When Disney announced a Monsters, Inc. land would take over the space near the Muppets, fans had questions. The biggest one? Why not just put it in Animation Courtyard? That area has been underused for years and always felt like it was waiting for a real comeback.
Well, now we know why. Disney had bigger plans in the works—and they’re finally letting us in on them. After years of temporary attractions and awkward transitions, Animation Courtyard is getting a full reimagining that goes back to what Hollywood Studios was built to celebrate: the magic of making movies.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Space
Disney’s new plans bring Animation Courtyard full circle. It’s not just a facelift—it’s a return to the space’s original purpose. The updated area will spotlight how animation comes to life, blending old-school charm with modern storytelling. Think character sketch experiences, concept art displays, and movie-making moments that pull back the curtain in the best way.
It’s a smart move. While immersive lands like Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land have brought big thrills, they also shifted the park’s focus away from what made it unique—showing how the magic is made. This reimagining feels like a course correction that longtime fans have been hoping for.
The Comeback of 2D Animation
One of the most exciting parts? 2D animation is finally getting its moment again. For years, if you weren’t a Disney Princess or part of a select group of ‘90s hits, chances are your hand-drawn film was left out of shows, attractions, and experiences in the parks. So many beloved 2D characters—from The Great Mouse Detective to Brother Bear—rarely get the spotlight they deserve.
This new space could finally give those forgotten favorites a home, and remind everyone just how rich Disney’s 2D animation legacy really is.
Plus, with new experiences centered on drawing and animation, Disney finally allows guests to reconnect with the art form that started it all. Whether flipping through concept sketches or trying your hand at drawing a character, it’s a beautiful way to celebrate the roots of Disney animation and inspire future artists.
Goodbye Launch Bay, Hello Creativity
Let’s be real: Star Wars Launch Bay never really belonged in Animation Courtyard. It was fine as a placeholder, but it felt out of place once Galaxy’s Edge opened. Now it’s finally moving out, making room for something that fits the theme.
In its place, Disney confirmed that guests can draw their own character sketches in the new space. It sounds a lot like the beloved drawing sessions that used to be here—and we’re crossing our fingers it’s the full return of that hands-on animation experience.
While Animal Kingdom has a version tucked away at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, this experience just makes more sense at Hollywood Studios, the park built around film and animation. That said, we’d love to see it offered in both parks—and maybe even at Art of Animation Resort, too. The more places to get sketchy, the better.
A Tribute to the Past—with an Eye on the Future
Back when Animation Courtyard opened in 1989, it was all about showing how Disney movies were made. Over time, that mission faded—but now, it’s coming back stronger and more creatively than ever.
This reimagined space isn’t just a new addition—it’s a statement: Hollywood Studios still cares about the art, the process, and the magic of storytelling. And for fans who’ve missed that “studio” feel, this is the comeback we’ve been waiting for.
Welcome back, Animation Courtyard. We missed you.
