Hi Nathan!
Oh,
Tom Sawyer Island—a place where so many of us have lost ourselves in the winding caves, crossed the barrel bridge and taken a moment of peace by the riverside. It's one of those rare spots in
Magic Kingdom Park where time seems to slow down just a bit, and you can truly imagine what life might have been like for Tom, Huck, and all the adventures of Mark Twain's tales.
Tom Sawyer Island opened in 1973, just two years after the Magic Kingdom. Walt Disney was a big fan of Mark Twain and his stories, and he wanted to create a place where guests could experience the adventures of Tom Sawyer firsthand. The island is full of hidden gems and playful secrets, from Harper's Mill, where you might catch a glimpse of the old miller’s cat, to Aunt Polly’s dockside, a nod to Tom’s kind-hearted Aunt Polly. Over the years, the island has become a beloved retreat for my family—a quiet place of exploration amid the hustle and bustle of the park.
Regarding your question about the island's status in October, there haven’t been any official dates announced for its closure just yet. Disney has not provided a specific timeline for when the changes will begin. Therefore, it's hard to say for certain if it will still be open when you plan your visit.
Tom Sawyer Island doesn't close seasonally, but its hours can vary day by day. Generally, it operates from mid-morning to late afternoon or early evening, depending on park hours and special events like
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. I recommend checking the Walt Disney World website, where hours are posted in advance for the most accurate and up-to-date information. As of now, hours are listed through October 22, 2024, but keep an eye out for updates as your trip approaches.
If you do make it to Tom Sawyer Island, I hope you soak in every moment. Whether it's your first visit or a nostalgic farewell, may it be a journey filled with wonder, discovery, and a bit of that old-fashioned charm that makes Disney so magical. Enjoy your mini-trip, and may it be one for the books!
~Heather