Disney World is getting some pretty major changes these days with new lands, new attractions, and old classics closing down.
We recently saw the closure of Tom Sawyer Island in Magic Kingdom to make way for some Cars attractions, as well as the shutdown of Muppets Courtyard to be replaced by a Monsters, Inc.-themed land. But many fans have been hoping for changes in ANOTHER part of Hollywood Studios…and now we’ve got some news!
Disney just announced that Animation Courtyard in Hollywood Studios is getting a big overhaul, and it’s taking it back to the roots of the studio! The current home of Star Wars: Launch Bay will close to make way for a new attraction called The Magic of Disney Animation.
Disney says, “In 2026, the current home of Star Wars: Launch Bay will transform into a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences. Topping the building will be Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat (just like the real building in California!), which will cast a spell with pixie dust.”
Animated characters will “come to life” in this new space where you can watch portraits interact, see a short film, and even learn to draw Disney character sketches. A new Drawn to Wonderland playground area will be available for small children, “filled with an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area.”
The Magic of Disney Animation will open in 2026, so we can expect some construction in the area soon. Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25th, 2025. During that time, you’ll still be able to visit Walt Disney Presents and watch The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure.
The outdoor space will be home to a “lush” courtyard with trees and spaces to sit and enjoy a tasty snack. Disney has said that you’ll never know who you might spot out and about while sitting in the courtyard — so can we expect some characters to meet and greet here?
And when it comes to theming, the entire courtyard will be reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios,” taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank. This nod to the Walt Disney Studios Lot includes a version of the Studio Theater (which will continue to house The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure) as well as the soundstage, where you’ll find a fresh Disney Jr. show.
We’ll keep you in the loop with more news about these changes, so stay tuned to AllEars for the latest!
7 Changes Happening in 2026 in Disney World — Click Here!
What do you think of this announcement? Tell us in the comments!
Please Don’t Close the Animation Courtyard! Because my Favorite Character Doc McStuffins was there. Keep the Disney Junior Play n Dine Breakfast at Hollywood and Vine permanently instead of Minnie’s Seasonal Dining for breakfast. Doc McStuffins is the most Popular and Beloved Disney Junior Character. I am looking forward to seeing her again!
Hopefully she’ll be at Echo Lake if not the Animation Courtyard.
Will the Star Wars meet and greets with Darth Vader and Chewbacca be moved elsewhere? Always go to see both of those characters so hope they will remain available.
Hollywood Studios had become our least favorite of the parks over the years. THIS is something I am happy to see. PLEASE Disney, stick to the plan on the project.