Disney World fans furious over closure of three classics: “I’m going to cancel my trip”

Time is running out if you want to enjoy three classic attractions at Disney World. The amusement park announced last summer that it would be closing Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat to make way for the largest expansion in its history.

In their place Disney World will be installing Piston Peak National Park, which will based on ‘Cars’ universe by Pixar Animation Studios. While the ‘Cars’ themed attraction has some jumping with joy, it has others hopping mad.

Disney World: “I’m going to cancel my trip”

Reactions to replacing Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat with Piston Peak National Park have been mixed. Some “heartbroken” people on social media have vented their frustration calling the move “a HUGE mistake” and “the WORST decision ever.” Others have even go so far as to say they are cancelling their planned trip and “will never visit that park again.”

There is even a petition to the President of Walt Disney Jeff Vahle to plead with him to change his mind. It argues that “with 40 square miles of property, there is ample space to innovate without sacrificing cherished attractions.”

One user on X offered up a compromise to “move Tom Sawyer Island to the abandoned Discovery Island and run ferries to and from all day.”

But others related the joy that the news brought to their young children and expressed their enthusiasm “that new generations are getting spaces in the parks that speak to them. Almost forgot this is the whole point.”

The final day to enjoy these attractions will be 6 July 2025, as the following day they will close permanently.

What attractions will Piston Peak National Park feature?

According to a Disney Parks Blog post, “Piston Peak is inspired by the Rocky Mountain area and the history and iconic sights of the American Frontier and its national parks.”

“Guests will be able to see and explore the visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, trails and more all set within the Disney and Pixar “Cars” universe,” the park explains.

Piston Park will feature two racing attractions. One will be “a brand-new thrilling rally race” with specialized cars zipping over wild terrain, speeding through the mountains, climbing trails, dodging geysers and splashing through mudholes. Another will be for smaller racers and “will be fun for the whole family.”

No date has been announced for when these new attractions will be ready for the public to experience.

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