The Walt Disney Studios in Disney’s Hollywood Studios
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.
On this page
INTRODUCTION
Disney announced in Summer 2025 that Animation Courtyard in Hollywood Studios is undergoing a major overhaul, returning 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. And this new section of Hollywood Studios will officially open on May 26th, 2026.
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.”
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.
ATTRACTIONS
The Magic of Disney Animation — 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 Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure opened on May 27th, 2025. It is a fully reimagined theatrical production inspired by the animated movie. Just like Voyage of the Little Mermaid, it will include a mix of live actors and puppets in some scenes.
Walt Disney Presents opened in September 2017. It combines elements of the previous attraction, Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream, with a character Meet and Greet and a short film.
Disney Junior Play & Dance will receive a fresh version. It will close on September 25th, 2025, to make way for its new iteration opening on May 26th, 2026.
TOURING TIPS
Stay tuned as we learn more about this area as new information becomes available.
KIDS AND CHARACTERS
This will be THE spot in Hollywood Studios for little ones. With plenty of characters, a playground, and activities all created with the youngest Disney Parks guests in mind, this is sure to be a favorite for families.
Character Greetings – A great indoor location to meet Disney Characters, including ones from current or recent movies! Check the time guide for details.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Characters At A Glance
Character Meet and Greet FAQ!
DINING
No restaurants or formal dining have been announced for this location. The Hollywood Brown Derby is the closest restaurant at the end of Hollywood Boulevard, and several snack kiosks and a popcorn cart are located just beyond the entrance to the upcoming Walt Disney Studios area.
We anticipate that some snack carts or kiosks may also find their way into this area.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Restaurants At A Glance
Menus From Around the World
Vegetarian and Other Special Diets
SHOPPING
No formal announcement has been made, but what Disney location or attraction is complete without a gift shop or souvenir cart? As more information is released, we’ll update this section
Shopping in Disney’s Hollywood Studios
INTERESTING FACTS
From 2003 to 2015, this location was also called the Magic of Disney Animation. It housed a few variations of familiar experiences:
- The Magic of Disney Animation — This attraction has undergone a number of changes over the years.
- Where Characters Come From: 9 minute film about the creation of Disney’s animated characters. This film takes you being the scenes of various animated films.
- Animation Station – Interactive Exhibits to experience what it is like to be a Disney animator.
We’ll keep you in the loop with more news about these changes, so stay tuned to AllEars for the latest!
