On this day July 17, 1989, Splash Mountain officially opened to the public at Disneyland in Anaheim, California. The log flume style attraction became an instant favorite with guests, blending classic Disney storytelling, innovative ride technology, and one of the most thrilling drops in theme park history.
The ride was based loosely on characters and songs from the 1946 Disney film Song of the South, including Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Brer Bear. With over 100 animatronic figures, colorful set pieces, and the iconic tune Zip a Dee Doo Dah, Splash Mountain transported riders through a Southern bayou adventure that ended with a steep 50 foot plunge into the water below.
Splash Mountain quickly became one of the most popular rides in the park and helped bring renewed interest to the quieter Critter Country section of Disneyland. It was also praised for combining the charm of traditional dark rides with the adrenaline rush of a water coaster. The opening took place on Disneyland’s 34th anniversary and added a major attraction that became a defining part of the park experience for generations of guests.
80s insight: Splash Mountain represented a perfect mix of Disney tradition and theme park innovation at the close of the decade.
The ride was based loosely on characters and songs from the 1946 Disney film Song of the South, including Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Brer Bear. With over 100 animatronic figures, colorful set pieces, and the iconic tune Zip a Dee Doo Dah, Splash Mountain transported riders through a Southern bayou adventure that ended with a steep 50 foot plunge into the water below.
Splash Mountain quickly became one of the most popular rides in the park and helped bring renewed interest to the quieter Critter Country section of Disneyland. It was also praised for combining the charm of traditional dark rides with the adrenaline rush of a water coaster. The opening took place on Disneyland’s 34th anniversary and added a major attraction that became a defining part of the park experience for generations of guests.
80s insight: Splash Mountain represented a perfect mix of Disney tradition and theme park innovation at the close of the decade.
