It’s official—Magic Kingdom is going through one of its biggest transformations ever, and the changes are now impossible to ignore.
As of this week, photos confirm that Rivers of America is being drained, signaling the end of a peaceful and iconic corner of the park. But this isn’t just a refurbishment or seasonal closure—this is permanent. Magic Kingdom is being torn apart to make way for something entirely new.
The closures began quietly, with Disney announcing that Tom Sawyer Island, the Liberty Square Riverboat, and the entire Rivers of America experience would be closing. At the time, it felt like a far-off reality. Now, it’s here and more work is about to be done.
From Tranquility to Construction Zone
Guests who’ve recently visited Liberty Square or Frontierland may have noticed something strange: the water level in Rivers of America is dropping. Slowly but surely, the once-picturesque waterway is disappearing. The riverboat is docked permanently. The rafts to Tom Sawyer Island are no more. And the once-busy paths across the island are already growing quiet under the summer sun.
Disney is draining the river in phases, but the direction is clear—this area is being prepared for demolition and full-scale construction.
Rivers of America can be seen slowly draining. (7/24/25) pic.twitter.com/0SN8ciKB6M
— Mickey Central (@Mickey_Central) July 24, 2025
What’s Coming Next?
In place of Rivers of America, Disney is building a brand-new land themed around Planes: Fire & Rescue (2014). Set in the fictional Piston Peak National Park, this expansion will completely reshape the back of Frontierland. Think forests, ranger stations, and towering rockwork that pulls inspiration from the American wilderness.
There will be two all-new attractions: a high-speed rally-style off-road ride (likely to become the thrill anchor of the land) and a more family-friendly adventure housed in its own rustic lodge. The architecture is being modeled after locations like Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Grizzly Peak in California Adventure, giving it a natural park vibe rather than the bright neon look of Cars Land.
Why Fans Are Torn
No one can deny that Disney’s trying to keep things fresh—and compete with Epic Universe just down the road. But this transformation also comes with a real emotional cost. The Liberty Belle Riverboat was one of the last remaining attractions from opening day. And Tom Sawyer Island gave guests a reason to slow down in a park that’s become increasingly fast-paced and screen-driven.
Now, those moments of peace are being replaced by jackhammers and cranes. For longtime fans, it’s tough to watch.
The Long Road Ahead
Construction walls are already in place, but this project won’t be quick. All signs point to a 2028 opening—at the very earliest. Unlike re-theming a ride or plopping in a new show, this is a full land being built from the ground up. It requires new infrastructure, new plumbing, and the removal of every element tied to the old river system.
So, for now, the view from Liberty Square is changing. The reflection of the Haunted Mansion on the water is fading. The echoes of riverboat whistles are gone. And in their place? A slow but steady shift toward the next chapter of Magic Kingdom.
It’s the end of an era—and the start of something bold.
