Closing time for Tom Sawyer Island, Rivers of America at Disney World's Magic Kingdom
First, parts of DinoLand, U.S.A., then Muppets Courtyard.
Now, another iconic corner of Walt Disney World has shuttered.
Sunday, July 6 was the last operating day for Tom Sawyer Island, Liberty Square Riverboat and Rivers of America at Magic Kingdom in Florida.
For decades, this tree-lined stretch of Frontierland and Liberty Square invited guests to break away from the hustle and bustle of the world's most visited theme park, to take in the scenery and slow down.
The closing was announced at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event last August, but a specific date wasn't shared until June.
Here's why the attractions were closed and what guests can expect from their replacement.
What is Tom Sawyer Island?
Like its counterpart at Disneyland in California, Tom Sawyer Island was an old-timey island amid the Rivers of America, which guests could reach by raft or circle by riverboat.
"Wander dusty dirt roads lined with tall trees, explore whirling mills and amble across creaky suspension bridges. Navigate narrow passages amid secret mined caves and uncover a frontier fort," read the attraction's page on Disney World's website. "Along the way, follow in the pioneering footsteps of early settlers, during an era when Mark Twain and Tom Sawyer reflected a new nation coming into its own. It’s an unforgettable expedition into the heart of the American frontier!"
D23, the Official Disney Fan Club notes both Disneyland and Disney World's Tom Sawyer Island were present on the opening days of their respective parks, but their attractions didn't open until later. Disneyland's version was personally designed by Walt Disney and given a pirate overlay in 2007.
It's important to note that only Magic Kingdom's version has closed. Disneyland's Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer Island will remain open, as will its Rivers of America and riverboat.
What was the Liberty Belle?
The Liberty Belle was the name of the riverboat that took guests around Tom Sawyer Island. The 47-foot tall, steam-engine vessel was modeled after ships that used to ferry people along the Mississippi River. Guests traveling on the Rivers of America would hear a recorded narration inspired by Mark Twain, recounting his memories of the Mississippi.
"During this charming, 17-minute trip, you’ll encounter a rarely seen side of Magic Kingdom park. Behold a bevy of sights from the early days of the American frontier, including: an early American settlement, an idyllic Native American village, Harper’s Mill, Fort Langhorn, Wilson’s Cave Inn, woodland animals," read the Liberty Square Riverboat's attraction webpage. "You’ll also be treated to unique views of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Haunted Mansion."
Why is Disney closing Tom Sawyer Island?
Tom Sawyer Island, Liberty Square Riverboat and Rivers of America closed to make way for Magic Kingdom's largest expansion to date. The Florida park is getting a whole new area beyond Big Thunder Mountain, including a new Villians land in years to come.
The space where Tom Sawyer Island stood will be replaced by a new "Cars"-inspired area different from the Radiator Springs setting of Cars Land in Disney California Adventure.
The new area will be called "Piston Peak National Park."
"Imagine an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers and impressive geysers," Disney Parks Blog posted in June. "Inside Piston Peak, guests will be able to see and explore the visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, trails and more all set within the Disney and Pixar 'Cars' universe."
Disney said Imagineers will use a style of architecture developed by the Natural Park Service to blend structures into Rocky Mountain-inspired Piston Peak, and trees will serve as a natural border between an off-road rally attraction and the rest of Frontierland and Liberty Square.
Concept art shared by Disney shows water will also remain a prominent part of the landscape.
(This story was updated with additional information and photos.)