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Virtual Queue for New Disney Attraction Fills Up Instantly, Leaving Fans Disappointed

The transformation of Disneyland continues with the highly anticipated opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. The iconic Splash Mountain attraction, beloved by many, officially closed in early 2023 at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World. The closure marked a significant shift as Disney announced the attraction would receive a retheme based on the 2009 film The Princess and the Frog.

This change aimed to address the outdated themes associated with Splash Mountain, particularly its ties to the controversially received 1946 film Song of the South. As Tiana’s Bayou Adventure prepares to welcome guests, it promises to bring a fresh narrative focused on Princess Tiana and her experiences in a vibrant Louisiana landscape.

Splash Mountain
Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Announces Exciting News About Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure officially opened at the Magic Kingdom on June 28, 2024, and Disneyland’s version is scheduled to open on November 15. On October 21, the attraction began its Magic Keyholder previews. Magic Key Holders can join a 7 a.m. virtual queue or a 12 p.m. virtual queue and ride during select hours.

When the first slots in the virtual queue became available, they were claimed within seconds. Reports indicate that only 30 boarding groups were made available for the previews. Enthusiastic fans faced difficulties as they raced to join the queue, with many expressing frustration over constantly refreshing the Disneyland app, only to find the groups filled instantly.

A sign reads "Tiana's Bayou Adventure" with decorative flowers and vines. In the background, there is lush greenery, a rugged hillside with a dark cave entrance, and a water tower labeled "Tiana's Foods." A wooden fence is in the foreground.
Credit: Disney

Related: Woman’s Actions Shut Down Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Indefinitely; Guest Reports After Evacuation

The reaction from Magic Key Holders has been predominantly one of disappointment. Many took to social media to voice their frustrations after failing to secure a spot on the first day of previews.

In contrast, those who successfully obtained boarding groups reported excitement, albeit in the lower tiers of the queue. Comparisons have been drawn to the boarding processes of past attractions, highlighting the rapid sell-out rates and the intense competition for limited spots. As many fans reflected on their experiences, discussions about improving the efficiency of the virtual queue emerged.

ultimate guide Tiana's Bayou Adventure
Credit: Disney

Unlike Walt Disney World, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure previews will only take place at Disneyland Park during certain hours of the day.

  • Monday, Oct. 21, 3-9 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Oct. 22, 3-9 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Oct. 23, 3-9 p.m.
  • Friday, Oct. 25, 3-9 p.m.
  • Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Sunday, Oct. 27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Oct. 29, 3-9 p.m.
  • Friday, Nov. 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Sunday, Nov. 3, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
  • Friday, Nov. 8, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
  • Saturday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Sunday, Nov. 10, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
A life-sized animatronic figure, dressed in a white chef outfit and a headwrap, stands inside a cave-like setting. The backdrop features lush greenery and hanging bottles of various colors. The figure has dark sunglasses and appears to be stirring a large pot.
Credit: Disney

Along with the debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Disneyland is also rebranding Critter Country to Bayou Country. This transformation not only includes the new ride but also features updates to the Hungry Bear Restaurant, which will now serve southern barbecue cuisine. The refreshed dining experience aims to enhance the thematic elements associated with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, creating a cohesive immersion into the world of The Princess and the Frog.

As the park undergoes these changes, guests will have the opportunity to experience new outdoor areas designed to complement the themes presented in the new attraction.

Will you try to ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure during Magic Key Holder previews? Or will you wait until the ride officially opens on November 15? Let us know in the comments!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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