The Little Mermaid (1989) is one of the most beloved films of Disney’s second Renaissance. Its popularity has led to multiple rides, shows, and character appearances in Disneyland Park and Walt Disney World.
The Little Mermaid Dark Ride
The most famous Ariel-based attractions are Ariel’s Undersea Adventure (Disney California Adventure) and Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid (Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom).
Like most family-friendly attractions in Disney Parks, this Omnimover dark ride has no height requirements and is appropriate for all ages (no evil queens to scare little kids).
It debuted in California Adventure in 2011 before being added to the Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland in 2012 under a slightly different name. Both versions are among the most popular dark rides in either Resort and take Guests on a nearly seven-minute re-telling of the animated film.
Meet-And-Greet
Disneyland and Disney World Guests can meet Ariel in person for photo opportunities and an authentic autographic. Royal Hall at Disneyland Park provides multiple meet-and-greets for various Disney princesses. Although it often entertains three princesses at a time, Guests should double-check that Ariel is in court before they arrive.
Located inside Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland is Ariel’s Grotto, where fans of the little mermaid can snag a photo with Ariel. It’s just a hop, skip, and jump (on those…what do you call them?…feet!) from the Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid dark ride.
Live Character Shows
Ariel can also be spotted at various performances throughout both theme Park resorts. Most notably, she can be spotted in the finale of Fantasmic! (both at Disneyland Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios) and on a float in the Magic Kingdom’s Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade.
On May 26, 2023, Disney is set to release the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, starring Halle Bailey as the title character, Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, and Javier Bardem as Triton.
RELATED: What Kind of New Music Can Disney Fans Expect in ‘The Little Mermaid?’
Although no plans exist to update or remove these attractions in Disneyland Park or Walt Disney World, Hollywood Studios has already taken steps to end the 20-year-old Voyage of the Little Mermaid show.
However fans of the classic Disney princess choose to enjoy the film and character, Guests at either Disney Parks will not be disappointed.