Disney Animation Experience Replacing Star Wars Launch Bay
Disney announced on Tuesday, July 22nd, that a new Disney animation experience is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Magic of Disney Animation is set to open in 2026, occupying the current location of Star Wars Launch Bay. The new experience will focus on the history, animation process, and characters from Disney animation.
The Star Wars Launch Bay will be rethemed to resemble the Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank, California. Above the entrance to the building will be Mickey’s iconic sorcerer's hat.
Once inside, guests will notice the animators have temporarily stepped away, and Disney characters are operating the studio. There will be several character-driven experiences, including portraits coming to life (like in “Once Upon a Studio”), a short film, a character drawing studio, and an indoor play area for young children inspired by Mary Blair’s concept art for Alice in Wonderland.
To prepare for the new animation experience, Disney Jr. Play and Dance! and Star Wars Launch Bay will close on September 25, 2025.
