How Disney World Turned a Super Popular Rope Drop Attraction into a Total Ghost Town

Are you heading to Magic Kingdom soon?

Magic Kingdom

There’s so much to see, so many places to eat, and so many rides to enjoy! But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes Disney takes super popular attractions and turns them into ghost towns. Let’s talk about it!

Tom Sawyer’s Island

Tom Sawyer Island is a place where many have never even gone, which is a shame because it is a truly great place to relax and let the kiddos run wild. It’s also perfect for escaping from the crowds. There are walking paths, a fort, and a cave to explore, and there’s a barrel bridge (even though it’s currently out of commission).

Tom Sawyer Island

Years ago there used to be a scavenger hunt on the island. Cast Members would stash away paint brushes each morning around Tom Sawyer’s Island for intrepid Mouseketeers to find.

Tom Sawyer Island paintbrush

When someone found a paintbrush they could turn it in and their party would receive a complimentary FastPass…

Tom Sawyer Island paintbrush

…for either Splash Mountain or Thunder Mountain.

Tom Sawyer Island paintbrush scavenger hunt fast pass

Even though it was super popular, even being something people would rope drop for, Disney decided to end the scavenger hunt back in 2013 (most likely due to the switch to FastPass+). Then it unexpectedly made a brief return in January of 2020, with some adjustments. Cast Members would still hide a paintbrush but instead of a FastPass, the lucky guest would receive a certificate.

Tom Sawyer Island paintbrush scavenger hunt congratulations

But since Covid, Tom Sawyer Island has only had limited activities, and the scavenger hunt has yet to return. Unfortunately, we haven’t seen any indications that this will return any time soon. We’ll keep you posted on any updates for this and all the latest news, so stay tuned to DFB.

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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Did you ever do this scavenger hunt? Tell us in the comments! 

The post How Disney World Turned a Super Popular Rope Drop Attraction into a Total Ghost Town first appeared on the disney food blog.