why is the haunted mansion closed at disneyland

Disneyland's Haunted Mansion ride slated for expansion, upgrades in 2024

The popular ride will undergo construction in 2024 to add handicap accessibility and expand the outdoor area of the theme ride at the southern california resort..

Disneyland is expanding the grounds of its Haunted Mansion next year, adding handicap accessibility and deepening the lore of the iconic theme ride at the Southern California resort.

Renovation plans, unveiled Tuesday on the Disney Parks blog , include a new garden, a new gift shop near the attraction's exit and an upgraded plaza for live entertainment. The additions are intended to bolster the experience of guests while they wait in line by building on the story of the Haunted Mansion, which was brought to life in July on the big screen .

Wait times vary but it can take over an hour to get into the Haunted Mansion.

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Renovations part of Disneyland revamp of New Orleans Square

The upcoming changes are among many coming to the New Orleans Square area of the theme park and resort in Anaheim.

Tiana's Palace, a New Orleans-inspired soul food restaurant inspired by the 2009 animated movie "The Princess and the Frog," will open next month .

The park also has previously announced plans to overhaul and replace the now-closed Splash Mountain ride with Tiana's Bayou Adventure, also set to debut in 2024 .

Splash Mountain closed in May after 33 years as a mainstay at the resort after a petition to change the beloved water ride 's theme went viral. Because of the attraction's association with the 1946 Disney film " Song of the South ," the ride has long been criticized for its idealized portrayal of plantation life.

Walt Disney World in Florida closed its version of the ride in January.

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New gardens, improved accessibility among plans

Planned renovations to the Haunted Mansion attraction will focus on the outdoor area where guests wait their turn to climb into a "doom buggy" for a tour of the spooky property.

Once completed, the queue area will feature gardens teaming with fountains, gazebos and themed statues inspired by famed characters of the attraction, including mansion owner Master Edward Gracey and psychic medium Madame Leota. Other famed elements of the grounds, such as the pet cemetery and horse-drawn funeral hearse, will remain.

The plaza adjacent to Tiana’s Palace will feature a new park replete with live entertainment and the shade of new and historic trees. Plans also call for improvements to accessibility of these areas for those with physical disabilities, including a new elevator exit from the Haunted Mansion.

Construction is slated to begin in January. Renderings of the changes are viewable here .

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected].

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Disneyland | when disneyland will close and reopen haunted mansion for holiday makeover, the haunted mansion will be closed for refurbishment from aug. 16 to sept. 2 to transform the dark ride with 'the nightmare before christmas' holidays overlay, according to the disneyland website..

Haunted Mansion fans have a month to jump on the classic version of the Disneyland dark ride before the beloved 1969 attraction goes down for a few weeks to get ready for the Halloween and Christmas holiday seasons.

The Haunted Mansion will be closed for refurbishment from Aug. 16 to Sept. 2 to transform the dark ride with “The Nightmare Before Christmas” holiday overlay , according to the Disneyland website.

Aug. 15 will be the last day to ride the classic version of the Haunted Mansion in 2021. Haunted Mansion Holiday opens on Sept. 3 — the kickoff of Halloween Time at Disneyland , which runs through Oct. 31.

SEE ALSO: Disneyland seamlessly blends in new Jungle Cruise scenes while erasing ride’s troubled past

It’s a Small World usually goes down for its annual holiday overlay installation in late October and early November.

It typically takes Disneyland’s graveyard crew about a week to transform the Anaheim theme park from Halloween to Christmas decor. Christmas holiday festivities regularly run through the first week of January at the Merriest Place on Earth.

This year’s gingerbread house in the Haunted Mansion’s Grand Hall will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the seasonal holiday overlay with design elements that pay tribute to the previous 19 handmade houses.

SEE ALSO: Knott’s Scary Farm returns this Halloween after pandemic pause

We will have to wait and see how Disneyland pays tribute to the new “ Muppets Haunted Mansion ” holiday TV special coming to Disney+ this fall.

The Haunted Mansion underwent an extensive renovation during the COVID-19 closure of Disneyland that included new draperies, carpet, wallpaper and decor inside the attraction and fresh paint and plants on the exterior.

Crowds of mansion fanatics and snaking socially-distanced lines forced Disneyland to use a “secret” servants entrance when the ride returned to funnel riders directly into the portrait gallery — circumventing the Haunted Mansion’s famed stretching room elevators.

SEE ALSO: Backyard Matterhorn builder working on Disneyland mountain range sequel: Little Thunder

After a pandemic pause in 2020, Oogie Boogie Bash will once again return to Disney California Adventure on select nights from Sept. 9 through Oct. 31 during the Halloween season.

