Magic Kingdom Attractions: The Timeless Charm of Liberty Square Riverboat

In the heart of the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, a nostalgic and captivating adventure awaits aboard the Liberty Square Riverboat. This iconic attraction takes guests on a leisurely cruise along the Rivers of America, immersing them in the rich history and Americana charm of Liberty Square. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery and exploration aboard this timeless riverboat.

The Liberty Square Riverboat transports visitors to a bygone era, where the sights and sounds of America’s past come to life. The riverboat itself is a stunning replica of a 19th-century steam-powered paddle wheeler, complete with a towering smokestack, ornate detailing, and a classic red, white, and blue color scheme. As guests step aboard, they are transported back in time, surrounded by the sights and sounds of an era long past.

The riverboat’s leisurely journey along the Rivers of America offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including stunning vistas of Frontierland, Liberty Square, and Tom Sawyer Island. As the riverboat gently glides through the tranquil waters, passengers can relax on the deck, taking in the picturesque scenery, and capturing memorable photographs. The serene atmosphere and the rhythmic churning of the paddlewheel create a peaceful ambiance, making it a welcome respite from the excitement of the park.

One of the highlights of the Liberty Square Riverboat experience is the narration provided by the knowledgeable and entertaining riverboat captain. As the boat makes its way around the river, guests learn fascinating historical tidbits about the early days of America, including tales of explorers, settlers, and the birth of a nation. It’s a unique educational experience that blends entertainment and storytelling, allowing guests to gain a deeper appreciation for American history.

The Liberty Square Riverboat at Walt Disney World is not just a river cruise; it’s a journey back in time, a glimpse into the past that captures the spirit and essence of America’s rich heritage. From the meticulously designed riverboat to the scenic views and educational narration, this attraction offers a truly immersive and nostalgic experience for guests of all ages. So, step aboard, relax, and let the Liberty Square Riverboat transport you on a voyage of discovery, where history and imagination converge in a delightful blend of magic and heritage.

Magic Kingdom Attraction Closing This Month

One of Walt Disney World Resort’s popular attractions will close this month.

While at the Walt Disney Resort in Orlando, Central Florida, Guests can experience a multitude of different types of experiences. From Disney Enchantment taking over Main Street, U.S.A. and Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom, the classic Spaceship Earth in the newly-transformed Future World area in EPCOT or Harmonious at World Showcase, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, there are many shows, rides, and themed meets at on Disney property.

That being said, with so many offerings spread across the four theme parks, as well as water parks Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and the (currently closed) Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, and Disney Springs, attractions and shows are often subject to closure and refurbishment at the Disney Resort.

magic kingdom monorail with cinderella castle and space mountain

Recent information shows that the Liberty Square Riverboat in Magic Kingdom Park is scheduled for closure in the coming weeks on August 22, and will reopen on September 2. The official Walt Disney World website states no time available between these dates.

The closure of this offering is seemingly a routine refurbishment, as last year the Liberty Square Riverboat became unavailable for Guests around the same time.

No clear indication has been made by Walt Disney World or Disney Parks over what is being done to the Riverboat, which again seemingly hints at a yearly routine maintenance review. Other notable closures this month include the continued downtime of the Walt Disney World Railroad, another beloved family-friendly Magic Kingdom offering that transports Guests around the 50-year-old Disney Park.

walt disney world railroad

For those missing out on the Liberty Square Riverboat, neighboring attractions like Haunted Mansion and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad can be experienced. Guests may want to purchase Disney Genie+ or a la carte Lightning Lane passes in order to ride attractions quicker; when one large-capacity attraction is closed, other rides can naturally become busier.

Disney Shows Incredible Journey of the Liberty Belle Riverboat Back to Magic Kingdom

Today, the Liberty Square Riverboat resumed operation at Magic Kingdom after it was dry docked behind the theme park for months. The attraction closed for refurbishment last October so construction workers could drain the Rivers of America and replace the track underneath.

During the four-month scheduled refurbishment, 100 cast members worked on enhancements to the attraction including updating rockwork, landscaping and adding fresh paint to the surrounding areas.

Last night,  a crew worked together to prepare her for the journey through Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon, around Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and in front of Magic Kingdom Park. She was then towed by hand to the refurbished track in Liberty Square where cast members put on the last finishing touches to get her ready for guests this morning.

Check out the time-lapse videos from Disney Parks Blog below to see her incredible journey.

Liberty Belle is a 47-foot authentic steam-powered paddle wheeler that opened to guests in 1971. The historic attraction has been delighting guests for over 50 years with a half-mile trip around the waters of the Rivers of America through Frontierland and Liberty Square.

Disney’s Liberty Square Riverboat & Tom Sawyer Island Reopen This Weekend!

Exciting news, Disney fans! If you’re headed to Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in the near future you’ll have a chance to ride on the Liberty Square Riverboat and get your adventure on with Tom Sawyer Island. While previously scheduled to remain closed through March 1, it looks like these two attractions will reopen this weekend!

The Walt Disney World refurbishment calendar now shows both Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island removed from the refurbishment calendar beginning Friday, February 5. Further confirmation is that both attractions have operating hours listed for Friday (9:30am – 7:00pm) and beyond!