jungle cruise ride walt disney world

Complete Guide to Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom

Grab your suitcase and get ready to set sail on an adventure-filled river tour. Jungle Cruise is one of several fan-favorite classic attractions remaining at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.

This water safari is led by experienced Skippers, who navigate your boat through the rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America. Your pun-filled guides will not only make you laugh ’till you cry, but will also make sure you get up close and personal with the eighth wonder of the world — the backside of water!

Now let’s sail into our Jungle Cruise guide .

Before we get too far into it, make sure you check out our guide on the Best Rides at Magic Kingdom for information on every attraction and show at Magic Kingdom.

In this article

Jungle Cruise Quick Facts

• Location : Magic Kingdom, Adventureland
• Height Requirement : Any height
• Suitable for: All ages
• Attraction Length: 10 minutes
• Do We Recommend : Yes. It’s an original opening day attraction and a must-do ride.
• When to Visit : Typically at opening/within the first hour or closer toward park close
• Scheduled Refurbishments
• Tip(s): Ride at night for a unique experience and shorter lines; Holiday season the ride is themed with an overlay called “Jingle Cruise.”

Description: Jungle Cruise is a river boat ride where animatronic animals and dad jokes abound. Every Jungle Cruise Skipper has their own unique “routine”, so every ride is a little bit different. Kids who are easily scared should be told ahead of time the animals they are about to see are not real.

You can find Jungle Cruise in Adventureland across from Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin . Here’s the location on the map:

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How to Ride Jungle Cruise

Jungle Cruise has a Standby Line and Lightning Lane. There is no  Single Rider Line .

The Standby Line for Jungle Cruise is typically the lowest first thing in the morning and at the end of the evening. The middle of the day will see the longest lines with sustained wait times of over 60 minutes.

Jungle Cruise is not available during Early Theme Park Entry or Extended Evening Hours . So, if this ride is a priority for you, planning accordingly is a must.

D o I need to use Genie+ at Jungle Cruise?

Jungle Cruise is available with Genie+  and we highly recommend using it at this attraction.

Aside from Peter Pan’s Flight , the Jungle Cruise is the second most booked ride on Genie+ at the Magic Kingdom. It’s a highly-popular ride that many park guests make a must-do during their park day. Unless you hop on this ride first thing, you should plan to reserve a Genie+ time for later in the day.

Make sure you check out our  touring plans for Magic Kingdom  for more Genie+ advice.

Rider Switch/Child Swap

Jungle Cruise is for all ages and heights. Therefore, Rider Switch , the system that allows guests with small children to take turns riding bigger rides, while another person/people wait with the little one, is not offered for Jungle Cruise.

What to Expect When You Ride

The Jungle Cruise queue is completely outdoors, with most of the line covered from the sun. While the ride doesn’t have an interactive queue like many other attractions, there are plenty of sights and sounds to enjoy.

You will find the queue decorated with prior passenger cruise logs and journals to read over. Also as you get closer to the loading station you can watch the tour boats pulling into and leaving the loading dock.

The music in the queue is also fun, including listening to what the announcer has to say.

Ride Vehicles

The ride vehicles for Jungle Cruise are small river boats. There is seating around the entire interior of the boat for guests to sit. Each boat can accompany approximately 30 guests.

There is a small 6 inch gap you must step over and down into the boat. Most guests are able to board with little to no help. There is a pole to grab on to help stabilize your boarding process in addition to Cast Members who will assist guests as needed.

You will ride in the tour boat with other groups, but your party will always be seated together next to — or at least near to one another.

There are no safety restraints, seat belts or life vests. You simply sit down and ride around inside the boat.

Accessibility Information

Guests may remain in their wheelchair/ECV while on the Jungle Cruise. A select number of boats are wheelchair accessible and have space for a single wheelchair. This includes manual, power, or ECV.

The majority of wheelchair sizes have no problem fitting on the boats. There is a separate wheelchair accessible entrance where your party can wait to board their boat.

You’ll want to speak with a Cast Member at the attraction entrance (at the top of the path that leads to the attraction) for details and directions.

Sign language interpretation and assistive listening are also offered on the Jungle Cruise ride on certain days. To obtain a schedule listing exact days and times, visit Guest Relations in the park.

Motion Sickness

Jungle Cruise’s boats are slow-moving and don’t have any fast turns, so motion sickness seems very unlikely. That said, you are riding in a boat on the water. Feel free to check out our guide on motion sickness  that’s filled with additional information and tips.

On The Ride

Ride spoilers ahead!

Prepare to sail away on an adventure of a lifetime as your cruise boat arrives into the loading dock. After some brief safety guidelines and a clear to go, your Skipper starts the tour sailing your cruise boat away from the dock and into the jungle.

Your first cruise stop in the jungle will be the Amazon rainforest where it rains 365 days a year. Here you will see beautiful butterflies with an impressive wingspan and the rushing waters of Inspiration Falls.

Next the tour will embark to the depths of Africa on the Congo River. You will pass by your Skippers pet python snake and a camp being broken down by Gorillas.

Cruising over to Egypt your Skipper will take you to the infamous Nile River which spans about 4,000 miles. Capture photos of the African bull elephants among the boulders. Long neck cheetahs, zebras, giraffes and lions are seen resting amongst one another. A rhinoceros is seen trying to make his point, chasing a group of explorers up a pole.

Watch out for danger as you enter crocodile country. Sail past the impressive Schweitzer falls which is named after the famous Dr. Albert Falls.

You will enter a hippo pool which will require some expert navigation from your Skipper as you see another tour cruise boat that did not fare so well going through them. A family of chimpanzees is seen taking over another tour cruise boat.

Next up is what everyone came to see, the 8th wonder of the world — the backside of water!

Prepare for dark encounters as your cruise boat enters the Mekong River in the heart of Cambodia. Your Skipper will take you through an Asian jungle shrine where you will pass a 500 pound tiger, several cobra snakes, giant spiders, shiny gold artifacts, and Buddha statues.

As you exit the tunnel you will find yourself in the middle of an Indian elephant bathing pool. Feel free to take as many pictures as you like. Beware — these elephants have been known to spray the boat, so watch out!

There’s no visit to the jungle complete without a stop to see Trader Sam’s gift shop.

As your tour boat approaches the dock again wait on your Skipper to give the word to gather all your belongings and disembark.

Trust us when we say to fully experience this ride, you need to try it yourself because the Skippers add a whole new level to each attraction scene. Their puns and jokes are the point of the cruise.

Is Jungle Cruise Kid-Friendly?

Overall, Jungle Cruise is very kid-friendly, as all ages and heights are permitted to board and ride.

However, keep in mind some of the animals on the cruise are very realistic and may scare little ones. There is also a short scene in which the boat rides through a very dark, almost pitch-black cave with several animatronic snakes and tigers that could be scary for children.

Anyone riding with kids may want to tell them the animals aren’t real prior to riding.

