The Disappearance of Splash Mountain: Why Disney Got Rid of It
A Southern Gentleman’s Tragic Tale
The iconic Splash Mountain, a log flume ride nestled at the end of the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the Magic Kingdom, has a sad story to tell. Located in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, this attraction has been a beloved park staple for decades. However, in recent years, Splash Mountain has faced numerous challenges that led to its eventual removal from the park. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind Disney’s decision to get rid of Splash Mountain and explore what happened to this once-favorite attraction.
A Humble Beginning
Splash Mountain was first introduced in 1989, as part of the Magic Kingdom’s 50th anniversary celebration. The ride was designed to be a smaller, more intimate experience, allowing guests to enjoy the Thunder Mountain Railroad coaster while experiencing the gentle waters of the log flume. Initially, the ride received positive reviews from visitors, and its popularity grew steadily over the years.
The Rise of Modern Theme Parks
However, the modern theme park landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years. With the rise of larger, more elaborate attractions and the introduction of new thrill rides, Disney’s attention has shifted away from Splash Mountain. This shift was largely driven by the company’s desire to focus on more "high-profile" attractions and to prioritize the experience of its high-end parks, such as Tokyo DisneySea and Disneyland Paris.
The Shift in Attractions
In the early 2000s, Disney began to introduce new attractions and experiences that catered to a younger demographic. These new attractions, such as Soarin’ and Frozen Ever After, were designed to appeal to a wider audience and to create a more immersive experience. Meanwhile, Splash Mountain’s popularity began to wane, as visitors’ attention turned to newer, more action-packed rides.
The Importance of Traditional Attractions
Disney’s decision to prioritize traditional attractions has been widely criticized by some, who argue that these experiences are more nostalgic and memorable than the newer, more high-tech attractions. Traditional attractions, such as Haunted Mansion and It’s a Small World, have stood the test of time, and their enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of these classic experiences.
Legacy and Obsolescence
Splash Mountain, like many other classic attractions, has reached the end of its physical life. The ride’s infrastructure is now undergoing major renovations, and it is likely that the attraction will be closed permanently in the coming years. Moreover, the design of Splash Mountain, with its steep drop and sharp turns, has become somewhat dated, and its relatively short ride duration has led to a decreased likelihood of repeat visits.
The Disappearing Act
In 2015, the Magic Kingdom underwent a major renovation, which included the addition of new attractions and experiences. While Splash Mountain was not renovated, it was still largely forgotten in the grand scheme of the park’s many changes. And in 2019, the park announced that Splash Mountain would be replaced by a new attraction, called Rampage, a rollercoaster that opened in the park’s future plans for Phase 2.
A Note on Residual Profit
It’s worth noting that Disney’s decision to get rid of Splash Mountain may be driven by a desire to generate residual profit. The attraction’s operating costs are estimated to be around $1.5 million per year, and its removal may be seen as a way to minimize these costs and shift attention away from more expensive attractions.
Conclusion
The disappearance of Splash Mountain is a sad tale of a beloved attraction’s decline and eventual demise. As the theme park landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to consider the historical context and the nostalgia that has been built around these classic attractions. While Disney’s decision to prioritize modern experiences may be driven by financial considerations, it’s clear that the company’s commitment to preserving its nostalgic heritage is admirable. As the magic of the past continues to captivate audiences, it’s essential to acknowledge the significance of these once-favorite attractions, such as Splash Mountain.
The End of an Era
Splash Mountain will be remembered for years to come as one of the most iconic attractions at the Magic Kingdom. Its legacy will live on as a testament to the enduring power of classic theme park experiences. Even though it may be gone, its impact will be felt for generations to come, and its memory will continue to inspire and captivate audiences.
Statistics:
- Revenue: $1.5 million per year
- Age of Attractions: Original opening in 1989
- Number of Visits: Estimated 2 million visitors per year
- Length: Approximately 4 minutes
- Drop: 5 stories high
- Water Effects: Colorful and interactive water features
- Features: Log flume ride, scenic overlooks, and interactive elements
Timeline:
- 1989: Splash Mountain is introduced as part of the Magic Kingdom’s 50th anniversary celebration
- 2000s: Modern theme parks begin to prioritize more "high-profile" attractions
- 2015: Magic Kingdom undergoes major renovation, with Splash Mountain largely forgotten
- 2019: Park announces plans for Phase 2, which includes the addition of new attractions and experiences
- 2020: Splash Mountain is slated for permanent closure