Disneyland Update: Project Switch-A-Roo, Construction & Price Hikes Too!

The Disneyland Resort is in for some big shifts as the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure nears completion, and rumors of future changes loom. As if that weren’t enough, price increases are expected any day now. And while fans watch eagerly, the unfortunate Jungle Cruise tiger remains stuck in his box post-refurbishment. Let’s dive into all the latest developments at Disneyland.

Change Is A Constant

Recent changes at Imagineering appear to have resulted in shifts to the announced projects coming to the Disneyland Resort. While the new Avengers E-Ticket seems to still be on track for construction to start next year, we’re starting to hear from people inside the company that the Avatar and Coco projects may be in flux. We expect both to still happen, but likely in locations other than originally planned. 

We’ve been told that teams measured crowd levels in Pixar Pier and determined that a major new attraction in the tight confines of the pier’s far side might cause a bottleneck and difficulty queuing guests.

As a result, it was suggested that Coco be moved to Hollywood Land, which would not only allow Hollywood Blvd and the Animation Building to remain but also the rerouting of the Red Cars (if budgets allow).

The upside is that Monsters Inc. would be saved as the Coco attraction would take the spot next door (where Hollywood and Dine was once located). This project shift would also allow DCA to retain all of its current attractions, while still adding new ones, meaning an increase in attraction capacity instead of the expected loss if Avatar consumed all of Hollywood Land.

But it also means a large new plot of land needs to be found for the Avatar project… and that might need to wait for the big third park expansion (expected to be in the area around the Disneyland and Pixar Place hotels).   

Overall, we hope this shift sticks as it would mean the preservation of Monsters Inc. and Hollywood Blvd (and hopefully the Red Cars), but also fills in the blank spots in Hollywood Land. But not completely. Hopefully this project relocation (if it happens) will also address the empty Stage 17 building and lackluster Mickey’s Philharmagic attraction. It would certainly make Hollywood Land a more exciting destination – and we have a feeling most of you are more excited about Coco and are willing to wait for Avatar anyway.  

What Goes Down Must Go Up

Last week, we told you about a $50 kids’ ticket deal (and upcoming Disney+ subscriber ticket offer) for 2025, but as we know, Disneyland ticket prices always go up in October, and last year they were increased one week after the kids ticket was revealed, so don’t celebrate the good news too long or you’ll miss out on the chance to buy tickets before the annual increase hits.

The 2025 Disneyland ticket deals (except the Disney+ offer) and 2025 Hotel discounts will be available through our travel partners, Get Away Today (with exclusive additional savings and refundable ticket options).

For all the details about the 2025 Disneyland deals, check out our article here:

DISNEYLAND DEAL ALERT: $50 Kids Tickets & Hotel Discounts Return!

Wonderful World of Merch

Another week at the parks means more new Disney merchandise to explore, but first we must discuss the Scary Teddy Popcorn Bucket.

The new seasonal bucket that debuted at Walt Disney World in September made it’s way to Anaheim on Thursday and immediately became the resort’s hot ticket item.

While we’re not surprised this cute little guy is popular, we still did not expect the number of people willing to wait in massive queues at popcorn stands throughout Disneyland Park to acquire him. But waits were much shorter in DCA… and you could mobile order the cute little guy with no wait at all (just sayin’).  

And the lines didn’t let up all day. Our merch maven Natalie snapped this pic shortly after 8 p.m. on Thursday night.

Be a Merchandise VIP

Guests participating in VIP tours at the Disneyland Resort now have the extra special opportunity to purchase items from an exclusive merchandise collection inspired by the plaid uniforms worn by cast members who lead the tours, affectionately referred to as “plaids.”

The VIP merchandise collection includes a Loungefly mini backpack, an ear headband (with a removable bow), a Spirit Jersey, a trading pin set, a pin lanyard, and an ornament.

These items can only be purchased on the day the tour is taken; each item is limited to one per guest.

More Holiday Merchandise Heads to Disneyland

UPDATE: The first big wave of holiday merchandise landed on Disneyland shelves this morning. We spotted the new items at Disneyland’s Emporium, Disney Showcase, and World of Disney in Downtown Disney. We presume it is also available on Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure.

In addition, here’s a look at the holiday merchandise we spotted last week:

Following in the footsteps of the group of jolly graphic tees released last week comes an additional shirt. This design includes a Mickey Mouse-shaped wreath with a wintery version of Sleeping Beauty Castle in its center, surrounded by snowflakes and words “Happiest Holiday on Earth” and “Disneyland Resort.”

As for merchandise of the cuddlier variety, two Disney Munchlings plush releases have also arrived. The first is from the limited-release Specialty Treats series and is a cookie-scented Minnie Mouse Glazed Sugar Cookie plush. The second is the latest mystery box series of scented plushes entitled “Sleighin’ Sweets,” which includes seven festive characters-turned-foods (the six pictured plush one surprise character).