Kids are also required to remain seated completely during the entire tour. There is no exchanging of kids from one parent to another while the ride is in motion. Due to the nature of this ride being open and on the water, the Skippers are very strict about this.

We have a full guide on several other things that might scare little ones at Disney World .

Strollers are not permitted on the Jungle Cruise boats. They can be left in the designated area near the attraction entrance or with a non-rider.

Jungle Cruise was one of the original attractions ready in 1971 on Magic Kingdom’s opening day. It was also an opening day attraction at Disneyland Park in California back in 1955.

Ironically, before becoming known for its laughs and silly jokes, the attraction as a whole was initially more of a serious tone with only a few jokes inserted here and there.

The original script for Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise was written by Winston Hibler and inspired by Disney’s True-Life Adventure African Lion film. This gave the ride its more serious and educational tone, but that all changed in the ’60s when Imagineer Marc Davis took over and turned the ride into what many know and love today.

During the holidays, Jungle Cruise receives a holiday overlay and becomes the “Jingle Cruise.” The ride format stays basically the same with the addition of fun holiday-themed jokes and pretty seasonal decorations.

Believe it or not, but the holiday Jingle Cruise actually hasn’t been around that long — only since 2013!

In January 2021, Disney announced that some much-needed changes were coming to the Jungle Cruise on both coasts. Those updates are now complete.

Some of the enhancements included incorporating an animatronic skipper, new characters (like Alberta Falls), adding new jokes (don’t worry, many of the classics remain), and freshening up the story by adding chimpanzees, new explorers being chased up the pole, and making the Skippers more of a focus.

Here was the concept art for these updates that were previously shared by Disney:

Most importantly, the outdated depictions and problematic scenes have been removed .

As Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Portfolio Executive Chris Beatty told D23, “This is not a re-envisioning of the entire attraction. It’s the Jungle Cruise you know and love, with the skippers still leading the way, and at the same time, we’re addressing the negative depictions of ‘natives.'”

This also means the removal of Trader Sam from the final scene of the ride. But he isn’t totally gone; Trader Sam is still part of the attraction in a unique way.

The final scene features a Lost & Found Gift Shop with a sign indicating that it is managed by Trader Sam (in place of the Trader Sam animatronic). As stated by Disney, “But, while he’s out lost and finding some new inventory, it’s the animals that get the last laugh!”

Other Fun Details

• Rumor has it that when you enter the hippo pool, you’ll see the back half of a plane on the right, and, apparently, the front half was used in the Casablanca scene in the now-permanently closed Great Movie Ride.
• The Jungle Cruise is not based on a movie, but it did inspire one. The new live-action Jungle Cruise starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt was released on July 30, 2021 giving nod to this classic attraction.
• Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen is a nearby Table Service restaurant themed after the Jungle Cruise. It has a unique menu, serves alcohol, and is just as fun as the attraction. Reservations are recommended.

Other Attractions in Adventureland

• Jungle Cruise
• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Swiss Family Treehouse
• Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

Jungle Cruise

Magic Kingdom Park

Adventureland

Guests Can Be

Age interest, thrill level.

Accessibility and Other Information - Opens Dialog

Accessibility

• May Remain in Wheelchair/ECV
• Wheelchair Access Vehicle
• Sign Language
• Assistive Listening
• Handheld Captioning
• Supervise children at all times. Children under age 7 years must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older.

Chart a course for high adventure on a scenic and comedic boat tour of exotic rivers across Asia, Africa and South America.

Adventure Around Every Corner

Steam past lush foliage, butterflies and waterfalls on the Amazon in South America. Glimpse an abandoned camp overrun by curious gorillas on the shores of the African Congo.

Watch for angry hippos, hungry lions and “sleeping” zebras along the Nile and be on the lookout for a missing Jungle Cruise vessel and its helpless passengers. As the cruise continues down the Mekong River, you just might learn that the jungle always gets the last laugh.

It’s a 10-minute, 10,000-mile journey that you won't soon forget!

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen

Prepare your palate for exotic flavor adventures sure to tame your wildest appetite.

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Jungle Cruise

Magic Kingdom Park

Adventureland

Guests Can Be

Age Interest

Thrill Level

Chart a course for adventure on a scenic and comedic boat tour of renowned rivers across Asia, Africa and South America.

Adventure Around Every Corner Embark on a river cruise where dangerous beasts and dry wit abound. Board a canopied tramp steamer piloted by your trusty skipper, who will expertly navigate you through some of the world’s most treacherous waters.

Steam past lush foliage, butterflies and waterfalls on the Amazon in South America. Glimpse an abandoned camp overrun by curious gorillas on the shores of the African Congo.

Watch for angry hippos, hungry lions and “sleeping” zebras along the Nile and be on the lookout for a missing Jungle Cruise vessel and its helpless passengers. As the cruise continues down the Mekong River, you just might learn that the jungle always gets the last laugh.

It’s a 10-minute, 10,000-kilometre journey that you won't soon forget!

Disney Park Nerds

Jungle Cruise at Disney World: An Unforgettable Adventure Awaits

The Jungle Cruise at Disney World is an iconic and immersive boat ride that takes guests on a humorous and thrilling journey through the exotic rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America, featuring animatronic animals, engaging skippers, and special effects.

This attraction has been delighting visitors with its blend of adventure and comedy since its inception, making it a must-see for guests of all ages.

• The Jungle Cruise at Disney World is a beloved boat ride adventure through the rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America, featuring animatronic animals, special effects, and humorous skippers.
• Originating at Disneyland in 1955, the ride has evolved over the years, incorporating updates and cultural sensitivity changes while maintaining its core experience of jungle exploration.
• Offering tips for an enhanced visit, such as planning for morning rides, utilizing Fastpass, engaging with the skippers’ jokes, and capturing photos, ensures guests enjoy this iconic and immersive attraction to the fullest.

The Jungle Cruise Disney World Experience

The Jungle Cruise is a boat ride that takes visitors on a journey through the rivers of Asia, Africa, and South America.

The ride is led by a live skipper who provides a lively and humorous commentary throughout the trip. As the boat navigates the simulated rivers, guests are treated to a variety of scenes and attractions, including a jungle temple, a camp of safari explorers, and a raging waterfall. Along the way, guests will also encounter animatronic animals such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and even a pair of feuding gorillas.

One of the unique features of the Jungle Cruise is its use of special effects. As the boat travels through the rivers, it encounters various obstacles and challenges, such as a herd of stampeding elephants or a sudden rainstorm. These special effects add an element of excitement and surprise to the ride, making it a thrilling and immersive experience.

In addition to the animatronic animals and special effects, the Jungle Cruise is known for its witty and humorous skippers. Each skipper has their own style and personality, and they are trained to deliver clever jokes and puns throughout the ride.

This adds an entertaining and entertaining aspect to the Jungle Cruise, making it a favorite among visitors of all ages.

Jungle Cruise at Disney World vs Disneyland

The Jungle Cruise, a flagship attraction at both Disneyland and Disney World, offers guests a whimsical voyage through exotic landscapes filled with animatronic animals and engaging skippers.

