Massive transformation is underway at the Most Magical Place on Earth. After more than five decades of nostalgia, Disney has begun erasing part of the original Magic Kingdom Park—and it’s happening right in front of guests.
This week, Walt Disney World Resort took another major step toward the future of Magic Kingdom. On Wednesday, construction crews were seen clearing more land on the edge of the park, removing even more trees as work continues on two massive new themed lands. This latest update follows demolition activity earlier this month when crews bulldozed what may have been hundreds, if not thousands, of trees.
On Sunday, two Frontierland staples had their final day of operation: the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island. By Monday, Walt Disney Imagineers were already onsite, joined by construction teams surveying the island and surrounding areas. Earlier this month, Disney poured gravel and cleared trees just outside the park, creating a staging zone for construction equipment during the upcoming Frontierland overhaul.
Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America have officially closed to make way for a brand-new expansion called Piston Peak National Park. Inspired by the Cars (2006) universe, the land will draw on the atmosphere of American National Parks and include updated takes on familiar features, like the island’s signature barrel bridges. The new land will also include two all-new attractions: a family ride and a high-speed rally-style adventure.
But that’s not all. Disney has also confirmed plans for another new land: a long-rumored Disney Villains area that will expand beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. First announced at the D23 Expo in 2024, the Villains-themed land will bring fresh dining, attractions, and entertainment to the Magic Kingdom.
According to recent activity and public permits, construction crews appear to be clearing land for what could become part of the Disney Villains land—or at least the infrastructure that supports it. On July 9, BlogMickey spotted workers removing trees and leveling ground north of Rivers of America. Official documents indicate the land is currently being prepped for staging lots and a trailer complex for construction teams.
The scope of the changes is so large that Magic Kingdom Park will have to reroute the Walt Disney World Railroad for the foreseeable future. Walt Disney World Resort has not yet announced an opening date for Piston Peak National Park or the Disney Villains land.
Are you more excited for Piston Peak National Park or the Disney Villains land at Magic Kingdom Park? We would love to hear from you in the comments!
Why not put all this in Tomorrowland and leave Frontierland alone? Or create a new area at Hollywood Studios?