If you're planning a trip to Magic Kingdom this summer, there's plenty of exciting news to keep on your radar. Walt Disney World’s flagship park is rolling out updates, retirements, and new additions that are changing the park experience for both first-time visitors and seasoned passholders.
Beginning with a heartfelt farewell, Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Belle Riverboat have officially closed to guests as of July 7. These longtime fixtures of the Rivers of America welcomed their final guests on July 6, making way for the upcoming Piston Peak National Park area—a Cars-inspired retheme coming to Frontierland. Fortunately, attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad remain untouched and open for thrills.
But that’s just the start of what’s in motion. Disney has also confirmed future plans for a Disney Villains-themed area, expected to take shape in the expansion area fans have dubbed “Beyond Big Thunder.” While specifics are still under wraps, more details should emerge during the 2025 Destination D23 event and the 2026 D23 Expo.
Meanwhile, Magic Kingdom’s operating hours have been updated to reflect the debut of a brand-new nighttime offering. Originally scheduled through August 2, the extended 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. schedule will now run through August 30. Early Entry remains available to resort guests at 8:30 a.m., and Extended Evening Hours on August 13 will now take place from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m., accommodating the park’s new closing time.
And speaking of nighttime magic—get ready for Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, the brand-new parade set to debut on Sunday, July 20, 2025! This spectacle will feature favorite characters from Moana, Frozen, and Peter Pan, among others. Guests can catch this show twice nightly at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m., offering more chances to enjoy the newest addition to Magic Kingdom's entertainment lineup.
If you’re visiting the resort this summer, there’s more than just the latest rides to enjoy. Over at EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, seasonal offerings like Cool Kid Summer bring extra energy to the parks. And with perks like Extended Evening Hours for Deluxe Resort guests, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of a Walt Disney World vacation.
Whether you're looking to catch the latest parade or check out the early phases of the Frontierland transformation, this season at Magic Kingdom is filled with energy, charm, and a whole lot of Disney storytelling.
How do you feel about all the changes at the Magic Kingdom in 2025? Let us know in the comments down below!
