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Liberty Square Riverboat Ride Review

The Liberty Square Riverboat is a classic attraction located in Liberty Square at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom theme park. This charming riverboat takes guests on a peaceful 12-minute journey around the Rivers of America, offering beautiful views of Frontierland and unique perspectives of classic Magic Kingdom attractions. With  a ride aboard an authentic 19th century-style steamboat and narration by the iconic Mark Twain, the Liberty Square Riverboat celebrates the nostalgia of riverboat travel’s golden era. It’s a perfect way to take a break from the high-thrill rides and enjoy a relaxing voyage back in time.

Table of Contents

• Average Wait Times
• Height Requirements
• Single Rider
• Ride Duration
• Genie+ and Lightning Lane
• Rider Switch
• Early Entry Ride

Best Times to Ride

• Original Boats
• Current Boat
• Disembarking

Special Events

Tips for riders.

• Tokyo Disneyland
• Hong Kong Disneyland
• Shanghai Disneyland
• Disneyland Paris

General Ride Information

Average Wait Time: The Liberty Square Riverboat typically has short wait times, averaging 10–20 minutes on moderate and busy days.

Height Requirement: There is no height requirement for this slow-moving boat ride.

Single Rider: The Liberty Square Riverboat does not offer single rider lines.

Ride Duration: The total ride duration is approximately 12 minutes as the boat navigates the Rivers of America.

Genie+ and Lightning Lane: Genie + and Lightning Lane access are not available for the Liberty Square Riverboat.

Rider Switch: Rider switch is also not offered as there is no height requirement.

Disability Access Service: Guests with disabilities can take advantage of the Disability Access Service (DAS) to receive a return time.

Ride Location: The Liberty Square Riverboat is located in Liberty Square, just across from The Hall of Presidents.

Early Entry: The  Liberty Square Riverboat is not included as one of the attractions available for Early Theme Park Entry.

The best times to ride the Liberty Square Riverboat are during the middle of the day when wait times for more popular attractions peak, first thing in the morning after riding a few headliners, and at night during the fireworks shows. Riding  when crowds are lower, especially during mealtimes and the Electrical Water Pageant, can also mean shorter wait times. Avoid exiting immediately after a performance of The Hall of Presidents, when crowds flood the area.

History and Design

The Liberty Square Riverboat has a long history, dating back to Walt Disney’s original vision for Disneyland . Walt incorporated a riverboat attraction into his plans for Disneyland, using the iconic Mark Twain Riverboat on the Rivers of America as inspiration. When  designing Magic Kingdom, Imagineers brought a similar riverboat to life on the park’s Rivers of America. The original Liberty Square riverboat was named the Admiral Joe Fowler. It operated for over 7 years before being damaged beyond repair.

The Admiral Joe Fowler was replaced in 1973 by the boat currently in operation – the Richard F. Irvine. After an extensive refurbishment in 1996, the Richard F. Irvine was renamed the Liberty Belle. The Liberty Belle is an exact replica of a 19th century paddle wheel riverboat. It stands 47 feet tall and weighs 100 tons. The boat has a maximum capacity of 450 guests over three levels. The  Liberty Belle is powered by a working steam engine that rotates the rear paddle wheel to propel the boat during its journey. While the steam engine is fully functioning, the boat does follow an underwater track for guidance and safety.

Ride Experience

The Liberty Square Riverboat ride experience begins at the loading dock in Liberty Square. Guests board the boat from the middle, second deck, while ramp access for wheelchairs and ECVs is offered on the first deck. As the boat departs, guests are welcomed aboard by a pre-recorded spiel from Captain Horace Bixby. He introduces the pilot guiding this journey – none other than Samuel Clemens, better known by his pen name Mark Twain.

Twain shares memories of his many adventures traveling along the Mississippi River as the Liberty Belle passes by Frontierland and approaches Tom Sawyer Island. Along the way, riders can spot wildlife, mining structures, and old settlements along the shores. The narration highlights various sights along the river, including abandoned mines at Cutthroat Canyon and Fort Langhorn on Tom Sawyer Island.

As the boat completes its loop around the island, the majestic facade of The Haunted Mansion comes into view. Twain remarks on legends of the Haunted Mansion being built on sacred native burial grounds as the Liberty Belle returns to dock in Liberty Square, concluding the 12-minute journey. Guests  exit the boat on the first deck and can browse photos taken during the ride that are available for purchase.

