Surprise at Disney: Guest Spotted Swimming in Rivers of America
A surprising and unusual sight caught the attention of Disney visitors recently when a guest was spotted swimming in the Rivers of America at Magic Kingdom.
The Viral Video
A viral video shared on TikTok by @jeffreytillitt shows the guest swimming from Tom Sawyer Island to a dock near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The incident, which occurred during the day on July 16, 2024, shows the guest paddling and kicking as if they were in an actual swimming pool.
Unanswered Questions
It’s still unclear how or why the guest ended up in the water. Although cast members aren’t visible in the video, Tillitt explained to viewers that a few employees eventually managed to handle the situation.
Risks and Dangers
Swimming in the Rivers of America is one of the most dangerous activities to engage in at Walt Disney World. The water contains electrical and mechanical structures and is home to snakes, alligators, and other types of wild animals.
Numerous signs around the edge of the Rivers of America warn guests not to step into the water due to the risk of serious injury. Despite these warnings, this isn’t the first time a guest has ended up in the Rivers of America. Earlier this year, a guest accidentally fell off a Tom Sawyer raft into the water due to a medical issue.
Attractions on the Water
While there’s plenty to enjoy on land, several attractions can only be accessed by crossing the Rivers of America. This manmade body of water provides a stunning visual experience and features two attractions: Tom Sawyer’s Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat, both of which travel on tracks beneath the water.
Guests can most prominently see the Rivers of America while visiting Liberty Square and Frontierland, two of the themed areas at Magic Kingdom.
