Big Changes Coming to Casey’s Corner at Disney

There are big changes ahead for Casey’s Corner, presented by Coca-Cola–changes that will make stopping in for a quick bite to eat far more enjoyable, especially when it’s warm outside.

Casey’s Corner is a guest-favorite quick-service dining venue on Main Street, U.S.A., inside Magic Kingdom Park at the Walt Disney World Resort, and guests will also find it on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland Park at the Disneyland Paris Resort.

Both venues are named for the same thing: the Casey at the Bat segment in Disney’s Make Mine Music (1946). Per D23:

During World War II, when the Disney studio had deep economic problems, many staff members were away at war and much of the studio’s facilities were used for war efforts, it was impossible to produce a typical full-length animated feature. Thus, the “package” features were created, which combined shorter segments into motion picture compilations.

And on that note, “Make Mine Music” was developed, featuring 10 cartoon segments set to music and featuring top-name talent of the time, whom Walt referred to as “ghost stars” since they were heard but not see.

Some of those ghost stars included the Andrews Sisters, Andy Russell, Dinah Shore, and Jerry Colonna (pictured above with Walt Disney), and a cartoon cast that included an opera-singing whale, a pair of hats that fall in love, the feuding families, the Martins and the Coys, Peter and the Wolf and Mighty Casey (at the bat). As Walt Disney described it, “When I got through, I had sort of a cartoon vaudeville show.”

Casey’s Corner features an American baseball theme, which includes nostalgic baseball memorabilia on the walls, ragtime music, and more, making it the perfect place at both Disney Resorts for guests to stop in and enjoy a hot dog–but with a bit of a Disney twist on it.

The venue offers traditional hot dogs, as well as “designer dogs,” that have included offerings like chili dogs, Chicago-style dogs, and BBQ pork slaw dogs. Other menu items include corn dog nuggets and ballpark nachos with chili and cheese.

In early 2022, Casey’s Corner at Disneyland Paris introduced an expanded menu, but as with other Disney Parks dining venues, menus are subject to change.

Guests with special dietary restrictions and needs will find options at Casey’s Corner that are in keeping with their dietary needs and preferences. From vegetarian and vegan offerings to halal and kosher meals, guests will have no trouble finding selections free of most major allergens.

All of these things make Casey’s Corner sound like the perfect spot to stop in for a quick bite at Disneyland Paris, but at the Parisian version of the Americana-infused eatery, there’s just one problem: when it’s warm outside, and the sun is beating down, guests who prefer to eat outside the venue have no shelter from the blistering sun–until now.

DLPReport shared the news in October 2023 about a new covered terrace coming to Disneyland Paris’s Casey’s Corner.

The upgrade will help to keep guests of Casey’s cooler by giving them some relief from the sun. According to DLPReport’s post on X, formerly Twitter plans for the upgrade also include a kiosk for meet-and-greet experiences as well:

First look at concept art for a new “Casey’s Corner” covered terrace, as part of Disneyland Paris efforts to further protect guests from the weather conditions. The project will also include a new kiosk nearby for the meet and greets:

In a separate post, DLPReport included an image of the current appearance of Casey’s Corner at Disneyland Paris and compared it against the artist’s rendering of the new space.

The artist’s rendering for the new space is beautiful, and it looks like the upgrade will really add to the Casey’s Corner space at Disneyland Paris. See the enlarged image below:

Casey's Corner at Disneyland Paris

The announcement didn’t include a date by which the changes will take place. As we cruise through 2024, it is expected the Casey’s Corner transformation will be underway soon and will likely be enjoyed by guests within the year.

Splash Mountain’s Replacement Gets An Opening Timeframe

So long, Splash Mountain! Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is on the way.

Disney has now released an opening time frame for the incoming attraction, along with a first look at a new Princess Tiana animatronic.

tiana adventure

Splash Mountain closed its doors at Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom on January 23, 2023. Disneyland Park’s Splash Mountain closed slightly later on May 31, 2023.

