Disney has confirmed that Disneyland's upcoming Coco-themed attraction will occupy primarily backstage areas near Disney California Adventure's Paradise Gardens Park and Pixar Pier, while the new Avatar land will take over part of the current Hollywood Backlot section. This transformation means Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! will permanently close in early 2026 to accommodate the Avatar expansion.
The Disney Parks Blog shared these details along with fresh concept art, revealing that construction for the Coco attraction will commence backstage this fall. First announced at D23 2024, this will mark the inaugural attraction based on the beloved Pixar film.
Inspired by classic attractions like Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean, Disney's creative team plans to incorporate groundbreaking Audio-Animatronic technology to bring skeletal characters to life in unprecedented ways.
Regarding the Avatar project, Disney noted it remains in early development phases, with construction timelines and additional details to come later. This expansion, also unveiled at D23 2024, will draw inspiration from Avatar: The Way of Water and future films in the franchise, offering fresh interpretations of Pandora.
While Animal Kingdom has featured Pandora - The World of Avatar since 2017, Disneyland will soon feature its own immersive Avatar-themed experience.
Although saying goodbye to Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! may disappoint some fans, Disney World's Hollywood Studios will debut an entirely new Monsters, Inc. area featuring the resort's first-ever suspended coaster through the franchise's iconic door warehouse.
Alongside these attraction updates, Disney announced plans for a new east-side parking structure and transportation hub replacing part of the Manchester cast member parking lot. This development will add approximately 6,000 parking spaces while improving traffic flow with dedicated shuttle areas, security screening, and access from Disney Way.
The project will include a pedestrian bridge over Harbor Boulevard leading to a redesigned esplanade entry experience while maintaining access to Harbor Boulevard itself.
For more Disney updates, explore our guide to Disneyland's 70th anniversary celebration, 14 reasons to experience Walt Disney World's Cool Kid Summer, and details about Magic Kingdom's upcoming Cars-themed Piston Peak National Park.
