Tom Sawyer Island: All About This Underrated Attraction

Many guests visit Disney World without even realizing that they are missing out on one of Disney’s best attractions Tom Sawyer Island is a unique attraction located in Frontierland of Magic Kingdom. This attraction is true to its name: an island! It is accessible via log raft. This island is ripe for adventure and has so many details and fun areas to explore. If you are planning a trip to Magic Kingdom then continue reading to learn all about this underrated attraction!

Transportation and Location

Tom Sawyer Island is located in Frontierland and is only accessible via motorized log raft. These rafts are available to board near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and they typically accommodate up to 40 guests. Once you arrive at Tom Sawyer Island you disembark at Tom’s Landing, which is the same area you’ll return to when you want to catch a ride back to Frontierland. Due to the nature of the log rafts you might experience a wait when attempting to leave the island. If there is any inclement weather expected then the rafts cannot run, so this attraction tends to be closed on stormy days. Guests should be ambulatory in order to experience this attraction, as the paths are not suitable for wheelchairs or ECVs, and strollers are not permitted on the island.

Attractions

Tom Sawyer Island is where guests can experience exploration and wilderness. There are several paths that run through Tom Sawyer Island and several maps posted along the way. Once guests arrive on the dock they are greeted with rocking chairs and checker boards, perfect for taking a break and relaxing near the water. Guests will spot Harper’s Mill which is a working and historically accurate grain mill. As guests continue walking they will find a playground that is perfect for small children.

As you make your way further into Tom Sawyer Island you’ll come across Old Scratch’s Mine. This abandoned mine takes you “underground” through dark passageways, eventually leading to precious gems. Near Old Scratch’s Mine is a cave that is ripe for exploring. Another area for exploration is Potters Mill that guests can enter and climb the winding staircase to the top for great views.

Tom Sawyer Island is home to two fun bridges: a suspension bridge that takes you to another portion of the island and a wobbly and difficult-t0-cross barrel bridge that leads to a viewing area of the park. After crossing the suspension bridge guests will find themselves at Pappy’s Fishing Pier, another lookout point, and be able to make their way to Fort Langhorn. Fort Langhorn is a large old-fashioned fort where guests can climb the towers and fire the air rifles perched at the top. Guests exploring the fort will even come across an audio-animatronic blacksmith.

Dining

Aunt Polly’s Dockside Diner is a quick-service restaurant that is located near Tom’s Landing, however this restaurant is rarely open. Aunt Polly’s has been known to open periodically throughout the busiest seasons but in general guests should expect this establishment to be closed during their visit.

Other Tips

Tom Sawyer Island is a great attraction to visit if you need to make use of any downtime you might have in the parks. Guests should expect to spend at least 40 minutes here, and due to the possibility of delays returning to Frontierland guests shouldn’t journey here prior to any reservations they might have. Overall, Tom Sawyer Island is an underrated attraction that too many guests skip. It is an intricate experience that is worth visiting, especially if you have children between the ages of 5 and 12!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.