The controversial closure is Disney’s efforts to remove the former Song of the South (1946) theme for The Princess and the Frog (2009).

Now, over a year later, Disney has revealed more details about the Splash Mountain replacement.

First up, we have a new look at one of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure audio-animatronics. That’s right, check out Tiana in her new adventure outfit:

Tiana Animatronic

A video from Walt Disney Imagineering reveals a first look at the movement of Tiana’s animatronic:

@disneyparks

FIRST LOOK 👀 at one of the new Audio-Animatronics figures coming to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ✨💚 #Disney #DisneyParks #DisneyWorld #Tiana #TianasBayouAdventure #DisneyNews #MardiGras #Technology

♬ original sound – Disney Parks

And while we’ve done our best to wait patiently for an official opening time frame, Disney has finally dropped the news!

Disney has announced:

We can’t wait for you to “come join the party” when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida this summer, and later in 2024 at Disneyland Park in California. For now, I leave you with a new phrase I’ve learned as I get into the Mardi Gras spirit: laissez les bons temps rouler – let the good times roll and happy Mardi Gras!”

So, while we’ll have to wait “later in 2024” at Disneyland Resort in California, we’re thrilled to hear the new attraction will open at Walt Disney World “this summer.”

ultimate guide Tiana's Bayou Adventure

The Walt Disney World website goes on to describe the boat ride attraction:

Dreams Come True in the Bayou:

Join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis on their journey through a shimmering bayou as they prepare for a spirited celebration during Mardi Gras season. Along the way, you’ll see familiar faces and make new friends as you’re brought into the next chapter of Tiana’s inspiring story.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is scheduled to open in Magic Kingdom park at Walt Disney World Resort in summer 2024.

Disney Retires Controversial 53-Year-Old Disney Character

At the end of January, Disney fans bid farewell to one legendary attraction, the Country Bear Jamboree show. This beloved show has always been a treasured part of the Walt Disney World Resort experience, bringing joy and laughter to Disney park visitors for decades. However, change is a constant in the world of theme parks, and as the show takes a hiatus, exciting transformations are underway to enhance the experience for future Magic Kingdom Park guests. Namely, the removal of a controversial Disney character…

Though fans may be saddened by the temporary closure of the Country Bear Jamboree, they can find solace in the fact that the rest of the gang will be returning in a fresh and reimagined production called the Country Bear Musical Jamboree.

This new theme park rendition promises to deliver an even more vibrant and dynamic performance, captivating audiences with its toe-tapping country music tunes and hilarious antics.

However, while most characters from the original Country Bear Jamboree attraction bear band, including Big Al and Teddi Barra, will be making a comeback, one beloved bear will not be joining the new Grizzly Hall ensemble.

new Country Bear Jamboree Show

Liver Lips, with his distinct personality and endearing charm, has been retired from the upcoming Country Bear Musical Jamboree attraction.

In the new iteration of the Disney Resort attraction, the singing bear will be remodeled and reintroduced as Romeo McGrowl.

country bear jamboree

Romeo McGrowl represents a more politically correct version of the character, whose name has been a source of controversy for Disney Parks for the past 53 years.

With this reimagining, Disney aims to inject new energy into the show, captivating a new generation of guests and providing a delightful surprise for returning fans. Romeo Mcgrowl’s presence is evident in Disney’s ongoing mission to remove offensive attractions from the Resort.

The term “liver lips” is considered “offensive” by many academics today. The term refers to  “someone with unusually red or swollen lips, often due to excessive drinking or alcohol-related conditions. The term is considered impolite and derogatory.”

The word unfortunately was typically used as a negative word to describe African American people. Understandably, Disney did not want to keep such an offensive name.

With the retirement of this controversial Disney character, Magic Kingdom will open a new chapter of more inclusive characters and appropriate lyrics at the Country Bear Musical Jamboree.

