Disney Updates My Disney Experience App, Removes Classic Attractions from Map as Park Prepares for ‘Cars’ Themed Land
Walt Disney World’s My Disney Experience mobile app received a significant update last night, reflecting the permanent closure of several long-standing Magic Kingdom attractions and revealing a new operational mode for the Walt Disney World Railroad.
As of Monday, July 7, 2025, the digital map for Magic Kingdom within the My Disney Experience app no longer displays the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island. For most users, the area where these iconic elements once resided now appears as a blank expanse of trees, visually signaling their removal from the park’s landscape.
In addition to the changes around Frontierland, a zoomed-out view of Magic Kingdom on the app now illustrates the new “shuttle mode” route for the Walt Disney World Railroad. This modified operation begins today, July 7, 2025. The beloved steam train will not resume its full, scenic journey around the park until the previously announced Disney Villains land officially opens.
These digital and operational adjustments follow just one day after the permanent closure of Tom Sawyer Island, the Rivers of America, and the Liberty Square Riverboat on Sunday, July 6, 2025. These closures are being executed to facilitate the development of Piston Peak National Park, a new “Cars”-themed area slated for Frontierland, which is expected to introduce two new attractions to Magic Kingdom.
Guests visiting Magic Kingdom will now experience a different layout, both in person and via their mobile devices, as the park continues its evolution with new themed lands and attractions.
The Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat in Magic Kingdom have officially closed permanently as of July 7, 2025. This iconic area will be redeveloped into a new Cars-themed land called Piston Peak National Park, marking a significant change for the park’s Frontierland. #MagicKingdom#DisneyWorld#RiversOfAmerica#DisneyParksChanges
Kringla Bakeri Debuts New Orange Cream Cheese Frosted Cinnamon Roll
EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion, already a beloved stop for its charming architecture and “Frozen” attractions, has just unveiled a delightful new treat that’s sure to capture the hearts (and appetites) of park-goers: the Orange Cream Cheese Frosted Cinnamon Roll at Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe.
This isn’t just any cinnamon roll. This is a substantial, generously sized confection that immediately catches the eye. Forget the idea of a quick, individual snack; this new offering is practically designed for sharing – though, as many a Disney fan can attest, the urge to keep it all to oneself might be strong, even for Princess Anna!
What sets this roll apart is its distinctive topping. While Kringla Bakeri has long been famous for its traditional cinnamon roll, this new iteration introduces a vibrant orange cream cheese frosting. The flavor profile of the icing is a pleasant surprise: subtle and nuanced, offering just a hint of citrus brightness that perfectly complements the warmth of the cinnamon without being at all overpowering.
For those seeking the ultimate indulgent experience, it’s highly recommended to ask for your cinnamon roll to be heated. This simple request transforms the treat, allowing the cream cheese frosting to melt into a gooey, lustrous glaze that thoroughly coats every spiral of cinnamon-spiced dough. While our taste-testing mission necessitated a journey home, preventing us from experiencing the full melty glory, the potential for warm, frosted perfection is undeniable.
Beneath the new citrusy crown, the cinnamon roll itself maintains the beloved characteristics of Kringla Bakeri’s existing offering: a soft, pillowy texture with ample layers of sweet cinnamon sugar. It’s a comforting and familiar base, now enhanced by a touch of unique zest.
Whether you’re exploring Arendelle or simply strolling through World Showcase, the new Orange Cream Cheese Frosted Cinnamon Roll at Kringla Bakeri is a must-try. Its shareable size makes it an ideal treat for families or friends, while its delicately flavored orange icing offers a fresh take on a timeless classic. Don’t miss this sweet new addition to EPCOT’s culinary landscape!
EPCOT guests are noticing a quiet, yet significant, upgrade to the park’s waste management system. The innovative solar-powered trash cans, first spotted in the Germany Pavilion, are now expanding their presence, with a new unit appearing in the Norway Pavilion, conveniently located just outside Kringla Bakeri.
