Things are about to look VERY different at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Disney World.
Earlier this year, we saw Muppets Courtyard closed to make way for the new Monsters, Inc.-themed land, but Disney’s not done working on the theme park. It was also recently announced that Animation Courtyard will close on September 25th, 2025, to make way for a new experience and reimagining —causing the permanent closure of two established attractions in the area.
The Magic of Disney Animation will be a new building modeled after the Walt Disney Animation Studios building in Burbank, California — even featuring Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat on top!
The new building will open in 2026 and will feature moving portraits, a short film, character meet-and-greets, an area where guests can learn to draw, and the “Drawn to Wonderland” playground. The playground is inspired by the concept art of Disney Legend Mary Blair, and will be filled with an “oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area.”
However, the area isn’t just getting new attractions — it’s also losing a couple. Star Wars: Launch Bay — which has been located in Animation Courtyard since 2015 and will be replaced by The Magic of Disney Animation building — is closing September 25th. This exhibit allowed guests to celebrate all things Star Wars and come face-to-face with characters from the franchise.
Additionally, “Disney Jr. Play and Dance“ is also set to close in the area on the same day. Oddly enough, the attraction might have already been permanently closed. Right now, the theater is currently playing “Get Animated!”
Per the official Disney World website, “Disney Jr. Play and Dance! show will close permanently on September 25 to make way for The Walt Disney Studios. Enjoy the ‘Get Animated’ dance party at this location through September 24.” This essentially means that “Disney Jr. Play and Dance!” is done for, but it’ll be official on the 25th.
We’ll continue to keep you posted on all the Animation Courtyard updates as well as all the latest news and tips from Disney World, so follow us here at AllEars to stay in the know!
“They Had It Right the First Time.” — Disney Fans Have THOUGHTS on the NEW Hollywood Studios Magic of Disney Animation Attraction
How are you feeling about these Hollywood Studios changes? Let us know in the comments!
I find it sad that Disney feels the need to chase Universal on space and super hero content, Disney use to be a leader , not follower. The studio should be adding , not substituting. They should enhance the charm and thrill if the movies, expand upon their original theme. It’s a mish mosh now, I hope it comes together, it used to be my favorite park.
Removing the Magic of Disney Animation May have been the worst decision ever made in Hollywood Studios. I’m very glad to see them rectifying that.
Please have Doc McStuffins Move to a different location in the parks instead of getting rid of her. I absolutely do not want her gone!