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Haunted Mansion Will CLOSE Temporarily in Disneyland

By Jordan-Paige Sudduth 1 Comment

Do you love The Haunted Mansion? Then there’s something you need to know about!

Haunted Mansion Holiday!

We recently saw new Haunted Mansion merchandise released , and we know a Haunted Mansion LEGO Set is on its way . And over in Disneyland , we’ve seen Haunted Mansion turn into Haunted Mansion Holiday for the Halloween season. That transformation will once again take place this year . But, in order for the change to occur, the ride has to close for a bit, and we’ve just gotten those closure dates!

The Haunted Mansion will be closed in Disneyland from August 15th to September 1st , and will reopen in its redecorated state on September 2nd.

If you’ll be visiting Disneyland during this time, keep that closure in mind so you can be prepared!

Also returning to Disneyland this year is Oogie Boogie Bash , a special after-hours event at Disney California Adventure park. During this event, the Villain’s Grove typically opens for guests to explore and walk through. Villain’s Grove takes place in the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, and Disney has confirmed that this special part of the experience will be returning to Oogie Boogie Bash this year.

Though Disney hasn’t specified whether this is related, we did note that the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail does not show any operating hours starting on August 1st . It seems likely that this closure could be related to the changes that need to be made here to transform it into Villain’s Grove (though, again, Disney has not confirmed that yet).

Villains Grove Map

Looking to attend Disney’s Halloween parties this year? Unfortunately, Oogie Boogie Bash tickets are all sold out , and one date for Disney World’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is too. So grab your tickets quick and see the cheapest days on which you can visit Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney closure news.

Check out everything that’s been confirmed for the Halloween season in Disneyland!

Want to learn more about disneyland check out the links below, dfb disneyland restaurants guide, disney genie and how to use it in disneyland, what you need to know about the theme park reservation system for disneyland and disney california adventure, closures and construction at disneyland, learn all about disneyland park, see what marvelous stuff you’ll find at avengers campus in disney california adventure, learn about pixar pier in disney california adventure, get all the details about the disneyland mobile app, everything you need to know about mobile order in disneyland, learn more about disneyland’s magic key program, full details about the holiday season in disneyland, full details about halloween time at disneyland, get some strange tips for disneyland, click here to check out lots of other dfb posts about disneyland, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney news delivered right to your inbox click here to subscribe.

Do you prefer Haunted Mansion or Haunted Mansion Holiday? Let us know below!

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July 9, 2022 at 11:55 am

As a young teen I was able to enjoy the first day this attraction was opened in Disneyland/ Never forget the excitement and wondering what was going to happen. Oh the 70’s Seem pretty tame by today’s standards, but when it opened it was exciting

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When Haunted Mansion Will CLOSE For Holiday Overlay in Disneyland

The Halloween season is right around the corner!

We’re looking forward to the Disney Halloween parties coming this year (although Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash is already sold out ), and we’re already seeing some awesome Disney Halloween items online . In order to prepare for the upcoming season, an iconic Disney ride will be closing for refurbishment in August.

Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion ride will be closed from August 15th through September 1st to get ready for its Haunted Mansion Holiday layover . Guests can expect the attraction to be back open on September 2nd all decorated for the Halloween season.

Guests will also want to look out for the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail  closing on August 1st. This might be so that the trail can be transformed into the Villain’s Grove for Oogie Boogie Bash. At this time, there isn’t a reopening date for that attraction. The Disney calendar currently goes until August 18th, and the attraction will be closed through then at least.

If you’re looking to get your Halloween decoration shopping done early, check out these amazing items you can grab online right now ! If you’re visiting Disneyland during the Halloween season, Oogie Boogie Bash isn’t the only thing going on — check out all of what’s coming to Disneyland for the spooky season .

As always, stay tuned to AllEars for all your Disney news.

Click here to see everything coming to Disneyland for Halloween.

Are you visiting Disneyland this spooky season? Let us know in the comments.

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Disneyland Resort

New Haunted Mansion Grounds Expansion, Retail Shop Coming to Disneyland Resort in 2024

by Kelsey Lynch , Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort

The stately grounds of the Haunted Mansion will expand with a spirited metamorphosis at Disneyland Resort next year. In 2024, the additions will build on the story and lore of the Haunted Mansion and include an expanded outdoor queue to immerse guests in enhanced theming, as well as a new retail shop adjacent to the attraction’s exit.

Local legend suggests the manor known today as the Haunted Mansion was first built by a prosperous sea captain. To this day, the mansion’s staff faithfully maintains the happy haunting grounds. The expanded queue will tie into these stories and more, including new gardens inspired by Master Gracey, Madame Leota and the one-eyed cat.