Country Bear Jamboree

As Disney fans eagerly await the return of the Country Bear Jamboree and embrace the transformation of Liver Lips into Romeo McGrowl, they can rest assured knowing that the spirit and essence of the original attraction will be preserved.

The joy, laughter, and catchy tunes that have made the Country Bear Jamboree a fan favorite will be honored while also offering a fresh twist to reignite the excitement.

Splash Mountain Filled With Water for the First Time Since Its 2023 Closure

In a momentous occasion marking a significant step forward in the transformation of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park, the long-awaited revitalization of the iconic Splash Mountain ride has finally begun. After its closure last year, the attraction has now experienced an exciting development. For the very first time in months, the refreshing sound of gushing water can be heard once again as the flume ride was recently filled with water. This crucial preparatory step is an essential milestone in the ride’s transition into the enchanting world of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

The anticipation for this transformation has been steadily building among Disney fans and guests alike, who have eagerly awaited the next chapter of this beloved attraction. Known for its thrilling dips, splashes, and captivating storyline, Splash Mountain has long been a favorite among visitors of all ages. However, the time has come for this classic ride to be reborn with a unique twist inspired by the magical and vibrant world of Princess Tiana from Princess and the Frog.

As the water funneled down the familiar flume channels, it signaled the beginning of a new chapter for the Splash Mountain attraction. The ride’s transformation is a testament to the innovation and creativity of the renowned Walt Disney Imagineering team, who have seamlessly merged the iconic aspects of the ride with the captivating world of Tiana and her Bayou Adventure.

Imagineers meticulously designed every aspect of this transformation to transport guests directly into the heart of Tiana’s enchanting bayou. From the moment guests embark on their journey, they will be immersed in the sights, sounds, and vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans and its surrounding natural wonders. As the flume boat glides through the bayou, theme park guests will encounter familiar characters from the beloved film, such as Tiana, Prince Naveen, Mama Odie, and the jazz-loving alligator Louis.

The near completion of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort represents another fantastic addition to the vast array of unforgettable experiences available at Walt Disney World Resort. It also exemplifies Disney’s commitment to continually crafting new and immersive adventures for guests of all ages. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Princess Tiana or a first-time visitor to the magical world of Walt Disney, this transformative ride is sure to create lasting memories and capture the hearts of all who embark on this enchanting adventure.

Prepare to be swept away by the rhythmic melodies, thrilling water effects, and immersive storytelling that await you on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. With its vibrant setting, beloved characters, and unforgettable moments, this reimagined attraction promises to be a must-visit destination for all those seeking a taste of the magic that only a Disney Park can deliver. Let the anticipation build as we eagerly await the grand unveiling of this extraordinary journey into the heart of the bayou alongside Princess Tiana later this spring!

Magic Kingdom Guest Jumps From Water Attraction

It seems people and water go together like peas and carrots, especially at Walt Disney World. In recent months, Disney has experienced an increased number of guests leaving ride vehicles to enter the water at popular attractions at Magic Kingdom, bathing in fountains, or jumping from bridges at EPCOT.

January 31 wasn’t much of a different story as early reports via Facebook user Jennifer Jarrell show a guest following suit near Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom.

Posted to a private Annual Passholders group on Facebook around 9:30 p.m., Jennifer’s post shows a Magic Kingdom guest, with a life preserver, who had reportedly jumped from his small watercraft (raft) while on his way to the popular hideaway tucked away in Frontierland at the flagship park in Walt Disney World Resort.

Jennifer captioned the photo as follows:

“Anybody got news or info on the jumper from Tom Sawyer rafts today around 2:00 p.m.? We watched him refuse to swim to the side after they threw him a life preserver. Curious to know what happened.”

Jennifer Jarrell Facebook post man jumps in water at Magic Kingdom Tom Sawyer Island

As it’s always big news when someone breaks the rules in such a dangerous manner at Walt Disney World, the post has garnered a ton of reactions and comments. Many are quick to point out the growing problem of guests entering waterways around Walt Disney World property.

