A beloved piece of Disney World history is officially sailing off into the sunset. In a bittersweet update for fans, the Disney World ride closing this summer is none other than Rivers of America, a staple attraction that’s been charming guests since the park’s earliest days. 

After 54 years of riverboat adventures and frontier tales, Disney has closed this tranquil corner of Magic Kingdom to make way for something brand-new and high-octane: a Cars-themed land called Piston Peak National Park.

For those who grew up floating past old-timey scenes on the Liberty Square Riverboat or exploring the quiet corners of Tom Sawyer Island, the news may come as a surprise. 

But, as Disney ushers in a new era of storytelling and thrills, it’s also honoring its legacy of transformation, always keeping the magic fresh (even when it means saying goodbye).

Disney World Ends Iconic Attraction to Launch Cars Experience

As of July 7, Rivers of America is officially closed. That means we’ll no longer be able to board the Liberty Belle steamboat or take a raft over to Tom Sawyer Island.

Both of these attractions offered a slow-paced, nostalgic escape from the park's bustle. It was a quiet journey through America’s frontier history, inspired by classic literature and Americana.

The Liberty Square Riverboat, also known as the Liberty Belle, launched in 1971 along with the opening of Magic Kingdom. 

It later became part of a charming riverside ecosystem that included waterfalls, wildlife animations, and gentle nods to the works of Mark Twain. By 1973, Tom Sawyer Island added a walkable, whimsical element to the area. 

But, now, with both attractions retired, Disney is clearing the path for a bold new land that will replace historic tranquility with turbo-charged adventure.

Say Hello to Piston Peak National Park

Taking over the riverside real estate is a brand-new land: Piston Peak National Park Disney. Inspired by the Cars franchise, specifically the scenic world introduced in Planes: Fire & Rescue, this new area promises roaring rivers, towering pine trees, misty mountain peaks, and geysers that erupt like clockwork. Think of the American West, reimagined with a Pixar twist.

Disney describes it as “an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with breathtaking waterfalls and snowcapped mountains.” While the park is fictional, it’s clearly drawn from the Rocky Mountains and the grandeur of U.S. National Parks. The land’s tone blends rustic beauty with whimsical storytelling, welcoming both nostalgia and speed.

Cars Land, Disney World: What to Expect

Fans of Lightning McQueen, Mater, and the rest of the Cars gang will be thrilled to know that two brand-new rides are coming to the Piston Peak area. While the full details haven’t been released just yet, here’s what we know so far:

• One ride will be a family-friendly journey through Piston Peak’s landscapes, designed with younger adventurers in mind.

• The other will be an off-road rally-style thrill ride, where we race over rocky terrain, dodge geysers, and climb up mountainous switchbacks, all alongside our favorite Cars characters.

This expansion brings the Cars world to life in a way we’ve never seen before. While Disneyland’s Cars Land has long been a fan favorite in California, this marks the first time Florida visitors will get their own immersive Cars-themed experience.

More New Disney Rides in 2026 and Beyond

The new Cars Land at Disney World is just the beginning. Disney has confirmed that 2026 will bring even more updates as part of what they’re calling “the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history.” 

Alongside Piston Peak, a mysterious and thrilling Villains Land is currently in development, promising rides, restaurants, and shops themed around infamous characters like Maleficent, Ursula, and Jafar.

And, in 2027, two more heavy-hitters are on the way:

• An Indiana Jones ride, full of adventure and archaeology, and

• An Encanto-themed attraction, likely set in the magical Casita of the Madrigal family.

Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a Pixar fan, or just someone who misses the old steamboat days, there’s going to be something new around every corner (and every year) in the coming Disney days.

Disney World Ride Closing Marks the End of an Era

While the Disney World ride closing of Rivers of America may tug at some nostalgic heartstrings, it’s clear that Disney is steering toward an exciting future. 

With Rivers of America closed, the Liberty Square Riverboat retired, and Cars Land Disney World on the horizon, Magic Kingdom is in for a dynamic transformation that blends beloved characters with fresh, immersive storytelling.

Here’s to the next generation of Disney magic. Piston Peak is revving up for 2026, and we can't wait to see what other surprises are just around the bend.