Disney World abruptly closes iconic ride forever after 54 years
A popular attraction that has been at Disney World since it first opened in 1971 is closing today, and will be replaced by a flashy new park inspired by a cult-classic Disney movie
The time has come for Disney World visitors to bid farewell to an iconic landmark attraction at the famous park.
Rivers of America, including the Liberty Square Riverboat and nearby Tom Sawyer Island, will be closed starting on Monday, July 7. Disney is preparing to transform the area into a new land inspired by the 2006 fan-favorite film Cars. The movie, which is based on the world of car racing, spawned a hugely popular franchise following its release.
But while the exciting new park is sure to attract a crowd, long-time fans of Disney World will be sad to see one of the theme park's original attractions go. Rivers of America has been part of Frontierland and Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom since Disney World opened in 1971, 54 years ago. It came as the TSA revealed a full list of 16 documents that flyers must now carry to board a plane.
The boat took guests on a ride that told stories from America’s early frontier. The Liberty Belle steamboat and Tom Sawyer Island were later added in 1973. The riders could step into the world of Mark Twain’s famous novel by taking a raft to Tom Sawyer’s Island.
Disney announced back in June that the new ‘Cars’ land would be known as Piston Peak National Park. They also said it is "part of the largest expansion in the history of Magic Kingdom."
"Imagine an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers, and impressive geysers," Disney wrote in a blog post.
“While fictional, Piston Peak is inspired by the Rocky Mountain area and the history and iconic sights of the American Frontier and its national parks."
Fans are eagerly anticipating details about the two Cars-inspired rides that will be coming soon. One of the rides will reportedly be geared toward families. The other has already been confirmed as an off-road rally ride.
Disney Imagineers said in March that they wanted create a terrain Cars characters Lightning McQueen and Mater haven't encountered before, like “racing over rocky terrain, ascending to mountain peaks, and dodging around geysers.”
More exciting new additions are on the cards for 2026 and 2027. In Magic Kingdom, a brand-new Villains Land, with two new rides, shopping and dining, is already in the works. Visitors will get up close and personal with some of Disney’s most beloved villains like Jafar and the Evil Queen.
According to People, a new Indiana Jones-themed ride and an Encanto-themed ride will both debut in 2027.