Of course, anyone familiar with Central Florida will tell you that no matter how appealing those ponds, rivers, lakes, and creeks may look on a hot day, it’s never a good idea to go in blind. Sadly, the worst-case scenario played out in 2016 when a small child was killed by an alligator while visiting Disney World’s Grand Floridian Resort.

Although the body of water in question today was located inside the park, it is not safe to assume that it is free of potentially dangerous wildlife.

In fact, Tom Sawyer Island, where the incident occurred, saw half of Magic Kingdom shut down last year when a black bear was spotted in that area of the park. Despite the danger of drowning, wildlife remains a serious concern in terms of guest safety, especially in waterways in and around Walt Disney World.

In fact, one commenter pointed out that this particular body of water in Magic Kingdom is the only one where they’ve actually seen an alligator, further pointing out how silly the act of rule-breaking was.

It’s unclear at the moment what happened to the guest or how the situation was resolved. Certainly, behavior like this will earn guests a lifetime ban from Disney property, especially as the consensus believes it wasn’t an accident. Others who were present solidified Jennifer’s claim that the guest in the water refused a life preserver from Cast Members.

Because of this, the assumption is that he most likely made the conscious decision to enter as opposed to falling in.

For those unfamiliar, Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom is a unique and adventurous attraction that takes guests on a journey back in time to the days of Mark Twain’s famous characters. Located in the heart of the park, this immersive experience offers visitors a chance to explore an island filled with secret caves, wilderness trails, and hidden treasures.

As soon as guests step foot on Tom Sawyer Island, they are transported to a world of imagination and excitement. The island is accessible by raft, which adds an extra touch of adventure to the experience. Once on the island, visitors can embark on their own explorations at their own pace.

One of the highlights of Tom Sawyer Island is Fort Langhorn, a detailed replica of a frontier fort from the 19th century. Inside the fort, guests can climb to the top of the watchtower for a stunning view of the surrounding area. They can also wander through the interior rooms and learn about the history of the American frontier.

Liberty Bell & The Hall of Presidents

Nature lovers will be delighted by the lush wilderness trails that wind through the island. As guests wander along the paths, they can encounter picturesque waterfalls, hidden caves, and even a barrel bridge. The island is designed to provide a sense of tranquility and escape from the bustling theme park, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.

For those seeking even more excitement, Tom Sawyer Island features an eerie and mysterious underground passage, one known as Injun Joe’s Cave. As guests explore the dimly lit tunnels, they can discover hidden secrets and relics left behind by the infamous character from Mark Twain’s stories.

The cave adds an element of mystery and suspense to the overall experience, keeping guests on their toes.

Tom Sawyer Island is not just about adventure and exploration but also offers opportunities for relaxation. Guests can find respite at Aunt Polly Dockside Inn, a charming spot to sit back and enjoy a picnic while overlooking the scenic Big Thunder Mountain attraction in Frontierland and the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square.

It’s the perfect place to take a break, refuel, and soak in the atmosphere of the island.

big thunder mountain at magic kingdom disability access das disney parks

Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom is a captivating and immersive attraction that allows guests to step into the world of Mark Twain’s beloved characters. From exploring Fort Langhorn to wandering through the wilderness trails, there is no shortage of adventures on this secluded island.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, Tom Sawyer Island offers something for everyone.

As per Jennifer’s Facebook post, the incident happened on the small rafts that escort guests to and from the island. During a trip, the guest apparently made the decision to jump into the water. These situations are becoming more prevalent at Walt Disney World, with incidents occurring in a few different spots over the last year or so, but even as they rise in popularity, they don’t decrease in danger.

Simply put, when guests enter a Disney Park, they are agreeing to act in accordance with Disney’s rules and regulations. Of course these are in place to protect the Walt Disney Company from lawsuits, but also to keep guests and Cast Members safe while enjoying a magical time. Stay out of the water, people.