Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios is about to undergo an exciting transformation in 2026, as Star Wars: Launch Bay gives way to a brand-new experience called The Magic of Disney Animation. Inspired by the famed Disney Animation headquarters, this immersive attraction will bring the magic of animation to life in a way that’s never been seen before.
Imagine stepping into a world where animators have temporarily left their desks, and Disney’s beloved characters are free to roam!
The new area promises to be a delightful space where visitors, both young and young at heart, can laugh, draw, dream, and discover all things animation. Disney Parks Blog teased that guests will experience fun, quirky takes on the animation studios and departments, with “playful and interactive moments.” For instance, portraits will come to life in fun, unexpected ways, similar to the magic seen in Disney’s short film, Once Upon a Studio. Guests will also have opportunities for character meet-and-greets and even learn how to draw their own character sketches!
For the little ones, the ‘Drawn to Wonderland’ playground will be a real treat. This area, inspired by Alice in Wonderland and the whimsical concept art of Disney Legend Mary Blair, will feature an oversized flower garden, musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area. It’s bound to be a space for wonder and imagination.
And let’s not forget the attention to detail! One of the standout features of this new experience will be the building’s exterior, which will be topped with Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat, a tribute to the Roy E. Disney Animation Building in California.
The fun won’t stop inside either. The entire courtyard surrounding The Magic of Disney Animation will be transformed into ‘The Walt Disney Studios’, drawing inspiration from the Burbank, California studios. This outdoor area will feature a version of the Studio Theater, where The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will take center stage. There’s even more magic outside, with a relaxing atmosphere where families can unwind, enjoy snacks, and perhaps even spot surprise characters playing in the trees or grass!
As Disney prepares for this magical overhaul, the Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! areas will close on September 25, 2025, but guests can still enjoy The Little Mermaid and the exhibits at Walt Disney Presents. A major structural change is also coming: the iconic archway leading into this area will be demolished, making way for an entirely new look and feel.