In addition to its regular operation, the Liberty Square Riverboat offers special cruises for certain hard ticket events and holidays throughout the year. During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, the Liberty Belle is decorated with Halloween theming. The boat hosts Happy HalloWishes Dessert Parties that coincide with the special Halloween fireworks show. Guests are served desserts while enjoying premium views of the fireworks bursting over Cinderella Castle. For the holidays, the Liberty Belle gets a festive Christmas overlay and operates during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. It offers Holiday Wishes Dessert Parties to pair with the Christmas fireworks spectacular.

The Liberty Square Riverboat also occasionally has evening cruises during Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks with unique viewing opportunities for Star Wars fans. Outside the special events, guests might catch the Liberty Belle testing its steam whistle after refurbishments and at other random times. When the steam whistle blows, it makes for an unforgettable part of the Liberty Square atmosphere. So  beyond its regular operation, the Liberty Belle delivers even more magic through special holiday cruises and one-of-a-kind experiences like the steam whistle that delight guests.

• Arrive to board the Liberty Belle 5–10 minutes before the scheduled departure time printed on the sign at the entrance. This will ensure you get a spot and don’t have to wait for the next boat.
• The top deck offers the best views but can get very hot in the sun. Seek shade underneath the overhangs on the lower decks if needed.
• Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of unique magic kingdom views along the river.
• Keep an eye out for live entertainment along the shores of Frontierland and special decorations during holidays.
• Stop by the Liberty Square Riverboat sign near the exit after disembarking to browse onboard photos available for purchase.
• There are no restrooms on the boat, so make sure and use the bathroom before riding

Comparison to Other Disney Riverboat Rides

The Liberty Square Riverboat ride bears many similarities to riverboat attractions across Disney theme parks worldwide. Each boat offers a scenic tour of an artificial river with references to Mark Twain and American history. However , there are some variations in narration, sights along the river, and overall ride experience between the different versions. Here’s how Walt Disney World’s Liberty Belle compares to riverboats at other Disney Parks:

Disneyland  – The Mark Twain Riverboat is a nearly identical ride experience to the Liberty Belle, complete with Twain narration and a relaxing voyage around Tom Sawyer Island and Frontierland. One key difference is Disneyland’s Columbia Sailing Ship that also navigates the river.

Tokyo Disneyland  – The Western River Railroad at Tokyo Disneyland features similar sights along the Rivers of America but follows a different path around the entire Critter Country area.

Hong Kong Disneyland  – Mystic Manor is visible from Hong Kong Disneyland’s Jungle River Cruise, offering a view of one of the park’s most popular attractions during the ride.

Shanghai Disneyland  – The Voyage to the Crystal Grotto winds through rocky caves with dazzling effects as part of its tour around Fantasyland, a very different sight from Liberty Square and Frontierland.

Disneyland Paris  – No riverboat ride exists at Disneyland Paris. Guests can walk through a full-scale replica of a frontier steamboat outside the Disneyland Railroad station.

The Liberty Square Riverboat continues to be a beloved classic, inviting guests of all ages to embark on a peaceful cruise back in time. For over 50 years, across Disney theme parks worldwide, these iconic boats offer an opportunity to recharge and appreciate the magic of Disney from a new perspective. A  ride aboard the Liberty Belle showcases Disney’s knack for blending nostalgia, nature, and storytelling into an attraction experience that stands the test of time. So be sure to hop aboard for a relaxing voyage across the Rivers of America on your next visit to the Magic Kingdom!

Nearby Attractions

• The Hall of Presidents – Located directly across from the Liberty Square Riverboat in Liberty Square.
• The Haunted Mansion – A short walk from the Liberty Square Riverboat, next to the Hall of Presidents.
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure – Located in Frontierland, opening this summer 2024!
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Also located in Frontierland, offering a unique view of the coaster from the riverboat.

Five Things to Know About the Liberty Square Riverboat

The Liberty Square Riverboat attraction docks at – you guessed it – Liberty Square. The boat itself is named the Liberty Belle. It’s an old-timey (read: historic) steam-powered paddle-wheel riverboat that travels around the Rivers of America. As you ride, you’ll hear a recorded narrator share memories of Mark Twain’s time on the Mississippi. If you want to paddle along with us, keep reading. Oar (dad pun) to skip to the whys, wheres, and hows, here’s your shortcut .

1. You’ll take a step back in time.

The Liberty Belle Riverboat is a large (47-foot tall) working reproduction of the boats that ran up and down the Mississippi River in the 19th century. It’s loaded with amazing details, as you might expect. The wood craftsmanship throughout is absolutely meticulous! The large paddle is powered by an actual steam engine that functions by converting water from the Rivers of America into steam, turning the paddle to propel the boat.