Each of the gardens will feature unique elements ranging from a water fountain and gazebo to themed statuary and landscaping. In fact, guests will be able to see a new greenhouse where the groundskeepers for the Haunted Mansion grow their plants. The pet cemetery and horse-drawn funeral hearse will continue to reside on the attraction’s grounds.

And speaking of Madame Leota, we felt it was time to continue her presence beyond the walls of the Haunted Mansion with an all-new retail shop. This carriage house of the mansion, belonging to Leota, will be a standalone shop that we are just “dying” to tell you more about in the future.

We also will make enhancements to the plaza adjacent to Tiana’s Palace. This area is one that holds a lot of memories and history, and a new, elegant park-like setting will be a place to relax and enjoy the ambiance and live entertainment under the shade of new and historic trees.

Construction on these additions will begin in January 2024. We will take the opportunity to help improve the accessibility of these areas which includes a new elevator exit from the Haunted Mansion for guests with disabilities.

We look forward to sharing more about the final arrangements early next year. For now, consider this dismaying observation: the objects found in Leota’s garden will be inspired by her incantation!

Destinations: Disneyland Resort , Disneyland Park

I’ll work there

Please leave the trees and fountain if possible. I love walking around New Orleans Square because it reminds me of Jackson Square in NewOrleans. Some of the areas in the park were inspired by real places, it’s neat to keep it true to that original vision.

Rather than blowing budget on queue lines and shops, it’s time to bring the Country Bears back to Anaheim. Put the new and improved Pooh’s Hunny Hunt in Fantasyland and return the Country Bears back to their original hilltop theater.

It is so sad that you have to do this in January. Why couldn’t you have given us advance notice that you were going to do this. So if you are going to do this in January, then this means we can’t see the attraction the way it was ment to be at all anymore. What with the Nightmare before Christmas overlay being till after the Holidays. So then this must mean when “Nightmare” is over, you intend to closing down HM till after this construction change. I understand the necessity for the ADA accessibly, but why do you have to make all these other changes? Why is it necessary to continue to make all these politically correct changes that changes Walt’s dream like you did with “Pirates” and other attractions. So I guess I will never get to see Walt’s HM ever again.

But the ride won’t close right? We come out for the first time ever in February and we’ll be devastated if we can’t ride it!

RE: “We will take the opportunity to help improve the accessibility of these areas which includes a new elevator exit from the Haunted Mansion for guests with disabilities”. This is wonderful news, HOWEVER there really should be at least 1 wheelchair accessible ride vehicle where a guest may stay in their manual wheelchair to enjoy the Haunted Mansion. The Clamshell ride vehicles of Ariel’s Undersea Adventure at DCA are extremely similar to the Doom Buggies, so PLEASE!!! Everyone cannot transfer and therefore will never be able to experience this beloved attraction 🙁

Well, they say both new and old trees, so it sounds like not all the trees would be leaving (or… leafing… ha; I’m so sorry) so much as the planters and fence work around them to open up the area. I’m hoping they can leave the fountain; I see they’ve moved one to the queue, but the fountain is a lovely place. There’s a fair bit more space between the train station and the walkways around the Rivers of America than these concept sketches suggest.

I will say, though, there’s a couple things I’m truly excited about. One is the return of the live entertainment by the restaurant. I remember even as a kid just sitting near there and listening to those bands play… I loved it. It’s a part of the New Orleans Square atmosphere that’s been missing, at least for me, when I’ve been there.

Next is the extended queue/story. Something we lack in Disneyland that Disney World’s Haunted Mansion and Disneyland Paris’s Phantom Manor (which has twice the ride, actually, and a very different story) have in spades. We actually used to have a bit more detail in the form of the fast pass ticket area, but it was just pretty and its gone. Getting more depth to the ride (and there is a lot out there to pull on; they already mentioned Captain Gore in the blog post. I suggest the channel Offhand Disney if you’d like to learn more) and it’s background is exciting! Especially the cat. I’ve been pointing out the cat to my family every time. In any case, I’m open to it. Hopefully the rude stays open; the queue will probably snake outside in the meantime which is nothing new for them.

I hate to be a whiner but I don’t like the removal of the fountain either. It’s just that I’ve seen Disneyland make some very bad, so-called “improvements” in the last decade. With the exception of Main Street’s lackluster indoor Carnation Cafe, the bungles all seem to be in New Orleans Square.

I get the HM queue changes are to improve ADA compliance, so hopefully these changes in addition are plussed and not halfhearted minuses.