While the essence of adventure and humor remains consistent between the two parks, there are distinctive elements and updates that differentiate the experiences, highlighting the unique charm of each location.

• Location and Landscape : Nestled in the heart of Adventureland, both versions of the Jungle Cruise immerse guests in a lush, tropical setting. However, the surrounding environment and architectural nuances of each park lend a unique backdrop to the rides, influencing the overall ambiance and thematic details.
• Ride Updates and Cultural Sensitivity : Disney World’s Jungle Cruise has received more recent updates, particularly in efforts to enhance cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. These changes include modifications to scenes and narratives to reflect a more respectful portrayal of cultures, alongside the introduction of new scenes and animatronic characters.
• Route and Narration Variations : While the general path of the river journey shares similarities, each version of the Jungle Cruise has its own specific route, with variations in the sequence of scenes and the specifics of the animatronic animal encounters. The skippers’ scripts also vary, offering location-specific jokes and storytelling that add a unique flavor to each ride.
• Historical Significance and Evolution : Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise holds the title of being one of the original attractions since the park’s opening, carrying a rich history and evolution over the years. Disney World’s version, while equally cherished, has its own timeline of updates and enhancements that reflect changing technologies and guest expectations.

History of the Jungle Cruise Disney World

The Jungle Cruise at Disney World, an original attraction since Disneyland’s opening in 1955, embodies the spirit of adventure that Walt Disney himself cherished.

Inspired by the real-life expeditions of early 20th-century explorers, this ride was designed to transport guests into the heart of exotic landscapes filled with animatronic animals and plants.

Despite numerous updates and enhancements over the years to include new scenes, animals, and cutting-edge technology, the core experience of embarking on an exploratory river journey guided by a humorously narrated tour remains unchanged.

• Original Inspiration : The Jungle Cruise was inspired by the expeditions of early 20th-century explorers, aiming to capture the thrill of discovering uncharted territories and exotic wildlife.
• Walt Disney’s Vision : As a keen adventurer, Walt Disney sought to recreate the excitement of exploration for his theme park guests, leading to the creation of this immersive ride.
• Technological Evolution : Over the years, the Jungle Cruise has seen significant updates, including the introduction of new animatronic animals and scenes, as well as the integration of modern technology and special effects to enhance the guest experience.
• Contribution of Marc Davis : The animatronic animals, a hallmark of the ride, were designed by Disney legend Marc Davis, a key figure among Disney’s “Nine Old Men,” whose work elevated the standard for animatronics in theme park attractions.
• Enduring Popularity : Despite being more than 60 years old, the Jungle Cruise continues to be a beloved attraction at Disney World, cherished by both young and old for its nostalgic charm and engaging storytelling, making it a timeless must-see for visitors.

Tips for enjoying the Jungle Cruise Disney World

Planning your visit to Walt Disney World’s Jungle Cruise can transform a great experience into an unforgettable adventure. This iconic ride, known for its humor-filled journey through exotic landscapes, offers a unique blend of entertainment and exploration.

By integrating these tips into your visit, the Jungle Cruise promises to be a highlight of your Disney World adventure, offering laughter, learning, and lasting memories for everyone involved.

To maximize your enjoyment, consider these strategic tips designed to enhance your expedition:

• Optimal Timing : Aim to embark on your Jungle Cruise adventure in the morning or early afternoon. This timing helps you avoid the larger crowds that typically gather later in the day. Additionally, weekdays often see fewer visitors than weekends, providing a smoother experience.
• Fastpass Advantage : Utilize the Fastpass system to bypass the regular queue, significantly reducing wait times. Fastpasses can be obtained at kiosks near the attraction or through the Disney World app, allowing for advanced planning and convenience.
• Engage with Your Guide : The skippers of the Jungle Cruise are renowned for their witty commentary and entertaining facts about the ride’s sights. Listening closely not only enhances the fun but may also enrich your knowledge of the jungle’s inhabitants.
• Capture the Moment : The vivid scenery and animatronic wonders you’ll encounter make perfect photo opportunities. Keep your camera at the ready to preserve your memories of the journey, and don’t hesitate to ask your skipper for brief stops to snap the perfect shot.

Updates and Enhancements to Jungle Cruise at Disney World

The Jungle Cruise attraction at Disney World has seen numerous updates and enhancements over the years, aiming to provide guests with an even more immersive and engaging experience. These updates have introduced new features and made significant changes to enhance cultural sensitivity, ensuring a ride that is both entertaining and respectful.

1. Distinctive Features Between Disney World and Disneyland

Although the Jungle Cruise at Disney World and Disneyland shares many similarities, there are notable differences that set them apart. Disney World’s version has been expanded and updated more extensively, incorporating changes for cultural sensitivity and adding new scenes. The rides at both parks have different routes and narrations, offering guests a unique experience depending on the location.

2. Addressing Cultural Sensitivity

Disney World’s commitment to promoting a more inclusive experience is evident in the modifications made to the Jungle Cruise. The ride has removed outdated stereotypes and insensitive jokes, replaced certain animatronic animals, and introduced new scenes to reflect a more culturally sensitive perspective.

3. Duration and Location of the Ride

The Jungle Cruise ride typically lasts about 10-15 minutes, though this can vary slightly. It’s located in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom, a land designed to immerse guests in the mystique of the jungle, tropical islands, and the allure of piracy.

4. Outdoor Adventure Awaits

As an outdoor attraction, the Jungle Cruise takes guests on a journey through an artificial river landscape, complete with animatronic animals and lush jungle scenery. Certain sections of the ride are covered, providing shade and enhancing the overall experience.

5. A Unique Experience at Night

Experiencing the Jungle Cruise at night offers a different atmosphere compared to the daytime. The nighttime lighting can highlight the jungle’s mystique and enhance the visibility of animals and scenes along the route. While some guests prefer the detailed visibility of daytime rides, others find the night ride uniquely enjoyable, thanks to the added ambiance and the entertaining commentary from the boat captain.

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Jungle Cruise

Adventureland, magic kingdom.

The Jungle Cruise is an outdoor boat cruise through Disney's man-made jungle waterways. You'll encounter animatronic elephants, lions, rhinos and hippos in addition to the hostile natives. 

Your boat tour through the jungle will be on one of 15 cruise boats with your very own skipper who will tell jokes throughout your tour (Note: if you go on the Jungle Cruise more than once its highly likely you'll hear the same 'jokes' - they have used them for years). 

The tour guides are what make this attraction so fun with their witty banter with guests whilst attempting to stear the boat around the narrow river, being careful not to get you soaked at the waterfall!

Towards the end of the ride you pass through a dark cambodian temple where tigers watch over the ancient treasures. When you emerge you head back to civilisation, hopefully not too scared or wet!

Jungle Cruise Ride Tips

In one part of the ride you'll notice what appears to be a downed airplane. The other half of this airplane can be found in The Great Movie Ride in Hollywood Studios, it is used for the Casablanca scene!

