LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — Ever wondered what it’d be like to see a Disney Animation studio in real-life? Well, wonder no more! A new animation experience is heading to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World in 2026.

Topped with Mickey Mouse’s iconic Sorcerer Hat, “The Magic of Disney Animation” allows guests to be completely immersed in different studio departments brought to life by Disney characters. The legendary Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California and Emmy award-winning short film, “Once Upon a Studio,” served as inspiration. The new installment will take over the building where Star Wars: Launch Bay is currently located.

Fans will have the opportunity to learn how to draw classic characters and meet them. Not only that, in the Production Gallery, portraits will come to life similar to “Once Upon a Studio.” The Screening Theater will also play short films.

A new indoor playground inspired by “Alice in Wonderland” called “Drawn to Wonderland,” will surely be a hit with younger children. It will have an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area.

And, that’s not all. The Animation Courtyard will be reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios,” a new outdoor area with shaded seating and playful landscaping. Sounds like the perfect spot to enjoy Mickey-shaped ice cream treats.

“Once Upon a Studio” director Trent Correy said in the press release, “Our film came from the heart and from a desire of all the Disney Animation artists wanting to celebrate our artistic accomplishments and a passion for the studio’s legacy.” Co-director Dan Abraham echoed his colleague’s words, “Working on this film was the highlight of my career – the most fun I’ve ever had. And now, to collaborate with the wonderful talents at Walt Disney Imagineering to bring the short and our studio to guests in this exciting way is beyond our wildest dreams.”

Animation Courtyard, Star Wars: Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning Sept. 25, 2025 to prepare for all the new adventures. “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and Walt Disney Presents will still be available to enjoy.

Watch the inspiration behind these upcoming experiences, Disney’s Animation’s “Once Upon a Studio,” streaming on Disney+.

The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of Walt Disney World, Disney+, and this ABC station.