There are a lot of BIG new attractions in the works at Disneyland (ahem Avengers Campus), but now that the park reopened, we’re most excited to revisit our nostalgic standbys! 

Haunted Mansion

When it comes to Disneyland nostalgia, few rides capture the warm and fuzzies like Haunted Mansion. So imagine our giddy delight when we got the opportunity to go BACKSTAGE on this beloved attraction! 

Let’s be honest. As soon as the gates reopened at Disneyland, after more than a YEAR-long closure, we basically sprinted into the park out of sheer glee! 

Main Street

After we reconnected with some familiar faces and got our Disney cupcake fix, one of the things we were MOST excited for was Haunted Mansion! 

Haunted Mansion

We knew a few changes had been made at the iconic attraction, which closed for refurbishment back in early 2020, and it had us EXTRA intrigued to reconvene with the Happy Haunts.

Poor Mr. Snake!

But even BETTER, we got an unexpected behind-the-scenes glimpse while we were waiting in line, when a Cast Member asked if we were comfortable taking stairs… .

Door to Haunted Mansion Hallway

When we said yes, we were taken through a hallway to a backstage area, which bypassed a portion of the regular queue. 

Hallway

We skipped the famous stretching room, and went down some stairs and a ramp. They have the same portraits in the hallway, so you won’t miss them from the stretching room! Although these ones don’t stretch, we didn’t mind because we got this awesome detour.

Portraits

We then wound up right outside the exit to the stretching room, and on we went to the rest of the ride. 

More Portraits Backstage!

Needless to say, this was the perfect way to get us PUMPED for Haunted Mansion in a whole new way. It was special to get a new look at a fav ride at Disneyland! We’ll continue to keep you updated on the latest from a reopened Disneyland!

PHOTOS: Even Disneyland Rides Have Bad Days Sometimes

Which Disneyland ride do you most want to see backstage? Let us know in the comments!