Please don’t remove the trees. Lots of shade also needs to be added all throughout the HM queue. I’m going to mourn the loss of Magnolia Gardens. I’m assuming you are removing the fountain. There are street signs in New Orleans Square. Can we keep a basic feel of Magnolia Gardens and New Orleans? I also worry about the transition from the exit of HM (what I assume will become yet another gift shop, sigh, and the start of Tiana. And how this all goes into the shrinking Critter Country and Pooh. Transitions are important.

I SURE HOPE this is not going to be another McMansionland Playground like Walt Disney World’s noisy, atrocious mess of rejected ideas tossed out by the original Imagineers (who knew what they were doing).

The exterior of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion is a *major* part of the attraction’s story. It’s supposed to be a stately home that has only a somewhat eerie quality. That way, the manor’s tale can unfold and its spirited inhabitants reveal themselves in chapters/stages—INSIDE. Any true storyteller knows that you DON’T put the finale before the prelude. That’s why Walt (a genius) DID NOT want ANY ghosts (such as Madam Leota) outside.

So, instead of Disney Parks thinking with their cash registers, how about using their creative minds and building the Museum Of The Weird? Every Haunted Mansion fan wants it (as did Walt). And it doesn’t have to be a static, typical museum. For example, animate the place. Make exhibits change on their own. Let display tables rise and objects move. It can be as unique and unusual as Rolly Crump, the late, great, brilliant Imagineer who’s already laid a good portion of the groundwork.

As for retail, the rare facility’s “egress” can always funnel foolish mortals into the Museum Gift Shop of unique oddities and ghoulishly delightful merch. The whole thing would be far more amusing and successful than yet another typical, Disney Park themed store. And the ghosts can stay where they belong: indoors and out of any spoiler-laden queue.

PLEASE, consider this much more desirable alternative.

Can you give us a little more practical information? Will the ride be closed during all of this? If so, how long do you expect te ride to be closed? I booked my trip last month for may 2024. Flying from the other side of the world to finally experience The Haunted Mansion. This news without any more details has me a little stressed out.

Please do not remove the fountain between the mansion and Tiana’s Palace.

Will the Mansion be closed? I was planning attending Disneyland in March. Ever since we began dating in 2011, going together to Disneyland and visiting the Mansion has always been our dream. Sadly, he developed Kidney Failure and had been in dialysis… until I donated him a kidney and everything improved, and now we want to make our dream come true. But as much as we are happy for the changes coming to the Mansion, we are anxious about the time it will take for them to materialize and the timing of our trip.

Kelly: To be fair, in Ken Anderson’s early plans for what would be The Haunted Mansion in the late ’50’s, there was going to be a gift shop right at the end of the attraction (the first time it was ever considered).

I’m EXCITED! Ignore all the whining and complaining! You can’t please people who think the world revolves around them. Super excited!!

Please don’t remove ANY of the trees!!! 🌲 😢

Hopefully they’ll allow access to the hidden pet sematary again..

How long is the project expected to take? I am currently planning my next trip (first time since 2018) and seeing as Haunted Mansion is in my top 5 rides I really want to make sure it is open during my trip.

Best. News. Ever!!!! Can’t wait!! 👏

Looks great! Very glad that the area is receiving some attention.

Any word on how long Haunted Mansion will be down for? Hopefully it will be open before summer 2024? Also, does the addition of the exit elevator mean no more moving speedramp at the end of the ride, or will that remain?

This is so interesting! Will this renovation affect the DAS entrance or will it remain the same? Thanks so much! Looking forward to all the new changes!

This is amazing! Quick question – will the attraction be closed during construction?

Just another money grab. It is bad enough the merch is the same in every shop- mass produced junk. We visit often but stopped buying any merch over 2 years ago. Ripping out the beautiful fountain in that area to add seating for Tiana’s Palace. How about actually adding another attraction in critter country or by galaxy’s edge instead of a retheme?

Will the HM Ride be closed during this time or will there just be an alternate entrance into the ride during renovations?

I hope someone is considering additional or enhanced restrooms in New Orleans Square.

Please tell me you are not removing the beautiful fountain between the haunted mansion and Tiana’s

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Why Is the Haunted Mansion Closed at Disneyland?

The Haunted Mansion, an iconic and fan-favorite attraction at Disneyland, has been temporarily closed. This closure has raised many eyebrows and led to a flurry of questions. This comprehensive blog post will delve deep into the reasons behind the closure, the impact it has on visitors, alternative attractions to enjoy during the closure, and a brief history of similar past closures.

The Haunted Mansion at Disneyland is temporarily closed from August 14 to August 31, 2023, for refurbishment. The main reason for this closure is to install the official Holiday overlay, featuring characters from “The Nightmare Before Christmas”, in preparation for the annual Oogie Boogie Bash, a Halloween-themed event.

