Frontierland is slated to undergo a huge transformation in the coming years, but one phase of that transformation is set to debut “soon.”
Since the pandemic, Walt Disney World has changed significantly. For one thing, park reservations and Lightning Lane access are now a normal part of the experience (even if reservations have lessened in necessity in recent years).
But not all changes are bad. A swathe of updates is heading to Disney World over the next few years as The Walt Disney Company continues to inject billions into its theme parks and experiences. For Magic Kingdom, that means huge updates, primarily to the Frontierland area, with one change hitting sooner than you may have thought.
Frontierland Location Opens with New Identity at Magic Kingdom
One location in Frontierland, previously a candy store known as the Prairie Outpost and Supply, is reopening with a fresh new identity. Walt Disney World has confirmed it will soon become an apparel shop specializing in a variety of hats.
Though the exact opening date remains unannounced, Disney says the new shop will open “soon.”
According to Blog Mickey, the filename of the stock image Disney shared suggests that the new retail space will likely be operated by Chapel Hats, a third-party company with an existing presence at Disney Springs. Chapel Hats is known for its wide selection of high-quality headwear, fitting the frontier theme perfectly.
This subtle but meaningful transformation adds a new shopping option to Frontierland, blending seamlessly with the area’s rustic charm while supporting Disney’s broader expansion strategy across the land.
What’s Ahead for Magic Kingdom?
Frontierland is undergoing a big transformation right now. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is currently closed for a full retrack. While not a reimagining, the overhaul signals a deeper investment in preserving one of Magic Kingdom’s most iconic coasters, with the attraction set to reopen next year.
Nearby, Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America will close this July to make way for a brand-new land themed to Piston Peak from the Cars franchise. This will mark the first Cars-related presence in Magic Kingdom and a major expansion for the western side of the park that will reportedly differ from the Cars Land found at Disney California Adventure.
Another new land is also in the works—this one inspired by Disney Villains. While the exact plans have yet to be announced, concept art suggests a dark fantasy aesthetic that could include a new mountain-style attraction. The concept has been rumored in the Disney community for years, and its announcement was arguably one of the best received at last year’s D23.
Nighttime offerings are also getting a major boost. The new Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, set to debut later this summer, will bring high-tech floats, original music, and characters from across Disney and Pixar to Magic Kingdom come nightfall. It’s the park’s first nighttime parade in years, and a clear sign that Magic Kingdom’s entertainment slate is getting a much-needed upgrade.
From low-key reopenings to sweeping expansions, it’s clear Disney has big plans for Magic Kingdom—and they’re just getting started.
Are you excited about the changes in Frontierland?