2. It’s full steam ahead!

The ride begins as its captain, Horace Bixby,  welcomes guests aboard. He introduces his pilot, Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) and lets you know you’re in good hands, since this is Clemens’ 100th trip piloting the Liberty Belle. You depart from the dock and navigate the winding “river”.  Along the way, you’ll get views of the Magic Kingdom you just can’t get anywhere else. You’ll see Tom Sawyer Island, Harper’s Mill, and Fort Langhorn from a new vantage point. Other sights from the American frontier include settler’s cabins, old mining paraphernalia, a Native American village, animatronic wildlife, and even Wilson’s Cave Inn from Davy Crockett and the River Pirates. The riverboat also offers unique perspectives of the Haunted Mansion and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. From the top deck especially, you’ll see Frontierland and Liberty Square in a whole new way.

As you ride, Sam Clemens offers his recollections of riding up and down the Mighty Mississippi. He points out various landmarks and shares a little about what he learned during his time on the river. Periodically, the horn and bell system are used, so you have to be prepared for the occasional and unpredictable ear-blasting loud outbursts. (I found that being toward the stern, rather than the bow, made the horn a bit more bearable.)

3. This Belle has quite a back story.

The first boat to sail the Rivers of America in the Magic Kingdom was the Admiral Joe Fowler. Named after Disneyland’s construction supervisor, it debuted on October 2, 1971, the day after the park’s official opening. In 1973, a second boat, the Richard F. Irvine, debuted. It was named after the Disney executive who oversaw the planning of Walt Disney World. Both boats ran on the river until 1980. The Richard F. Irvine was overhauled and received an all-new superstructure of aluminum and vinyl. The boat was renamed the Liberty Belle, and the attraction itself was renamed the Liberty Square Riverboat to make it easier to remember and to tie the boat in with Liberty Square. (Side note: two of the three ferry boats running from the Transportation and Ticket Center to the Magic Kingdom are now named the Admiral Joe Fowler and Richard F. Irvine, so their memory lives on!)

The scenery along the Rivers of America has been updated over the years. Tom Sawyer Island was added in 1973 and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in 1980. Similar versions of this attraction have also been added to other Disney Parks. At Disneyland Paris, it’s called the Rivers of the Far West. At Hong Kong Disneyland, there is no Frontierland, so the Imagineers merged the Rivers of America with the classic Adventureland Jungle Cruise attraction.

4. The Liberty Belle has her secrets, too.

Captain Horace Bixby, the Liberty Belle’s captain, was  a real steamboat captain  on the Mississippi. Horace Bixby and Sam Clemens met aboard a steamboat called The Paul Jones. Bixby agreed to take Sam on as his apprentice. About 21 years later, the now-famous Mark Twain reunited with Captain Bixby in St. Louis. The captain even makes an appearance in Twain’s book, Life on the Mississippi.

Inside The Liberty Belle’s Salon, there is a copy of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain.

The riverboat actually travels along an I-beam guide rail, so the pilot  doesn’t really steer the ship. But that doesn’t mean he’s doing nothing. Rather, the pilot watches for other river traffic, like the Rafts to Tom Sawyer Island, and communicates to the boiler engineer who is on the bottom deck towards the stern. This is where the throttle and reverser are located, so the boiler engineer controls the speed and direction of the riverboat.

5. The Nuts and Bolts.

You can catch a ride on the Liberty Belle at the Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square. There are no health or safety advisories and no height restrictions. Guests may remain in a wheelchair/ECV to ride the Liberty Belle.  Sign language interpreters may be available, depending on when you visit. It’s truly a ride that everyone can enjoy.

The Liberty Belle has a maximum capacity of 450 people. You board the boat at mid-level; disembarking guests exit from the lower deck. There are 4 decks with limited seating available on each (some inside, some outside) but with plenty of space to stand and move around.

The Liberty Belle provides a stable, gentle ride. I’m vulnerable to motion sickness/sea sickness but have no trouble whatsoever riding the Liberty Belle. It’s a great idea to move around on the deck during this 17-minute trip to be sure to see all the different views.

Bad weather can affect the operation of the Liberty Belle Riverboat. Genie+ is not available, but there’s no need for it. There’s no bad time of day to ride the Liberty Belle. It departs roughly every half-hour and usually the only waiting is waiting for the boat to leave or return. A good time of day to enjoy your ride is when you want a break from the crowds! But it’s worth noting that it closes earlier than the park and other park attractions; there is also no Early Theme Park Entry and no Extended Evening Theme Park hours.

The Bottom Line.