Haunted Mansion Closure: The Official Statement

Disneyland announced that the Haunted Mansion is undergoing refurbishment from August 14 to August 31, 2023. The primary reason behind this closure is to install the official Holiday overlay, a festive transformation of the attraction featuring characters from “The Nightmare Before Christmas”. This closure is part of Disneyland’s preparations for its annual Oogie Boogie Bash, a Halloween-themed event that runs from September 1st through October 31st.

The Impact of the Closure on Visitors

The closure of the Haunted Mansion has undeniably impacted the overall visitor experience at Disneyland. With many attractions closed for refurbishment, the park has seen increased wait times for open attractions and a surge in visitor dissatisfaction. Despite these challenges, Disneyland continues to offer a wide array of attractions, dining options, and entertainment, ensuring that visitors can still have an enjoyable time.

Alternate Attractions to Enjoy

While the Haunted Mansion is closed, visitors can still enjoy numerous other attractions at Disneyland. Indoor attractions such as Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, Carousel of Progress, and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin are excellent alternatives. Additionally, the monorail, which also serves as a unique attraction, can provide an alternative entrance to the park and a fun ride.

Past Closures of the Haunted Mansion

The Haunted Mansion has faced several closures in the past for various reasons, primarily for refurbishments and updates. For instance, in January 2020, the attraction underwent an extensive refurbishment. Such closures are common and necessary for routine maintenance and improvements.

Similar Attractions to the Haunted Mansion

For those missing the thrill of the Haunted Mansion, there are several similar attractions at Disneyland and other parks. Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris, Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Universal Studios, and Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Studios offer unique and thrilling experiences.

In conclusion, while the temporary closure of the Haunted Mansion may cause some disappointment, it is essential to remember that these refurbishments are part of ensuring the attraction remains in top shape for future enjoyment. Meanwhile, Disneyland offers a plethora of other exciting attractions to ensure visitors continue to have magical experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the haunted mansion reopen.

The Haunted Mansion is scheduled to reopen on September 1, 2023, in time for the annual Oogie Boogie Bash.

What is the Oogie Boogie Bash?

The Oogie Boogie Bash is Disneyland’s annual Halloween-themed event that runs from September 1st through October 31st. It features special attractions, character meet and greets, and festive decorations.

Is the Haunted Mansion closure a regular occurrence?

Yes, the Haunted Mansion regularly closes for refurbishments and updates. For instance, it closed in January 2020 for an extensive refurbishment.

Are there similar attractions to the Haunted Mansion at other parks?

Yes, there are several similar attractions at Disneyland and other parks. These include Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris, Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Universal Studios, and Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Studios.

What can visitors do during the closure of the Haunted Mansion?

During the closure, visitors can still enjoy other attractions at Disneyland. Some alternatives include Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, Carousel of Progress, and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. Additionally, the monorail can provide an alternative entrance to the park and a fun ride.

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Haunted Mansion Holiday

Decked out for the hallow-days.

Pumpkin King Jack Skellington has been busy decorating the Haunted Mansion with frightfully festive touches inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas .

Experience thrilling sights and seasonal surprises created by the citizens of Halloween Town. Sally, Oogie Boogie and other beasties from the beloved film will be on hand to wish you "Season’s Screamings!"

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Haunted Mansion Shutting Down Just as Movie Hits Theaters, Disney Worried About Another Flop?

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The Haunted Mansion is shutting down, only days after the film adaptation of the iconic Disney Parks attraction is released.

Disney Parks have many features in common (aside from their general vibe of joy and timeless earnestness, that is); currently, The Haunted Mansion dark ride greets Guests at Disneyland, Magic Kingdom , and Tokyo Disneyland, while the similar Phantom Manor (Disneyland Paris) and Mystic Manor (Hong Kong Disneyland) exist elsewhere.

However, The Haunted Mansion is one of the oldest and most iconic attractions (with the concept actually predating the founding of Disneyland itself) and unquestionably one of the biggest draws for families. So why is it being shut down so close to one of its biggest moments in pop culture ever?

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‘Haunted Mansion’ Will Be Released in Theaters in July

Twitter source @AshleyLCarter1 recently posted that the Disney World Magic Kingdom Haunted Mansion will be closing down between August 7-9, reportedly for “routine refurbishment,” which sounds innocuous enough.

Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom will close briefly Aug. 7-9 for "routine refurbishment," according to the Disney World website. pic.twitter.com/TJfmWGM8pd — Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) July 10, 2023

However, the Justin Simien-directed Haunted Mansion film is scheduled to be released nationwide on July 28, which basically means that a week after a movie that took years to develop and produce, Disney is shutting down its source material in its single biggest Park.