These modern waste receptacles, manufactured by “BigBelly,” represent a leap forward in park cleanliness and efficiency. Their most immediate benefit to guests is the hands-free operation: a simple foot pedal opens the chute, making it easier than ever to dispose of trash, especially when juggling snacks or merchandise. This touchless design offers a welcome hygienic improvement for visitors.
The “smart” capabilities of these trash cans go far beyond a foot pedal, however. Each unit is equipped with solar panels on top, providing the energy needed to power an internal compactor. This compaction feature allows the cans to hold significantly more waste – up to five times that of a traditional trash can – before needing to be emptied. This means fewer overflowing bins, even during peak park hours and busy festival seasons.
Furthermore, these BigBelly units are designed to communicate. They wirelessly alert Cast Members when they are nearing full capacity, allowing custodial teams to prioritize emptying efforts and ensure a more efficient allocation of resources. This real-time monitoring helps to maintain the high standards of cleanliness Disney parks are known for.
While the location of the new Norway Pavilion can, situated under the canopy of Kringla Bakeri, might raise questions about its solar recharging capabilities, these units are typically designed with backup battery power to ensure continuous operation even in less-than-ideal sunlight conditions.
The expansion of these solar-powered trash cans beyond their initial test run in Germany suggests a potential wider rollout across EPCOT, and perhaps even other Disney parks. As EPCOT continues to evolve as the “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,” these high-tech, eco-friendly trash cans are a subtle yet impactful step towards a more sustainable and efficient guest experience. Keep an eye out for these “smart” additions on your next visit!
Whispers from Disneyland: “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” Nearing Its End
New updates to Disneyland’s entertainment schedule are sparking speculation that the “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” will conclude its performances on August 10th. While not officially confirmed as a permanent end, the absence of the cavalcade from the schedule beyond that date suggests it may be pausing or finishing its run, possibly to make way for the resort’s upcoming Halloween and Holiday entertainment offerings.
The “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” currently brings a daily dose of joy to Disneyland Park, stepping off at 1:30 PM and 2:45 PM. This lively procession, which had its soft opening dress rehearsal for cast and characters on May 14th, is part of the resort’s 70th-anniversary festivities. However, a recent update to the online entertainment schedule indicates that the cavalcade will conclude its run on August 10th.
The “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” is notably absent from the Disneyland website’s entertainment schedule for August 11th through 17th. Historically, when an entertainment offering disappears from the online calendar, it typically signals either its conclusion or a temporary hiatus.
As we’ve mentioned, Disney previously announced that both “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” and the “Wondrous Journeys” fireworks would temporarily pause for seasonal entertainment, specifically the beloved Halloween and Christmas offerings. It’s highly probable the “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” is following suit, pausing to make room for these festive shows. This makes sense, especially since Disneyland’s 70th-anniversary celebration is slated to continue through the summer of 2026. However, there’s no word yet on when we might see the cavalcade return.
Have you had a chance to experience the “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” yet?
Great news for Disneyland fans! The Matterhorn Bobsleds are set to reopen to guests on July 24, 2025. The iconic attraction has been undergoing a refurbishment and will soon welcome riders back to brave the icy slopes of the Matterhorn.
The Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland Park, which closed for refurbishment on May 8, 2025, are scheduled to reopen on July 24. This means the popular Fantasyland attraction will just miss the park’s 70th anniversary celebrations, which conclude a week prior.
According to the Disneyland Resort website, the Matterhorn Bobsleds will operate from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. starting July 24, aligning with the park’s daily hours.
The Matterhorn Bobsleds holds a special place among Disneyland’s attractions, standing out as a true original. Unlike many Disney rides, it hasn’t been replicated in other Disney parks worldwide, making it a unique experience you’ll only find at Disneyland. What’s more, this iconic attraction boasts two distinct ride tracks: one winding through the Fantasyland side of the mountain, and the other traversing the Tomorrowland side.
