Going Down the Bayou
Your Guide to Tiana's Bayou Adventure
Get ready to journey deep into the bayou, because Tiana's Bayou Adventure is finally opening its doors to all Magic Kingdom guests on June 28! This highly anticipated reimagining of Splash Mountain promises a musical celebration inspired by the beloved animated film "The Princess and the Frog." As we approach opening day, let's explore all the ways you can experience this exciting new attraction.
Joining the Queue
On June 28, 2024, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open to the general public, after weeks of being in operation for annual passholders and cast members only. To manage the crowds, Disney announced that this newly reimagined ride will not have a standby queue in the beginning. This means that you can’t just show up to the parks and join the line for the attraction.
Instead, you’ll need to either get a Virtual Queue Boarding Group or a Lightning Lane through Disney’s Skip-the-Line service, Genie+. Below I’ll walk you through how to get a chance to ride the new attraction.
Virtual Queue or Lightning Lane?
Virtual Queues are free and used for the newest attractions in the parks. You have two chances to join a virtual queue: at 7am and at 1pm, through the My Disney Experience App. Because Tiana’s Bayou is in the same park as TRON (which also has a Virtual Queue) you will have to choose between the two.
Yes, you can technically get a Virtual Queue for Tiana’s at 7:00am and one for TRON at 1:00pm. But you can only hold one Virtual Queue at a time. So if 1:00pm comes and you still haven’t been called to check in at Tiana’s Bayou, you won’t be able to join a Virtual Queue for TRON. In this case, I would recommend buying an Individual Lightning Lane for TRON, since this is the only other way to ride the modern roller coaster.
Pro Tip: I have a video on my Instagram with the best tips on how to snag a Virtual Queue Boarding Pass.
Now on to another plan: If you are purchasing Genie+ (Disney’s Skip-the-Line service) for the day of your visit to Magic Kingdom, you can actually schedule a Lightning Lane for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure right at 7:00am — It’s surprising that the attraction is debuting as part of the Genie+ package, but ok!
Although we normally schedule Virtual Queues before scheduling the first Lightning Lane, I would recommend doing the opposite for probably the rest of this year, because of the popularity of the new attraction. You should schedule a Lightning Lane for Tiana’s Bayou first, so you guarantee a spot in the ride. This means that you’ll probably miss the chance to join the Virtual Queue for TRON at 7:00am, since it sells out so fast. But you’ll have to try for TRON at 1:00pm.
What would I do? I would honestly have my travel partner logged into the My Disney Experience app on their device and we both book a Lightning Lane for Tiana’s Bayou and a Virtual Queue for TRON at the same time at 7:00am. Challenging, but possible!
Embracing the Story
The adventure begins as soon as you step into the beautifully themed queue area. Imagineers have crafted an immersive environment that transports you to the heart of New Orleans and the Louisiana bayou. Keep your eyes peeled for hidden details and nods to the film as you wind your way through.
Once aboard, you'll join Princess Tiana, Naveen, and jazz-loving alligator Louis on a journey to prepare for a magical Mardi Gras celebration. Listen closely to the dialogue and catchy tunes – there's a lot of storytelling happening around you. Don't forget to look in all directions, as there are delightful details and animated figures throughout the ride.
Capturing the Moment
While it's tempting to reach for your phone to snap photos or record video, remember that the best way to truly experience the attraction is to be present in the moment. That said, there will be on-ride photos available for purchase, capturing your reactions during the big drop!
Speaking of the drop – it's still there! While the theming has changed, the ride system remains similar. As you approach the final ascent, take a deep breath and prepare for a thrilling plunge into the bayou. Remember to smile for the camera!
Exploring Related Experiences
To fully immerse yourself in Tiana's world, don't miss other "Princess and the Frog" experiences around the park. Keep an eye out for Tiana character meet-and-greets, themed merchandise, and possibly even special menu items at nearby restaurants. Tiana’s famous beignets will be available and they’re my absolute favorite snack!
As we eagerly await the grand opening of Tiana's Bayou Adventure, remember that patience may be necessary during the initial crowds. But with a bit of planning and an open heart for adventure, you're sure to have a magical experience in Tiana's world. So get ready to journey into the bayou – it's going to be a celebration you won't soon forget!
Message me to plan your next Disney vacation — as your Travel Advisor, you don’t pay anything extra for my services and I’ll help you make the most out of every moment!