Disney Is Saying Goodbye to Another Theme Park Area—Find Out What’s Replacing It originally appeared on Parade.
Say goodbye to Star Wars: Launch Bay and hello to The Magic of Disney Animation.
While Muppets Courtyard is being transformed into a Monsters, Inc. land, changes are coming to another area of Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World. A new experience inspired by the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon A Studio is set to replace the current home of Star Wars: Launch Bay.
Concept art released by Disney Parks appears to show that the current archway at the entrance to Animation Courtyard will be removed. The entire courtyard, taking inspiration from buildings in Burbank where Walt Disney Animation Studios is located, will be reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios.”
Related: Disney World Just Debuted Something That Parkgoers Haven’t Seen in Nearly a Decade
The Magic of Disney Animation experience itself will be housed in a building reminiscent of the Roy E. Disney Animation Building and, like the actual building in California, will be topped with Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat, which Disney fans will recall was once the central icon of Hollywood Studios.
Disney Parks has teased that the forthcoming experience will “bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.” As they did in Once Upon A Studio, portraits will come to life and guests will even learn how to draw their own character sketch.
Related: Did Disney Just Change an Iconic Song from Your Childhood?
Disney Parks revealed: “Our story in this newly reimagined space begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away… but the building is still buzzing with activity as the characters have come to life and they’re ready to play! Inside, you will interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.”
Before Star Wars: Launch Bay closes to pave the way for new magic at Hollywood Studios, here’s everything you need to know about when you can last experience the current spots at Animation Courtyard.
What else will guests find at the new Walt Disney Studios area?
In addition to The Magic of Disney Animation experience, The Walt Disney Studios lot at Hollywood Studios will include the “Drawn to Wonderland” indoor playground, inspired by the original Alice in Wonderland concept art by Disney Legend Mary Blair. Guests will also find the Studio Theater, where The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure is performed, as well as a soundstage with a new Disney Jr. show.
When is the last day to experience Star Wars: Launch Bay
PSA Star Wars Fans: the last day for guests to experience Star Wars: Launch Bay is September 24, 2025.
When is the last day to watch Disney Jr. Play and Dance!?
Disney Jr. Play and Dance! in Animation Courtyard will permanently close on September 25, 2025.
Will The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure be closing?
No, guests will still be able to enjoy the stage show while the area is transformed into the Walt Disney Studios.
Related: Planning a Trip to Disney? Which One?! Here Are 18 Major Differences Between Disney World and Disneyland
When will The Magic of Disney Animation open?
Although a specific date was not given, Disney Parks shared that guests will be able to experience the “fantastical place in 2026.”
What is Once Upon A Studio?
Once Upon A Studio is a Walt Disney Animation Studios’ short film, featuring 543 Disney characters, that was released in 2024 as part of Disney’s 100th anniversary celebration.
Related: First Time at Disneyland? Here’s What to Do and See, According to Disney Boss Bob Iger
Disney Is Saying Goodbye to Another Theme Park Area—Find Out What’s Replacing It first appeared on Parade on Jul 22, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 22, 2025, where it first appeared.
