After the wild fun of Adventureland, we were ready for something a little different—but just as exciting. Jake, still hyped up from Indiana Jones, was fully on board for some more “cool” attractions, while Bill and Ella were mostly excited about the promise of a snack break. Annie was complaining to Henry questioning his photography skills. I usually prefer to stay out of the drama that the daughter and Dad create but I had to intervene here because we still need to keep going. With that, we made our way to New Orleans Square, home of pirates, ghosts, and (most importantly) beignets.
Sailing with Pirates: A Family Favorite
The Pirates of the Caribbean ride was a no-brainer. It’s one of those classics that never gets old, no matter how many times you ride it. Baby Ella and Bill were a little unsure about the dark, eerie entrance, but the second we were floating past treasure caves and dodging cannon fire, they were hooked. Annie tried to act like she wasn’t impressed—until the drop came and she let out a very dramatic scream. And Jake? Boy was happy to get the chance to tease his brave sister for years.
Also, can we talk about that water smell? If you know, you know.
The Haunted Mansion: A (Mostly) Chilling Experience
Next, we wandered over to The Haunted Mansion, and let me just say—this was an adventure. Bill and Ella were already giving me side-eye at the idea of a “ghost house,” but Jake was so excited to finally check it out. The moment we stepped into the stretching room, Annie decided that maybe this wasn’t for her after all. I ended up doing my best “everything is fine” pep talk while also keeping an eye on my youngest, who kept trying to bolt.
By the time we got onto the ride itself, though, they both relaxed a little—until the ghosts actually started hitching a ride with us. Jake thought it was hilarious, Bill and Ella… not so much. So, they cling to their Dad afterwards. But hey, no nightmares (so far), so I’m counting it as a win!
Snack Break: The Magic of Mickey Beignets
At this point, we all needed a break, and there was only one solution: Mickey-shaped beignets. Soft, powdered sugar-covered perfection. I ordered a batch, thinking we’d each get one, but I clearly underestimated my kids’ ability to inhale sweets at record speed. Lesson learned—always order extra.
While we sat and enjoyed our treats, the music, atmosphere, and slower pace of New Orleans Square made it feel like we were in a totally different world from the rest of Disneyland. It was a much-needed breather before the next adventure.
Final Thoughts: A Little Spooky, A Lot of Fun
New Orleans Square had something for everyone—adventure, mystery, and the best snack of the day. Jake t got their thrill fix, (no comments from Annie, she was never a fan of horror movies) Bill and Ella had their first (semi-successful) haunted house experience, and I got to enjoy some Disney nostalgia while watching them soak it all in. I hate how Henry asked the staff if they wanted to hire his wife to play a ghost because I am good at scaring by just staring. I know I know typical husband jokes that we hate but I teased him back that nothing can be scarier than his singing skills. Thankfully the kids were on my side and he ended up changing the topic.
Next up? Frontierland! Time to trade ghosts and pirates for cowboys and coasters.