We ride the Liberty Belle nearly every time we visit Walt Disney World. But it’s not for thrill-seekers, to be sure. It’s perfectly peaceful – unless of course you’re right underneath the horn which is jarringly loud. It’s a great way to get out of the crowds, rest a bit, and enjoy a fun ride for every member of the family.

Have you ridden the Liberty Belle Riverboat? What was your favorite view? Let us know in the comments below!

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Bob Jacobs lives in Wisconsin where he retired as Editorial Director for a well-known catalog company. He and his wife Cristie have four children, seven grandchildren and a cocker spaniel named Penny the Dog. They’ve visited Walt Disney World regularly since 1992.

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Ride guide to liberty square riverboat.

Board a vintage steamer ship for a gentle ride circling Liberty Square and Frontierland, while hearing charming tales of American life in the days of Mark Twain.

Know Before You Go

What you will - and won't - find in this attraction

Ride Vehicle

Attraction Overview

As you step onto the spacious decks of the riverboat, you'll be transported to a bygone era of elegance and leisure. The ship's grand exterior, complete with ornate details and towering smokestacks, evokes a sense of adventure and discovery. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into recreating this iconic vessel.

Once on board, find a comfortable spot on one of the open-air decks or venture into the elegant cabin, where you can relax and take in the picturesque views. As the Liberty Belle sets sail, you'll be treated to breathtaking sights along the riverbanks, including lush landscapes, charming scenes of Americana, and iconic landmarks like Tom Sawyer Island and the Haunted Mansion.

Listen to the soothing sounds of the steam engine chugging along, as the paddlewheel propels the boat forward. Feel the gentle breeze against your face as you meander along the river, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. The journey is accompanied by a recorded narration that shares interesting tidbits about the history and significance of the areas you pass by.

The Liberty Square Riverboat offers a serene and leisurely experience, allowing you to unwind and soak in the ambiance of an era long past. It's a wonderful opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the park, while still enjoying the enchantment and storytelling that Disney is known for.

Let the rhythmic motion of the paddlewheel and the timeless charm of the river transport you to a simpler time, where the spirit of adventure and the beauty of America's heartland await.

This gentle journey is generally suitable for all ages. There is seating and there are shaded areas to escape the sun.

Be aware that on the bottom deck, there is a lot of noise from the ship's engine, and occasionally, the captain blows the whistle, which is loud from pretty much everywhere on the boat.

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Complete Guide to Liberty Square Riverboat at Magic Kingdom

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the Magic Kingdom while learning a little bit about American history? Then welcome aboard the Liberty Square Riverboat!

You’ll ride the majestic  Liberty Belle  riverboat for a half-mile tour around  Tom Sawyer Island .

On this 17-minute trip, you’ll hear the voice of iconic American author and humorist, Mark Twain, sharing some of his memories of life on the Mississippi. You’ll also encounter a rarely-seen side of the Magic Kingdom.

It’s full steam ahead for our complete guide to the Liberty Square Riverboat .

In this article

Liberty Square Riverboat Quick Facts

• Location: Liberty Square , in The Magic Kingdom
• Height req : None
• Suitable for: Anybody
• Attraction length: About 17 minutes
• Do we recommend? Just as a time filler
• When to visit: Anytime
• Scheduled Refurbishments
• Tip(s): Mostly standing room only, find a spot on the top deck to snap some good pics of nearby attractions.
• Description: This 17-minute cruise on a steam-powered boat takes you on a 1/2 mile tour around Tom Sawyer Island.

Liberty Square Riverboat is located in Liberty Square, across from Liberty Square Market and down the way from The Hall of Presidents .

Download the PDF

How to Ride Liberty Square Riverboat

Liberty Square Riverboat has a Standby Line. There is no Single Rider Line .

Do I need to use Genie+ at Liberty Square Riverboat?

Genie+ is not available at Liberty Square Riverboat.

Rider Switch/Child Swap

As there is no height requirement for Liberty Square Riverboat, this attraction does not offer Rider Switch .

Rider Switch is Disney’s system that allows guests with small children to take turns riding bigger rides, while another person/people wait with the little one.

You can learn more about Rider Switch via our helpful guide.

What to Expect When You Ride

The queue to ride the Liberty Square Riverboat is shaded with some benches. The loading dock is also covered.

The ride leaves twice an hour on the hour and the half-hour so if you don’t make the boat, you’ll be waiting quite a bit for the next one.

Ride Vehicles

The Liberty Square Riverboat is a 47-foot-tall working steamship called The Liberty Belle . It is propelled by the paddle wheel that is itself propelled by the steam engine.

