Walt Disney World has announced significant changes for Magic Kingdom, involving the closure of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island. Both attractions have long been integral parts of the park, offering guests a chance to explore iconic American storytelling and experience a slower-paced adventure.
With a confirmed final operation date of July 6th, 2025, these closures mark the beginning of Magic Kingdom’s next phase of transformation. Here, we’ll break down what these updates mean for the park and its future.
Closure Details and Timeline
Final Day of Operation
The Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island will officially close to the public on July 7th, 2025. According to Walt Disney World, this closure is part of a larger reimagining project that will bring new themed experiences to the park. Guests who want to enjoy these attractions one last time are encouraged to plan their visit before the listed date.
Impact on Nearby Attractions
The closure of Rivers of America also means temporary adjustments for the Liberty Square Riverboat, which will halt operation during the refurbishment and construction period. While other attractions in Liberty Square and Frontierland will remain open, this area will go through substantial changes over the coming years.
Why Are These Changes Happening?
Introduction of New Experiences
The space currently occupied by Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island is being reimagined to accommodate two major themed expansions. One of the new areas will be focused on a “Cars”-inspired land, adding experiences based on Disney and Pixar’s popular franchise. This addition positions Magic Kingdom to offer more attractions suitable for families and younger audiences.
Villains Land Addition
The second section of the reimagined space will introduce the highly anticipated Villains Land, an area devoted to Disney’s iconic villain characters. This project includes new rides, dining options, and immersive storytelling. It’s worth noting that this is the first time Disney Villains will have a dedicated space in a domestic park, which has garnered excitement from Disney fans worldwide.
Historical Significance of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island
Legacy and Nostalgia
Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island have been staples of Magic Kingdom since its opening in 1971. Inspired by Mark Twain’s classic tales of adventure and exploration, Tom Sawyer Island invites guests to explore caves, trails, and a fort in the middle of Liberty Square and Frontierland. Similarly, the Rivers of America attraction has provided guests with a whimsical and scenic riverboat tour of this area of the park.
Part of Walt Disney’s Vision
These attractions are rooted in Walt Disney’s original vision to create spaces that tell the stories of America. Liberty Square, accompanied by the waterway of Rivers of America, highlights different aspects of American history, while Tom Sawyer Island offers an imaginative escape reflective of mid-19th century storytelling.
What Happens Next
Timeline and Construction
Following the closure, Disney will begin draining the Rivers of America and removing infrastructure to make way for the new expansions. Construction is expected to last several years, with phased updates and announcements expected from Disney Imagineering during the process.
Long-Term Changes to Magic Kingdom
The planned expansions will significantly change the landscape of Liberty Square and Frontierland. While nostalgia for the original attractions will linger, Disney’s commitment to innovation ensures that the new developments align with evolving guest expectations and storytelling trends.
Saying Goodbye and Looking Ahead
The closure of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island is a bittersweet moment for Disney fans. These attractions have provided decades of memories for visitors and have helped shape Magic Kingdom’s identity.
For those planning a visit before July 6th, 2025, this will be the last chance to experience these beloved attractions. Stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter for updates on the progress of Magic Kingdom’s transformation as Disney continues to share details about what lies ahead.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
