Something quiet—but incredibly symbolic—happened overnight at Magic Kingdom.After weeks of speculation and one final weekend of operation, Disney has officially closed Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle Riverboat. Just like that, they’re gone. There was no major ceremony — though there was a sendoff — and now the attractions are officially gone.Credit: Inside the MagicThe End of an EraRivers of America has been part of Magic Kingdom since opening day in 1971. With its winding waterway, scenic riverboat journey, and the tranquil presence of Tom Sawyer Island in the middle, this entire area represented a peaceful slice of Americana in a park that’s otherwise buzzing with energy.Fans who visited over Fourth of July weekend got one last look—and many didn’t even know it would be their final time seeing these attractions in action. That same weekend, Disney also handed out wristbands for the final Liberty Belle rides, but aside from that small gesture, there was little fanfare.Now, just a few hours later, the entire area has disappeared from the official My Disney Experience app as if it was never there. You can’t zoom in and see the river. You won’t find Tom Sawyer’s rafts. Even the familiar layout of Frontierland looks oddly incomplete.Tom Sawyer Island, the Rivers of America, and the Liberty Belle have already been removed from the Walt Disney World digital map.(HT: @GreenCheetah99) pic.twitter.com/zo18gpgiNB— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) July 7, 2025Fans Are Not Taking It LightlySome have called Disney’s decision to close these attractions on Independence Day weekend a “final slap in the face.” After all, both Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island are rooted in classic American themes—Mark Twain, riverboats, and frontier adventure. What better time to celebrate that history than on July 4?But that wasn’t the vibe. In fact, many Annual Passholders—those who would’ve made the biggest showing to say goodbye—were blocked out over the weekend. And now that it’s gone from the app entirely, the message feels loud and clear: Disney is moving on.Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) confirmed the removal in a post just after midnight on July 7, and other Disney watchers have since shared screenshots showing the missing land on the app. Theme Park Cheetah, who was there for the final ride, called it “tragic.”Credit: DisneyAnd that’s how many fans feel. These weren’t thrill rides. They weren’t the most “Insta-worthy” spots in the park. But they were part of the soul of the Magic Kingdom.Of course, there’s also another section of the fanbase who are looking forward to what’s next.What’s Next for Magic Kingdom?Unlike some closures, whose future is uncertain, this one comes with a very clear roadmap—literally. Disney has confirmed that the area will be transformed into Piston Peak, a brand-new land based on the Cars franchise.Inspired by America’s great national parks, Piston Peak will blend outdoor adventure with Pixar flair. Two new attractions are planned: a high-speed off-road rally and a family-friendly ride, both designed to immerse guests in a world where the wilderness meets racing culture. Think repurposed ranger stations, car-sized lodge entrances, and architecture that looks like vehicles could check in just as easily as people.Credit: Allen Castillo, FlickrEven the land’s guiding theme has shifted from cowboys and settlers to “chasing your dream in the American wilderness and writing your own folktale.” In other words, say goodbye to the old west and hello to something new—and very IP-driven.Whether you’re excited or frustrated by the change probably depends on how much nostalgia you have wrapped up in paddleboats and rope bridges. For newer guests and families with Pixar-loving kids, Piston Peak could become a new favorite. But for longtime Disney fans, it marks the end of something uniquely special—a peaceful corner of the park that felt like a nod to Walt Disney’s vision of celebrating Americana.Rivers of America didn’t go out with fireworks or ceremony. It faded overnight with a quiet swipe of a digital brush. And now that it’s officially off the map, the message is clear: the old frontier is gone.The post Disney Clears Rivers of America Overnight in Magic Kingdom appeared first on Inside the Magic.