Though it debuted in 1959, four years after the park opened, the Matterhorn is widely regarded as a classic and is frequently featured in Disneyland’s imagery. Its enduring popularity is evident in recent merchandise, with the ride highlighted on this month’s Windows of Attraction pin and a newly released Spirit Jersey.
Do you enjoy experiencing the Matterhorn Bobsleds?
Buzz Lightyear Animatronic Missing from Space Ranger Spin Queue at Magic Kingdom Amid Upcoming Refurbishment
To infinity… but not quite beyond. Guests visiting Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom recently found themselves face-to-face with a galactic mystery: the iconic Buzz Lightyear animatronic is nowhere to be seen in the queue.
The usually chatty Space Ranger, who welcomes recruits and preps them for battle against the Evil Emperor Zurg, has mysteriously vanished from his post in Star Command. All that remains is the familiar “Star Command” wall graphic on a black curtain, leaving guests to wonder—has Buzz gone rogue? Is he on a secret mission? Or is this just step one in the ride’s much-anticipated upgrade?
While no official explanation has been shared by Disney yet, the timing lines up perfectly with behind-the-scenes action. Walt Disney Imagineering recently filed a new permit for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin on June 2, 2025. The filing, listed under “electrical work,” brings in Elite A/V Systems Inc., a contractor known for working on high-tech themed entertainment installations. And yes—Magic Kingdom’s 1305 Monorail Way address confirms this mission is focused right where you’d expect.
This latest filing follows another permit for set installation, further suggesting that refurbishment work is kicking into hyperspace. While Disney hasn’t officially outlined the project’s timeline, we already know a full reimagining of the attraction is on the launchpad.
PeopleMover Turnstile Removed Permanently at Magic Kingdom
One small step for guests, one giant leap for crowd flow! The old-school turnstile at the entrance of the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover in Magic Kingdom has officially been retired to Yesterland. 🚀
Guests arriving at the popular Tomorrowland attraction will now simply stroll past a sleek silver metal box where the iconic turnstile once stood. According to Cast Members, this isn’t just a temporary measure—the turnstile is permanently gone. No more spinning metal arms to slow down the line or cause that awkward bottleneck before the moving ramp.
Currently, Cast Members are keeping count of riders the old-fashioned way—with handheld clickers. But don’t worry, technology is on the way! A new automated sensor system will eventually take over the counting duties, likely installed at the top of the ramp. This sensor-based upgrade aims to streamline boarding while maintaining accurate guest counts.
If this feels familiar, it’s because Disney has slowly been phasing out these legacy turnstiles at several attractions. The Carousel of Progress and Country Bear Jamboree turnstiles were both removed in recent years, making PeopleMover the latest to get a modernization makeover.
PHOTOS: Prairie Outpost Reopens at Magic Kingdom as Frontierland’s New Hat Headquarters
Hold onto your hats—literally! The once sugary-sweet Prairie Outpost & Supply in Frontierland has officially reopened with a whole new identity, and this time it’s all about headwear. That’s right, the former candy shop has been transformed into a rustic, frontier-inspired hat shop operated by Chapel Hats, and it’s brimming with everything from classic cowboy styles to sassy fascinators.
Located between the Country Bear Musical Jamboree and Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe, the storefront maintains its charming 1876 façade, but what’s inside is a whole different kind of treat. Gone are the Mickey crisped rice snacks and caramel apples—in their place, rows and rows of stylish toppers line beautifully lit wooden shelves.
Inside, you’ll find:
Cowboy hats galore in every shade from sandy beige to rich chocolate, fitting perfectly with the Frontierland aesthetic.
Dapper fedoras and flat caps, great for channeling your inner newsie or Gatsby flair.
Cloche hats and floral fascinators that add a vintage or derby-ready vibe to any outfit.
Ball caps with cheeky slogans like “Cowboy Hat” and “Chill Mom,” perfect for theme park strolling or Instagram posing.
Sun hats, visors, and bucket hats—a must for beating the Florida heat in style.
