Things are getting spicy in Magic Kingdom.
Big changes are coming, and not everyone is happy about it. Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America are officially getting the boot to make way for two brand-new Cars-themed rides and a Villains Land expansion. While some fans are hyped for the fresh updates, others are mourning the loss of a classic Disney space — and one reader didn’t hold back about how they really feel.
We recently got a review from one of our readers who rated Tom Sawyer Island a pretty harsh 2 out of 10 and had this to say:
“This is old and outdated! Thank goodness this dump is finally going to be gone! I can’t wait for the new Cars area and Villains land! I am tired of all the whining about this old and way past it’s prime area! Drain the rivers now!”
That’s…a lot. And they doubled down in their pros and cons list:
- Pros: It’s finally going to be gone!
- Cons: It’s old, outdated, and way past its prime! Drain the rivers now!
Look, whether you agree or not, you’ve gotta admit they’re not sugarcoating anything.
But here’s the thing — this is a very loud opinion in a sea of very divided ones. Because while some folks are popping the confetti over these changes, others are seriously upset. Tom Sawyer Island might feel like a snooze-fest to some, but for others, it’s a quiet escape, a piece of Disney history, and one of the last remaining low-tech, imagination-fueled corners of Magic Kingdom.
And let’s not forget — it’s not just Tom Sawyer Island that’s disappearing. The entire Rivers of America area is going with it, which includes the Liberty Belle Riverboat and all the ambiance that comes with that waterway. That’s a huge chunk of park nostalgia being drained (literally), and plenty of long-time fans are not ready to say goodbye.
But like it or not, change is coming. And here’s everything we know about what’s replacing it:
Two New Cars Attractions
Yep, Lightning McQueen is pulling into Frontierland. The area currently home to Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America is being transformed into a Cars-themed area, complete with two new rides:
- A terrain-style racing ride — Think high-energy, off-road action with wild tracks, geysers, and muddy splashes. Imagineers have even been testing out new ride tech in Arizona to bring the off-roading experience to life.
- A family-friendly Cars ride — Slower-paced, still fun, and geared toward younger kids and families. Less racing, more rolling through scenic views with familiar Cars characters.
If you’ve ever wanted to go full Radiator Springs in the wild west, this is your moment.
Villains Land
Beyond Big Thunder Mountain, a dark and twisted new land is rising, and fans of the bad guys are finally getting what they’ve been begging for: Villains Land.
This isn’t just a small overlay or themed area — this is one of the largest expansions in Magic Kingdom history, and it’s all about the most iconic Disney villains. Expect:
- Two major attractions
- Shops and dining themed to villains and dark magic
- An immersive atmosphere that’s more spooky forest than Main Street charm
Characters like Maleficent, Ursula, Hades, and Chernabog are all expected to appear, and early story concepts suggest a magical rift that brings them together in one sinister realm — no heroes, no happy endings, just wicked fun.
Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away (Summer 2025)
On the entertainment front, Magic Kingdom’s new nighttime parade is ready to light things up.
Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away is a glow-up version of the classic nighttime parades like Main Street Electrical Parade and SpectroMagic. This new show kicks off with the Blue Fairy inviting everyone to “wish upon the first star,” and from there, the street turns into a full-on light and music spectacle.
Floats include favorites from:
- Peter Pan
- Cinderella
- Encanto
- Moana
- Wish
- Coco
It’s nostalgia mixed with fresh sparkle, and fans of the old school parades will want to grab a spot on the curb for this one.
The Beak and Barrel: Pirate Tavern (Late 2025)
Finally, Adventureland is getting a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge, and it looks like an instant fan-favorite.
Called The Beak and Barrel, this family-friendly tavern will serve snacks, drinks, and immersive vibes galore. Inside, you’ll find:
- The return of Rummy the Barker Bird, keeping watch from his perch
- The Mess Hall, with long communal tables and candlelit chandeliers
- The Captain’s Quarters, featuring enchanted ship-in-bottle displays
- A mysterious Rum Bottle gifted by Tia Dalma
It’s not a ride, but it’s definitely shaping up to be a destination — especially when you just need a break with a little Disney magic (and maybe a drink).
So, the question is if Magic Kingdom is losing something special… or finally ditching what wasn’t working? That really depends on who you ask. Some folks see Tom Sawyer Island as a timeless piece of Disney heritage. Others see it as wasted space that’s overdue for a major glow-up.
Whether you’re mourning the end of an era or ready to floor it into the future, one thing’s for sure — Magic Kingdom is changing in a big way. And we’ll be right here to help you keep track of it all.
We’re always looking out for the latest Disney World updates, so stay tuned to us here on AllEars!
We Must Remind You About This GAME-CHANGING Rope Drop Rule in Magic Kingdom!
What do YOU think about the closure of Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America? Team Nostalgia or Team New Stuff? We’d love to read your thoughts in the comments!
MK is often overcrowded…too many people in the space available. Not sure with all of the land around the MK park that they would not expand outward and leave what is there in place. the river and island give the park openness and beauty that is lacking at many amusement parks. Why ruin a good thing when it is not necessary.
It’s a shame to lose the water aspect. The area is so pretty and adds some much needed tranquility and a touch of nature among a theme park full of concrete and crazy. I do think though that bringing a new area with new attractions in Cars Land is a good thing, it all helps eat crowds and is exciting for new guests who don’t share our nostalgia. I hope they incorporate some water in the area though. Villains Land is really exciting and I think could be incredible if they put effort into it like Pandora and Galaxies Edge to make it full immersive. I’ve always wanted Villains Land. I’m sure there’ll be water in the spooky Forrest. Yes I love water 😆 So for me I’m sad but also excited!
It´s not about nostalgia – the RoA provide something that is essential in an overcrowded park – tranquility, silence, a place where you can rest and just relax for a while.
“not sugarcoating anything” – well, let me suggest something, not sugarcoating anything:
Let´s tear down that useless castle! it´s old, outdated, and promotes and outdated type of government! They should build a great steel coaster in its place, and theme it to a Marvel character that they can use in Florida, how awesome would that be!
Nonsense is nonsense, whether it comes in a coat of sugar or not…
I will miss this quiet spot to let the little one run free and explore the fort. I have many man y memories of taking my son there for our annual picture in the gun towers and using the escape tunnel. His favorite memory is of me slapping my hand in the mine and pretending to have hit my head he always laughed at that and so did any children near me at the time. This and the river boat will be greatly missed by my family as we have so many memories of these 2 attractions. Sometime good old fashioned low tech spurs the imagination.