Disneyland’s landscape has transformed significantly over the years, with new attractions sprouting where beloved classics once stood. Let’s take a closer look at some of the attractions that have been replaced and what now occupies those spaces.
Attractions No Longer at Disneyland and Their Replacements
Skyway (1956–1994): This iconic gondola ride provided a bird’s-eye view of the park, passing through the Matterhorn. The Skyway station in Fantasyland was repurposed into a scenic area, while the Tomorrowland station was dismantled.
Rainbow Caverns Mine Train (1956–1977): This ride was reimagined as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in 1979, a thrilling roller coaster through the Wild West landscape.
America Sings (1974–1988): The animatronics from this musical revue were repurposed for Splash Mountain, which itself is being rethemed to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
Videopolis (1985–1995): This outdoor theater and dance club space was transformed into the Fantasyland Theatre, which hosts live shows like Mickey and the Magical Map.
Submarine Voyage (1959–1998): The lagoon and submarines were reimagined into Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage in 2007, bringing a new generation of undersea adventure.
Mission to Mars (1975–1992): This space-themed attraction was replaced by Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port and later by Alien Pizza Planet, a Tomorrowland dining spot.
PeopleMover (1967–1995): The elevated track remains unused, but the attraction’s spirit lives on in the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover at Walt Disney World.
Swiss Family Treehouse (1962–1999): This attraction was rethemed as Tarzan’s Treehouse, which closed in 2021 for an upcoming retheme to reflect a new story.
Big Thunder Ranch (1986–2016): This space became part of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a highly immersive land that transports guests to the planet Batuu.
Rocket Jets (1967–1997): The iconic spinners were moved to the entrance of Tomorrowland and reimagined as the Astro Orbitor.
Restaurants, Parades, and Entertainment Changes
Restaurants
Tahitian Terrace: This Polynesian-themed area was transformed into Aladdin’s Oasis, which has since been replaced by The Tropical Hideaway, offering exotic snacks and Dole Whip.
Casa de Fritos: After a series of rebrandings, it became Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante, serving Mexican cuisine.
Carnation Ice Cream Parlor: Now the Carnation Café, it offers an updated menu while retaining some of its nostalgic charm.
The French Market Restaurant: This New Orleans Square staple is being rethemed to Tiana’s Palace, inspired by The Princess and the Frog.
Parades
Light Magic (1997): This short-lived parade was replaced by other nighttime spectaculars over the years, such as Paint the Night and the returning Main Street Electrical Parade.
Paint the Night Parade: Its absence is often filled by other seasonal parades and nighttime entertainment offerings.
Entertainment
Golden Horseshoe Revue: The venue now hosts various shows like Laughing Stock Co. and seasonal offerings.
Fantasmic!: Though it has experienced closures for updates, it continues to be a staple, with plans for future returns after enhancements.
Captain EO: The space that housed this 3D film has since hosted various attractions, such as the Star Wars: Path of the Jedi film experience.
Mickey’s Toontown Morning Madness: While this event is no longer offered, Toontown itself has seen updates and continues to delight families with its interactive experiences.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
Explore New Experiences: Take time to enjoy the new attractions and see how they incorporate elements of Disney’s evolving storytelling.
Stay Updated: Use the Disneyland app to check current attractions and entertainment options.
Engage with History: Look for nods to past attractions in the park’s design and theming.
Alternative Perspectives
While many guests embrace the park’s changes and enhancements, some long for the nostalgia of rides like the PeopleMover. These updates, however, reflect Disney’s commitment to evolving with audience expectations while occasionally paying homage to its past.
