Disney’s Hollywood Studios is already a love letter to moviemaking, but soon it will celebrate a whole different kind of artistry: the incredible world of Disney Animation. If you’ve ever wondered what it would feel like to walk inside the Walt Disney Animation Studios building in Burbank—or inside the imagination of your favorite animators—this new experience is shaping up to be something truly special.
And it all begins with a little inspiration from the heartwarming short film “Once Upon a Studio.”
A New Chapter Under the Sorcerer Hat
Starting in 2026, the area currently home to Star Wars: Launch Bay will transform into “The Magic of Disney Animation,” an interactive, family-focused experience designed to let guests play, create, and explore in ways only Disney could dream up.
What immediately stands out is the return of a very familiar icon: Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat. Just like its counterpart at the Roy E. Disney Animation Building, this hat will sit atop the reimagined space, shimmering with pixie dust and welcoming guests to a place where creativity practically vibrates in the air.
When visitors step inside, the premise is simple but delightful: the animators have stepped away for a moment, and the characters—yes, those characters—have taken over. Suddenly, the studio is their playground, and they’re inviting us in to join the fun.
From living portraits to whimsical mischief sprinkled throughout the halls, the entire location feels like a playful tribute to the spirit of animation. Guests can even learn to draw their own character sketch, creating a hands-on connection to the animation process.
A Wonderland for Young Creators
One of the most charming additions is “Drawn to Wonderland,” a brand-new indoor playground designed especially for little ones. Inspired by Mary Blair’s original “Alice in Wonderland” concept art, this interactive space features oversized blossoms, musical flowers, a playful Mad Tea Party structure, and pathways through the colorful Tulgey Wood. It’s whimsical, imaginative, and a creative retreat perfect for younger families.
And, of course, this new area promises a wide assortment of character greetings—some familiar, some surprising—scattered throughout the experience. If “Once Upon a Studio” taught us anything, it’s that Disney Animation characters love to mingle.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot Comes to Hollywood
The reimagining continues outside the building. The entire courtyard will be transformed into a tribute to the historic Walt Disney Studios Lot in Burbank.
The Studio Theater continues to host “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” and nearby, a reimagined Disney Jr. show will take the stage. Guests can relax under shady trees, enjoy new snack spots, and keep their eyes open—because characters may be hiding, climbing, or relaxing just like they do in the classic short.
Step Into “Off the Page!” and Meet Animation Legends
One of the standout elements of the reimagining is the new “Off the Page!” area—a beautifully crafted space where guests can meet beloved characters while also learning about the artistry behind their films.
Here, six animation departments come to life:
• Story
• Layout
• Hand-Drawn Animation
• Computer Animation
• Lighting
• Effects
Each department offers its own creative photo op. Meet Mulan in the Story department among giant storyboards, or head to Layout to find Rapunzel surrounded by scenery inspired by the multiplane camera. These aren’t just meet-and-greets—they’re immersive vignettes that highlight the craftsmanship behind the films.
Walt Disney Animation Studios Director Dan Abraham put it perfectly: this area gives guests “a bit of history” mixed with joyful interaction. Who knows—maybe a future Disney animator will take their first step toward their dream right here.
A New Era Begins in 2026
As construction begins, Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close starting September 25, 2025. But The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Walt Disney Presents will continue welcoming visitors during the transformation.
This expansion represents a heartfelt tribute to Disney Animation’s past, present, and future. It’s creative, nostalgic, interactive, and packed with surprises that families are sure to love.
And when the doors open in 2026, we’ll all get to walk into a world where imagination refuses to stay on the page—and instead leaps right into our world.