Closing date for Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island announced

Disney World has set July 6 as the last day of operation for Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat. Starting July 7, all three attractions in Magic Kingdom will be closed and ready to be transformed into a new Cars-inspired land called Piston Peak National Park and Villains Land.

Imagine an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers and impressive geysers. 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.   

Inside Piston Peak, guests will be able to see and explore the visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, trails and more all set within the Disney and Pixar “Cars” universe.

The new area will have a brand-new rally race through the mountains, climbing trails, and dodging geysers, in addition to a second attraction geared towards fun for the whole family, according to Disney. In addition, Imagineers are working on beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, bringing to life the first-ever land inspired by the Disney Villains with two major attractions, dining, and shopping, all on an incredibly twisted grand scale.   

This isn’t the first time Disney has paved over water attraction for a new area. The 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea: Submarine Voyage lasted at Magic Kingdom from 1971 through 1994 and the lagoon was renamed “Ariel’s Grotto”, complete with a King Triton spouting statue. In 2004, the water was drained and the area demolished. For about five years the area became Pooh’s Playful Spot until 2010 and the New Fantasyland area was taking place. The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train now sits on the former 20,000 Leagues spot. 

The Rivers of America and Liberty Square Riverboat opened on Oct. 2, 1971, the second day of operation of Magic Kingdom. Tom Sawyer Island opened two years later on May 20, 1973.