Disneyland adds Coco, Avatar; shuts Mike & Sulley ride

Disney has announced that Disneyland's upcoming Coco-themed attraction will occupy currently underutilized backstage areas near Disney California Adventure's Paradise Gardens Park and Pixar Pier. Simultaneously, the new Avatar land will replace parts of the existing Hollywood Backlot area, necessitating the permanent closure of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! in early 2026.

These details were revealed through Disney Parks Blog alongside fresh concept art. Construction for the Coco attraction will commence this fall in backstage areas. Originally unveiled at D23 2024, this will be the first-ever ride based on Pixar's acclaimed film.

The attraction promises innovative technology inspired by classics like Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean. Disney Imagineers will implement cutting-edge Audio-Animatronic technology to bring skeletal characters to life in unexpected ways.

The Avatar-themed area remains in preliminary development stages, though Disney confirmed it will draw inspiration from Avatar: The Way of Water and future franchise installments. Additional construction timelines and details will be shared later.

While Pandora - The World of Avatar has entertained guests at Disney World's Animal Kingdom since 2017, Disneyland will soon offer its own distinct interpretation of James Cameron's universe.

Though fans will mourn the loss of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!, Disney World's Hollywood Studios will compensate with an entirely new Monsters, Inc. land featuring Disney's first-ever suspended coaster through the iconic door warehouse scene.

Concurrent with these attraction announcements, Disney revealed plans for a major infrastructure project: a new parking structure and transportation hub on the east side of Disneyland Resort, replacing part of the existing Manchester cast member parking area.

The development will provide approximately 6,000 parking spaces featuring dedicated shuttle zones, ride-share areas, and streamlined security screening. Enhanced traffic flow will be achieved through dedicated Disney Way access, while a pedestrian bridge over Harbor Boulevard will create an improved arrival experience.

For more Disney updates, explore our coverage of Disneyland's 70th anniversary celebrations, 14 reasons to experience Walt Disney World's Cool Kid Summer, and the recent naming announcement of Magic Kingdom's Cars-themed Piston Peak National Park.