Magic Kingdom Park fans hoping to take one last trip through Tom Sawyer Island have recently been met with unexpected closures as Walt Disney World Resort prepares to transform part of the area.
During the D23 Expo in August, Chairman of Disney Experiences Josh D’Amaro unveiled plans for an ambitious Magic Kingdom Park expansion. This historic update includes two Cars (2006) attractions and a Disney Villains Land that will make Frontierland nearly unrecognizable.
To make way, sections of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island are set to be replaced, marking a significant shift for the original Central Florida Disney park. While many Disney Parks fans are thrilled about the new additions, others feel a twinge of loss as they prepare to say goodbye to an old favorite.
Some guests have taken to social media to share their surprise and disappointment over the unannounced closures. “I went specifically to explore the island and found half of it roped off,” said Reddit user u/HendrixsLaserBean. They shared these photos:
Good luck trying to enjoy the last couple months Tom Sawyer island is open when half the areas are closed off
Good luck trying to enjoy the last couple months Tom Sawyer island is open when half the areas are closed off
byu/HendrixsLaserbean inWaltDisneyWorld
Others echoed the sentiment, reporting that the iconic barrel bridge and various passageways were blocked without notice.
“I was there last week when it was just opening and the barrel bridge was closed,” one Disney Parks fan commented. “Pretty sure that’s just permanently closed at this point.”
Yet, as with all things Disney, experiences have varied. Some visitors have managed to enjoy Frontierland’s classic features without issue. “I was there a few weeks ago, and everything was open,” shared user u/delsoldeflorida.
Walt Disney World Resort has not provided any official schedule for the closures, so future guests should be prepared for sudden restrictions in the area.
For fans who want one last trip through Frontierland’s iconic trails and bridges, checking with nearby Disney cast members may offer some insight, though availability remains unpredictable. As the expansion takes shape, Disney guests are encouraged to visit Frontierland sooner rather than later to catch a glimpse of its current charm before the massive transformation begins.
Have you recently experienced a surprise closure during your trip to Walt Disney World Resort? How to Disney would love to hear your story in the comments below.
