The Magic of Disney Animation is returning as a new experience replacing Star Wars: Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The Magic of Disney Animation Returns
The Magic of Disney Animation was an attraction in Animation Courtyard from the park’s opening in 1989 to 2015, when it was replaced by Star Wars: Launch Bay. It included a behind-the-scenes look into the Disney Feature Animation building where classics like “Lilo & Stitch” were created. The Florida animation studio closed in 2004.
The experience will return in 2026 as a “place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences.”
The new experience is partially inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Emmy Award-winning short film “Once Upon A Studio,” honoring 100 years of The Walt Disney Company.
The updated building will have a Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat facade, just like the real Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank, California. The facade also calls back to the former Disney’s Hollywood Studios park icon.
The reimagined interior will also resemble the animation studio when 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!”
Guests 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.”
Guests will see portraits come to life, just like in “Once Upon A Studio,” find inspiration in a short film “with a twist,” and create their own character sketches.
Young guests can explore the Drawn to Wonderland playground featuring an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood area. The indoor playground is inspired by “Alice in Wonderland” concept art by Disney Legend Mary Blair.
The Magic of Disney Animation will also be full of character meet and greets.
Animation Courtyard Becoming The Walt Disney Studios Lot
As shown in concept art, the entire Animation Courtyard will be reimagined as part of this update. It will become “The Walt Disney Studios,” taking inspiration from other Burbank buildings. The theater housing “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will become the Studio Theater.
There will be a “fresh Disney Jr. show” at the soundstage. Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025.
Concept art includes a new park space in the center of the courtyard. Guests will be able to “play, relax, or snack on tasty treats under lush trees.” Characters will also appear in this space.
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Disney is FINALLY doing the Right Thing! 🎉🥳
So great to here this news about the Animation Studios coming to the Launch Bay at Hollywood Studios. This will certainly bring back a lot of the original magic that Hollywood Studios once had. Hopefully Disney lets the Imagineers run free and doesn’t cut corners!