The influencers were out for this week's preview of Disney World's latest attraction. Photo: Jeff Weiner/Axios
As my raft wound through the Louisiana bayou, the jazzy serenade of animatronic musical critters almost lulled me into forgetting where this ride was headed.
But soon, there it was: That familiar 50-foot drop — and the splash.
The big picture: I just got a sneak peek of Disney World's latest attraction, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, based on the 2009 film "The Princess and the Frog."
The New Orleans-themed log flume ride replaces Splash Mountain, though the bones of the Magic Kingdom mainstay remain.
The vibe: Imagineers conferred with New Orleans-based artists and the family of famed NOLA chef Leah Chase, who inspired the movie's Tiana character. It shows.
This ride is a celebration of brassy music and Creole and Cajun culture.
How it works: The ride takes you on a quest through the bayou, led by Tiana and fan-favorite alligator trumpeter Louis, in search of musicians for a Mardi Gras party.
Among the recruits: a harmonica-playing turtle, an opossum bassist and a rabbit using a license plate as a washboard.
The action ramps up when voodoo priestess Mama Odie shrinks us down to bug-size so we can scout talent among Ray the firefly's brethren.
Then, get ready for that 50-foot splashdown.
The bottom line: Classic ride + new adventure = comfort food.
