As Disney Says Goodbye to Critter Country, Popular Attraction Faces Extinction
It seems like a lifetime ago, but it was just four years ago that Disney shocked and devastated fans when it announced that the iconic Splash Mountain attraction would be closing at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.
The ride would receive a retheme, and when it reopened, it would be based on the 2009 animated film The Princess and the Frog. There was a ton of backlash, but Disney moved forward with its decision, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is now open at the Magic Kingdom.
This past weekend, Disney hosted its biennial D23 Expo — the ultimate Disney fan experience. During the parks panel — hosted by Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amar0 — it was revealed that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open at Disneyland Park on November 15. But that was not the only big news shared about the upcoming attraction.
Critter Country is currently closed at Disneyland as Imagineers make way for the new attraction. However, when the area reopens, it will no longer be called Critter Country. Instead, it will be called Bayou Country.
Related: Disney Demolishes Entire Land for New Attraction
The change from Critter Country to Bayou Country indicates that Disney is going all in on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the southern feel of the area. Critter Country/Bayou Country is located right next to New Orleans Square, where Disneyland’s iconic Haunted Mansion attraction and Tiana’s Palace restaurant are located.
However, this change has us wondering if another big change is coming down the pike. Is Disney planning on getting rid of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh attraction?
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh has been a part of Critter Country for more than 20 years. Pooh and his friends definitely fit into the theme of adorable creatures. However, will they really fit in anymore if the theme of the new area is the bayou? There is nothing bayou about the Hundred Acre Wood.
Even Hungry Bear Café is getting a makeover. When Bayou Country opens, Hungry Bear Café will become Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree. The iconic Country Bears have taken over the establishment and given it a distinctly southern twist. The menu has received a complete revamp and will feature BBQ favorites like pulled pork, brisket, and baked beans.
Disney has not announced that any changes are coming to The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh at this time. The attraction remains popular with guests. However, it remains to be seen if Disney decides that the attraction no longer fits the theme of the land.
Disney could decide to go all-in on The Princess and the Frog and create another attraction based on the film, and specifically aim it at younger guests.
Do you think The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh will fit in Bayou Country? Should Disney retheme the ride? Let us know in the comments!
