Disneyland Pushes Monsters Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue Closure to 2027

Disneyland Extends Monsters Inc. Attraction Closure into 2027

As the ambitious DisneylandForward project begins to take shape, a major shift in the transformation of Disney California Adventure has been revealed. While a portion of the Hollywood Backlot—including the current site of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!—is destined to become the breathtaking new Pandora – The World of Avatar, the monsters aren’t leaving just yet.

Originally slated to close in early 2026 to break ground on the Na’vi’s new home, Disney has officially pushed the attraction’s closure date into 2027. This decision was made with younger families in mind, ensuring that those with little ones still have a full lineup of accessible experiences to enjoy while the park prepares for its massive Avatar-themed evolution.

Related – Disneyland Removing Park Hopping Rule

Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! has been a Hollywood Land staple since 2006, famously replacing the short-lived Superstar Limo during Disney California Adventure’s first major overhaul. While this specific dark ride’s days are numbered on the West Coast, Monstropolis is far from gone; a brand-new Monsters, Inc. door coaster is officially coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.

Despite the attraction’s impending removal to make way for Pandora – The World of Avatar, Disney leadership has confirmed that keeping the monsters in town through 2026 won’t delay the Na’vi’s arrival. By cleverly re-sequencing construction phases, Imagineers found a way to keep the doors open into 2027 without pushing back the Avatar project. While some fans remain skeptical about how such a massive project can proceed without immediate access to the Hollywood Backlot, the lack of an official opening date for the new land means the internal timeline remains a closely guarded secret.

Pandora – The World of Avatar was first teased during a 2023 earnings call, with more concrete details emerging at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2024. Guests were treated to a first look at concept art and a detailed model showcasing an all-new boat ride. This version of Pandora will draw inspiration from Avatar: The Way of Water and future sequels, offering a unique experience that differs from the existing land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

The decision to grant Mike and Sulley a “stay of execution” is a strategic move to prioritize young families. Recognizing that DCA currently has limited options for small children, Disney is keeping the ride operational to ensure parents have a reliable, kid-friendly attraction while new offerings—like the upcoming “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” celebration—get up and running.

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