The Magic of Disney Animation Debuting in 2026 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Get ready for a brand new experience coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026! That’s because The Magic of Disney Animation will debut! It will be located in the building that currently houses Star Wars: Launch Bay!

This new offering will draw inspiration from Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California. It will allow Guests to step into a whimsical twist on the real-life studio building. But here, when the animators are away, the characters come out to play!

About The Magic of Disney Animation

As you can see from the concept art, the building will be topped with Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat! (A nice nod to the park’s past Sorcerer Hat!) The space will invite guests to explore different studio departments brought to life by Disney characters.

In the Production Gallery, portraits come to life just like in short, “Once Upon a Studio.” Then in the Screening Theater, guests can get inspired by a short film. Additionally, they will have the chance to learn how to draw fan-favorite characters and greet them in real life.

Families with younger children will also delight in “Drawn to Wonderland,” an all-new indoor playground inspired by the concept art for “Alice in Wonderland”. This imaginative play area will feature an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area.

Beyond the building, Animation Courtyard will be reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios.” This will be a newly designed outdoor space offering shaded seating, playful landscaping and fun surprises.

In addition to the new offerings, several existing buildings exteriors will be reimagined. They will receive design elements that are inspired by buildings found in Burbank. To prepare for the transformation, Animation Courtyard, Star Wars: Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning Sept. 25, 2025. Guests can continue to enjoy “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and Walt Disney Presents while the transformation is completed.

More details about this new area will be shared soon. So make sure to stay tuned!

This is honestly a great update to this space! And I love seeing the tie-in with the fact that this used to be an area where animation was such an important part of the park. I’m so happy to hear that they will be making this change. It’s very necessary.

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