- Closing Date for Rivers of America
- History of the Rivers of America Attractions
- Rivers of America – What’s next: The Cars Themed Expansion
- Rivers of America: Permits and Construction Plans
Disney has finally announced the closing date for the Rivers of America, including the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island, at the Magic Kingdom.
Closing Date for Rivers of America
The last day of operation for all these offerings will be July 6, 2025. Starting July 7, guests will no longer be able to access the Rivers of America or its attractions. Construction walls won’t be erected for a few weeks after that, and a representative from Imagineering said that when walls are in place, they will not obstruct guest pathways or parade viewing areas for the immediate future. The demolition permits were approved earlier this year.
History of the Rivers of America Attractions
The Rivers of America was part of the Frontierland landscape since opening day, but the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island didn’t open until May 1973. The boat gives a scenic tour of the Rivers with narrations guiding guests through the history of the American frontier of old. Show scenes along the riverbanks add to the story.
Other Rivers of America attractions did exist previously at the park, but have long since been removed. The Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes closed back in 1994, while the Mike Fink Keelboats were shuttered in 2001. The original dock of the Mike Fink Keelboats in Liberty Square will be demolished as part of the project as well, even though it has been constantly used as extended queue for The Haunted Mansion in recent years.
The Magic Kingdom even had another Liberty Square Riverboat in the early years of the park. The then-Admiral Joe Fowler (now a name for one of the ferryboats from the Transportation and Ticket Center to the Magic Kingdom) operated from October 2, 1971 until it was destroyed in a dry dock accident in 1980, leaving the Liberty Belle the sole offering.
Watch our full POV video aboard the Liberty Belle below.
At this time, Imagineering is still talking with their partners at Walt Disney World to figure out what to do with the Liberty Belle Riverboat, but it’s unclear what the fate of the entire vessel will be.
Rafts carry guests over to Tom Sawyer Island, where they can embark on a self-guided tour of the Missouri wilderness, including bridges, caves, mines, and forts.
Rivers of America – What’s next: The Cars Themed Expansion
The area, including the Rivers of America and both attractions, is being replaced by a “Cars” themed expansion of Frontierland. Rather than Radiator Springs and Route 66, the new attraction will take place in a fictional National Park in the Rocky Mountains. It will feature a river and water features, keeping some of the Rivers of America aesthetic.
A Brand-New Adventure Coming to Magic Kingdom
As Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat prepare to sail into the sunset, with this official announcement by Disney, this Cars themed expansion will take over the area. While specific opening dates have not been confirmed, early concept details hint at this immersive land inspired by Radiator Springs. Guests can expect vibrant desert theming, character encounters with Lightning McQueen and Mater, and a fresh narrative designed specifically for Walt Disney World.
What Attractions Could Be Included?
According to early statements from Disney and permits filed with local agencies, the new expansion taking over the Rivers of America area, is expected to feature at least two rides. At the 2024 D23 Expo, Josh D’Amaro announced on stage, two Cars-themed attractions would be coming. One will likely be a high-energy racing attraction that pays homage to “Radiator Springs Racers” in Disney California Adventure, but with a unique twist for Florida visitors. The second ride is rumored to be a slower-paced family experience suitable for all ages, possibly themed around a scenic drive or tow truck-style adventure with Mater.
A Historic Shift in Magic Kingdom’s Landscape
This project marks the largest footprint change in Magic Kingdom since the addition of New Fantasyland over a decade ago. The shift toward character-driven lands is part of Disney’s broader strategy to deepen storytelling and increase appeal across generations. While many fans will undoubtedly miss the quiet charm of the Rivers of America, the new Cars-themed land aims to bring fresh energy and relevance to the park’s west side.
Rivers of America: Permits and Construction Plans
Demolition and Land Clearing
As part of the initial phase, Disney has filed demolition permits with the South Florida Water Management District. These permits detail the removal of waterway infrastructure and the transformation of the surrounding land to accommodate new attractions. The paperwork also includes drainage modifications and land grading, hinting at significant elevation changes that could be tied to new ride systems or show buildings.
Guest Impact and Timeline Expectations
While Disney has not released an official opening date for the new land, the scale of the permits and timeline of previous projects suggest a likely completion window between 2027 and 2028. During construction, guests can expect visual barriers, rerouted walkways near Liberty Square, and intermittent closures of adjacent attractions. Disney has stated it aims to minimize guest disruption as much as possible during this transition.
The Frontierland Railroad Station will also close, but the Walt Disney World Railroad will continue operating in “shuttle mode” during construction.
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