After weeks of passionate protests and angry emails flooding Disney’s inbox, the inevitable has happened: Disney began the demolition of Tom Sawyer Island in Magic Kingdom. Despite fervent opposition from fans, Walt Disney World Resort is moving forward with the major overhaul of Frontierland.
The final day of operation for Tom Sawyer Island, along with the Liberty Square Riverboat, was on July 6, 2025. For many Disney Parks fans, it marked the end of an era. These beloved Frontierland attractions had been a staple of the Magic Kingdom since the 1970s, so the decision to close them was met with fierce resistance. Guests took to social media, and emails poured in, voicing displeasure over the changes. However, Walt Disney World Resort, undeterred by the backlash, proceeded with its plans.
Construction walls began to appear overnight, effectively blocking off access to the Rivers of America area from Frontierland. In addition to the construction walls, Disney removed the Rivers of America from the Magic Kingdom Park map on the My Disney Experience app, covering the area with thick green foliage. This visual cue is typical for Disney parks when construction begins, as seen with recent changes in Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
While the protests grew louder, Disney cast members quickly moved forward with preparations for the new development. Redditor u/TharinWhite shared a video of the construction crews working on Tom Sawyer Island, with some workers even taking small boats around the area to assess the site.
Demolition begins on Tom Sawyer Island
Demolition begins on Tom Sawyer Island
byu/TharinWhite inDisneyWorld
The demolition of Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America is making way for the upcoming Piston Peak National Park area. Inspired by the Cars franchise, the new area will bring a fresh theme to Frontierland, showcasing the beauty of America’s national parks. Disney has promised to preserve certain original landscape features, including parts of the Rivers of America and iconic barrel bridges.
This new section of Frontierland will feature two Cars attractions, including a family-friendly ride and a thrilling rally race attraction. Concept art for the area shows it will eventually connect to the new Disney Villains land being developed beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Despite fan outcry, Walt Disney World Resort has made it clear that the project is moving ahead. However, Piston Peak National Park does not have an official opening date.
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