Jungle Cruise News

• PHOTOS: A sneak peak at the Magic Kingdom's "Jingle Cruise" - Nov 7th 2013
• Magic Kingdom's Jungle Cruise to become 'Jingle Cruise' during the holidays - Oct 24th 2013
• Refurb Roundup: Prince Charming Regal Carousel, MuppetVision 3D, Big Thunder Mountain and more - May 24th 2013

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Countdown to Magic

Jungle Cruise Disney World ride review

The Jungle Cruise, nestled inside Adventure Land at the edge of Disney’s Magic Kingdom park, is a classic attraction. The idea for the classic attraction was born in the mid 1950’s and has been a hit ever since. While it’s not the most thrilling or visually stimulating ride at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, it holds appeal for a lot of different age groups and demographics. 

It’s one of the few rides that Guests in wheelchairs don’t have to transfer out of – many attractions claim to be handicapped accessible but often require the Guest to be able transfer from the wheelchair to the ride vehicle – the Jungle Cruise is able to allow Guests to stay in their wheelchairs but still have the pleasure of experiencing a moving attraction. It also is accessible for children of any age, any height and many languages, including American Sign Language. 

First Impressions

Upon entering Adventure Land from Main Street (where Cinderella’s Castle is located), you will find yourself walking through a jungle themed area. A strong smell of grass washes over Guests as they enter this land, and many consider this part of the experience. Unfortunately, many also find the scent overwhelming and migraine inducing. Either way, this smell can be avoided if Guests enter from the back side of Adventure Land (near the Pirates of the Caribbean ride ), which is connected to Frontier Land. 

If you do end up walking in the main entrance and enjoying (or enduring) the scent, you will be greeted first with lovely tropical plants that lead to the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse before making your way past and down a hill to the left into the queue for the Jungle Cruise attraction. 

The ride is meant to look a bit run down and put together by hand, as if you’ve stumbled across an expedition in the wild jungle. The queue line is mostly covered from the sun and does have large fans, but it is still outside. If you have one of those portable fans that also spray water, you’ll probably want to bring it along for the wait. Tight quarters in the Florida heat can often mean that even if it is well-circulated, it’s still stuffy and humid. 

In addition to environmental discomfort, isn’t much to do in the queue line either. Aside from a few well-themed crates, clever signs and allusions to a grander story, it’s a pretty bare queue. You will probably want to bring a phone to play a game on, especially if you have restless children. As you progress through the line, you’ll see Cast Members who work there, deemed “skippers,” who will direct you with phrases that will even get the dads in your group to groan. As you approach the end of the line, you’ll get sectioned off into another line and boarded onto a boat. 

The boats in the Jungle Cruise are all real boats and while there are some areas that have bumpers, it does not have a track. In addition, the water can get up to 102 inches or 260 centimeters (over eight feet!). Because these are real boats and not simply cars on a track, the Cast Members are extensively trained in safety and will enforce it. Everyone must be sitting on their “back pockets” with their appendages inside the boat at all times. 

They will stop the boat and call you out on it if you don’t. I have ridden this attraction over fifty times and I can personally attest that it’s done for safety. I have seen Guests almost get their arms crushed because they dangle them out of the boats. For a seven-year-old child, the weight of the boat against the dock is enough to break bones. Just be aware of your children and know that if someone mentions something, it’s for your own safety. 

Fast Pass+ Reservation

Whether you should use a Fast Pass+ reservation for this ride will depend entirely upon your preferences. If you prefer thrill rides, save them for the coasters. If you prefer character meet-and-greets, save them for Mickey and the princesses; however, if you prefer classic attractions and want something that is fun for the entire family, Jungle Cruise should be at the top of your list. 

Typically, the wait for this attraction isn’t outrageously long but it can get to be over an hour on a busy day. The queue line isn’t terribly exciting, and the wait is outside so there are better rides that provide more entertainment (and air-conditioning!) for your wait. Also, because this attraction is on the water, there are inevitably more mosquitos and humidity than in the rest of the park. It gets sticky and uncomfortable if you have to wait longer than half an hour. For that reason alone, I would suggest using a Fast Pass+ Reservation on this attraction if you don’t need it for the higher demand rides. 

If it’s a nice day and you go in the morning or evening, a Fast Pass+ Reservation probably isn’t needed; however, if you aren’t able to make it during those perfect conditions, a Fast Pass+ Reservation is going to make the experience much more pleasant. It should be noted that it does occasionally close early on event days like Halloween parties and After-Hours events so getting there in the morning is always the best bet if you don’t want to use a Fast Pass+ Reservation. Also, it is an entirely outdoor, water attraction so if there is any lightening in a certain radius, it will be shut down. Safety first! 

One unfortunate feature of this attraction is how Fast Pass+ Reservation Guests are handled. All standby Guests enter one queue line while Guests who have Fast Pass+ Reservations enter another. This is typical for Walt Disney World Resort; however, eventually, the two lines converge. 

Thankfully, a Cast Member directs the convergence, but it can still make for some nasty stares when a Fast Pass+ Guest walks right in front of a Guest who has been waiting there for an hour. Ideally, the attraction would feature two entirely different lines that do not intersect like many other attractions but for now, you might have to avoid eye contact with some exasperated parents who didn’t choose to secure a Fast Pass+ Reservation for the Jungle Cruise. 

Attraction Features

Once you decide if you’re going to use a Fast Pass+ Reservation on the Jungle Cruise, you can finally enjoy and immerse yourself into the story of the Jungle Cruise. Guests are taken on a boat tour of the Nile River and quickly they find out that things don’t exactly go as planned. The skipper leading your expedition will point out animals, locations and other interesting facts but the best part is undoubtedly the monologue each Cast Member prepares. 

The skippers dive head first into puns, “dad” jokes and other dry witticisms. Each skipper has a unique slant to the story and they will perform their own curated jokes along with the tried and true classics. Along the ride, you’ll see local “headhunters,” camps that have been wrecked by animatronic animals and even their local celebrity, the Rock! 

In addition to the corny humor, if you pay close attention, there is a tale to be unearthed in the attraction. The attraction wasn’t originally based on a Disney film, so it was given a backstory. The atmosphere and props used suggest that it was set in the late 1920’s. It is expedition based and it features a clash between the “modern” world and that of the natives in the Nile River area.

“Modern” men find there is a steep learning curve between the wild animals and crashed planes to hostile natives and ancient tradition. It’s based loosely on the past but mostly uses the past as a jumping off point for the rest of the narrative. For a more thorough history of this attraction, click here . 

Popular Disney designers and engineers (referred to as Imagineers by the Walt Disney World Company) are mentioned in the story and via props so any Disney history buff is sure to love this attraction. There are lots of hidden Mickeys (more on those here ) and each detail was considered before opening the attraction. Even if you’re not one of the people who is super knowledgeable about Disney history (often affectionally referred to as Disnerds ), it is still an enjoyable attraction and excellent for the entire family to enjoy. 

