Parks

Disneyland Moves Forward With New Pixar Attraction

Big things are on the way.

Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Park from the side, a Disney park in California where annual passes have returned.
Credit: Anna Fox, Flickr

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Disneyland is rolling out the red carpet for an exciting new attraction based on Pixar’s beloved film, Coco. This captivating boat ride is designed to immerse guests in the vibrant and colorful world of the Land of the Dead, where Miguel’s journey unfolds.

The significance of this Pixar theme resonates deeply, as Coco is not only a visual feast but a celebration of family, culture, and the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos.

Anticipated features of the ride include breathtaking visuals, an engaging narrative, and interactive elements that encourage audience participation. Guests can look forward to encountering their favorite skeletal characters as they navigate through stunning backdrops inspired by the film. Disneyland’s decision to create an attraction around Cocoreflects the studio’s commitment to diversifying its offerings and celebrating rich cultural narratives.

The expected timeline for construction suggests that work may ramp up quickly in the coming months, with backstage preparations scheduled to begin this fall. While this work takes place out of sight, it still holds significance for guests, as it allows the park to minimize disruption during the construction period, ensuring visitors can continue to enjoy their experience at the resort.

Miguel and Ernesto de la Cruz and Miguel in Coco (2017)
Credit: Disney/Pixar

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The imaginative minds at Walt Disney Imagineering are drawing inspiration from classic Disney rides to craft Coco’s unique experience. They plan to incorporate elements reminiscent of beloved attractions such as The Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean. By merging tried-and-true storytelling techniques with contemporary flair, they will create a ride that appeals to both nostalgia and novelty.

One of the standout features will be the use of advanced Audio-Animatronics technology. This groundbreaking innovation promises to bring the film’s iconic characters to life in ways never before seen. Josh D’Amaro, the chairman of Disney Parks and Experiences, has hinted at an impressive array of lifelike figures that will enhance the ride experience.

Moreover, Disneyland will soon welcome its own version of Pandora—The World of Avatar, replicating the awe and wonder seen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom but infused with unique twists. This expansion will enhance the visitor experience but will necessitate the closure of some beloved attractions, including the iconic Monsters Inc. Mike and Sully to the Rescue, which will close permanently in early 2026.

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

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