See these things on Tom Sawyer Island before it's gone!

 

2025 is to bring many changes ( or at least the start of them) to Disney World! One such change is in Magic Kingdom and includes an expansion to Frontierland. Of course this expansion comes at a cost ( or several).  In order to make room for a new land, we will have to say good bye to Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America. 

To be honest, I'd been visiting Magic Kingdom for decades before I even set foot on Tom Sawyer Island. I've heard about it and always meant to visit, but other rides, shows, and attractions just became much more appealing and I would forget going over to the Island.  

However, one day during the summer of 2022, I finally decided to check it out. I was with my parents and thought it might be something they would enjoy seeing as well, since they've never been.

To get to Tom Sawyer Island, you have to board a raft from the dock in Frontierland. It is a motorized raft and you have a driver. 

There were several rafts going to the island during the time we went, so we didn't have to wait long. These are "standing room only" rafts.  There is room for a stroller.

The raft drops you off at Tom's Landing. This is the same place you will go to board your raft when you want to return to the mainland. There is no set time for returns as the rafts just run continuously.  The island does close much earlier than the park, so keep that in mind.

Okay, so what is there to do on Tom Sawyer Island?  Tom Sawyer Island is a nice respite from the crowded theme parks and the heat. There are shaded trails that basically tell the story of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn. If you've read the book, you may recognize some landmarks.  

Walk the trails and suspension bridge and be sure to take notice of all the details.

                                                                    Explore the caves.

                                         Check out the mine and the "burning coals".

                                     Be sure to check out Harper's Mill.

                             There is a fort with a look out, and a pretend boat you can navigate! 

There is a Refreshment stand on the island called Aunt Polly's. It is only open seasonally and has a limited menu of drinks and sandwiches.  

I visited here in June and it was not open. I also noticed it was not open during other parts of the year, so I'm not sure which "season" it is open.                                      

I wouldn't say the island is the most exciting thing to see nor the most fascinating but it is enjoyable. It forces you to take a slower pace in such a hectic park. Also, in Disney fashion, it immerses you in the story of Huck and Finn.

What are your feelings on the closure of Tom Sawyer Island?

Till next time. ~ M

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