Have you ever walked through the Magic Kingdom and been totally startled by a LOUD whistle? Ever passed by Liberty Square and waved to the passengers on the Liberty Square Riverboat? This Magic Kingdom attraction is a CLASSIC, and soon, it will be closing. Now is the time to get in those final trips around the Rivers of America, people.
Recently, we learned that a brand-new Cars Land is coming to Magic Kingdom. This area will take the place of Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, a.k.a. the current location of the Liberty Square Riverboat. We know that work on this new space in Frontierland will begin in early 2025, but it seems like the Liberty Square Riverboat is gearing up for a closure much sooner than that.
According to the Disney World website, the Liberty Square Riverboat is set to temporarily close from August 20th to August 22nd. The ride will reopen on August 23rd per the Disney World calendar.
Disney did not list a reason for this temporary closure, but it is likely just for routine maintenance. We’ve seen this attraction close for refurbishment several times before, and it seems like this refurb should have a quick turnaround.
If you’ve never taken a ride on this classic Magic Kingdom attraction, we recommend checking it out before it’s gone! The boat ride is about 17 minutes long and gives you a rare look at some secret parts of Magic Kingdom. And, in true Disney fashion, there are plenty of fun details to see as you make your way around Rivers of America.
But Disney keeps moving forward, and that means change is on the horizon! Here’s a look at the concept art for the NEW Cars Land coming to Frontierland.
This area will have two new attractions, one of which is being described as a “thrilling rally race through the mountains. Take on wild terrain as you race across the landscape, climbing mountain trails, dodging geysers, and — Mater’s favorite — splashing through mudholes.”
HOLD UP. A NEW ‘Cars’ Land Is Coming to Magic Kingdom!
As we said, this closure is likely unrelated to the addition of the new Cars area, but it’s interesting to see how that section of the park is going to be completely transformed!
WAIT! Before you go, we know you have opinions, and we want to hear them! Leave a review on Disney rides, restaurants, and more right here on AllEars. Good or bad, let your voice be heard!
Liberty Square Riverboat
In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more.
Disney Adults Are Totally ROASTING a Classic Magic Kingdom Attraction…and They Might Be Right
Join the AllEars.net Newsletter to stay on top of ALL the breaking Disney News! You'll also get access to AllEars tips, reviews, trivia, and MORE! Click here to Subscribe!
Do you like this Magic Kingdom attraction? Let us know in the comments!
Wonder what will happen to the riverboat? Sold, dismantled?
Let me just say – Walt who?
I hate to see the Riverboat close. I don’t think Walt Disney would close it. Why do you have to ruin classic attractions? Can’t you just expand out to unused property?
Did they have cars in the Old West and I jus missed it?
The Cars Land is a nice addition. Losing Rivers of America, The Riverboat, and Tom Sawyers Island is quite possibly one of the worst decisions ever! I know there is plenty of real estate behind Thunder Mountain, or maybe better yet at Hollywood Studios where this would fit much more nicely.
At this point, I’m pretty well done with Disney. It’s not worth the hassle and expense to go anymore, and the classic attractions are disappearing. It’s a shame really, because my grandkids will never get to experience the wonder I did visiting the Magic Kingdom the first time when I was six.
The closing of the river and the riverboat: hate it, hate it, hate it!
Disney Stop! I’m excited for Cars, but the RiverBoat is a classic. Stop taking away classics. Cars would be more fitting in Hollywood Studios.
No room at the studios and the Magic Kingdom needs more rides that run at capacity. Riverboat is only full on busy days. If it was truly popular, it wouldn’t be leaving.
Definitely not take away more classic rides. Pretty soon it won’t be the Disney World we knew and loved.