Online discussions abound regarding the potential for Disney World’s Frontierland to be radically altered. But why is Frontierland at the Magic Kingdom important — and how does it connect directly to Walt Disney himself?
Frontierland is one of the most iconic and beloved lands in Walt Disney World, but its history goes back even further than the theme park itself. The concept of Frontierland was first introduced by Walt Disney in the 1950s, when he was creating his first Disneyland park in Anaheim, California. Later, it was a key component of Magic Kingdom’s development starting in the 1960s until its construction and opening years later.
Walt Disney was fascinated by the history of the American frontier, and he wanted to create a land that celebrated the spirit of adventure, exploration, and the pioneering spirit of the American West. He envisioned a land that would transport visitors back in time to the days of cowboys, saloons, and gold rushes.
When Disneyland opened in 1955, Frontierland was one of the original lands, along with Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. It featured attractions like the Frontierland Shooting Gallery, the Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes, and the Indian Village, where visitors could meet and learn about Native American culture.
But many considered Disney World’s Frontierland to be a superior version. More space and the addition of a huge Big Thunder Mountain Railroad roller coaster in 1979 all made Disney World’s cowboy western land a place to be admired. It was astonishing to families visiting the Florida theme park for the very first time!
In the 1990s, Frontierland was once again updated with the addition of Splash Mountain, a log flume ride based on the characters and music from the Disney film Song of the South. Splash Mountain quickly became one of the most popular attractions in the park, and remains a favorite of visitors to this day. Unfortunately, it only remains in Tokyo Disneyland as an attraction with a future.
Today, Frontierland is still one of the most popular lands in Walt Disney World, with attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade still drawing crowds. In addition to its attractions, Frontierland is also known for its food and entertainment. The land features several restaurants serving classic American fare like BBQ, burgers, and fried chicken, as well as live music and entertainment, not to mention the Country Bear Jamboree.
Frontierland has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the earliest days of Disneyland and Disney World. With its iconic attractions, delicious food, and lively entertainment, it continues to be one of the most beloved lands in Walt Disney World, and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the spirit of the American frontier.
But things have begun to change…
While the announcement was met with excitement from many fans, there was also some controversy. Some fans felt that changing Splash Mountain was an unnecessary move, and that the ride’s original theme was not necessarily offensive or problematic. Others argued that the original theme was based on a film that has long been criticized for its allegedly racist depictions of African Americans, and that it was time for a change.
Some fans also expressed disappointment that Disney chose to replace Splash Mountain with a ride based on The Princess and the Frog, rather than creating an entirely new attraction. They argued that the film, while beloved, was not as well-known or iconic as other Disney properties, and that it felt like a missed opportunity for something more innovative and exciting. Worse, some said that Princess and the Frog should have its own, new attraction that would not be shoehorned into an existing structure unbecoming of a Louisiana swamp setting.
Despite the controversy, Disney has continued with its plans to retheme Splash Mountain, with the new ride expected to open in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World in the coming years. While some fans may still have reservations about the change, it represents an important step towards creating a more inclusive and representative theme park experience for all guests.
The announcement was light on details, but it was revealed that the experience will be a collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and other studios involved in a number of properties. Those include Coco, Encanto and various groups associated with a wide variety of “villain” concepts. We assume it would incorporate cutting-edge technology and storytelling techniques, along with a hefty budget. Much has been made about how difficult it is to develop the selected area northwest of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad — as well as how hard it is to build sufficient infrastructure to get guests to that area!
While no specific details were given about what the experience will entail, it is clear that Disney is looking to push the boundaries of theme park entertainment with this new project. The announcement was met with excitement from fans and industry insiders alike, with many praising Disney’s commitment to innovation and creativity. Others speculated it might be blue sky concepts with little chance of really coming to fruition.
As of yet, there has been no official update on the project, and it is unclear when it will be completed or how it will be incorporated into the park.
Will Frontierland be transformed into something entirely new and different… or will it stand the test of time withstand the whims of current Disney sociopolitical movements? It has yet to be seen but we’re definitely keeping an eye on the rumors that could drastically alter Walt’s original vision.
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Been going to Disney, both coasts, for over 50 years.
Yeah, I’m an old guy.
You greatly oversell, even distort, what Frontierland land is in 2023 compared to decades ago. It’s a shell of its former self. On this past Saturday for example, never saw more than a dozen people on any single raft over to sawyer island. Kids aren’t steeped in Huck Finn etc as they were in the 50s. Today their fantasies are magical (Potter) or super hero’ (they’re everywhere). Just a fact. With Splash gone at MK, Frontierland is little more than a stretch on concrete over to Big Thunder. Something new is needed. There will not a frontier era renaissance, just another fact. Long past time for new. Yes, we’re all very skeptical, concerned what Disney has in mind, but please, don’t distort what Frontierland really is now. Let the other side use deception, let’s stick to reality.