Animation Courtyard Transformation Teases Return of ‘The Magic of Disney Animation’

Animation Courtyard Transformation is Almost Complete!

Changes are happening rapidly at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! As the park continues to transition its classic Animation Courtyard space into the reimagined Walt Disney Studios area, we have a fresh look at the beautiful new updates, character murals, and exciting details about what is coming next.

If you’ve been walking through the courtyard today, you’ll notice the area is bursting with vibrant new colors, classic Disney storytelling, and a massive dose of nostalgia. Here is everything we spotted today!

The biggest news out of the courtyard is the official confirmation of a fan-favorite experience returning in a brand-new way. Situated at the very back of the courtyard, the building that most recently housed Star Wars Launch Bay is officially reverting to its roots: The Magic of Disney Animation.

While the marquee attractions inside are still behind construction walls for now, a prominent new poster lets guests know that The Magic of Disney Animation is coming soon! Once the building officially opens at a later date, this will serve as the main entrance to a handful of highly anticipated, family-focused indoor experiences.

Inside the newly reimagined pavilion, guests will eventually be able to:

• Meet beloved Disney characters in dedicated meet-and-greet spaces.
• Learn to draw with Olaf at an interactive animation academy (taking a modern spin on the classic drawing classes with live artists).
• Explore an all-new Alice in Wonderland themed playground, perfect for letting little ones burn off some energy in the air conditioning.

Even though the main building is still getting its finishing touches, the outdoor courtyard area has already received a massive visual upgrade.

Underneath the iconic, giant Sorcerer Mickey Hat—which is currently serving as a designated stroller parking area—guests are treated to a breathtaking, massive new character mural stretching across one of the main walls. The mural features a gorgeous lineup of Disney animation history, celebrating characters from beloved modern hits and timeless classics alike, including:

• Zootopia, Encanto, Frozen, Big Hero 6, and Moana
• Tangled, Mulan, Aladdin, and Hercules
• Beauty and the Beast, The Aristocats, Cinderella, Peter Pan, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

In addition to the main mural, smaller posters and banners are scattered throughout the entire courtyard area. As you walk through, keep your eyes peeled for familiar faces from Robin Hood, Lilo & Stitch, Fantasia, The Princess and the Frog, and more.

Disney is also using this refreshed space to hype up its next major theatrical release. There is a very heavy emphasis on Zootopia 2 at the moment, with several vibrant new movie posters taking center stage along the courtyard walls. It’s the perfect backdrop for a quick family photo op before the sequel hits theaters!

Because The Magic of Disney Animation isn’t quite ready to welcome guests inside just yet, you will still encounter a few construction walls blocking off the main entrance. However, Disney has already added their signature touch to the exit pathways.

As you wrap up your walk through the courtyard, a charming sign bids you farewell with the classic phrase, “See Ya Real Soon!” On the reverse side of the sign, a beautifully designed marquee points guests toward the future home of The Magic of Disney Animation.

This courtyard update is a massive step forward for Hollywood Studios, seamlessly blending practical guest needs (like the brand-new Baby Care Center and the refreshed food kiosk) with incredible Disney animation history. We absolutely cannot wait for the walls to come down so we can learn to draw with Olaf!

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