LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Another attraction is in the works at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, as the park looks to get back to its animation roots.
Set to open in 2026, “The Magic of Disney Animation” is returning to its old space, currently housed by Star Wars Launch Bay.
Inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, and the Emmy-winning short film “Once Upon a Studio,” the attraction invites guests into a whimsical version of the real-life studio where Disney characters come to life when the animators are away, a news release states.
“Our film came from the heart and from a desire of all the Disney Animation artists wanting to celebrate our artistic accomplishments and a passion for the studio’s legacy,” said “Once Upon a Studio” director, Trent Correy.
Donned by Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat at the entrance, guests will explore different studio departments brought to life by beloved Disney characters. In the Production Gallery, portraits animate just like in “Once Upon a Studio,” while the Screening Theater will feature an inspiring short film for the whole family. Visitors can also learn to draw their favorite characters and meet them in person.
Families with young children will enjoy “Drawn to Wonderland,” a new indoor playground inspired by Disney Legend Mary Blair’s concept art for “Alice in Wonderland.” The play area includes an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration zone.
Outside, Animation Courtyard will transform into “The Walt Disney Studios,” a redesigned outdoor space with shaded seating, playful landscaping, and fun surprises.
[VIDEO: Jodi Benson, voice of Ariel, surprises ‘Little Mermaid’ audience]
To prepare for the transformation, Animation Courtyard, Star Wars Launch Bay, and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close starting Sept. 25. Guests can still enjoy “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and Walt Disney Presents during the renovation.
Based on the bird’s-eye art rendering view that Disney released on Tuesday, the transformation will not include Disney’s Hollywood Studios Animation Courtyard Archway.
The original “The Magic of Disney Animation” opened in 1989 and then closed in July 2015 to make way for Star Wars Launch Bay.
“The Magic of Disney Animation” is the latest change to happen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
In June, construction on the new Monsters, Inc. land began following the closure of the Muppets Courtyard area, which included Muppet*Vision 3D, Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, and PizzeRizzo.
[VIDEO: 1991 footage of the Muppet*Vision 3D grand opening]
The Monsters, Inc. land will feature a suspended coaster themed around the door vault scene and a new theater show.
In the meantime, the Muppets are on the move to Sunset Boulevard, where they will take over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster next year, which will be rebranded as “Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets.”