Longtime Disney World Ride to Close Permanently

Disney World is often a top choice for those seeking amusement parks with numerous themed options. Sadly, Disney World, like many other parks, sometimes decides to discontinue older rides in favor of new ones. Now, the park is doing this to its “Rivers of America” attraction. 

This comes as Disney World executives plan to build a “Cars”-themed land at the park. Notably, the closure of “Rivers of America” will also impact other nearby rides at the park. 

‘Rivers of America’ at Disney World Is Set to Close Very Soon

According to People, the last day for Disney World goers to experience “Rivers of America” will be July 6. “Tom Sawyer Island” and the “Liberty Square Riverboat” will also close down despite remaining popular with many Disney enthusiasts. 

Notably, “Rivers of America” has been a part of Disney World since the park opened in 1971. “Tom Sawyer Island” and the “Liberty Square Riverboat” were added two years later in 1973. The former of the two uses Mark Twain’s famous novel as inspiration, while the riverboat attraction takes guests on a narrated tour. 

Of course, “Rivers of America” isn’t the only Disney ride or attraction to close in recent memory. “Muppet Vision 3D” closed at “Hollywood Studios” in early June of this year. It initially opened in 1991.

Disney Is Excited About the ‘Cars’-Themed Land

“Rivers of America” has a long history at Disney World, but the company wants its park to also include its more modern intellectual property. According to the company’s blog, they’re beginning work to add “Piston Peak National Park,” which will include the “Cars” attractions. Disney is calling it “part of the largest expansion in the history of Magic Kingdom.”

Regarding the “Piston Peak National Park,” the Disney World blog said, “Imagine an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers, and impressive geysers.”

The Disney World post continued, “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.” That’s not all, as they are also building the park’s first-ever land inspired by Disney villains. The land will feature two attractions, dining options, and shopping facilities. 

Currently, there is no official opening date for “Piston Peak National Park” at Disney World. However, reports suggest the company has a 2027 goal for its debut. In the meantime, “Big Thunder Mountain Railroad” will reopen next year after closing in January for upgrades.