Uncle Walt grew up in the Mark Twain/Tom Sawyer America we’ve all dreamed about. He was a Missouri boy who was home around the water. He loved watching the old Paddleboats run up and down the Mississippi River.

Liberty Square is home to the Liberty Belle. It’s Uncle Walt’s recreation of the old paddleboats of his youth. The only difference is this one is on a rail and goes round in circles.

The Liberty Belle

The Liberty Belle is a three story paddlewheel steamboat. Recorded narration plays as you pass your way around Tom Sawyer Island. The massive paddlewheel actually provides the power for the boat (Dad used to think there were outboard engines hidden under the boat. Silly Dad.)

The Riverboat is a authentic replica of boats that steamed up and down the Mississippi around the turn of the century.

The Rivers of America

The Rivers of America is the body of water that the Liberty Belle floats on. It runs through Adventureland. As you make the 17 minute journey around Tom Sawyer Island, you’ll see Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

There are scenes along the riverside of Native American Villagers, woodland cabins and even a hint of trouble ahead.

Confusion

This attraction is actually named the Liberty Square Riverboat. But the boat is named Liberty Belle. Yeah, I know it’s a little confusing.

Fun Facts

• The “Rivers of America” are only about 6 feet deep.
• The Liberty Belle was originally called the Richard F. Irvine
• The shop was actually built in a drydock at Disney World
• A working steam engine turns the paddlewheel

Dad’s Ride Information Table

The fine print

• Sing language interpretation is offered at specific times on Monday and Thursdays. Check Guest Relations for the time.
• Wheelchairs and ECV’s are allowed to board.

Dad’s Bottom Line

The Liberty Belle is a beautiful turn of the century paddleboat. The ride around the Rivers of America is full of interesting scenery. Be adventurous, it’s not a 3 hour tour, it’s just a 17 minute voyage around Tom Sawyer Island.