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Closing Dates Revealed for Big Al’s and Westward Ho as Frontierland Preps for Cars Expansion
Frontierland is about to trade in its coonskin caps for carburetors, and two longtime Magic Kingdom spots are getting ready to ride off into the sunset. New updates suggest that both Big Al’s and Westward Ho are closing soon to make way for the upcoming Cars-themed expansion, Piston Peak National Park, at Magic Kingdom.
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According to current operating hours on the Walt Disney World website, Big Al’s is expected to close after May 10, while Westward Ho appears to follow shortly after June 21. Both locations have already vanished from the park’s digital map, which is usually Disney’s not-so-subtle way of saying change is rolling in.
Big Al’s, located just outside the Country Bear Musical Jamboree, has a surprisingly deep Frontierland backstory. It originally opened as a ticket booth back in 1971 before evolving into a carving stand and eventually the gift shop we know today, stocked with everything from cowboy hats to bubble wands. In-story, it’s Big Al’s own cabin turned merch hustle, because even bears know how to cash in on fame.
Meanwhile, Westward Ho has been a go-to snack stop for guests needing a quick pick-me-up, serving frozen lemonade, cold brew, and classic park bites like mini corn dogs. It’s one of those blink-and-you-miss-it spots that somehow becomes a tradition without you realizing it.
As these locations close and nearby snack carts are relocated, construction walls are expected to push further into the riverwalk area. A temporary pedestrian path will be added along the promenade to keep traffic flowing and maintain parade viewing during what’s expected to be a multi-year transformation.
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This all ties into the upcoming Piston Peak National Park expansion, a Cars-inspired reimagining of this section of Frontierland that will bring a whole new story and setting to the area. While it’s always tough to say goodbye to classic corners of the park, this is one of those moments where the road ahead is clearly being paved for something big.
For now, if you’ve got a soft spot for Big Al’s or a craving for one last Westward Ho snack run, the clock is officially ticking.
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