Disney Cancels the Splash Mountain Theme Once Again

Guests are still saddened by the closure of Splash Mountain at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Disney resurrected a Splash Mountain theme but quickly changed course. Did you like this clever theming or are you glad that Disney canceled this plan?

Splash Mountain Closure

Back in June of 2020, Disney announced that a major reimagining of Splash Mountain would happen. This attraction, based on the controversial 1946 film “Song Of the South,” has been a fan favorite since it debuted in 1989.

Over at Walt Disney World, Splash Mountain has been closed since January 23, 2023. Work is already well underway for the retheme.  The changeover happened quickly as changes and work could already be seen the very next day!

Disneyland guests enjoyed Splash Mountain a bit longer with the final day of operations at the end of May 2023.

Laughing Place Ranch

In February 2022, Disney announced a new venture with “Storyliving By Disney.” This was Walt Disney’s original vision for EPCOT to create a residential community. Many Disney fans were ecstatic to learn of this new residential community where the entire space is created with the “Disney Touch.” Check out full details HERE.

As work continues for this new community, concept art is released to share what this new living space will look like. One rendering caused many Disney fans to scratch their heads. One amenity of this Cotino “Storyliving By Disney” community is a dog park.

The first concept art for this space displayed the name “Laughing Place Ranch.” As many Disney enthusiasts recall, “Laughing Place” is from Splash Mountain. One log-flume ride and the song “Laughing Place” will be stuck in your head for the rest of the day.

Theme Canceled

After a less than popular response to this name, Disney changed this concept art. As with all concpet art it is marked as an “Artist’s conceptional rendering; not yet constructed and subject to change.”

Now the concept art on the Cotino Home website shows the below image:

The picture is the same minus the “Laughing Place Ranch” signage. This is now referred to as, “An equestrian themed dog park, will be a favorite destination for “Man’s best friend.” Rustic, ranchero-style play structures especially for four legged friends and separate play areas make this an ideal place for large and small dogs.” 

It appears that the “Laughing Place” reference did not pan out for this new Disney living community.

“Laughing Place Ranch” is now removed from “Storyliving by Disney” concept art.

What do you think of this change? Do you think it was a nice nod for a Disney attraction or is do you agree that it should be removed? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with you Disney pals.