There’s a new reason for Disney animation fans to make their way to Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
We recently had the opportunity to preview The Magic of Disney Animation, a brand-new collection of experiences opening September 14, 2026, and we can already tell this is going to be a must-visit for Disney fans of all ages.
Inspired by the legendary Walt Disney Animation Studios lot in Burbank, California, the newly reimagined area brings the world of animation to life through interactive experiences, character encounters, artwork, hidden details and plenty of opportunities for little ones to play and explore.
Step Inside the World of Disney Animation
At the heart of the reimagined Animation Courtyard is a building inspired by the Roy E. Disney Animation Building in California, complete with Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat.
Inside, guests can explore different areas inspired by the animation process and get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the artistry that goes into bringing Disney stories from the page to the screen.
One of our favorite things about the space is how many details there are to discover. Disney says all 64 animated feature films are represented throughout the setting, so fans will want to take their time looking around for hidden references and Easter eggs.
From animation sketches and character maquettes to props and artifacts inspired by beloved films, there’s something tucked into nearly every corner.
A New Place for Little Ones to Play
Families with younger children are going to want to add Drawn to Wonderland to their Hollywood Studios plans.
This indoor playground is inspired by the artwork of Disney Legend Mary Blair and the world of Alice in Wonderland. Little guests can explore areas inspired by the Mad Tea Party, Mad Hatter’s house, the Queen of Hearts’ rose garden and Tulgey Wood.
It’s designed to give younger guests a place to climb, explore, move and use their imaginations while still feeling completely immersed in the world of Disney storytelling.
For families visiting Hollywood Studios with toddlers and preschoolers, this could be a particularly nice addition to the park.
Meet Characters “Off the Page!”
Another new experience is Off the Page!, where Disney characters appear throughout spaces inspired by different stages of the animation process.
Rather than simply meeting a character in a traditional backdrop, each character encounter is connected to the art and history of animation.
Guests may find:
- Mulan in the Story department
- Rapunzel in Layout
- Chip ‘n’ Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation
- Donald and Daisy in Computer Animation
- Goofy in Lighting
- Stitch in Effects
The result is a really fun combination of character interactions and behind-the-scenes Disney Animation storytelling.
Learn to Draw with Olaf
If you’ve ever dreamed of learning how Disney characters are brought to life, you’ll definitely want to check out Olaf Draws!
This new experience features Olaf as an Audio-Animatronics figure and invites guests to learn how to draw characters with guidance from Disney Animation artists.
The drawing sessions will feature different Disney characters, with artists sharing tips, techniques and stories from their experiences working in animation.
Characters featured in the drawing sessions may include Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Genie, Moana, Stitch, Olaf, Ursula, and Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.
And yes—Olaf is every bit as adorable as you would expect.
Step Inside Once Upon a Studio
The new Once Upon A Studio Theater gives guests another opportunity to experience the Emmy Award-winning short film that helped inspire this entire project.
The theater celebrates more than a century of Disney Animation storytelling, with enhanced effects designed to make the experience feel even more immersive.
There’s also an enchanted art gallery where artwork featuring beloved Disney characters can seemingly come to life through exclusive animations created for the experience.
If you haven’t watched Once Upon a Studio yet, this would be a great time to add it to your Disney+ watch list before your trip!
Don’t Forget to Look for the Details
One thing that really stood out during our preview was just how much there is to discover throughout The Magic of Disney Animation.
Disney Animation fans will find everything from sketches and maquettes to props and artifacts inspired by movies spanning generations.
There are even nods to films like Treasure Planet, Hercules, Tangled, Lilo & Stitch, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Emperor’s New Groove, The Aristocats and more.
So while the big experiences may be what initially draws you inside, don’t rush through the space. This is an area where taking a few extra minutes to look around could reveal some of the best details.
The Magic Opens September 14
The Magic of Disney Animation officially opens September 14, 2026, as part of the reimagined Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
From a new playground for little ones to character encounters, animation experiences and plenty of Disney history, this new area gives families another reason to slow down and explore Hollywood Studios.
And after getting a sneak peek ourselves, we can say this is one area you’re going to want to put on your Hollywood Studios itinerary—especially if you have a Disney Animation fan in your family!
Planning a Walt Disney World vacation? Academy Travel’s travel advisors can help you build a trip that makes the most of your time in the parks.