It is a reproduction of the historic vessels that ferried people up and down the Mississippi River.

While it is fully functioning, it is actually guided on an “I-beam” track that is hidden by the green and brown-dyed water of the Rivers of America.

The Riverboat has a maximum capacity of 450 people.

Guests enter the ship on the middle deck. This area features a sitting room, an outside wheelhouse, and the captain’s quarters.

On the bottom deck of the boat, you can see the ship’s boiler and pistons and you can visit the viewing platform which has great views of all the attraction’s scenes.

On the top deck, guests get the best perspective of the Magic Kingdom from the water.

Accessibility Information

Guests in wheelchairs and ECVs may remain in them to ride The Liberty Square Riverboat.

If you are in a wheelchair or ECV, ask a Cast Member for help and they will assist you in boarding the ride up the exit ramp. There is actually a sign at the main entrance to the attraction that points those that require wheelchair or ECV access to enter to the left.

Those in wheelchairs and ECVs must remain on the middle deck of the riverboat as there is no handicap access for other levels.

On the Ride

If you prefer to keep your ride aboard The Liberty Square Riverboat a surprise, you may want to skip this part to avoid any spoilers.

The Liberty Square Riverboat begins with its captain, Horace Bixby, welcoming guests aboard The Liberty Belle as well as introducing his pilot, Samuel Clemens (known to future generations as the author, Mark Twain). You are currently on Clemens’ 100th journey aboard the Liberty Belle.

Before the Liberty Belle leaves port, Sam sets the scene for the ride ahead by warning guests to stay behind the railings, as river pirates are known to frequent the area.

As you sail down the river, you’ll see the sights of Frontierland, which for the purpose of the ride was once just a boom town but is well on its way to becoming a big city. Over the announcement system, Sam mentions that the large peak in Frontierland is known as Chick-A-Pin Hill (also known to Disney guests as the former Splash Mountain and future Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ).

Continuing on, the boat passes Sam’s “old stomping ground”,  Tom Sawyer Island .

Next, he points out  Big Thunder Mountain where the water gets so hot that geysers erupt. Sam explains that Native Americans used to think that the geysers were spirits and that’s why they named the mountain “Big Thunder Mountain” and the moniker stuck.

As your boat ride continues, you’ll see Beacon Joe and his dog Rufus in front of his bait shop.

You’ll then see Powhatan Native Americans gathering and pass by an unidentified Indian village. Down the river, the Liberty Belle reaches Cutthroat Corner where riders are told they are most likely to find river pirates.

Before returning to port in Liberty Square, the Liberty Belle passes The Haunted Mansion . Sam informs guests that rumor has it that the mansion was built on a Native American burial ground, and now 999 ghosts haunt it.

Finally, the Liberty Belle reaches port and Sam and Captain Bixby say goodbye as the boat docks and guests are directed to disembark.

One thing to note about taking a ride on The Liberty Square Riverboat: on top of the sights you see on the attraction, you will also get a unique view of Magic Kingdom. You might even be able to spot the parade or a cavalcade during your ride!

Is Liberty Square Riverboat Kid-Friendly?

This is a great ride for the whole family to take a break from the crowds of Magic Kingdom.

Strollers are not allowed in most queues at Walt Disney World. Instead, you’ll need to leave your stroller in the designated stroller parking area near the entrance to the queue.

The Liberty Square Riverboat is one of the few attractions that can trace its history back to before Disneyland or Walt Disney World even opened.

Walt Disney initially came up with the idea for a Mississippi steamboat attraction for the Disney Studio in Burbank, California. However, the Burbank Studio did not have the land to build the attraction so Walt decided to transfer the concept to Disneyland.

In order to create the attraction, Disney had to construct the first American-made, working steamboat in 50 years. Admiral Joe Fowler oversaw the construction of what would become The Mark Twain Riverboat in Disneyland.

The Mark Twain was built in two separate pieces. The hull was constructed in San Pedro, California and the deck was built at the Disney Studios in Burbank. The ship was assembled in Disneyland and The Mark Twin Riverboat debuted on July 17, 1955, for Disneyland’s opening day.

When Walt Disney World was in development, the riverboat was one of the attractions Imagineers decided to include in the opening day plans, however, it wasn’t quite ready.

The Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat opened one day after the park, on October 2, 1971. It was named in tribute to the man who had helped to create Disneyland and Walt Disney World, as well as the Riverboat attractions.

When the riverboat first debuted, live entertainment could often be found on deck because there wasn’t much else for guests to see on the Rivers of America at the time.