You’ll find all the latest releases in our Disney merchandise guide:

DISNEYLAND HOLIDAY MERCH: Festive Cheer, New Gear & Merry Must-Haves!

My thanks to Natalie Kipper and MiceMerch for assembling the merchandise news for us! 

Magic Key Holiday Merchandise Presale

Magic Key also have the opportunity to be among the first to purchase a limited quantity of select pre-sale merchandise from the upcoming Mickey Mouse Family Christmas Collection (while supplies last).

This collection is available for same day pick up at World of Disney in the Downtown Disney District when purchasing through the mobile order service in the Disneyland app.

Fantasyland Theatre

Just like the Hyperion Theater in California Adventure, which has sat empty since Rogers The Musical completed its limited run, Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland hasn’t been used since Pixar Fest ended in August – and the fact the stage is still dressed for Pixar Fest makes it even sadder.

We also noticed Troubadour Tavern is still offering the Pixar Fest “Adventure is Out There” cold brew coffee alongside the new Madame Leota straw clip. 

Between the two empty theaters and the absence of daytime parades, the parks are definitely missing some of the Disney magic we love. Hopefully, we’ll see entertainment offerings return to the parks after the holidays.

Disneyland Resort Gives $1 Million

To learn more about Disneyland’s ongoing commitment to supporting the local community, visit Disney Connect.

Construction Kingdom

There’s always (ALWAYS!) work to be done at the Disneyland Resort – even during the busiest time of year.

Disneyland Entry Gates 

Yes, the walls are still up in the esplanade as part of the planter relocation project to make more room for queues at Disneyland’s entry gates.

Turnstiles Keep on Turning…

The entry gates at the west side of Disneyland’s entrance will close on October 7, marking the start of another phased project to add new gates, which will be stroller and ADA accessible. Work is expected extend into 2025.

As some of you may you remember, several months ago, California Adventure had one “tester” gate with an automated entry system.

Those gates have since been removed, but automatic gates are still expected to arrive at both parks with this new project. 

Disneyland Railroad De…Railed

If the construction walls in front of the park entrance aren’t unsightly enough, guests are also greeted by the iconic Disneyland Railroad Main Street Station covered in scrims. While this is a necessary part of attraction maintenance, we can’t help but feel bad for first-time (or once-a-year) guests who have this as the backdrop of their photos – but at least the printed scrims look like the station’s facade.

Mansion Construction Continues

The reimagination of the Haunted Mansion queue continues with visible progress on the new garden walls. We’re noticing much quicker progress from week to week now. 

There’s also progress on the new crypt-like structure at the back of the garden which houses the new disabled access elevators.

And, of course, work continues on Madame Leota’s controversial shop at the attraction’s exit.

The scale of the shop is quite large next to the creepy old Mansion next door, and that has caused a lot of chatter online. There’s no denying that the shop will look huge from up close, but we’ll have to wait and see how it impacts crowd flow in the area. We have a feeling that it will all feel more open when the construction walls come down. 

Tiana Drops In

There’s been more ride testing for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure as the attraction prepares for it’s Nov. 15th grand opening date, and cast member (and likely Magic Key) previews before that!

When we shot these photos, logs were cycling but no water was running on the drop… This might seem strange, but the logs are a hybrid boat with coaster-like wheels – allowing the vehicles to drop on a rail and perform the up and down motion you remember from the bees scene in Splash Mountain.

But the turnaround is full (of water and Imagineers).

We also caught testing of the nighttime lighting package, which looks beautiful! We can also see the “Mama Odie” lighting effects right before the drop.

To see the lights and logs in action, click play on our video.  

Check out complete guide for all things Tiana’s Bayou Adventure:

GUIDE: Everything You Need to Know About Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!

Critter Country Transformation to Bayou Country

Bayou Country signage is going up in the former Critter Country. And with it, some thematic changes to some preexisting buildings. 

The balcony over the former Splash Mountain shop next to Pooh Corner has been redressed as the dressing room for “Performers.” Mr. Sanders’ mailbox is now for “Fan Mail.” 

Musical instruments are scattered about. 

Including some that look like the are right out of the bayou. 

Tomorrowland Entrance

Construction walls remain up around Pixie Hollow and the north side of the Tomorrowland entry.

Unfortunately, these walls are just for the current Pixie Hollow refurbishment and not for the colorful new Tomorrowland gardens we were promised ages ago.

Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar (Updated 10/4/24)

Work is continuing on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the rest of Bayou Country (formally Critter Country), but this week another Disney princess has joined the refurb list.

