Early July marked a turning point for Magic Kingdom, as two classic attractions gave way to the future. On July 7, both Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America officially closed, paving the way for the most significant expansion in the park’s history.
Since opening day on October 1, 1971, the Rivers of America has been a defining feature of Liberty Square and Frontierland, carrying the Liberty Belle Riverboat past landmarks such as the Haunted Mansion and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Two years later, on May 20, 1973, Tom Sawyer Island debuted as a hands-on playground of caves, bridges, and hidden trails. While the attractions often held short waits, their appeal lay in offering a relaxed pace and a glimpse of Americana. Following the closures, the river has been drained and the Liberty Belle’s track partially dismantled.
Though fans have voiced concerns about intellectual properties overtaking original theming, Disney’s plans outline a sweeping vision for the land’s next chapter. At the center of the development is Piston Peak National Park, the first Cars-inspired land at Walt Disney World. Designed in the “Parkitecture” style of America’s National Parks, the new setting will feature a visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, forest trails, and erupting geysers. The land will debut with two attractions—one a high-speed adventure, the other designed for families.
The project also extends beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, where a Villains Land will rise as part of the same expansion. All told, four new attractions are planned. At the Horizons showcase, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro reflected on the expansion’s message: “The American West has always been about keeping your eyes on the horizon … believing in yourself, carving your own path, and striving toward success. That goes for miners in the mountains, bears from the country, a princess from the bayou … or a racecar from the big city.”
The expansion follows closely on the heels of another major Frontierland transformation: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which opened in late 2024. Replacing Splash Mountain, the new attraction continues Tiana’s journey after the events of 2009's The Princess and the Frog. Guests step into the Louisiana bayou to join Tiana, Naveen, Louis, and Mama Odie in preparing for a celebration. Featuring original music, familiar songs, and detailed New Orleans-inspired design, the attraction was shaped with input from cultural experts and members of the film’s creative team.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure also introduced the Critter Co-Op, a shop filled with merchandise inspired by the film and attraction. According to the official Walt Disney World description: “Inspired by Tiana’s entrepreneurial spirit, the talented critters Tiana enlisted to play in the band at her Mardi Gras party started their own co-op—where all critters are welcome, and there’s no such thing as a wrong note!”
The listing continues, “Visit Critter Co-Op and shop for apparel, accessories, toys, plush, home décor, trading items and more from the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Collection—inspired by Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. And while you’re there, look for the flyers about the variety of events these fun-loving critters host, including quilting, cooking and dancing lessons.”
Currently, however, WDWNT reports that Critter Co-Op’s entrance has been partially blocked off by temporary walls. The barriers stand above waist height, limiting guest flow through the shop, with speculation that floor work may be underway.
These changes are layered onto Frontierland’s evolving identity, which shifted notably when Splash Mountain closed. While some still hope to see that attraction return, Disney continues to move forward with plans that blend classic Americana with new stories and characters. With construction already underway where the river once flowed, Magic Kingdom is entering a new phase that will define the park for generations of guests.
How do you feel about all the changes in Frontierland? Let us know in the comments down below!