And it’s not just hats—this space is fully accessorized. You’ll find racks of decorative hat pins, colorful feather clips, hat bands, and even magnetic “Pin Pals” pins to jazz up your look. Vintage-style mirrors are scattered throughout the store so you can admire your new look, and the rustic decor includes retro lamps, binoculars, and antique hat stretchers that make it feel like a step back in time (with a side of fashion-forward flair).
Though none of the hats are Disney-branded, they all come from Chapel Hats, the same brand found at Disney Springs. So if you’ve ever eyed their merch over at The Landing, now you can snag your new favorite sun-blocker right from Magic Kingdom.
Whether you’re looking to channel Indiana Jones, Jessie the Cowgirl, or just want to level-up your park day outfit, the revamped Prairie Outpost is a surprise hit that’s hat-tastic in every sense.
“Jurassic World: Rebirth” Roars to a Big Opening Weekend
The seventh installment of the action-adventure series, famously created by Steven Spielberg, significantly surpassed box office expectations over the extended Fourth of July holiday weekend in the U.S., where it impressively garnered $147.3 million, alongside strong international earnings.
The dinosaurs are thriving once again! Universal and Amblin’s “Jurassic World: Rebirth” significantly exceeded expectations at the Fourth of July box office, successfully ushering in a new era for the beloved Steven Spielberg-created franchise. In North America, the holiday tentpole is reporting an estimated five-day domestic opening of $147.3 million, which includes a robust $91.5 million for the traditional three-day weekend. These impressive estimates have seen daily upward revisions since the film’s midweek debut on July 2nd.
Globally, “Jurassic World: Rebirth,” the seventh installment in the series, roared even louder, pulling in an estimated $171 million from over 80 international markets. This puts the film’s worldwide opening at a staggering $318.3 million—marking the second-best launch in franchise history and, notably, the biggest global opening of the year to date, surpassing “A Minecraft Movie.” This impressive performance caught many by surprise.
Internationally, “Rebirth” secured the second-best international opening of both the year and the franchise, notably achieving a significant debut in China with $41.5 million. This marks the biggest opening of the year for a Hollywood title in China, positioning it as the second-biggest Hollywood film of the year there, trailing only “Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning.” Other top international markets included the U.K. ($16.6 million) and Mexico ($14 million). Domestically, “Rebirth” delivered the fourth-best performance ever for the July Fourth holiday across both its five-day and three-day numbers. This is particularly impressive given that July 4th fell on a Friday this year, a day typically impacted by holiday distractions.
Despite decidedly mixed reviews from critics and audiences, including a “B” CinemaScore, the enduring power of the “Jurassic” brand and the allure of seeing dinosaurs on the big screen proved undeniable. Hollywood insiders are frequently describing it as “the definition of a popcorn movie” or “dumb fun.” Leading up to the holiday, the film was projected for a much more conservative domestic opening of $100 million to $120 million and a global total of $260 million, especially considering its status as a reboot and the seventh installment in a 30-year-old series.
Following the “Jurassic World” trilogy directed by Colin Trevorrow, Spielberg, Amblin, and Universal returned to the drawing board, enlisting filmmaker Gareth Edwards (“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story”) to direct “Rebirth.” The script was penned by original “Jurassic Park” screenwriter David Koepp.
The film features an entirely new cast, anchored by Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey. The narrative centers on an extraction team racing to an island research facility tied to the original “Jurassic Park,” where they discover a shipwrecked family and confront the most dangerous creatures left behind. Rupert Friend, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Luna Blaise, David Iacono, and Audrina Miranda also star, with longtime franchise producers Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley, and executive producers Steven Spielberg and Denis Stewart.
Keith David “In Awe” Following Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Announcement
Actor Keith David expressed profound shock and disbelief this week after discovering he would receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as part of the Class of 2026. The esteemed performer, celebrated for his roles in films like “American Fiction,” “Armageddon,” and his iconic voice work in “The Princess and the Frog,” shared a video on social media Wednesday capturing his overwhelmed reaction to hearing his name announced by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.
