Credit: Scott Calleja, FlickrGuests should be aware of the changes coming to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort this October.
Magic Kingdom has undergone one of the most dramatic transformations in its history. With the ongoing construction of Piston Peak National Park, Disney officially continues its ambitious reimagining of Frontierland. Inspired by Pixar’s Cars universe, this new expansion has replaced the park’s classic Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island areas, forever altering the resort’s western frontier landscape.
Piston Peak National Park brings a richly detailed “Parkitecture” design approach, combining natural elements with rustic architecture to create the look and feel of a vast national park. Guests can now explore ranger stations, scenic trails, and a central lodge that ties into the broader Cars world, blending Pixar’s vehicles’ mechanical energy with the American wilderness’s charm.
The expansion includes two major attractions: a high-speed adventure through mountainous terrain and a family-friendly experience designed for younger guests. The land’s design incorporates erupting geysers, towering rock formations, and dense tree lines to naturally separate it from nearby Liberty Square and Grizzly Hall, maintaining the park’s cohesive sightlines.
The transformation came at a cost. On July 7, 2025, Disney permanently closed Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, two of Magic Kingdom’s most historic and beloved experiences. The Liberty Belle Riverboat, which relied on the Rivers of America, was also retired as part of the redevelopment.
These closures marked the end of an era–Tom Sawyer Island had opened in May 1973, offering generations of guests an interactive escape, while Rivers of America had been a fixture since Magic Kingdom’s opening day on October 1, 1971. Their removal represented a significant emotional loss for fans who viewed these attractions as symbols of Frontierland’s rustic and exploratory spirit.
Public reaction to the overhaul has been mixed. While many guests have praised the scale and immersive detail of Piston Peak, others have criticized Disney for continuing to replace original attractions with new intellectual property-based expansions. In response, Disney executives, including Josh D’Amaro, have emphasized that the redesign respects Frontierland’s adventurous themes while introducing modern storytelling that celebrates the same pioneer spirit.
Construction began immediately after the July 7 closures, representing the most significant single expansion in Magic Kingdom’s history. Beyond Piston Peak, Disney has also confirmed the development of a Villains Land located beyond Big Thunder Mountain, adding even more depth and variety to the park’s west side. Together, these additions introduce four brand-new attractions, solidifying this transformation as one of the most significant evolutions Magic Kingdom has seen in over five decades.
Magic Kingdom Changes Park Access for Thousands
Disney World has confirmed that its most beloved park, Magic Kingdom, will close early later this year—and the October schedule is even more nuanced than first thought.
Even so, this October, the usual magic hours will be curtailed. On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Magic Kingdom will close early for a private event tied to the Gartner IT Symposium/Expo. The conference is scheduled for between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. Guests must leave the park at 6 p.m., hours before its usual gate closing time.
This early shutdown for regular guests comes amid the wider early closures caused by the annual Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, which takes place on multiple dates throughout August, September, and October.
That said, October isn’t all about early closures. Disney has also announced extended park hours on several dates, giving guests more time to enjoy the magic. Here’s what we know so far:
- On October 19, 24, and 25, Magic Kingdom will open at 8:00 a.m. for all guests, with Early Entry beginning at 7:30 a.m.
- On October 25, the park will stay open later, closing at 11:00 p.m. rather than the standard 10:00 p.m.
- Earlier in the month, from October 13 through October 18, Magic Kingdom’s hours have also been extended: the park now opens at 8:00 a.m. (with Early Entry at 7:30 a.m.), and on October 15 and October 18, it will stay open until 11:00 p.m.
So, depending on the date in October, guests might enjoy extra time in the mornings or evenings–but if you plan to be at the park on October 21, do not expect full hours.
What do you think about all the changes coming to Magic Kingdom this month? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!