Disney Parks Blog has confirmed that the Rivers of America, including Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat, will close permanently after July 6, 2025. This long-standing section of Magic Kingdom will make way for a new Cars-themed land in Frontierland.
Final Day of Rivers Of America Operation: July 6, 2025
Guests will have their final chance to ride the Liberty Belle or explore Tom Sawyer Island on July 6. Starting July 7, these areas will become inaccessible.
While construction begins behind the scenes, walls won’t appear immediately. Imagineering confirmed that once walls are installed, they won’t block paths or parade views.
History Of Rivers Of America, Tom Sawyer Island
The Rivers of America have been part of Magic Kingdom since opening day in 1971. Tom Sawyer Island and the Riverboat launched later in May 1973.
The Liberty Square Riverboat takes guests on a scenic ride past historic frontier scenes. The attraction includes narration and riverside show scenes that bring the American frontier to life.
This closure marks the end of an era for these classic offerings.
Past Attractions on the Rivers Of America
Several other attractions once operated along the Rivers of America:
- Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes (closed in 1994)
- Mike Fink Keelboats (closed in 2001)
The Mike Fink dock, currently used for Haunted Mansion’s extended queue, will also be removed.
Disney originally operated two steamboats on the river. The Admiral Joe Fowler, launched in 1971, was destroyed in 1980. Since then, the Liberty Belle has served as the sole riverboat.
New Details On Cars Replacing At Rivers Of America
This closure clears the way for a major new expansion. Disney Imagineers plan to build a Cars-themed land in the space currently occupied by the Rivers of America.
Unlike Radiator Springs, this land will feature a fictional National Park set in the Smoky Mountains. Expect attractions, natural landscapes, and a fresh story unique to Magic Kingdom.
The land aims to blend the rustic charm of Frontierland with the popular Cars franchise.
Disney has not announced the final fate of the Liberty Belle Riverboat. Discussions between Imagineering and park operations are ongoing. For now, its future remains uncertain.
The End Of An Era At Magic Kingdom
Guests visiting this summer should ride the Liberty Belle and visit Tom Sawyer Island before July 6. After that, these attractions will disappear as Disney transforms the area for a new generation of parkgoers.
Stay tuned to official park updates and the My Disney Experience app for project developments and future announcements.
This is a developing story, please stay tuned to RideRover for more updates.
