The Walt Disney World Resort has recently filed permits for construction work at the Magic Kingdom in order to make way for the expansion of Frontierland with attractions inspired by Pixar’s “Cars” franchise. This announcement marks the largest Magic Kingdom expansion to date, according to Disney. The addition of characters such as Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater, and their friends will require the use of the current space occupied by the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island.
The new area in Frontierland will be designed to embody the “Western charm of iconic national parks,” as described by Disney. This Cars-themed section will feature two attractions. One is a thrilling off-road ride that takes guests around the landscape, while the other is a family-friendly attraction. The goal is to immerse visitors in an original Cars adventure and allow them to experience a new frontier within the theme park. According to Michael Hundgen, Walt Disney World portfolio executive producer at Walt Disney Imagineering, the development of this area is driven by the themes of exploration and adventure.
Michael Hundgen emphasized the importance of storytelling and connection with guests when expanding the Magic Kingdom. He stated, “Anytime we touch Magic Kingdom, we recognize the massive responsibility that exists to get it right and tell stories that connect with our guests.” Hence, Disney is committed to ensuring that the new attractions resonate with visitors and enhance their overall experience at the theme park.
In addition to the Frontierland expansion, Disney has plans to introduce a villain-themed land within the vicinity of Big Thunder Mountain. This multi-acre area will offer two new attractions, along with dining and shopping options. While Disney has yet to reveal specific details about these projects, they have promised to provide more information in the future. These additions were part of the exciting announcements made at the D23 fan event.
The Magic Kingdom is set to undergo significant transformations with the expansion of Frontierland and the introduction of a villain-themed land. These new developments aim to captivate visitors with immersive experiences and engaging attractions that pay homage to beloved Disney franchises. Disney’s commitment to storytelling and guest satisfaction ensures that these changes will be executed with precision and creativity, offering guests a memorable and magical journey within the theme park.