Disney announced a new Disney Animation experience, The Magic of Disney Animation, will replace Star Wars: Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The Magic of Disney Animation
Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, is a place of pure magic – artists go in… beloved characters and films come out. Now, imagine stepping inside those iconic walls and seeing Disney Animation characters leap off the screen and into our world.
That was the heart and premise of the Emmy Award-winning short film, “Once Upon A Studio,” and soon, it will inspire a brand-new experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Housed in a building reminiscent of the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building, this upcoming family experience, “The Magic of Disney Animation,” is getting ready to bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.
New Adventures Under the Sorcerer Hat
In 2026, the current home of Star Wars: Launch Bay will transform into a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences. Topping the building will be Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat (just like the real building in California!), which will cast a spell with pixie dust.
Our story in this newly reimagined space begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away… but the building is still buzzing with activity as the characters have come to life and they’re ready to play!
Inside, you will interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.
The playful and interactive moments will be around every corner. You’ll see portraits come to life before your eyes just like they did in “Once Upon A Studio;” you’ll find inspiration with a short film (with a twist, of course); and you’ll even pencil in some time to learn how to draw your very own character sketch.
Our youngest animators-to-be can explore the “Drawn to Wonderland” playground filled with an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area, all inspired by the original “Alice in Wonderland” concept art from Disney Legend Mary Blair. It’ll be the perfect whimsical indoor play area for little ones to grow “curiouser and curiouser!”
All of those places to explore and create, and we haven’t even talked about character greetings… and there are lots! The whole family will be drawn to all the creative ways to play together when “The Magic of Disney Animation” opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios next year.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot Comes to Life at Hollywood Studios
The pixie dusting from the Sorcerer’s Hat will extend far beyond the walls of “The Magic of Disney Animation” as the entire courtyard is reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios,” taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank. This special nod to the legendary Walt Disney Studios Lot includes our version of the Studio Theater, which will continue to house “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” and over at the soundstage, you’ll find a fresh Disney Jr. show.
While exploring the studio grounds and courtyard area, families can take a break to play, relax, or snack on tasty treats under lush trees. And make sure to look around, too. You never know who you might see playing in the branches, soaking up the sun or digging in the grass.
Disney Animation artists and Walt Disney Imagineers are working hand-in-hand to bring the wonder and nostalgia of Disney Animation films to the whole courtyard in new and immersive ways families will love. We can’t wait for you to experience this fantastical place in 2026.
As we prepare for this transformation, Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. During this time, guests will still be able to go under the sea with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and enjoy the exhibits and film presentation at Walt Disney Presents.
And you can catch the inspiration for this brand new adventure – Disney Animation’s “Once Upon a Studio” – on Disney+.