Since Walt Disney World did not yet have enough attractions to meet demand, in 1973 a second steamboat was built. The Richard F. Irvine  Riverboat entered into service on May 20, 1973. It was named after the late Disney executive, Richard F. Irvine, who oversaw the planning and construction of Walt Disney World.

The only difference between the two steamboats was that The Admiral Joe Fowler had two smokestacks, while The Richard F. Irvine only had one.

In fall of 1980, The Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat was destroyed in a drydock accident. Disney decided not to repair it, and the bell from the riverboat was added to the #4 engine known as the Roy O. Disney on the  Walt Disney World Railroad .

In 1996, The   Richard F. Irvine  was completely refurbished and returned to service as The   Liberty Belle  Riverboat.

The attraction itself was renamed the Liberty Square Riverboat to make it easier to remember and to tie the boat in with Liberty Square.

With one ship gone and the other one renamed, Disney decided to pay homage to Admiral Fowler and Richard Irvine by naming two ferries that run from the Ticket and Transportation Center to the Magic Kingdom after them in 1999.

The narration aboard the Liberty Belle has expanded as more rides have been added to Frontierland . References to  Tom Sawyer Island , Splash Mountain (the future Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ), and  Big Thunder Mountain Railroad  have all been added to the script.

In 1992, the Powhatan Native Americans were added to the attraction after the release of the Disney-animated film, Pocahontas .

The  Liberty Belle  underwent extensive rehab from September 2005 to September 2006, and then in 2018 it was completely overhauled with a new boiler.

Other Fun Details

• Captain Horace Bixby, the name given to the Liberty Belle’s captain, was a real steamboat captain on the Mississippi. Horace Bixby and Sam Clemens met aboard a steamboat called The Paul Jones . Bixby agreed to take Sam on as his apprentice. About 21 years later, the now-famous Mark Twain reunited with Captain Bixby in St. Louis. The captain even makes an appearance in Twain’s book, Life on the Mississippi .
• Inside The Liberty Belle’s Salon, there is a copy of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain.
• Watch the Audio-Animatronic dog outside of Beaker Joe’s. Every once and a while he will turn his head as a fish jumps by.

• To pay homage to the Samuel Clemens connection, in Disneyland the attraction is known as the Mark Twain Riverboat.
• Crates located on the banks of Frontierland are imprinted with “Tell City Tool Co.” Tell City is a real town located in Indiana on the banks of the Mississippi River. It was one of the United States’ first “planned cities.” Another crate has “71” on it to honor the year the Magic Kingdom opened and another says “Russel’s Falls” after Davy Crockett’s sidekick, George E. Russel.
• The attraction’s landing building is one of the few in the Magic Kingdom that does not employ forced perspective. This may be to hide the riverboat from guests in Liberty Square where a steam-powered riverboat would not fit the land’s theming.

Other Attractions in Liberty Square

• The Hall of Presidents
• Haunted Mansion
• Liberty Square River Boat

• Buy the Book!
• The Jungle Cruise
• Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Swiss Family Treehouse
• Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
• The Barnstormer Starring the Great Goofini
• Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station
• Cinderella Castle
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Enchanted Tales With Belle
• “it’s a small world”
• Mad Tea Party
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
• Mickey’s PhilharMagic
• Peter Pan’s Flight
• Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
• Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Country Bear Jamboree
• Splash Mountain
• Tom Sawyer Island
• Hall of Presidents
• Haunted Mansion

Liberty Square Riverboat

• Walt Disney World Railroad
• Astro Orbiter
• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
• Carousel of Progress
• Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor
• Space Mountain
• Tomorrowland Speedway
• Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover (TTA)
• Journey Into Imagination With Figment
• Living With the Land
• Mission: SPACE
• The Seas With Nemo & Friends
• Soarin’ Around the World
• Spaceship Earth
• The American Adventure
• Canada: Canada Far and Wide
• China: Reflections of China
• France: Impressions de France
• Mexico: Gran Fiesta Tour
• Norway: Frozen Ever After
• United Kingdom
• Star Wars Launch Bay
• Under the Sea: Voyage of the Little Mermaid
• Walt Disney Presents
• For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
• Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
• Star Tours: The Adventures Continue
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
• Rise of the Resistance
• Muppet*Vision 3D
• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
• Alien Swirling Saucers
• Toy Story Mania!
• Slinky Dog Dash
• Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage
• Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
• Rock ‘n Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith
• Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trails
• Kilimanjaro Safaris
• Rafiki’s Planet Watch
• Festival of the Lion King
• Expedition Everest
• Kali River Rapids
• Maharajah Jungle Trek
• The Boneyard
• Finding Nemo: The Musical
• TriceraTop Spin
• Discovery Island Trails
• It’s Tough To Be a Bug
• Tree of Life
• Flight of Passage
• Na’Vi River Journey

Take a leisurely ride down the Rivers of America on this authentic, steam-driven sternwheeler!