Currently Under Refurbishment:

• Splash Mountain conversion to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: May 31, 2023 – Nov. 14, 2024
• The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln adding “Walt Disney — A Magical Life”: April 16, 2024 – 2025

• The Briar Patch remodel to Ray’s Berets: May 1 – TBA
• Hungry Bear Restaurant remodel to Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree: July 8 – TBA

• Disneyland Railroad: Aug. 5 – TBA
• World of Color – One: Sept. 9 – Oct. 25
• Pixie Hollow: Sept. 16 – Oct. 14
• it’s a small world Holiday install: Sept. 16 – Nov. 14
• it’s a small world Toy Shop: Oct. 3 – 18
• Lego Store in Downtown Disney: Oct. 7 – TBA (it’s just a refurbishment as far as we know. But this store could use a little refresh)

Upcoming Refurbishments:

• The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure: Nov. 4 – TBA
• it’s a small world: Jan. 2 – Spring 2025

This & That

Disneyland Live with Dusty Sage & Company

On Thursday, Dusty and his merry band took a sunny stroll through the parks. But don’t worry if you missed them because you can relive all the excitement here:

Don’t Forget! LIVE@5 has moved from Fridays to Thursdays for the Halloween season to accommodate Dusty’s tours at the spectacular Walt Disney’s Storybook Mansion.

Tickets are still available for the Historic (Non-Haunted) Home Tour during the day and candlelight ghost tours of Walt’s real Haunted Mansion Tour at night. Both can be purchased from Haunted OC HERE.

For a sneak peek at the Disney Mansion, watch Dusty’s teaser video below:

Disney’s Happiest Haunts Guided Tour

Disneyland has a “haunted” tour of it’s own: Disney’s Happiest Haunts. During the 2-hour walking tour, you’ll capture a photo with the Hitchhiking Ghosts, receive Lightning Lane entry to an attraction, and enjoy reserved viewing of Halloween Screams nighttime spectacular, all while your guide shares eerie tales about the “Spookiest Place on Earth.”

Carthay Circle Fall Menu

A new Alfresco Dining fall menu has landed at Carthay Circle Lounge with seasonal specialties like an Autumn Salad, Harvest Squash Minestrone, and Pumpkin Ice Cream Sundae.

Here’s the full menu available at both lunch and dinner:

More S’Mores

A new S’mores Cake Donut is also now available at Market House.

With a graham cracker cake donut, chocolate ganache, and toasted marshmallow, we wonder if this new treat is Disneyland’s response to the popular Mini Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man S’more at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights in both Orlando and Hollywood?

Nightmare Novelty

The exclusive Nightmare Grog materialized at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar on Oct. 1st.

The ghoulish concoction is made with mango and pineapple Dole whip with a hint of Gorilla Grog and is served in a Nightmare Before Christmas souvenir cup.

Save the Date

As we’ve mentioned, the holidays are slowly creeping their way towards the Disneyland Resort, and we learned that another popular tradition will return to Downtown Disney in December: The Holiday Gingerbread Workshop.

Guests of all ages can build and decorate their own gingerbread house from 12 – 2 p.m. at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio on Dec. 8, 14, and 15, 2024.

Tickets are $35 per person and include unlimited hot chocolate, one assorted mini dessert plate per guest, and a digital photo with Santa. The cost to decorate a gingerbread house is an additional $56 per house (minimum of one house per booking), which includes a bag of assorted candies and icing for decorating plus a limited edition 2024 Jazz Kitchen ornament (additional ornaments can be purchased for $8 each).

Tickets will be available for purchase beginning Nov. 6, 2024, at 11 a.m. Tickets for each session are limited.

The Tiger is STILL in The Box

We know you were wondering, but despite the Jungle Cruise being closed for more than two weeks, the tiger is still in the box! We had high hopes he would be back in his natural habitat after the refurbishment, but sadly, he’s still waiting.

His natural habitat looks a little more like this…

Elusive Luisa

After weeks of trying, we finally spotted Luisa Madrigal in Frontierland!

Luisa doesn’t appear as often as Mirabel and Isabela, so if you want to meet her, be sure to check the character section of the app to find out when she’s out.

This was her schedule on Oct. 6:

MiceShots

Before we go, let’s take a look at some of the amazing images our talented photographers captured in the parks.

Let’s Hear From You!

As we head into the last few weeks of Halloween, Disneyland is rushing holiday merch into the stores, the seasons change whether we are ready or not. With new attraction rumors, potential price hikes, and the approach of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, there’s a lot happening at Disneyland. What are your thoughts on the latest developments? Are you bracing for the price increase, excited about the new attraction, or maybe frustrated about the tiger still stuck in its box? Drop your thoughts and comments below!

---

Our thanks to Mike Kindrich, Samantha Davis-Friedman, Christy Weinberg, Natalie Kipper, Brian Pinsky, Dusty Sage and the MiceChat crew for their assistance with today’s Update.