Child-Friendly

Most children will probably not understand the jokes but it’s a nice rest for ten minutes with plenty for them to look at. Walt Disney wanted his parks to be enjoyable for both old and young Guests and this attraction exemplifies this beautifully. The older Guests will appreciate the wry humor and the younger Guests are likely to enjoy the waterfalls, giant animals and many other sights along the way. 

In addition, there is no height requirement, making it an ideal choice for Guests looking at attractions in Disney World for toddlers . There are no drops or jump scares to startle young children. There also aren’t any harsh or jerky movements to scare Guests; however, there is one section of the tour that goes through an ancient tunnel. 

The tunnel is dark but not pitch black. There are a few illuminated sections featuring golden statues but it’s generally uneventful. If nothing else, it’s one minute of cool air where Guests can actually look around at their surroundings and check in with their youngsters before emerging from the other side of the tunnel with more high energy jokes. If you want more details about accessibility, this is a great place to start. 

Aside from any pictures you take yourself or recordings of your favorite jokes, the options to commemorate your visit to this attraction are not abundant. A few pieces of merchandise are sold in the nearby Agrabah Bazaar but compared to the surrounding rides, the pickings are slim. Fortunately, the company has recently started stationing a PhotoPass Photographer outside the ride. 

The photographer typically has a sign Guests can hold that features the name of the attraction and will pose Guests in front of the ride queue, which is probably the best place to get a themed photo anyway. They are obliging enough to take it with your personal camera or with their very nice professional cameras and link it to a My Disney Experience PhotoPass account. More on Walt Disney World’s PhotoPass Service can be found here.

In general, this ride is a great option for the entire family. It features humor that isn’t inappropriate but is witty enough that the adults will love it (with a few simpler jokes thrown in for the kiddos). It is an enjoyable ten-minute ride where Guests can get a short reprieve from the unconventional amounts of walking Walt Disney World requires. It is accessible for any age and disability and it features ideas directly from Walt Disney. 

In addition, if you’re planning to visit during the holidays, it makes the transition from the Jungle Cruise to the Jingle Cruise! It features new scenery, new costumes, new boats and best of all, new jokes. Because Cast Members are in charge of giving the tour, they have the luxury of changing the theming and do so to reflect the season. 

This brings us to another fantastic aspect of the attraction: humans! As odd as this may seem, very few attractions feature actual humans anymore! Most feature screens or animatronics but there is nothing like having a living, breathing Cast Member with a personal sense of humor to provide a unique experience every time. 

Overall, I give this attraction a rating of four out of five stars. If the queue line was airconditioned or even featured interactive elements, it would receive five stars.

But if you’re still trying to decide if this attraction warrants a visit for your vacation, take a look at my list of reasons why it’s one of the best rides at Disney World:

• Walt Disney himself worked on this ride and was present for the original opening. 
• It is one of the few rides that wasn’t based on a Disney film and has a full backstory.
• It is ten minutes of sitting, which can be welcome in the Florida heat!
• All heights and ages are allowed on this attraction.
• It is entirely handicapped accessible and Guests can stay in his or her wheelchair. 
• It features humans, which means every cruise will be different. 
• During the holiday season it transitions from Jungle Cruise to Jingle Cruise.
• The humor is sure to elicit groans and inspire inside jokes for the rest of the trip.
• It’s close to a lot of other larger attractions so if you’re waiting for a FastPass+ Reservation on Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain or Pirates of the Caribbean, it’s a good way to spend some time without wasting it. 
• The Jungle Cruise sits across from arguably the best treat in Walt Disney World Resort – Dolewhip!

If you enjoyed this article, please “like” our Countdown to Magic Facebook page !

You Also Might Want to Read:

• The 12 Most Popular FastPasses at Magic Kingdom
• The 10 Most Popular FastPasses at Epcot You’ll Love
• The 10 Most Popular FastPasses at Animal Kingdom
• The 7 Best Disney World Souvenirs You’ll Want to Buy
• The Top 10 Disney Resorts Ranked from Best to Worst
• The 7 Best Disney Attractions for 5 Year Olds That Are Super Fun
• The 8 Best Disney World Tips for Toddlers That Parents Will Love
• The 7 Best Disney Hotels for Large Families You’ll Love

Michael has been visiting Disney World since he was a kid. He's also been to Disneyland and sailed on the Disney Dream. Michael is the owner and editor of Countdown to Magic.

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Jungle Cruise

Adventure Around Every Corner

Embark on a river cruise where dangerous beasts and dry wit abound. Board a canopied tramp steamer piloted by your trusty skipper, who will expertly navigate you through some of the world’s most treacherous waters.

Steam past lush foliage, butterflies and waterfalls on the Amazon in South America. Glimpse an abandoned camp overrun by curious gorillas on the shores of the African Congo.

Watch for angry hippos, hungry lions and “sleeping” zebras along the Nile and be on the lookout for a missing Jungle Cruise vessel and its helpless passengers. As the cruise continues down the Mekong River, you just might learn that the jungle always gets the last laugh.

It’s a 10-minute, 10,000-mile journey that you won't soon forget!

Related Activities

Jungle navigation co. ltd skipper canteen, even more magic – as you wish, safety, accessibility and guest policies, times for jungle cruise.

Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom

by Morgan Flaherty | Jun 3, 2024 | Adventureland , Magic Kingdom Park , Walt Disney World | 0 comments

Jungle Cruise is an adventurous boat ride located in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom . This iconic attraction takes guests on a humorous and thrilling journey through exotic rivers across the globe, led by witty skippers who deliver a mix of puns and fun facts.

Jungle Cruise Fast Facts

• Location: Adventureland in Magic Kingdom
• Height Requirement: None
• Attraction Length: About 10 minutes
• Genie+: Yes, eligible for Disney Genie+ selection
• Ride Type: Boat ride
• Early Theme Park Entry Eligible?: No
• Extended Evening Hours Eligible?: Yes

The queue for Jungle Cruise winds through a themed jungle outpost, filled with quirky decor and humorous details. The setting immerses guests in the adventurous spirit of the attraction, building anticipation as they prepare to embark on their river expedition.

Accessibility

Jungle Cruise is accessible to guests who use wheelchairs or scooters. The ride features transfer-accessible boats for those who need to transfer from their mobility device to the ride vehicle.

On-Ride Photo

There’s no on-ride photo on the attraction.

This is a particularly popular attraction, even all these years later. It’s a great choice for a Disney Genie+ selection, or to head to first thing in the morning. Just keep in mind it will not be available during Early Theme Park Entry, as Adventureland doesn’t open until the park’s official opening time.

Is Jungle Cruise Kid-Friendly?

The ride is perfect for guests of all ages, especially families with young children. The gentle ride, humorous commentary, and animatronic animals make it a hit with little ones and adults alike.

Best For:  All ages, especially kids old enough to enjoy the punny jokes, fans of Disney nostalgia

Will Jugnel Cruise Cause Motion Sickness?

