Aerial Update Shows Construction Progress in Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Animation Courtyard Transformation Moves Forward with New Pavement and Launch Bay Changes at Hollywood Studios

Construction continues to reshape Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as Disney works toward transforming the area into The Walt Disney Studios, a reimagined space inspired by the real Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank, California. Recent aerial photos shared by bioreconstruct reveal new pavement, landscaping progress, and visible changes to the former Star Wars: Launch Bay building as the area prepares for its next chapter.

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In the center of Animation Courtyard, crews have paved a triangular section of sidewalks that outline a new green space. Trees were planted in this area earlier, and the fresh pavement now defines the pathways that will guide guests through the updated courtyard. Around the Disney Jr. soundstage, the new pavement also outlines future flowerbeds, with several square cutouts indicating additional trees may be planted soon. Temporary wooden structures are currently set up near the front of the courtyard and may eventually be covered with tarps to provide shade for construction crews working in the area.

Construction work is still ongoing toward the front of the courtyard, where crews appear to be preparing additional sections for paving. One square area already contains rebar ready for a concrete pour, while another nearby space has been outlined but has not yet received its structural base. These small sections suggest that paving will continue gradually as Disney refines the courtyard’s new layout and landscaping elements.

At the back of the courtyard, one of the biggest changes is happening at the former Star Wars: Launch Bay building, which will soon become the new Magic of Disney Animation experience. Inspired by the Roy E. Disney Animation Building at the real Walt Disney Studios, the attraction will feature a giant Sorcerer Mickey hat mounted between the two front columns. To make room for this iconic feature, crews have begun removing the overhang marquee from the building’s entrance. A closer look shows the raw edge where the structure once extended outward, and the building is expected to receive a full repaint to move away from the Star Wars aesthetic that previously defined the space.

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Elsewhere on the structure, the theater exterior has already been painted a bright yellow color, while crew members continue painting railings along the roofline. These cosmetic updates hint at the brighter, more animation-inspired look Disney is aiming for as the courtyard shifts toward celebrating the art and history of Disney animation.

When complete, the new Magic of Disney Animation will feature character meet-and-greets, a drawing class, and an Alice in Wonderland-themed playground. The redesign is partially inspired by the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon a Studio, which celebrated the legacy of Disney animation.

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