneyland incident, safety restraints on both the California and Florida versions of the ride have drawn attention. The log flume at Disneyland lacks seatbelts or lap bars, while the ride at Disney World is equipped with a lap bar but no seatbelt. In response to the incident, Disneyland installed 12 new signs around its attraction, most located in the queue lines, warning guests that standing up during the ride will result in removal from the park, a change from earlier wording that indicated guests "may" be removed.
The ride, which replaced Splash Mountain and opened in June 2024, is themed around Disney's "The Princess and the Frog" and features a musical journey culminating in a 50-foot drop. Since its opening, the attraction has faced various issues, including reports of malfunctioning animatronics and frequent delays.
Last month, a guest also noted that a prop within the ride's queue area was secured with duct tape, sparking criticism online. The user pointed out that duct tape was not invented during the 1920s, the period in which "The Princess and the Frog" is set, suggesting it detracted from the immersion.
News of the upcoming closure has elicited mixed reactions from fans online. Some expressed hope that the refurbishment would address the ride's persistent issues and improve the overall experience. Others voiced disappointment, particularly those planning visits during the winter season, citing potential conflicts with holiday travel plans and prior instances of the attraction not being fully operational.