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We all love the nostalgia of our favorite rides at Walt Disney World, right? But the reality is that sometimes changes come along, and we have to say goodbye to some old favorites to make way for new ones. As Walt Disney World kicks off its biggest expansion at Magic Kingdom and beyond, a few attractions are heading out the door. Here’s a list of must-see spots you should check out before they disappear for good!
Liberty Square Riverboat
First up is the Liberty Belle riverboat! This charming boat has been gliding along the Rivers of America since 1973, making it a staple in Magic Kingdom. As you take a scenic ride, you’ll get a unique view of Liberty Square and learn some history along the way. It’s a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the park.
While there’s no official closing date yet, it’s rumored that it’ll sail away in 2025 to make way for a new “Cars” expansion.
Tom Sawyer Island
Next, let’s talk about Tom Sawyer Island. This hidden gem often gets overlooked, especially by first-time visitors. You can only get here by hopping on a wooden raft. Once you arrive, you’ll discover a vast playground filled with caves, a barrel bridge, and even Fort Langhorn! It’s a fantastic spot for imaginative kiddos and gives grown-ups a taste of classic Disney charm.
Like the riverboat, Tom Sawyer Island is also expected to close in 2025 for the “Cars” expansion.
“It’s Tough to Be a Bug”
Now, I have to admit, I’m not a fan of bugs, so this attraction might not be on my must-do list! But many guests absolutely love “It’s Tough to Be a Bug,” a 4D show featuring characters from Pixar’s A Bug’s Life. It’s been entertaining visitors since 1998 and is located inside the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. The special effects, like air blasts that simulate bug stings, really send a chill down your spine!
This one is also slated to close in 2025, as it makes way for a new experience called Zootopia: Better Together!
DinoLand U.S.A.
Now let’s venture into DinoLand U.S.A. at Animal Kingdom. This quirky area was inspired by students from a nearby university who turned the place into a dinosaur-lover’s paradise, complete with carnival vibes. You’ll find fun attractions like the “DINOSAUR” ride, where you time-travel to save a dino from a meteor (yikes!).
While the theming is clever, some fans feel that it leans a bit too much into the carnival vibe, making it seem less polished compared to the rest of the park.
Phasing out for the new “Tropical Americas” land, which is set to open in 2027 and feature attractions based on Encanto and Indiana Jones, DinoLand is going bye-bye soon.
So, are you feeling a little sad about these changes, or are you excited for what’s coming next? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
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