As a slow moving boat ride, Jungle Cruise is unlikely to cause any motion sickness.

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National Outlet Confirms Iconic Disney World Ride Is Gone, Forever

in Walt Disney World

A National Publication has posted the confirmation that many Walt Disney World fans were hoping would never come to fruition.

Disney World, the iconic theme park in Florida , has long been a place where dreams come true, and magic feels tangible. For decades, it has delighted millions with its array of imaginative rides and attractions.

However, over the years, fans have often been gripped by the fear that some of these beloved rides might be shut down. Rumors have persistently swirled about the potential demise of classic attractions like the Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, and even Peter Pan’s Flight.

The Haunted Mansion is one of Disney World’s most iconic attractions, having first opened its doors to the spook-seeking public in 1971. The ride’s blend of eerie ambiance, humorous ghostly characters, and state-of-the-art special effects has cemented its place in the hearts of Disney fans. Despite its popularity, rumors have periodically emerged suggesting that The Haunted Mansion might be closed or significantly altered . These fears, however, have proven to be unfounded.

The ride remains a cornerstone of Liberty Square, continuously drawing long lines and rave reviews.

Another ride that has often been the subject of closure rumors is Jungle Cruise. Since its debut in 1971, this attraction has taken guests on a comedic riverboat tour through various jungle landscapes, filled with animatronic animals and wisecracking skippers.

In recent years, Disney has updated Jungle Cruise to address “cultural sensitivities,” ensuring that it remains relevant and respectful while preserving its adventurous spirit. Despite the updates, fears of its closure persist among fans. However, Disney has shown a clear commitment to preserving this ride, recognizing its importance as a classic, family-friendly adventure.

Peter Pan’s Flight has been enchanting Disney park guests since the opening day of Disney World. This dark ride takes visitors on a magical journey over London and into Neverland, following the adventures of Peter Pan, Wendy, and the Darling siblings.

The ride’s innovative use of suspended vehicles and immersive scenes has made it a perennial favorite. Rumors about its potential closure have circulated for years, often fueled by the ride’s frequent refurbishments. Yet, each refurbishment has only served to enhance the experience, ensuring that Peter Pan’s Flight continues to captivate new generations of Disney fans.

While fears about the closure of many iconic rides have proven baseless, one significant change did occur with the closure of Splash Mountain. This log-flume ride, based on the controversial 1946 film Song of the South , was beloved for its catchy songs, engaging story, and thrilling drops. Despite its popularity, Disney decided to reimagine the attraction, acknowledging the problematic elements of its source material.

In its place, Disney introduced Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a ride inspired by the 2009 film The Princess and the Frog . While some fans were excited about the change, others were skeptical. Many of them felt to be proven right following the release of the POV ride through of the attraction.

Just recently, USA Today’s Even Chen previewed the ride, confirming that there are no traces of Splash Mountain left in the attraction.

“Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a feel-good ride” she said. “Unlike “The Princess and the Frog,” the ride has no villains, like Dr. Facilier. Guests with little ones who are scared of the dark should be aware that it gets quite dark for multiple stretches, but there’s nothing else to be afraid of. Even the big drop is more thrilling than frightening. Lively music plays the whole time, and the bayou critters guests see along the way are as endearing as Louis the alligator from the film.”

While the Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, and Peter Pan’s Flight continue to thrive, demonstrating that Disney values the history and nostalgia associated with its classic rides, other rides have met their demise at the hands of the company. While the ride hasn’t officially opened yet, it will be interesting to see what the overall reaction is.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to open on June 28, 2024. The attraction will only be available by Virtual Queue and Individual Lightning Lane purchase. Both of these functions can be found on the My Disney Experience app in the same section where you can book and purchase Disney Genie+ selections.

For more information about the Frontierland attraction, please visit Disney’s official website.

Inside the Magic will keep you updated on the latest happenings at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Disney World brings back iconic day-one attraction

M ost theme parks change pretty steadily. Rides rotate in and out and sometimes an attraction gets new theming even as it stays essentially the same.

Sometimes that's because intellectual property gets a little old and younger theme park visitors may now know the attraction. You can argue that's why Comcast's ( CMCSA ) Universal Studios got rid of its "Jaws" and "Back to the Future" rides. 

Related: Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and MSC all make a key pricing change

Those movies may be timeless classics to people of a certain age, but their kids simply don't hold them in the same affection. Walt Disney, of course, owns some timeless classics. Many of its properties have stood the test of time and become sort of part of the American story.

At its theme parks, Disney also has the advantage that many classic Disneyland and Disney World rides may be based on characters that aren't starring in a recent hit movie, but parents have such a deep affection for them that they can't wait to share them with their kids.

Magic Kingdom could arguably be called Disney's nostalgia park. It has a number of attractions that were created (at least partly) by Walt Disney himself and countless rides that parents want their kids to experience.

"Haunted Mansion," "Pirates of the Caribbean, and "Jungle Cruise," for example, may lack some of the pizazz of more modern rides, but they remain huge hits due to nostalgia. Now, Disney World is bringing back a day-one attraction to Magic Kingdom but in a completely reimagined way. 

Disney's Country Bears have a long history

Disney embraces Walt Disney at Magic Kingdom because the park was built from his vision and the company has been stubborn in keeping certain things. You can only get a very limited selection of alcohol at the original Disney Florida theme park, even though alcohol is clearly emphasized at Epcot, its second Florida park, and its readily available at Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.

Magic Kingdom has also clung to attractions/rides like "Carousel of Progress," an original attraction that ended its progress in maybe the early 80s. The "Enchanted Tiki Room," and "It's a Small World" are similarly dated, although they remain popular.

The Country Bear Jamboree was a day one attraction at Magic Kingdom. It traces its roots to Walt Disney himself.

"Country Bear Jamboree is one of the very last attractions that Walt Disney personally helped develop. Originally planned for a never-built Disney ski resort in Mineral King, Calif., the show with the singing bears happily moved out to Florida in 1971 and has been performing daily at Magic Kingdom park ever since," the company shared on its website.

Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise.

Country Bears make a Magic Kingdom comeback

The original Country Bears Jamboree was, like the original "Jungle Cruise" storyline, a ride that was out of touch with modern times. It was closed in January and, while Disney said it planned to bring the iconic show back, that never seemed like a certainty given its subject matter.

"Step inside the rustic theater known as Grizzly Hall and take your seat before the lights dim. Clap along as 18 Audio-Animatronics hillbilly bears play and sing during this 16-minute, foot-stompin’ cele-bear-tion. You’ll hear a medley of original and classic tunes — all performed by the zaniest critters in the woods," the company posted on its website.

A new take on the famed bears will open in Frontierland in a redesigned Grizzly Hall featuring a new take on the Country Bears and reimagined music.

"While the Country Bear Musical Jamboree will include easter eggs from the beginning to the end including a familiar tune fans may remember, the bears will sing new, reinterpreted Disney tunes in different genres of country music – like bluegrass, pop-country, Americana, rockabilly and other styles," Disney shared.

