Imagine stepping into Disneyland Park’s New Orleans Square, where jazz melodies fill the air, and the shimmering glow of fireflies invites you to an enchanting new adventure. This is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure—a vibrant celebration of Princess Tiana’s journey, reimagined by Disney’s masterful Imagineers. It’s not just a ride; it’s a heartfelt tribute to resilience, culture, and the magic of dreams coming true.

Carmen Smith, SVP Executive Creative Development
Charita Carter, Executive Creative Producer
Ted Robledo, Creative Director

Cultural Legacy and Collaboration

For Disney Imagineers, Tiana’s story represents more than just a beloved character—it’s a reflection of cultural pride and authenticity. Carmen Smith, SVP Executive Creative Development – Product, Content & Inclusive Strategies, Disney Experiences, emphasized the importance of honoring New Orleans’ heritage. “We’re so grateful for leaders who walked this journey with us,” she shared. Collaborators included New Orleans’ Chase family and Grammy-winning artists like P.J. Morton and Terence Blanchard, who infused the attraction with the soulful sounds of the bayou.

Art plays a key role in immersing guests, from Malaika Favorite hand-painted murals to the stunning Art Nouveau design. Together, these elements weave a tapestry that feels both magical and rooted in reality.

Tiana: A Princess for Everyone

At the heart of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure stands Princess Tiana—a symbol of hope, determination, and representation. For Charita Carter, Executive Creative Producer at Walt Disney Imagineering, this project is deeply personal. Reflecting on her connection to Tiana, she shared a moving memory from 15 years ago when The Princess and the Frog premiered.

“There was a Tiana-inspired ball in New Orleans, and I went to great lengths to find a dress that was indicative of Tiana’s,” Carter recalled. “It was such a magical moment, wearing that dress, because for the first time, I had a princess that looked like me.”

Standing on the stage at the unveiling, Carter grew emotional, sharing how her journey with Tiana has come full circle. “To now work on an attraction that brings her to all of you, where she is leading the adventure and is the star of the show, I can’t make you understand how important that is to me,” she said.

Carter also emphasized the pride that Disney Imagineers take in creating experiences that inspire others. “We think what we’ve done here with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is very indicative of that,” she said, noting that the ride introduces a host of new characters, fresh music, and new animation created in collaboration with Disney Animation Studios. “It’s been an honor to bring Tiana’s world to life in this next chapter.”

She concluded with a poignant quote from Marty Sklar, Disney Imagineering’s legendary leader: “May this magical place always be an inspiration about one man’s belief that you can change the world for the better.” Carter added, “I believe the joy and themes of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will inspire guests for generations to come, bringing new emotions and new excitement to familiar places.”

The Creative Process

The creation of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was an intricate collaboration, made possible in part by the 2020 Disneyland closure. Creative Director Ted Robledo explained how the extra time allowed Imagineers to reimagine the space thoughtfully. “A lot of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was made from scratch,” Robledo revealed.

Every detail reflects the heart of New Orleans, from the architecture of Tiana’s Palace to the glow of fireflies illuminating the bayou. As guests approach the attraction, they’ll hear the harmony of original compositions blending with the natural ambiance, crafting an unforgettable sensory journey.

An Invitation to Dream

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure isn’t just a ride—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and dreams fulfilled. As Marty Sklar, Disney Legend, once said: “May this magical place always be an inspiration.” This new chapter invites visitors to step into Tiana’s story and embrace their own potential.

Whether you’re drawn by the soulful music, stunning visuals, or Tiana’s unwavering spirit, one thing is certain—this journey is as heartfelt as it is magical. So, come and discover the bayou’s magic for yourself, where dreams come true, and the adventure is just beginning.