Welcome to planDisney, Earl, and a big ole’
howdy from Frontierland!
I'm so glad you asked about Tom Sawyer Island, because it's truly one of Magic Kingdom Park's most underrated gems.
I have great news for you! According to the official Walt Disney World Resort website,
Tom Sawyer Island is still open and currently scheduled to welcome adventurers through at least July 15, 2025. So with your trip coming up soon, you’ll have the chance to step into this peaceful hideaway packed with charm, shade, and lots of room to roam!
This little slice of rustic paradise is the perfect place to slow things down and discover hidden treasures. Kids (and kids-at-heart) love crossing the barrel bridge, venturing into the mysterious caves, and exploring Fort Langhorn. Don’t forget your camera. There are adorable photo ops around every corner, especially inside the winding caves and along the river’s edge. It’s one of my favorite spots for fun, candid pictures that feel like you’ve been whisked into a storybook.
Actually, I visited not too long ago with a few fellow planDisney panelists who were experiencing Tom Sawyer Island for the very first time, and let me tell you, it turned into one of those unexpected core memory moments! We explored every nook and cranny like we were kids again, laughing through caves and pretending we were on a grand frontier adventure. It reminded me just how special this little island truly is.
A little tip from one explorer to another? Keep an eye out for the "escape tunnel" at Fort Langhorn. It’s a shaded, twisty secret path that’s not only fun to explore but also a cool break on a sunny day!
While Disney has shared
exciting news about a future transformation coming to this area, no official closure date has been announced just yet. So grab a raft across the Rivers of America while you still can and enjoy this slice of classic Disney magic!
Happy exploring! And let me know if you’d like more hidden gems to add to your adventure!
Emille