Disneyland adds Coco, Avatar lands; Monsters, Inc. ride closes

Disney has announced that Disneyland's upcoming Coco attraction will occupy currently underutilized backstage areas near Disney California Adventure's Paradise Gardens Park and Pixar Pier, while the new Avatar-themed land will take over part of the existing Hollywood Backlot section. Notably, Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! will permanently close in early 2026 to accommodate the Avatar expansion.

The Disney Parks Blog shared these updates along with new concept artworks, confirming that construction for the Coco attraction will commence backstage this fall. Originally unveiled at D23 2024, this will mark the first-ever theme park experience based on the popular Pixar film.

Disney Imagineers are drawing creative inspiration from classic attractions like Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean for this new experience. According to Disney's announcement, "Our skeletal characters will come to life through cutting-edge Audio-Animatronic technology in ways that will truly amaze guests."

Development details remain limited for the Avatar area, which remains in preliminary planning stages. Inspired by Avatar: The Way of Water and future franchise installments, this expansion promises to reinterpret Pandora in innovative ways distinct from Florida's Animal Kingdom version.

While the closure of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! may disappoint some fans, Disney World's Hollywood Studios will soon debut an entirely new Monsters, Inc. themed land featuring the franchise's first-ever suspended rollercoaster through the iconic door warehouse.

In parallel developments, Disney revealed plans for a comprehensive parking overhaul east of Disneyland Resort. The new transportation hub will replace part of the current Manchester cast member parking area, offering 6,000 parking spaces along with enhanced shuttle services, rideshare zones, and streamlined security screening.

The project includes an elevated pedestrian bridge spanning Harbor Boulevard that will connect to a redesigned resort entrance experience while maintaining direct access to the boulevard.

For additional Disney updates, explore our coverage of Disneyland's 70th anniversary celebrations, Walt Disney World's Cool Kid Summer offerings, and the recent announcement about Piston Peak National Park replacing Magic Kingdom's Cars land.