The Magic of Disney Animation Coming to Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is returning to its studio roots, at least a little. An animation-themed experience is taking over the Animation Courtyard. The Magic of Disney Animation – inspired by Once Upon A Studio and Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California – is taking over Star Wars: Launch Bay. Here’s how Disney announced the news:

“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 Magic of Disney Animation

Inside the reimagined building, guests will experience what happens after animators step away from their desks. Now unsupervised, the characters they’ve been creating come to life, “and they’re ready to play.” That means hands-on activities. Children (and their families) can explore the oversized “Drawn to Wonderland” playground and its musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area. Mary Blair’s original “Alice in Wonderland” concept art inspired the new spaces.

Disney needs interactive, hands-on freeplay areas. Having them indoors is a huge bonus.

If that’s not enough, The Magic of Disney Animation will be filled with character interactions. We don’t know what those will be, but the concept art has us excited for the possibilities.

The Walt Disney Studios

Outside, the Animation Courtyard will be transformed into The Walt Disney Studios. Once again, Burbank’s Studios will be the inspiration for the reimagined space. Expect new façades for The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and the Disney Jr. show. Even better, more shade is coming to Hollywood Studios. Disney promises plenty of lush trees.

Unfortunately, the courtyard is losing its arch entryway. That’s according to the concept art.

Animation Courtyard will close beginning September 25, 2025. That means your last day to enjoy Star Wars: Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will be the day before. The Little Mermaid and the Walt Disney Presents film will remain open during construction.

Star Wars: Launch Bay offers several character interactions, including Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and BB-8. While Chewie is already in Galaxy’s Edge, I’d love to see the other two join Batuu at some point.

The Magic of Disney Animation and The Walt Disney Studios debut in 2026.

Read more: BDX Droids Land at Walt Disney World’s Galaxy’s Edge