Theme Park News - July 20, 2026

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Reimagines Animation Courtyard with New Interactive Experiences

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is getting a major animation inspired refresh with a reimagined Animation Courtyard, designed to bring the spirit of Walt Disney Animation Studios to life in a playful, parklike setting. 

The updated area draws inspiration from the Burbank studio lot and the Emmy Award winning short film Once Upon A Studio, featuring familiar touches like Pluto’s Corner and a more relaxed space for families to explore together. The area also continues to offer live entertainment nearby, including The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure at the Studio Theater and the new Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! show. 

At the center of the transformation will be The Magic of Disney Animation, opening September 14th. The new experience will invite guests into an interactive world themed to the creative departments of Disney Animation, with character encounters, hands-on drawing moments, and playful spaces inspired by beloved films and stories. 

Among the featured experiences are: 

Drawn to Wonderland: an indoor playground inspired by Alice in Wonderland concept art by Mary Blair 

Off the Page!: an interactive area celebrating the animation process 

Olaf Draws!: a drawing experience led by an Audio Animatronics Olaf 

Once Upon A Studio Theater: showcasing the award winning short that inspired the project 

Guests will also be able to spot Disney characters in themed areas tied to different animation stages, including Mulan in Story, Rapunzel in Layout, Chip ’n’ Dale in Hand Drawn Animation, Donald and Daisy in CG Animation, Goofy in Lighting, and Stitch in Effects. 

With a mix of nostalgia, creativity, and interactive fun, the new courtyard is set to become a fresh must see for Disney fans of all ages.