Magic Kingdom Attractions: Liberty Square Riverboat | A Disney Mom's Thoughts

Liberty Square Riverboat in Liberty Square opened on May 20, 1973. The Admiral Joe Fowler was the original steamboat used when the attraction opened. A second boat, the Richard F. Irvine was later added. In 1996, after an extensive rehab, the boat was renamed the Liberty Belle.

view of Liberty Square

This attraction is a 17 minute, half a mile journey through America's early frontier on the Rivers of America. It departs every half hour and you usually only have to wait for the boat to return. I've never waited and not been able to get on the next boat. Families with strollers are not allowed to bring the stroller on board, but guests can bring their ECVs and wheelchairs on board without transferring. There are some limited seats on all 4 decks of the Riverboat, but majority of the space is standing room.

Tom Sawyer's log raft

This steam powered paddleboat has 4 decks and is a working reproduction of the historic boats that carried people up and down the Mississippi River. While this steam engine actually converts the water from the river into steam to power the paddle, the boat is on a track to keep it on course. Disney tints the water a dark green/ brown color to hide the tracks under the water.

Native American Village

While on the Riverboat, you'll hear Mark Twain narrate your journey as he tells about transportation and unique discoveries. Along the journey, you'll see unique sights such as an early American settlement and a Native American village. You'll also see landmarks from Tom Sawyer's Island. Along with views of some animals, you'll be able to see unique perspectives on some popular attractions such as Big Thunder Mountain, Splash Mountain and The Haunted Mansion.

Big Thunder Mountain

my favorite view of the Haunted Mansion

Tips:

• If you enjoy taking photographs of the park and attractions, the top deck will be the best place for this.

Frontierland from the top deck

• If you ride during the 3:00 parade, you'll get a great perspective of the parade as it goes through Frontierland.
• During special events at Halloween (MNSSHP) and Christmas (MVMCP) the Liberty Belle may have special entertainment or trick or treat stations.
• If you need to take a break from the heat or the crowds, this is a great place to go. 
• This attraction is typically closed each January for refurbishments. 
• Melissa from Rolling with the Magic, has more details in her post about this wheelchair accessible attraction.

selfie from the top deck!