If it is for “routine refurbishment,” one would think the Walt Disney Company would want to take care of that before they released a massive advertisement for the ride across the country, during the popular summer months, when it desperately needs people to come to the Magic Kingdom.

Is Disney Worried About ‘Haunted Mansion?’

It is worth noting that Walt Disney Pictures is currently in the middle of a vicious losing streak when it comes to movie releases; by some measures, the costly flops of Elemental (2023), Strange World (2022), Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023), and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023) have cost the studio nearly a billion dollars in losses.

Even if Elemental is showing surprising staying power in international markets and might eventually make its money back, it is not a good look for the company to have so many misfires in a row.

Related: Disney Closes Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion and Peter Pan Rides Indefinitely

The film adaptation of Haunted Mansion , with its built-in name recognition and nostalgia factor, might be able to turn things around for the company. Or, on the other hand, Disney could be worried about the embarrassment factor of its second attempt to turn the ride into a film flopping and decide to quietly shut it down for a while.

Then, of course, there is the chance that it might be culturally “canceled” before it has even hit theaters.

Disney has a lot to worry about these days.

‘Haunted Mansion’ Was in Development for Years

After the flop of the Eddie Murphy-led adaptation (2003), it took years for Disney to get another Haunted Mansion in theaters.

For quite some time, Mexican filmmaker and horror legend Guillermo del Toro was attached to the project, but considering he has an entire, extensive Wikipedia page about projects he has not gotten around to , that was probably not a good route for Disney.

The current film is directed by Justin Simien and written by Katie Dippold and will star Danny DeVito, LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson, Rosario Dawson, Jamie Lee Curtis , and Jared Leto (as the Hatbox Ghost, naturally). Dan Levy and Winona Ryder are also set to appear in the movie.

It could be just a coincidence that Disney has to do some routine repairs on The Haunted Mansion, right after this opens to audiences. But maybe not.

Do you think Haunted Mansion will flop in theaters? Let us know in the comments!

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Haunted Mansion – Disney+ Review (3/5)

Posted by Karina "ScreamQueen" Adelgaard | Oct 4, 2023 | Read Time 4 min.

HAUNTED MANSION (2023) on Disney+ is a new take on a movie inspired by the Disneyland ride of the same name. It’s a horror-comedy for the whole family but do stay with your kids while watching – at least the first time. A great cast and story. Read our full 2023 Haunted Mansion  movie review here!

HAUNTED MANSION (2023) is now on Disney+ and it really is a horror-comedy for the whole family. Releasing it on Disney+ in October is brilliant and I can easily imagine younger viewers managing to watch this quite a few times before Halloween is over. The story is dark in dealing with deep grief, but the paranormal horror and the comedy keep it from getting too dark.

With a runtime of just around two hours, it is too long. If a good 15 minutes had been cut, it would definitely have made for a tighter and stronger overall experience. Having said that, I could still see myself watching this again during Halloween. Especially when wanting to introduce the wonders of horror to the next generation.

Continue reading our 2023 Haunted Mansion movie review below. It was in movie theaters this past summer and is on Disney+ (and VOD) from October 4, 2023.

From Disneyland ride to a movie

Most will probably know that this isn’t the first time the Disneyland theme park attraction “Haunted Mansion” has been adapted into a movie. 20 years ago (in 2003), Eddie Murphy starred in The Haunted Mansion . However, this new 2023 version isn’t simply a remake. Instead, it’s a completely new story and movie.

One that has quite a lot of depth and layers that will hit differently for viewers of various ages.

While this 2023  Haunted Mansion  movie is for the whole family, it is also a  horror -comedy at its core. We’re talking ghosts trying to kill living people and lots of scary moments. Also, there’s the subject of grief and even depression.

The core story in this new version features a woman (Rosario Dawson) and her son (Chase Dillon) who are looking to start their lives in a new setting. Unfortunately, the place they plan on living in  and  creating a cute Bed and breakfast is the house this movie is named for. Once realizing it’s a very haunted place, mother and son enlist a motley crew of experts to help them get rid of the paranormal squatters.

Yes, I’m oversimplifying – obviously – but you need to experience all the details firsthand.

As a treat, I can tell you that if you’ve ever tried the Disneyland ride this is based on, you should feel right at home. There are plenty of direct references to the ride, so even if it’s been a while, it’ll probably ring a bell.

So many fun characters

If there’s one character who isn’t supposed to be fun, it’s Ben Matthias. He is a scientist and doesn’t really believe in the paranormal or supernatural. Of course, all this is supposed to change, and LaKeith Stanfield plays the role of Ben perfectly. He also works really well with Rosario Dawson and Chase Dillon as the mother and son in dire need of help at the haunted mansion they’ve just purchased.

