In 2026, guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World Resort will be able to step into the heart of Walt Disney Animation Studios with the debut of The Magic of Disney Animation — a brand-new, family-friendly experience.
Housed in a reimagined building inspired by the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank, California — complete with Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat magically perched atop the entrance — this new attraction will take over the current Star Wars: Launch Bay location, transforming it into a whimsical space where imagination and creativity lead the way.
With beloved characters, imaginative play and a celebration of animation magic, The Magic of Disney Animation promises to be a must-see destination when it opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026.
Animation Comes to Life
Imagine wandering through a studio where the animators have just stepped out, and the characters have stepped in. That’s the whimsical premise behind The Magic of Disney Animation, where beloved characters have come to life and taken over the studio’s departments for playful, interactive adventures. Inspired by the heartwarming tone of the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon a Studio, guests will see portraits magically come alive, enjoy a creatively twisted short film, and even try their hand at character sketching.
Discover "Drawn to Wonderland"
Younger guests will be especially enchanted by the Drawn to Wonderland play area — an indoor, whimsical playground inspired by Disney Legend Mary Blair’s concept art for Alice in Wonderland. Here, little ones can wander through a musical flower garden, crawl through a Tulgey Wood exploration zone, and play in a Mad Tea Party-themed set, all while growing “curiouser and curiouser.”
Characters, Creativity, and Courtyard Charm
Of course, what would a Disney Animation experience be without some familiar faces? Character greetings will be plentiful throughout the space, offering families countless opportunities to connect with their favorite animated pals.
But the magic won’t stop at the front doors. The entire surrounding area — currently known as Animation Courtyard — will be transformed into The Walt Disney Studios, inspired by the legendary studio lot in Burbank. The refreshed courtyard will now include lush, shaded areas perfect for relaxing, snacking, or spotting surprise characters. The Studio Theater will continue to showcase The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, while a neighboring soundstage will debut a new Disney Junior show.
A Collaborative Celebration of Animation
Bringing this vibrant world to life is a collaboration between Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering, uniting the spirit of Disney’s storytelling with the immersive design that only Disney parks can deliver.
To make way for this magical transformation, the current Animation Courtyard and Disney Junior Play and Dance! will close starting September 25, 2025. However, guests will still be able to enjoy The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and visit the exhibits and film presentation at Walt Disney Presents during the construction period.
Fans eager to experience the inspiration behind this new offering can stream Once Upon a Studio now on Disney+.
