Visitors to Magic Kingdom are facing reality after the closure of three beloved Frontierland attractions on July 7 so that Disney can carry out its largest expansion to date, a theme park inspired by national parks called Piston Peak.
Frontierland’s Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat have delighted guests for five decades. Now they’re making way for a Rocky Mountain wilderness that Disney promises will “tower, roar and geyser” like the real thing. Families eyeing a final spin on the Liberty Belle—or one last raft ride inspired by Mark Twain can no longer do so.
What shuts down on July 7 and why Disney says it’s worth it
The closures hit attractions dating back to the resort’s 1971 opening. Disney Imagineers insist the sacrifice unlocks a more immersive frontier, complete with a visitor lodge, Ranger HQ and trails straight from Pixar’s Cars universe. Still, fans wonder: will the nostalgia trade‑off pay off? Quick facts about closures:
- Last chance rides: Sunday, July 6 is the final full operating day.
- Why now? Construction crews need uninterrupted river access to reroute waterways and lay new foundations.
- Ticket deals: A simultaneous summer promotion drops children’s admission prices, easing the sting on families planning a farewell trip.
| Attraction | Year opened | Final day of operation |
|---|---|---|
| Rivers of America | 1971 | July 7, 2025 |
| Liberty Belle Riverboat | 1973 | July 7, 2025 |
| Tom Sawyer Island | 1973 | July 7, 2025 |
(Table 1. Timeline of closures.)
How the new Piston Peak land will immerse guests in rugged frontier adventure
Piston Peak National Park, stretching beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, aims to mirror the dramatic Rockies from British Columbia to New Mexico. Expect towering pines, snow‑capped ridges and “parkitecture” lodges that blend wood and stone just like Yosemite’s. Two headliner rides, themed dining and a villain‑inspired land next door promise to spread crowds and shorten wait times—music to any parent’s ears!
After the makeover, Big Thunder itself is slated to reopen next year with “new magic,” while July 20 brings the debut of Disney Starlight on Main Street and The Beak and Barrel for pirate‑minded adventurers. Planning a trip? You might ask, should I squeeze in one last classic cruise or hold out for the brand‑new thrills.
Disney is trading cherished memories for fresh storytelling canvas. Catch the riverboat’s whistle while you can, bookmark those discounted kid tickets, and keep an eye on construction timelines if you crave first‑day bragging rights. After all, the next chapter in Magic Kingdom history is about to erupt—quite literally—from a brand‑new geyser.