The Magic of Disney Animation Review: Made for Disney Fans

Written by Tyler Posted September 11th, 2026

The redevelopment of Hollywood Studios’ Animation Courtyard has reached its conclusion. The Magic of Disney Animation officially opens to all guests on September 14. Replacing the former Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the venue is the latest addition to the courtyard. In my opinion, it has already proven itself to be the best addition.

Editor’s note: The Magic of Disney Animation soft-opened at Hollywood Studios on September 11.

As a photographer, my walkthrough experience was humbling. Seemingly infinite Easter eggs, sketches, and props are scattered everywhere. It will take me well over a dozen visits to capture it all. The more you look, the more you discover.

Genie's lamp at The Magic of Disney Animation — Genie’s Lamp

As I stood in vacant hallways and exhibits, unexpected sounds and sights transformed the space. While I gazed upon framed gallery photos, characters came to life and played. In the Animator’s Office, I watched Stitch spin endlessly while thick smoke suddenly filled the air from Genie’s Lamp. Later, as I made my way towards the exit to check rainfall, the soft purring from Figaro above brought my attention back to the magic.

The Magic of Disney Animation’s four areas

Drawn to Wonderland, an Alice in Wonderland-themed playground for ages 6 months to 5 years.
Off the Page, a variety of character meet-and-greets.
Once Upon a Studio Theater, a theater showing of the Emmy Award-winning short, Once Upon a Studio.
Olaf Draws!, a limited-capacity drawing class with your favorite snowman and accomplished Disney Animation artists.

Each area has its own strengths and collectively checks many boxes for guests. The dedicated playground will keep children entertained while providing an air-conditioned break for adults still recovering from Toy Story Land. Additionally, another seated theater experience will provide a break and pull at your heartstrings. Guests looking for character interactions have received another compact venue to meet several in one place.

Lastly, Olaf. Some people are worth melting for.

Olaf Draws at The Magic of Disney Animation — Olaf Draws!

The drawing class lives up to Olaf’s reputation. While the Disney Animation artists are prerecorded, the experience was seamless. During my showing, the dynamic between the artist, Olaf, and the audience was perfect. I learned to draw Mickey Mouse alongside Dan Abraham, director of Once Upon a Studio.

The team behind this project exceeded all of my expectations for the venue. That said, I am still in wait-and-see mode for how the space will handle crowd and noise levels. Off the Page is an open hallway with a half dozen queues directly in front of performers.

Drawn to Wonderland is a single entry/exit playground that also shares a path with Mulan and Rapunzel’s queues, a themed accessibility ramp, and Mulan’s exit. As a professional people watcher, I can see this space overcrowding during peak times.

Drawn to Wonderland and Mulan's area at The Magic of Disney Animation — Drawn to Wonderland and Mulan’s area

Olaf Draws has little to no queue space and will likely require an in-person virtual queue for the foreseeable future. I have no qualms with Once Upon a Studio Theater and the interactive waiting space. You absolutely should watch the short again in a theater setting.

This venue was built specifically for Disney fans, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. For now, I eagerly await the grand opening!