Disneyland Park in California is permanently retiring a cherished attraction: the specified ride.
Disneyland California Undergoes Major Transformations with DisneylandForward
Disneyland California is undergoing significant changes as part of the $1.9 billion DisneylandForward expansion initiative. This ambitious project aims to modernize and re-theme areas, enhance guest experiences, and incorporate popular new franchises.
One of the most anticipated additions is the new "Avatar"-themed attraction, set to replace the current "Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!" ride in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure. The removal of this classic ride is scheduled for early next year, paving the way for a more immersive Avatar experience that aligns with the planned re-theming of the entire Hollywood Land area to "Avatar" in the future.
Disney is also focusing on more modern Intellectual Properties (IPs) like "Coco" and "Avatar" to attract the next generation of fans. In line with this, Disneyland California will soon include a new "Coco" ride and experience at Pixar Pier. The details of this attraction are yet to be revealed, but it's expected to be inspired by classics like Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean.
The "Avatar"-themed ride at Disneyland California Adventure Park will not merely recreate scenes from the original film. Instead, it aims to bring Pandora to life, mirroring the approach Disney World will take with its new "Avatar"-themed ride, which is set to open in 2024.
Meanwhile, Disney World will also be introducing a "Monsters Inc."-themed land in 2024, including the first suspended coaster in Disney history. Mike and Sulley will still be present, ensuring a continuity of beloved characters.
Infrastructure upgrades are a key part of the DisneylandForward initiative. Disneyland California is planning to build a new approximately 6,000-space parking structure and transportation hub, including a pedestrian bridge over Harbor Boulevard. This construction is scheduled to begin in fall 2026.
Other changes include the addition of numerous new rides and attractions in 2024, such as the newly re-themed Splash Mountain at both Disney World and Disneyland. However, these changes have raised concerns among longtime parkgoers over the erosion of classic attractions and the increasing shift towards franchise-heavy experiences.
Despite these concerns, DisneylandForward is designed to keep Disneyland California competitive, culturally relevant, and operationally efficient well into the future. The initiative includes seasonal overlays and refurbishments, such as the annual "Nightmare Before Christmas" transformation of the Haunted Mansion for Halloween and Christmas, and plans for parade adjustments like "Paint the Night" pausing during the Christmas season in 2025.
In conclusion, DisneylandForward is a multifaceted plan that includes expanding park capacity, updating thematic areas with new franchises like "Avatar" and "Coco," and improving guest arrival and parking infrastructure. The initiative also includes the construction of a new transportation hub, signalling that Disney is preparing for significantly more foot traffic and possibly more immersive lands to follow.
- To ensure an engaged and modern audience, travel guides for Disneyland California will likely devote more coverage to upcoming attractions like the new "Avatar"-themed ride and the "Coco" ride at Pixar Pier.
- In the realm of movies-and-tv, Disneyland California's expansion plans align with Disney's focus on IPs like "Avatar" and "Coco," making entertainment news platforms ripe for stories about these exciting additions.
