Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island have permanently closd to make way for a new Cars area in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort.
We have quite a few exciting projects in the future of Disney World. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Muppets Courtyard is getting ready to close to make way for a new Monsters, Inc. land. In Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a new Tropical Americas land is coming in place of DinoLand, U.S.A., with rides themed to Encanto and Indiana Jones.
And in Magic Kingdom, we have not one but two exciting lands in development. Beyond Big Thunder Mountain, a new Disney Villains land has been officially announced. And in Frontierland, a new Cars-themed area will be taking the place of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island.
Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island Closing Date
Both Rivers of America (including the Liberty Belle boat ride) and Tom Sawyer Island have permanently closed as of July 7, 2025. New construction in the area will make way for a new Cars-themed area in Frontierland, known as Piston Peak National Park. Piston Peak will include two attractions and feature a brand-new setting and story featuring Cars.
During this time, the Walt Disney World Railroad will continue operating, with the exception of the Frontierland station, which will temporarily close. The train will instead operate in “shuttle mode,” going back and forth between the Main Street and Fantasyland stations instead of a full loop. To accommodate guests who may get motion sick going backwards, some benches will be turned around for this.
Photo Courtesy of Disney
When it opens, Piston Peak will be home to two rides: an exhilarating tally racing ride, and a family ride. A new concept art of the map has revealed that the setting will be a new adventure in the world of Cars, including many features and original characters, such as a new character inspired by Disney’s J. Audubon Woodlore.
You can read more about the expansion, including all the concept art and details we know, in our full guide here.
Like what you just read?
That tells us you’re the type who never misses a Hidden Mickey. Respect.