Quick Links:

The Liberty Belle takes you on a relaxing tour around Liberty Square and Frontierland. Along the way you’ll see some great views of the Haunted Mansion, Thunder Mountain, and Splash Mountain. You’ll get an especially good look at Tom Sawyer Island—it’s a great way to check it out if you haven’t been there yet.

You’ll also catch a glimpse of what life was like for the frontier settlers (including some of the dangers that they faced!).

Magical Moments

• The views from the Riverboat are fantastic, and are unlike those you’ll see wandering around the park (particularly for the Haunted Mansion and Tom Sawyer Island).
• Visit the Liberty Square Riverboat at night when its lit by hundreds of brilliant white lights.
• Listen closely to the ship’s captain as you tour the Rivers of America. You’ll hear some funny tales about life along the river (you’ll even hear how Mark Twain got his name!)

Hidden Mickeys & Other Secrets

• Some folks point to the padlocks on the stocks outside of the Liberty Square Riverboat as examples of Hidden Mickeys. Is it a case of wishful thinking? Take a look and judge for yourself!

Did You Know...?

• The Liberty Square Riverboat holds up to 450 passengers.
• Walt Disney strongly believed that the Riverboat was a vital part of Disneyland, so much so that he funded part of the construction himself when funds threatened to fall short.

Touring Tips

• The Riverboat is a great way to get photos of the Haunted Mansion, Tom Sawyer Island, Big Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain.
• Don’t neglect the Riverboat itself, you can wander around and do some exploring! There are lots of authentic details to discover.
• When leaving the Liberty Square Riverboat, keep in mind that many folks will wander over to the Haunted Mansion. If you follow you may find yourself in a long line. If that’s the case just try back later after the crowd dies down.

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Liberty Square Riverboat

Magic Kingdom Park

Liberty Square

Guests Can Be

Age interest, thrill level.

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Accessibility

• May Remain in Wheelchair/ECV
• Wheelchair Access Vehicle
• Supervise children at all times. Children under age 7 years must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older.

Cruise the scenic Rivers of America aboard an authentic steam-powered paddle wheeler.

See the Wild Frontier

Along the way, listen to a recorded narrator—in the voice of iconic American author and humorist Mark Twain—sharing memories of Twain’s time on the Mississippi.

It’s full steam ahead on this historic, nostalgic trip back to the past!

Along the River’s Edge

• An early American settlement
• An idyllic Native American village
• Harper’s Mill
• Fort Langhorn
• Wilson’s Cave Inn
• Woodland animals

You’ll also be treated to unique views of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Haunted Mansion .

Aboard the Liberty Belle

An actual steam engine converts water from the river into steam that powers the large paddle that in turn propels the boat.

There are 4 decks with limited seating available on each.

• 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Friday, July 19, 2024

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Attraction Stats

Type: Boat Ride

Length: Ride Length: 15 Minutes

Audience: All Ages

Open since October 1, 1971

A Good Attraction, But Don't Wait Too Long

Take a fifteen minute tour around Tom Sawyer Island on the relaxing Liberty Square Riverboat ride. Guests board the three story Liberty Belle, which travels around the Rivers of America that run through Liberty Square and Frontierland. During the voyage, guests will be able to see great views of Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, Haunted Mansion, and Tom Sawyer Island, as well as unique tableaus created along the Rivers of America.

The Liberty Square Riverboat closes after dark. While not a major attraction, the Liberty Square Riverboat offers a nice break from running around the park, as well as a unique perspective of Magic Kingdom.

Tips and Trivia

• The Liberty Belle has three stories, so there is usually plenty of great views all around. My personal favorite is the top level.
• The Liberty Square Riverboat travels about half a mile around the Rivers of America during the tour.
• Located near several popular attractions like Haunted Mansion, Splash Mountain, and Big Thunder, this is a good way to spend some time while you are waiting on a Fastpass+ reservation.

Liberty Square Riverboat Images

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Kilimanjaro Safaris

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Liberty Square Riverboat

See the Wild Frontier

Steam into American history aboard the majestic, Colonial-era Liberty Belle riverboat and enjoy a relaxing half-mile tour around Tom Sawyer Island .