There will, of course, still be lots puns and plays on words using the word "bear," but the new show will be a modernized new attraction.

Related: Get the best cruise tips, deals, and news on the ships from our expert cruiser

Attraction starring Disney's first Black princess replaces ride based on film many viewed as racist

A new attraction starring the first Black Disney princess is opening at the company’s theme parks in Florida and California

ORLANDO, Fla. — A new attraction starring the first Black Disney princess is opening at the company’s U.S. theme park resorts, and some Disney followers see it as a fitting replacement to a former ride based on a movie that contained racist tropes.

The new theme park attraction updates Tiana’s storyline from the 2009 animated film “The Princess and the Frog” and is opening this year in the space previously occupied by Splash Mountain . The water ride had been themed to “Song of the South,” a 1946 Disney movie filled with racist cliches about African Americans and plantation life.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure keeps Splash Mountain’s DNA as a log-flume ride, but it’s infused with music, scenery and animatronic characters inspired by “Princess,” set in 1920s New Orleans. It opens to the public later this month at Walt Disney World in Florida and at Disneyland in California later this year.

“For little Black girls, Tiana has meant a lot. When a little child can see somebody who looks like them, that matters,” said Neal Lester, an English professor at Arizona State University, who has written about Tiana.

Disney’s announcement that it would transform its longstanding Splash Mountain ride into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was made in June 2020 following the social justice protests sparked by the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody. At the time, Disney said the change had already been in the works. But it came as companies across the U.S. were reconsidering or renaming decades-old brands amid worldwide protests.

The “Song of the South” film is a mix of live action, cartoons and music featuring an older Black man who works at a plantation and tells fables about talking animals to a white city boy. The film has been criticized for its racist stereotypes, hasn’t been released in theaters in decades and isn’t available on the company’s streaming service Disney+.

Disney has been criticized for racist tropes in films made in earlier decades. The crow characters from the 1941 film “Dumbo” and the King Louie character from 1967’s “The Jungle Book” were viewed as African American caricatures. The depiction of Native Americans in the 1953 movie “Peter Pan” and the Siamese cats — often deemed as Asian stereotypes — from the 1955 film “Lady and the Tramp” also have been derided.

Not everyone is sold on the belief that opening a ride based on Tiana’s story solves Disney’s past problematic racial depictions.

By refurbishing Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure instead of dismantling the attraction completely, Disney has linked “Song of the South” with “The Princess and the Frog.” Both are fantasies that are silent, for the most part, on the racial realities of the segregated eras they depict, said Katie Kapurch, an English professor at Texas State University who has written widely about Disney.

“We might see the impulse to replace rather than dismantle or build anew as a metaphor for structural racism, too,” Kapurch said. “Again, this is unintentional on Disney’s part, but the observation gets to the heart of how Disney reflects America back to itself.”

Imagineers who design the Disney rides are always attempting to look at the attractions with fresh eyes and ways to tell new stories “so that everybody feels included,” said Carmen Smith, a senior vice president for creative development at Walt Disney Imagineering.

“We never want to perpetuate stereotypes or misconceptions,” Smith said Monday. “Our intention is to tell great stories.”

It’s also important for the Imagineers to tell a variety of stories for its global audience, said Charita Carter, an executive creative producer at Walt Disney Imagineering who oversaw the development of the attraction.

“Society does change, and we develop different sensibilities,” Carter said. “We focus our stories differently depending what our society needs.”

The transformation from Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is one of several recalibrations at the entertainment giant’s theme parks for rides whose storylines are considered antiquated or offensive.

In 2021, Disney announced it would remodel Jungle Cruise, one of the original Disney parks’ rides, which had been been criticized in years past for being racially insensitive because of its depiction of animatronic Indigenous people as savages or headhunters. Three years before that, Disney eliminated a “Bride Auction” scene, deemed offensive since it depicted women lining up for auction, from its “Pirates of the Caribbean” ride.

It’s a positive step for Disney to have a ride based on a character from a background not seen in previous versions of Disney princesses replacing an attraction from a film steeped in racist tropes since “representation matters,” Lester said.

“Disney is first and foremost about money and getting people into the park, and you can make money, still have representation and be aware of social justice history and make everyone feel like they belong there,” Lester said.

Mike Schneider’s book , “Mickey and the Teamsters: A Fight for Fair Unions at Disney,” was published in October by the University Press of Florida. Follow him on X , formerly Twitter.

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Attraction starring Disney’s first Black princess replaces ride based on film many viewed as racist

A new attraction starring the first Black Disney princess is opening at the company’s U.S. theme park resorts, and some Disney followers see it as a fitting replacement to a former ride based on a movie that contained racist tropes.

With Princess Tiana, Walt Disney World president Jeff Vahle cheers during a “Thank You Fête” honoring cast members at a preview event for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at the Magic Kingdom in Bay Lake, Fla., Monday, June 10, 2024. The ride —redeveloped from the park’s original Splash Mountain— officially opens to Disney guests on June 28. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel via AP)

• Copy Link copied

With Princess Tiana, Walt Disney World president Jeff Vahle cheers employees during a “Thank You Fête” honoring cast members at a preview event for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at the Magic Kingdom in Bay Lake, Fla., Monday, June 10, 2024. The ride —redeveloped from the park’s original Splash Mountain— officially opens to Disney guests on June 28. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel via AP)

Actors dressed as Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen from The Princess and the Frog perform on a float during the Festival of Fantasy Parade at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, on April 18, 2022. A new attraction starring the first African American princess in Disney’s kingdom is opening at the company’s theme parks in Florida and California. Some Disney followers see it as fitting that the attraction starring Tiana from the 2009 film “The Princess and the Frog” is opening in space formerly occupied by the Splash Mountain ride. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, file)

Guests pass by Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the reimagined former Splash Mountain ride in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, as work continues Thursday, May 23, 2024, ahead of its planned June 28 opening in Bay Lake, Fla. The attraction’s new theme is based on the Disney film “The Princess and The Frog.” (Joe Burbank /Orlando Sentinel via AP)

Work continues on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure —the reimagined former Splash Mountain ride in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, Thursday, May 23, 2024, ahead of its planned June 28 opening in Bay Lake, Fla. The attraction’s new theme is based on the Disney film “The Princess and The Frog.” (Joe Burbank /Orlando Sentinel via AP)

A view of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure —the reimagined former Splash Mountain ride in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, as work continues Thursday, May 23, 2024, ahead of its planned June 28 opening in Bay Lake, Fla. The attraction’s new theme is based on the Disney film “The Princess and The Frog.” (Joe Burbank /Orlando Sentinel via AP)

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — A new attraction starring the first Black Disney princess is opening at the company’s U.S. theme park resorts, and some Disney followers see it as a fitting replacement to a former ride based on a movie that contained racist tropes.

