If you keep up to date with Disney World construction projects, you probably know there are MASSIVE changes coming to the Frontierland area in Magic Kingdom. Not only is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad getting new updates, but we’re also getting a whole new area, Piston Peak, which will be right by Frontierland, where Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America used to be. Don’t forget about Villains Land going behind Big Thunder Mountain!
We’re always on the hunt for new permits filed by Disney that can give us some clues as to what’s coming to the area. Much to our surprise, three carts and stands we didn’t think were getting any changes popped up on our permit list, and we can’t help but wonder what’s going on with Frontierland?
First up, Big Al’s merchandise cart is on the list with a permit filed to “provide labor, material, and/or electrical for construction.” We’re not sure Big Al is going to love seeing his stand be worked on from Country Bear Musical Jamboree!
Westward Ho also has a permit for “provide labor, material, and/or electrical for construction” along with…
…the churro cart in the same area.
There have been rumors that Big Al’s and Westward Ho are closing, but we haven’t seen any official information from Disney. The current Disney World calendar is updated through April 20th, and hours are listed for both locations, showing that if Disney is closing it down, they haven’t announced when.
It’s possible some refurbishments are happening on the stands, or, like the rumors say, they will be completely removed, but since there’s been so much construction in the Frontierland area, we’re not entirely surprised to see more changes on the way.
One of the huge changes coming is Piston Peak, which will feature two Cars-themed attractions, including one that’s an outdoor race rally…
…and a more family-friendly attraction. We’re also expecting some merchandise locations and restaurants (and hopefully more snack carts!). There is currently no opening date for the land, but the changes to Big Thunder Mountain, including the addition of Rainbow Caverns, are set to open in spring 2026.
We’ll be keeping our eyes on all the changes at Disney World, so make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for the best up-to-date information for your next Disney vacation.
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