Hollywood Studios’ New Animation Courtyard: Everything Opening September 2026

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Animation Courtyard, courtesy of Disney Parks

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is getting one of its biggest updates in years: a reimagined Animation Courtyard inspired by the real Walt Disney Animation Studios lot in Burbank, opening September 14, 2026. If you’re planning a trip after that date, this needs to be on your must-do list.

A Courtyard Built for Lingering
The redesigned space is meant to feel like an actual studio backlot — shaded, park-like, and full of small character surprises tucked into the trees and greenery. It’s also home to “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!”, a new interactive stage show where Mickey and Minnie kick off a party and enlist the audience’s help tracking down Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto.

The Magic of Disney Animation
At the center of the courtyard, a building modeled on the real Roy E. Disney Animation Building (Sorcerer Hat included) will house a new collection of experiences:

  • Drawn to Wonderland — an indoor playground for younger kids inspired by Mary Blair’s original Alice in Wonderland concept art, with a Mad Tea Party zone and the Cheshire Cat’s Tulgey Wood.
  • Off the Page! — a walkthrough where guests meet characters styled around actual animation departments: 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.
  • Olaf Draws! — a new Audio-Animatronics experience where Olaf leads guests through a step-by-step drawing lesson narrated by real Disney Animation artists.
  • Once Upon A Studio Theater — home to the Emmy-winning short that inspired the whole reimagining, shown with enhanced in-theater effects.

Why This Matters for Your Trip
If your family loves animation, art, or that “go behind the scenes” feeling, this is going to be a genuine draw at Hollywood Studios — not just a nice-to-have. I’d expect lines for “Off the Page!” and “Olaf Draws!” to run long in the opening weeks, so if your trip lands near September 14, let’s build your touring plan around getting there early.

Want a custom plan for your Hollywood Studios day once this opens? Reach out here for a free quote and I’ll help you map it out.

Opening dates and experience details are subject to change ahead of the official debut.

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