D23 just wrapped up this past weekend, and there was so much news that dropped!

We are still recovering from the weekend, and all that took place at D23. While new movies and shows were announced and new Disney Legends were inducted, arguably some of the most exciting news came from the Disney Parks Panel, where Josh D’amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, made several announcements about the future of the parks. While some of these announcements are exciting, some fans are mourning what will be lost to these new projects.

Announcements were made about the DinoLand, U.S.A. re-theme, along with the new show coming to the Tree of Life in Animal Kingdom. It was also announced that Hollywood Studios would be getting a new Monsters INC.-themed land. While this has been expected for quite some time, we finally learned what will lie “Beyond Big Thunder.” Another project was announced for Magic Kingdom, and some fans are not too happy about what it is replacing. 

At D23, it was announced that the Magic Kingdom would get its own unique version of Cars Land. Currently, at Disney California Adventure, you can step into Radiator Springs in Cars Land. While the Magic Kingdom version will use the Cars IP (Intellectual Property), this new land will be different from its California counterpart and even have two new attractions. 

At first, it was not announced at D23 where this new land would go, as many assumed it would be part of what lies “Beyond Big Thunder,” but after D23, it was confirmed that the new Cars area would be taking over the Rivers of America as well as Tom Sawyer’s Island.

Fans are not too happy about losing this peaceful part of the park and are worried that this new land could interfere with Frontierland’s storyline. We asked you, our awesome readers on both Instagram and Facebook, what you all thought about this major Magic Kingdom change. 

One reader pointed out how this project is going to change the park’s landscape and said, “That area (Tom Sawyer’s Island) added a lot to the park, not just in nostalgia and theme but also having the river there as a water feature. Now we’ve got more pavement being added. So much green space has already been taken away.”

Another reader said that they are going to miss having a quiet spot to visit. Other readers have pointed out that the story of Frontierland is going to be lost as one reader said, “I mean, it’s not really the best place for it. I feel like over by Big Thunder Mountain would be a more suitable location. It’s gonna make the queue for Haunted Mansion noisy. I like the tranquility of the river while waiting in line.” Another reader joked and said, “When I think of Frontierland or just about the frontier in general, the number one thing I think of is … Cars.”

While Magic Kingdom is being expanded with Villains Land behind Big Thunder Mountain, one reader pointed out that “the problem is they aren’t really adding when they get rid of existing things to make new things.” Others talked about how they are sad about the closures of attractions currently offered here as one reader said, “The Riverboat became my husband’s favorite Magic Kingdom attraction when Mr. Toad left.”

While some are sad about the change, others are welcoming it! One reader said, “It’s sad to see an original area disappear, but progress waits for no one. Cars is going to be great!” Also sharing enthusiasm, a reader agreed and said, “I’m more than cool with it. I love Cars Land in Disneyland, so I’m definitely excited to see what they’ll do with Disney World!”

Over on Instagram, we also created a little poll to gauge people’s thoughts on this big news. Out of 6,898 responses, 37% of fans were a little confused by Disney’s decision.

While we do have quite a bit of information for this new area, such as location, concept art, and some information on one of the rides, it is unclear when construction will start and when this new area will be open. So many new projects were announced at D23 that it will be interesting to see when we will get a construction timeline and what will close while we wait for these new experiences to be built.

As always, stay tuned to Disney Food Blog as we will continue to monitor any new updates about these projects, and we will keep an eye out for any construction permits. 

First Permit Filed for Construction on Tom Sawyer’s Island

How do you feel about Cars Land replacing Tom Sawyer Island? Do you like this change? Let us know in the comments!

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