‘Disgusted' Disney World fans fume that execs are ‘wiping out' park's original spirit as Rivers of America attraction closes down: ‘Canceling my trip'
They're sad about the happiest place on Earth.
Disney World fans are fuming after the theme park announced the closure of three of its most iconic attractions: Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat.
The beloved destinations are set to shutter on July 7 to make way for Piston Peak National Park— a new attraction based on the Disney and Pixar 'Cars' universe.
3 The riverboat Liberty Belle sailing on the Rivers of America passes Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.
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3 Disney World, which has been in operation since 1971, is pictured.
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'Imagine an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers and impressive geysers,' the Disney Parks Blog enthused in a post promoting Piston Peak.
'While fictional, Piston Peak is inspired by the Rocky Mountain area and the history and iconic sights of the American Frontier and its national parks.'
However, many Disney World visitors are dismayed that the new park will be constructed ot the expense of the other three attractions — all of which have been open to the public for decades.
'Canceling my trip in October and sadly, will never visit that park again,' one mourned.
'I am heartbroken at the loss of Tom Sawyer Island,' a Disney detractor declared on X. 'This is the WORST decision ever.'
'Walt's Rivers of America transports you to something ideal in American values of exploration, adventure, history, and scenery. A true park within a park,' an additional fan fawned. 'This is a HUGE mistake from Disney. Cartoon Cars will never last the test of time.'
3 However, other Disney lovers were far more upbeat about the upcoming changes, saying plans for Piston Peak appeared promising. A drawing of the future attraction is pictured.
Wandering In Disney: A Disney Theme Parks Blog
'More wiping out of the Walt Disney era,' another spluttered. 'I'm disgusted with current leadership of Disney Corp. I'm done with them. Still love classic Disney, but I've lost all interest in anything about current 'Disney' (parks , movies, streaming). They are not part of my world anymore.'
However, other Disney lovers were far more upbeat about the upcoming changes, saying plans for Piston Peak appeared promising.
'I showed this to my 10-year-old and he SQUEALED with joy and shouted 'PISTON PEAK?!' I'm thrilled that new generations are getting spaces in the parks that speak to them. Almost forgot this is the whole point,' one Disney defender posted on X in light of the news.
'Thanks for your insight,' one reader responded. 'I'm so tired of the negativity around this upgrade of the space.
'I like that they're incorporating the river & adding new water features to keep the same vibe,' another wrote on Facebook DW News Today shared the news.
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