Walt Disney World announced Tuesday that three longstanding rides at Magic Kingdom will officially close down for good later this summer. July 6 will mark the final day for parkgoers to experience Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle. The three attractions will shut down on July 7 to make way for the new Cars-themed expansion.
Last summer, Chairman of Disney Experiences Josh D’Amaro announced that two new Cars-themed attractions would be coming to Frontierland. “The American West has always been about keeping your eyes on the horizon, believing in yourself, carving your own path, and striving toward success,” D’Amaro said.
Magic Kingdom’s new Cars expansion
“That goes for miners in the mountains, bears from the country, a princess from the bayou, or a racecar from the big city.”
Following the announcement, Disney confirmed that the Liberty Belle and Tom Sawyer Island would be removed, along with at least part of the Rivers of America. Earlier this year, speculation arose about the fate of these attractions, and now it has been confirmed that they will be closed. A detailed explanation of the new-look Cars-themed miniland, known as Piston Peak National Park, reveals that Imagineers have designed a brand-new ride system to capture the feeling of navigating rugged terrain, hills, and rocky paths.
This promises a major shift from the smooth, water-based attractions currently occupying the space. As for the shuttered attractions, Rivers of America has been a part of the park since its inception in 1971, while the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island opened in May 1973. Fans have until July 6 to enjoy these classic rides one last time.