Personally, I also loved that there was never much of an issue of whether the mother, Gabbie, believed her son, Travis when he said something was off. The moment she felt something was off, she took her son and ran. A small detail, but one that matters after seeing so many  movies where parents ignore both the worries of their children  and  things happening around them.

I’m always happy to see both LaKeith Stanfield ( The Changeling series ) and Rosario Dawson ( Calls ), so it was no surprise that they worked so well in this Disney movie. However, the young Chase W. Dillon was a welcomed surprise. Kid characters can be written as over-the-top, but Chase W. Dillon ( Saint X ) manages to portray Travis in a way that made me wish he was in every scene. Some amazing talent in that kid!

Aside from the three above-mentioned actors, we have a true all-star ensemble cast in Haunted Mansion  (2023). This includes Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson , and Danny DeVito with small key roles (sometimes cameo-like) played by Daniel Levy, Winona Ryder , Jared Leto , and Jamie Lee Curtis .

Watch the 2023 Haunted Mansion  on Disney+ or VOD now!

Justin Simien is the director of  Haunted Mansion in this 2023 version and I enjoyed it a lot more than I expected. Sure, as a horror-comedy for the whole family, I knew it would be solid entertainment. However, the story in this movie goes a lot deeper in surprising ways. Previously, Justin Simien worked on  Bad Hair  (2020) , a Hulu movie he both wrote and directed.

The screenplay for  Haunted Mansion comes from Katie Dippold who has worked on a lot of solid comedy productions. Including horror and comedy hybrids such as the 2016 Ghostbusters   movie. A movie I still insist on was a brilliant movie and one I enjoy re-watching every now and then. As a little treat.

Along with watching this new 2023 movie as part of your Disney+ subscription, you can also buy it digitally from all major digital retailers including Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. If you do that, you’ll be getting exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content. With this amazing cast, it might be worth considering if you enjoy that sort of thing.

Haunted Mansion (2023) is on Disney+ from October 4, 2023. 

Director: Justin Simien Writer: Katie Dippold Cast: LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rosario Dawson, Chase W. Dillon, Daniel Levy, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jared Leto, Winona Ryder

Haunted Mansion is the story of a woman and her son who enlist a motley crew of so-called spiritual experts to help them rid their home of supernatural squatters.

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About The Author

Karina "ScreamQueen" Adelgaard

I write reviews and recaps on Heaven of Horror. And yes, it does happen that I find myself screaming, when watching a good horror movie. I love psychological horror, survival horror and kick-ass women. Also, I have a huge soft spot for a good horror-comedy. Oh yeah, and I absolutely HATE when animals are harmed in movies, so I will immediately think less of any movie, where animals are harmed for entertainment (even if the animals are just really good actors). Fortunately, horror doesn't use this nearly as much as comedy. And people assume horror lovers are the messed up ones. Go figure!

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Haunted Mansion was filmed in the ‘most haunted’ city in America

Haunted Mansion has creeped its way onto Disney+ and is packed with fun-filled frights but where was the spooky scare fest filmed?

After hitting theaters during a busy summer blockbuster season – and releasing just one week after Barbie and Oppenheimer – the 2023 adaptation of Haunted Mansion has arrived on Disney+ just in time for Halloween and it invites viewers to explore its vast array of ghostly filming locations .

Where was Haunted Mansion filmed?

Haunted Mansion was filmed primarily in New Orleans , Louisiana and Atlanta, Georgia in the USA.

Filming on the project began on October 4, 2021, and continued for around five months before wrapping in late February 2022.

The bulk of production took place at Trilith Studios in Atlanta where a number of sets were built to create the interior of the titular haunted mansion, Gracey Manor.

Meanwhile, exterior shooting was held in and around the city of New Orleans, with the French Quarter and Lafayette Cemetery No. 2 standing out as two key locations.

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New Orleans is a haunted hotspot

Haunted Mansion’s use of New Orleans as a filming location is incredibly appropriate for two reasons.

The first is that the original Haunted Mansion film from 2003 also used New Orleans as a central location while the second is that the city is regarded as the most haunted location in the United States.

Not only does the city have an affinity for ghosts and all things spectral but New Orleans has a storied history in Vampire lore.

As a result, New Orleans plays host to an endless array of ghost tours, voodoo shops, eerie cemeteries and haunted hotels that would make for the perfect Halloween-themed vacation.

