Visitors to Walt Disney World Resort can now step straight into the creative heart of the movie studio as The Magic of Disney Animation opens its doors at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Designed for families and fans of all ages, this brand-new collection of animation-inspired experiences celebrates more than a century of storytelling, bringing all 65 Walt Disney Animation Studios feature films to life through interactive play, character encounters and immersive new attractions.
A Studio Headquarters Brought to Life
The new destination is housed in a striking building inspired by the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank, California. Developed through a collaboration between Walt Disney Animation Studios artists and Walt Disney Imagineering, the area invites guests to explore reimagined studio departments.
The concept draws direct inspiration from Disney Animation’s Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon a Studio. Film director Dan Abraham collaborated closely with Walt Disney Imagineering’s Daniel Handke to infuse the spaces with authentic studio heritage and plenty of playful surprises, including portraits that magically come to life around every corner.
Highlights of the New Expansion
- Drawn to Wonderland: A whimsical, indoor active playground designed especially for younger children. Inspired by original concept art by Disney Legend Mary Blair from Alice in Wonderland, little ones can explore the vibrant colors and playful chaos of the Mad Tea Party, the Queen of Hearts rose garden, and the Cheshire Cat’s Tulgey Wood.
- Off the Page!: A dedicated area celebrating the artistry behind every frame, where guests can meet beloved characters stationed across various stages of the animation process. Highlights include Mulan in Story, Rapunzel in Layout, Chip ’n Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation, Donald and Daisy in Computer Animation, Goofy in Lighting, and Stitch in Effects.
- Olaf Draws!: An all-new attraction starring an advanced Audio-Animatronics figure of everyone's favourite snowman, voiced by Disney Legend Josh Gad. Sitting at an animator’s desk inspired by Once Upon a Studio, Olaf guides guests alongside real Disney artists and filmmakers as they learn how to draw iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse, Moana, Genie and Stitch.
- Once Upon a Studio Theater: A dedicated theatre showing the award-winning short film that inspired the entire land, enhanced with special theatrical effects and brand-new animation created exclusively for the venue.
- The Enchanted Gallery: A curated art gallery where visitors can admire traditional studio artwork before a sprinkle of pixie dust reveals hidden, all-new animations that bring the gallery walls to life.
The Magic of Disney Animation is open now at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For more information on planning your visit to Walt Disney World, stay tuned to Theme Parks US.
Are you planning to check out the new drawing classes with Olaf on your next trip to Florida?