The new theme park attraction updates Tiana’s storyline from the 2009 animated film “The Princess and the Frog” and is opening this year in the space previously occupied by Splash Mountain . The water ride had been themed to “Song of the South,” a 1946 Disney movie filled with racist cliches about African Americans and plantation life.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure keeps Splash Mountain’s DNA as a log-flume ride, but it’s infused with music, scenery and animatronic characters inspired by “Princess,” set in 1920s New Orleans. It opens to the public later this month at Walt Disney World in Florida and at Disneyland in California later this year.

“For little Black girls, Tiana has meant a lot. When a little child can see somebody who looks like them, that matters,” said Neal Lester, an English professor at Arizona State University, who has written about Tiana.

Disney’s announcement that it would transform its longstanding Splash Mountain ride into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was made in June 2020 following the social justice protests sparked by the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody. At the time, Disney said the change had already been in the works. But it came as companies across the U.S. were reconsidering or renaming decades-old brands amid worldwide protests.

AP AUDIO: Attraction starring Disney’s first Black princess replaces ride based on film many viewed as racist

AP correspondent Margie Szaroleta reports Disney theme parks are rebranding a ride that had been associated with a movie that contained racist cliches.

The “Song of the South” film is a mix of live action, cartoons and music featuring an older Black man who works at a plantation and tells fables about talking animals to a white city boy. The film has been criticized for its racist stereotypes, hasn’t been released in theaters in decades and isn’t available on the company’s streaming service Disney+.

Disney has been criticized for racist tropes in films made in earlier decades. The crow characters from the 1941 film “Dumbo” and the King Louie character from 1967’s “The Jungle Book” were viewed as African American caricatures. The depiction of Native Americans in the 1953 movie “Peter Pan” and the Siamese cats — often deemed as Asian stereotypes — from the 1955 film “Lady and the Tramp” also have been derided.

Actors dressed as Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen from The Princess and the Frog perform on a float during the Festival of Fantasy Parade at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, on April 18, 2022. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, file)

Not everyone is sold on the belief that opening a ride based on Tiana’s story solves Disney’s past problematic racial depictions.

By refurbishing Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure instead of dismantling the attraction completely, Disney has linked “Song of the South” with “The Princess and the Frog.” Both are fantasies that are silent, for the most part, on the racial realities of the segregated eras they depict, said Katie Kapurch, an English professor at Texas State University who has written widely about Disney.

“We might see the impulse to replace rather than dismantle or build anew as a metaphor for structural racism, too,” Kapurch said. “Again, this is unintentional on Disney’s part, but the observation gets to the heart of how Disney reflects America back to itself.”

Imagineers who design the Disney rides are always attempting to look at the attractions with fresh eyes and ways to tell new stories “so that everybody feels included,” said Carmen Smith, a senior vice president for creative development at Walt Disney Imagineering.

“We never want to perpetuate stereotypes or misconceptions,” Smith said Monday. “Our intention is to tell great stories.”

It’s also important for the Imagineers to tell a variety of stories for its global audience, said Charita Carter, an executive creative producer at Walt Disney Imagineering who oversaw the development of the attraction.

“Society does change, and we develop different sensibilities,” Carter said. “We focus our stories differently depending what our society needs.”

The transformation from Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is one of several recalibrations at the entertainment giant’s theme parks for rides whose storylines are considered antiquated or offensive.

In 2021, Disney announced it would remodel Jungle Cruise, one of the original Disney parks’ rides, which had been been criticized in years past for being racially insensitive because of its depiction of animatronic Indigenous people as savages or headhunters. Three years before that, Disney eliminated a “Bride Auction” scene, deemed offensive since it depicted women lining up for auction, from its “Pirates of the Caribbean” ride.

It’s a positive step for Disney to have a ride based on a character from a background not seen in previous versions of Disney princesses replacing an attraction from a film steeped in racist tropes since “representation matters,” Lester said.

“Disney is first and foremost about money and getting people into the park, and you can make money, still have representation and be aware of social justice history and make everyone feel like they belong there,” Lester said. ___

Mike Schneider’s book , “Mickey and the Teamsters: A Fight for Fair Unions at Disney,” was published in October by the University Press of Florida. Follow him on X , formerly Twitter.

Jungle Cruise

Head Off to Adventure

Embark on a river cruise where dangerous beasts and dry wit abound. Board a canopied tramp steamer piloted by your trusty skipper, who will expertly navigate you through some of the world’s most treacherous waters.

Steam past lush foliage, butterflies and waterfalls on the Amazon in South America. Glimpse an abandoned camp overrun by curious gorillas on the shores of the African Congo. 

Along the Nile, watch for bathing elephants, angry hippos and hungry lions. Be on the lookout for a tribe of headhunters recently spotted in the area. Your cruise continues down the Mekong River in Asia, home to baboons, cobras and other fearsomely life-like creatures. 

It’s a 10-minute, 10,000-mile journey that you won't soon forget!

Related Activities

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NEW Sneak Peek of Disney World’s Revamped Country Bear Jamboree Show!

Disney made a lot of announcements back in September about some changes and updates that will be coming to the parks.

It was at Destination D23 where we learned the opening date for Journey of Water– Inspired by  Moana   and that we would be meeting Figment and Asha in EPCOT. We also heard that a couple of our favorite Disney World shows would be getting changes and updates. Now, we have just learned MORE details about one show getting a bit of a facelift in Magic Kingdom.

Not only did we just find out the opening date for Country Bear Musical Jamboree in Magic Kingdom, but we also got a sneak peek at some of the new costumes!

A few weeks back we got a sneak peek video at the new costumes for the Sun Bonnets from Disney World, and now we got a look at even more of the new costumes.

Teddi Bara is getting a new look with a blue feather scarf and bright pink hat. Don’t worry, she is still seated on her flower-covered swing.

There are lots of fun colors and it looks like bears are ready to jam out in the Country Bear Musical Jamboree show debuting on July 17th, 2024, in Magic Kingdom!

The Country Bear Jamboree has been a long-time favorite family-friendly musical theater show. It features 18 animatronic southern hillbilly bears and has been in Magic Kingdom since 1971. The show opened on the opening day of Magic Kingdom making it a little bittersweet for some fans to see it being updated.

After 52 years, Disney announced that the show would be getting revamped. They will be adding in new music that they are working on with Nashville country stars, bringing in a modern southern twist to the show and making it more like a Nashville variety show. We were shown a new poster for the show with some updated details. The show is set to open on July 17th, 2024!

Even though the show is set to have a new sound style such as country, rockabilly, and bluegrass, the same songs we know, and love will still be sung by the bear choir. Disney also said that they will be adding a rockabilly version of “The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book !

We’re excited to experience this reimagined but still beloved classic show with its new sound and new atmosphere!

In the meantime, keep following AllEars for more Disney news!

How to Make the MOST of Early Theme Park Entry at Magic Kingdom

What are your thoughts on the Country Bear Jamboree getting revamped? Let us know in the comments!

Disclosure: We were invited by The Walt Disney Company to attend the This is Magic Media Event. This did not affect our reporting of the event — our opinions are our own.

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