REPORT: 54-Year-Old Magic Kingdom Staple on Verge of Relocation or Dismantlement

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Liberty Belle Riverboat at Magic Kingdom Park

Credit: Disney

We may have a new update on the fate of a beloved Disney World attraction.

Walt Disney World is currently in the middle of one of the most aggressive periods of transformation the resort has seen in years. As Disney continues to pour billions of dollars into its theme parks worldwide, long-standing spaces are being cleared, reimagined, or replaced with large-scale, franchise-driven expansions.

Concept art for a 'Monsters, Inc.' ride in which Sully and Mike hang off a moving door painted with flowers, holding a human child named Boo.
Credit: Disney

In other words, the IP is coming – whether we like it or not.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Tropical Americas is currently underway over in what was once DinoLand U.S.A., with attractions inspired by Encanto (2021) and the Indiana Jones franchise. Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a Monsters, Inc. land is moving closer to reality on the grave of Muppet*Vision 3D, alongside the sweeping transformation of Animation Courtyard into The Walt Disney Studios, inspired by the studios in Burbank.

Ongoing Changes at Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom, however, is facing the most dramatic changes. The park is set to receive a brand-new Cars Land, completely distinct from the version found at Disney California Adventure, followed by an ambitious Disney Villains Land that will introduce darker storytelling and a physical expansion for the park.

Concept art for a 'Cars' racing ride in Frontierland at Walt Disney World Resort at Magic Kingdom.
Credit: Disney

Creating that space has required difficult decisions. In July 2025, Magic Kingdom officially closed Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat (aka the Liberty Belle), removing two attractions deeply tied to the park’s original Frontierland-era identity and its connection to classic American folklore.

While Disney confirmed the closures, it remained unclear what would happen to the Liberty Belle itself. While the structures on Tom Sawyer Island have been demolished, the Rivers of America were slowly drained, and the riverboat was later spotted sitting backstage, sparking questions about whether it would be preserved, relocated, or quietly dismantled.

New Update on Liberty Belle’s Fate

Now, a new rumor may shed light on its fate.

According to sources cited by Blog Mickey, the Liberty Belle has reportedly been moved within a backstage marina, marking its first confirmed relocation in roughly four months.

Liberty Belle Riverboat at Magic Kingdom Park
Credit: Disney

The riverboat is said to have been shifted into a different slip typically used for service operations.

Sources claim the move was made to allow the Liberty Belle to be pulled fully out of the water, a step often associated with refurbishment, long-term storage, or dismantling.

Aerial overview of the Magic Kingdom resorts backstage marina. Liberty Belle riverboat at the dock.

Aerial photographer Bioreconstruct has previously documented the riverboat’s location at this marina, and recent images appear consistent with reports of subtle movement.

Disney has not publicly commented on the situation, leaving the Liberty Belle’s ultimate future unresolved as Magic Kingdom’s overhaul continues.

What do you think will happen to the Liberty Belle?

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