Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is on the cusp of its most significant makeover yet, with Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America set to close their gates for the final time on July 6, 2025. This closure marks the conclusion of a beloved chapter as the park prepares to introduce two highly anticipated new lands: the Cars-inspired Piston Peak National Park and the much-awaited Villains Land. Disney touts this as “the largest transformation in Magic Kingdom’s history,” signaling a daring evolution for the iconic park.
Piston Peak National Park: A New Wilderness Adventure
Taking inspiration from the majestic Rocky Mountains and America’s storied national parks, Piston Peak National Park promises an immersive wilderness experience filled with towering trees, snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and spectacular geysers. This fictional locale continues the rich storytelling tradition woven through Liberty Square and Frontierland since Magic Kingdom’s earliest days.
Guests will discover a rustic visitor lodge, a Ranger HQ, and scenic trails all set within the vibrant world of Disney and Pixar’s Cars. To seamlessly blend the new structures into the landscape, Imagineers have employed “Parkitecture,” a style pioneered by the National Park Service that creates harmony between buildings and nature. Natural barriers of trees will separate the new off-road rally ride from surrounding areas, while rugged mountains and geysers will complement existing landmarks such as Grizzly Hall and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
BREAKING: Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America will have their final day of operation on July 6 to make way for the Cars-themed area and Villains Land at Walt Disney World.
Disney says the new additions represent the largest transformation in Magic Kingdom’s history. pic.twitter.com/m0HAYYa3V0
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) June 3, 2025
The Spirit of Frontierland
From the colonial-inspired charm of Liberty Square to the wild adventure of Frontierland, Magic Kingdom has long been a journey through American history and imagination. Attractions like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad celebrate heroic characters and timeless tales, and Piston Peak National Park is set to carry that narrative forward with its own blend of natural beauty and high-octane racing.
In addition to the Cars expansion, Disney is also crafting Villains Land—the first dedicated space to bring its iconic antagonists to life. Scheduled to open around 2030 or 2031, this darkly immersive area will feature two major attractions, dining options, shopping, and storytelling experiences designed to plunge guests into the thrilling world of Disney villains on a grand scale.
Saying Goodbye to the Rivers of America
With the closure of Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, guests will bid farewell to the peaceful Liberty Square Riverboat and the tranquil waterways that have long been staples of Magic Kingdom’s atmosphere. While these changes take effect, the Walt Disney World Railroad will continue operating, albeit limited to shuttling between Main Street and Fantasyland stations during the construction period.
Other exciting developments await park-goers: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set for a refreshed reopening next year, Disney Starlight will make its Magic Kingdom debut on July 20, and The Beak and Barrel will welcome pirates, young and old, further enriching the park’s entertainment offerings.
Looking to the Future
This sweeping transformation underscores Disney’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of immersive storytelling and theme park innovation. As Piston Peak National Park and Villains Land come to life, Magic Kingdom will present fresh adventures that honor its deep-rooted heritage while captivating new generations of visitors.
Guests are encouraged to enjoy Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America before their final day on July 6, making this summer a nostalgic farewell to some of Magic Kingdom’s cherished classics.
For the latest updates and in-depth coverage of these monumental changes, keep following the Disney Parks Blog. The next exciting chapter in Magic Kingdom’s storied history is just beginning—and the magic is only growing stronger.