In a heartwarming video, actor Keith David’s stunned reaction unfolded as presenter Eugenio Derbez announced his name, causing David to lurch forward, eyes wide in disbelief before turning to his loved ones off-camera, visibly overcome with emotion. Amidst a “Happy 70th birthday” from the background, a tearful David mutters, “Oh my God,” as his wife, Dionne Lea, rushes to his side for a loving kiss and heartfelt embrace. The touching clip concludes with David wiping his eyes, clearly still processing the momentous news.
“What a surprise! Being blessed to get to do this for a living is enough for me; to be recognized for my contribution to the arts is the cherry on top,” the post’s caption read.
He later extended his gratitude to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, and especially his wife, Dionne Lea, whom he lauded as “my greatest supporter!” David also remarked that the star would serve as a “wonderful birthday present next year” as he approaches his 70th birthday. His decades-long career spans an impressive range across film, television, and the stage, including a Tony Award nomination in 1992 for his role in “Jelly’s Last Jam” and a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination in 2024 with the ensemble cast of “American Fiction.”
Renowned for his trademark deep voice, David has also earned three Emmy Awards for his narration work on documentaries such as “A Necessary War,” “Jackie Robinson,” and “Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise And Fall Of Jack Johnson.”
The Edison in Disney Springs Hosts 2nd Annual Bartenders Bash
Get ready for an evening of spirited competition, delectable drinks, and a good cause as The Edison at Disney Springs proudly presents its Second Annual Bartenders Bash! This highly anticipated event, hosted at the gothic-style restaurant renowned for its crafty cocktails and dazzling entertainment, will take place on Thursday, August 21, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
This year’s bash promises to be even more exciting, featuring eight of Central Florida’s top mixologists from some of the most celebrated establishments in the region. Bartenders from The Edison, Morimoto Asia, Mather’s Social Gathering, Yak & Yeti, and Atlantic at Epic Universe will go head-to-head, crafting unique and delicious cocktails designed to win over your palate.
As a guest, you’ll have the exclusive opportunity to sample and vote on these handcrafted cocktails, making your voice heard in determining who will be crowned the Bartenders Bash champion.
To complement the libations, The Edison’s talented culinary team will prepare perfectly paired bites available at various food stations throughout the evening. Beyond the culinary delights, the night will also feature live entertainment to keep the energy high and a silent auction benefiting Give Kids the World Village, an incredible organization that provides dream vacations for critically ill children and their families.
Tickets are limited, so be sure to secure your spot for this unforgettable event. General admission starts at $85++, while VIP Admission is available for $100++. Please note that all guests must be 21+ to attend. You can purchase tickets HERE.
For those seeking an elevated experience, Elite Booth Seating is available for $150 per person. This exclusive option includes early admission at 5:30 p.m., comfortable booth seating, a dedicated server, and an extra vote for your favorite cocktail. To book Elite Booth Seating, please contact The Edison directly at [email protected].
Don’t miss your chance to experience an evening of exceptional cocktails, delicious food, exciting entertainment, and the opportunity to support a truly worthy cause!
Disneyland’s Star Tours Begins Major Three-Month Refurbishment
Star Tours at Disneyland Park has officially ceased operations, beginning a significant temporary closure. This beloved galactic adventure is now undergoing a refurbishment project that is anticipated to last for at least three months. Guests planning a visit should note that the attraction is not expected to reopen until late 2025.
Construction walls now completely encase the entrance to Star Tours, signaling the start of its extensive refurbishment. Beyond these barriers, one of the Lightning Lane tap points has also been covered, indicating the ride’s full closure for the coming months.
The signs on the walls read:
“Star Tours
Flights are cancelled during refurbishment
Please enjoy other Tomorrowland attractions”
While an official reopening timeframe is not yet listed on the Star Tours operations calendar, Cast Members have indicated the attraction will remain closed through at least September. Further illustrating the extent of this refurbishment, construction walls have also been erected, blocking the attraction’s exit inside The Star Trader.
Will Star Tours be closed during your next visit to the Disneyland Resort?