Along the way, listen to a recorded narrator—in the voice of iconic American author and humorist Mark Twain—sharing memories of Twain’s time on the Mississippi.

It’s full steam ahead on this historic, nostalgic trip back to the past!

Along the River’s Edge

During this charming, 17-minute trip, you’ll encounter a rarely seen side of Magic Kingdom park . Behold a bevy of sights from the early days of the American frontier, including:

• An early American settlement
• An idyllic Native American village
• Harper’s Mill
• Fort Langhorn
• Wilson’s Cave Inn
• Woodland animals

You’ll also be treated to unique views of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad , Splash Mountain and Haunted Mansion .

Aboard the Liberty Belle

Featuring meticulously detailed wood craftsmanship, the 47-foot tall Liberty Belle is a working reproduction of the historic vessels that ferried people up and down the mighty Mississippi.

An actual steam engine converts water from the river into steam that powers the large paddle that in turn propels the boat.

There are 4 decks with limited seating available on each.

Safety, Accessibility and Guest Policies

Times for liberty square riverboat.

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The Dirt: Winery planned for historic North Monroe building

City Brix, a winery and bistro, is planned to open this fall in a 1905 building between Birdie’s Pie Shop and Terrain Gallery.

“We’ve been communicating with business owners in the neighborhood because we’re all about building partnerships and community,” said Ashley Erickson, a business partner behind City Brix.

“Birdie’s is interested in selling pie there in the evening. Breweries in the area, like Four-Eyed Guys and Bellwether, may supply some local brews, and Chowderhead might bake some bread for us.”

But first, Erickson and Keith Stanhill, the sole owner of the business, will renovate the space at an estimated cost of $320,000, according to plans submitted to the city of Spokane on Wednesday.

At 706 N. Monroe St., the roughly 2,200-square-foot interior will house tables, booths, a bar, a kitchen and restrooms, according to plans.

Erickson, a professional interior designer, said patrons can expect a French, turn-of-the-century-like atmosphere.

“We’re keeping all the original brick to lean into the age of the building while keeping it approachable,” she said. “It will be an eclectic coziness with its lighting and comfortable furniture – almost like a dark academia feel.”

Developers are also planning improvements to the roughly 1,200-square-foot patio along its north wall, Erickson said.

Site plans show water features, landscaping and seating for a few dozen people.

Though Erickson is behind much of the winery’s design, Stanhill will create the menu and wine list.

Because his father owned a deli, Stanhill spent much of his younger years embedded in the restaurant industry. This upbringing led him to becoming an wine expert, also referred to as a sommelier, according to Erickson.

“The wine list is still developing but it will include some exclusive wine that you can’t get from vendors. Keith makes that happen because he has a lot of connections from traveling the country as a sommelier,” she said.

For example, Jack Creek, a small Californian vineyard that has agreed to sell directly to City Brix. The selection will include Washington varieties as well.

“And for food, we’re going for more of a European bistro with smaller plates of fresh food – nothing greasy or fried,” she said.

The property was purchased by a group of restaurateurs in 2015, for $240,000, according to county records.

Todd Phelps, Curtis Nelson and Liz Nelson also own Steelhead Bar & Grille, Morty’s Tap and Grille, Manito Tap House, Fieldhouse Pizza and Pub (on the north side and Liberty Lake), The Barrel Steak and Seafood House, Selkirk Pizza and Tap House and the Screaming Yak, according to Spokesman-Review reports.

The upper floors of the Monroe building will operate as offices and headquarters for the group of restaurant owners, Erickson said.

Art exhibition hall

Near the Spokane River, where Division Street and Ruby Street split, a recently vacated building will become the home for Exhibition Hub, an art company with roots near Atlanta.

The building at 808 N. Ruby St., which is about 19,000 square feet, was once a home for The Arc of Spokane.

Last December, the thrift store relocated to 11008 N. Newport Hwy., according to its website.

The Ruby property has been owned by an Orange, California-based company since 2021, according to county records. The new tenant, Exhibition Hub has plans for a temporary immersive art experience.

According to its website, the Hub will put on the Van Gogh Exhibit, which will feature 360-degree projections on 10,000 square feet of screens of the Dutch impressionist.

The new tenant applied to the city of Spokane to temporarily change the building’s use from retail to mixed-mercantile. The exhibitors will spend about $50,000 installing temporary separation panels and exit signage, according to records.

Tickets are on sale and the show kicked off Friday. It’s closing night will be July 29, 2025, according to its website.

Heart care for life

Feeling chilled to the bone while fishing in January is an endurable compromise for doing something you love.