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New ‘Magic of Disney Animation’ Attraction Coming to Hollywood Studios in 2026
Disney’s Hollywood Studios will welcome a brand-new family attraction, “The Magic of Disney Animation,” set to open in 2026. Inspired by the Emmy Award-winning short film “Once Upon A Studio,” the new experience will take over the space currently occupied by Star Wars: Launch Bay, transforming it into an immersive world based on Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The building’s exterior will be a tribute to the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank, California, and will be topped with a large-scale version of Mickey Mouse’s iconic Sorcerer Hat.
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The premise of the attraction invites guests to step inside the animation headquarters after the artists have left for the day, only to find that the characters have come to life and are ready to play. Inside, visitors will explore various interactive zones modeled after different studio departments, now whimsically taken over by beloved Disney characters.
Key experiences will include portraits that appear to come to life, a short film presentation, and a drawing academy where guests can learn to sketch a character.
For younger visitors, the attraction will feature a dedicated play area called “Drawn to Wonderland.” Its design is inspired by the original “Alice in Wonderland” concept art from Disney Legend Mary Blair and will include a musical flower garden, a Mad Tea Party playset, and an exploration area based on the Tulgey Wood.
The experience will also feature numerous character greeting opportunities, aiming to provide a comprehensive and playful attraction for families when it opens next year.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot Comes to Life at Hollywood Studios
The pixie dusting from the Sorcerer’s Hat will extend far beyond the walls of “The Magic of Disney Animation” as the entire courtyard is reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios,” taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank. This special nod to the legendary Walt Disney Studios Lot includes our version of the Studio Theater, which will continue to house “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” and over at the soundstage, you’ll find a fresh Disney Jr. show.
While exploring the studio grounds and courtyard area, families can take a break to play, relax, or snack on tasty treats under lush trees. And make sure to look around, too. You never know who you might see playing in the branches, soaking up the sun or digging in the grass.
Disney Animation artists and Walt Disney Imagineers are working hand-in-hand to bring the wonder and nostalgia of Disney Animation films to the whole courtyard in new and immersive ways families will love. We can’t wait for you to experience this fantastical place in 2026.
As we prepare for this transformation, Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. During this time, guests will still be able to go under the sea with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and enjoy the exhibits and film presentation at Walt Disney Presents.
And you can catch the inspiration for this brand new adventure – Disney Animation’s “Once Upon a Studio” – on Disney+.
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