Disneyland is gearing up for a thrilling expansion with the announcement of seven new attractions, bringing excitement to fans around the world. These new additions will feature themes based on “Avatar,” “Coco,” “Avengers,” “The Mandalorian,” “Princess Tiana,” and even Walt Disney himself. The plans were revealed by Disney Parks Chairperson Josh D’Amaro during the D23 fan event at Honda Center on Saturday, Aug. 10.
1. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Set to Open in 2024
The first attraction to open will be Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a reimagining of the iconic Splash Mountain ride. The transformation has been underway for more than a year, and the ride is scheduled to return on Nov. 15, 2024. Visitors can expect some areas of the newly named Bayou Country to open before the official debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
2. Walt Disney Animatronic Coming in 2025
In 2025, Disneyland will debut the world’s first Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics figure at the Main Street Opera House. The new show, titled “Walt Disney – A Magical Life,” will initially run as a standalone feature before rotating with the classic “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.” This addition is expected to be a highlight of Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary celebrations next year.
3. Smugglers Run Makeover
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will undergo a makeover tied to “The Mandalorian and Grogu” film, set for release in May 2026. The ride makeover is anticipated to debut in Spring 2026, bringing new excitement to Star Wars fans at Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.
4. Avengers Infinity Defense
Simultaneously, Disney California Adventure will see the addition of Avengers Infinity Defense, part of a major expansion of the Avengers Campus. Construction for the new rides will begin in 2025, with Avengers Infinity Defense likely to open as early as 2026. The Marvel-themed land will double in size, with the new attractions stretching into the original Disneyland parking lot.
5. Stark Flight Lab
Following the Avengers Infinity Defense, Stark Flight Lab is expected to open between 2027 and 2029. This ride will offer a unique flight simulation experience, with riders seated in pods attached to robot arms.
6. New Coco Attraction
Disney California Adventure will also introduce the world’s first “Coco” attraction, taking riders on a musical journey to the Land of the Dead. Work on the Coco attraction will start in 2026, with a potential opening date in 2027. The possibility of expanding the ride into a full-scale themed land remains, depending on the success of the initial attraction.
7. Avatar Experience: A Journey to Pandora
An innovative new attraction based on “Avatar: The Way of Water” will transport visitors to the wide-open seas of Pandora at Disney California Adventure. Although construction and opening dates have not yet been announced, this experience is expected to be as immersive as the World of Avatar themed land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida. If developed into a full-scale themed land, the Avatar area could open as early as 2028 or 2029.
Final Thoughts
Disneyland’s ambitious expansion plan promises to bring a wave of new experiences to visitors over the next few years. From beloved Disney characters to immersive worlds, these attractions are set to enhance the magic that Disneyland is known for, offering something exciting for every fan.
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As Disneyland embarks on this massive expansion, it’s clear that the park is not just focusing on nostalgia but is also looking forward to the future. The blend of beloved classics with new, cutting-edge attractions shows Disneyland’s commitment to innovation while still honoring its rich history. Personally, I’m excited to see how these new attractions will enhance the park experience, offering both returning visitors and newcomers fresh reasons to visit. Whether it’s the immersive worlds of “Avatar” or the thrilling adventures in the Avengers Campus, there’s something magical about watching Disneyland continue to evolve and surprise us.