It should come as no surprise, therefore, that the city has played host to a plethora of weird and wonderful horror and thriller projects over the years, including American Horror Story , the newly released No One Will Save You, the upcoming Five Nights at Freddy’s movie, Interview with the Vampire, Scream Queens and The Vampire Diaries spin-off The Originals.

The houses of Haunted Mansion

The majority of 2023’s Haunted Mansion takes place at Gracey Manor, the new home of the film’s central characters Gabbie and her son Travis, played by Rosario Dawson and Chase Dillon respectively.

Matters take a troubling turn when they discover that the building, which is based on the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland in Anaheim, is home to a creepy cabal of ghosts who attempt to scare off the new residents.

On top of that, the movie also features a second house, Crump Manor, where one of the ghosts lived while they were alive. This haunted home is based on Magic Kingdom’s version of The Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World in Florida.

A particularly noteworthy detail about the two houses is that they’re both named after Disney Imagineers who helped to design The Haunted Mansion attraction, Yale Gracey and Roland “Rolly” Crump and it should come as no surprise that the film features plenty of easter eggs and references to the original theme park ride.

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Haunted Mansion is available to stream now on Disney+ after being added to the streaming service on Wednesday, October 4, 2023.

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Screen Rant

Disney’s haunted mansion dropped the ball on such an easy cameo.

Disney's new Haunted Mansion is full of exciting canon-inspired surprises from the ride, but the movie massively drops the ball on an easy cameo.

• The new Haunted Mansion movie missed an opportunity to give fans an exciting cameo by underutilizing the iconic hitchhiking ghosts from the theme park attraction.
• The trio's short graveyard appearance in the film was underwhelming and did not fully capitalize on their popularity and importance in The Haunted Mansion franchise.
• The movie could have included the hitchhiking ghosts as part of the plot by having them follow guests home, providing more screen time and a more satisfying cameo.

Disney's Haunted Mansion remake dropped the ball on an easy cameo that could have been more exciting for fans of the theme park attraction than it actually was. Influenced by the Haunted Mansion ride featured in Disneyland, Magic Kingdom, and Tokyo Disney — and the 2003 live-action film adaptation of the same name — the new Haunted Mansion movie had heaps of material to draw inspiration from. To its credit, the recent Haunted Mansion film implemented plenty of Easter eggs, lore, and notable character appearances that referenced some of the best elements of The Haunted Mansion's iterations across popular culture.

Haunted Mansion's cast of characters includes canon figures like Madame Leota and William Gracey, as well as newly introduced characters like Gabbie and Travis and a gaggle of " supernatural experts " attempting to rid the mansion of ghosts drawn directly from the Haunted Mansion rides. Of the recognizable apparitions the new movie includes, the token trio of hitchhiking ghosts — Gus, Ezra, and Phineas — are featured in a short cameo appearance. The incorporation of the hitchhiking ghosts is as fun to watch as all of Haunted Mansion's other canon-inspired surprises. However, their role in the movie could have been a lot more impressive had they been considered for a larger cameo.

Haunted Mansion's Ghosts Who Follow People Home Should Have Been The Hitchhiking Ghosts

The hitchhiking ghosts appear in almost all The Haunted Mansion mediums, but they are most famous for their role in Disney's haunted house attraction. During the ride-through of the Haunted Mansion , theme park guests can catch sight of Gus, Ezra, and Phineas in the crypts, where they loiter with their thumbs out in a classic hitchhiking gesture. The 2023 Haunted Mansion movie could have used their hitchhiking habits to have them follow people home. Instead, the trio only crops up in a short graveyard scene for a quick cameo appearance.

In the remake, once a guest visits the titular manor, they are irrevocably tied to the mansion and can only be freed if the curse of Haunted Mansion's Hat-Box Ghost is broken. If they attempt to leave, ghosts are sent to follow them home and haunt them until they return to the mansion. This could have been the perfect avenue to feature the hitchhiking ghosts as " hitching " a ride with those escaping the mansion. This would have been both hilarious and satisfying for fans of the ride, but Haunted Mansion unfortunately failed to make the most of the characters.

Why Disney's Haunted Mansion's Hitchhiking Ghosts Cameo Is So Underwhelming

Had the hitchhiking ghosts been tasked with following escaping guests home, they'd have the opportunity for more screen time and a more fulfilling cameo. Gus, Ezra, and Phineas are iconic to The Haunted Mansion franchise, but their seriously underwhelming scene does little to acknowledge that, nor does it give them much value in the overall storyline. Haunted Mansion may be able to make amends for floundering the roles of the hitchhiking ghosts in the potential Haunted Mansion sequel . However, until then, audiences will have to look to the franchise's other mediums if they want to catch more of Gus, Ezra, and Phineas.