Fans are loving Disney World’s latest decision.
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Following the announcement of the closure of Star Wars: Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, fans exhibited mixed emotions. On one hand, several expressed relief that a space they viewed as underwhelming was finally closing its doors. Many fans took to social media to voice their opinions, revealing a spectrum of feelings—from jubilation to indifference.
Critiques regarding the attraction’s design and concept had lingered since its opening in 2015. Some fans described it as a simple meet-and-greet hub that failed to capture the magic of the Star Wars franchise. This sentiment resonated widely, as it seemed that many visitors preferred the engaging and dynamic offerings found in the Galaxy’s Edge section of the park, which debuted in 2019 and brought a more enriched experience.
In celebration of the Launch Bay’s closure, fans remarked on a collective sigh of relief—a sentiment echoed in various tweets and posts. For those who had grown tired of the attraction’s lackluster allure, its closure marked the end of what they referred to as a “long national nightmare.”
Star Wars: Launch Bay and Animation Courtyard have permanently closed at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! pic.twitter.com/zWmRxhXuJE
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) September 25, 2025
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Star Wars: Launch Bay had been a subject of debate among fans for years. From its initial rollout, it was clear that the attraction faced significant challenges. Many visitors felt that the attraction represented a missed opportunity to dive deeper into the rich lore and excitement of the Star Wars universe. Instead, it often delivered a more subdued experience compared to the thrills that one might associate with the franchise.
Concerns about its placement within Animation Courtyard compounded the attraction’s struggles. Positioned at a dead end, it lacked the accessibility and foot traffic that newer attractions enjoyed. Disney’s decision to shift focus to other areas within Hollywood Studios highlighted the growing desire for immersive experiences that reflect the evolving interests of park-goers.
As Disney continues to strive towards presenting more captivating experiences, comparisons between Launch Bay and the successful Galaxy’s Edge frequently surfaced, painting the former in a less favorable light. The contrast made Launch Bay’s shortcomings even more glaring.
With new attractions and experiences on the horizon, visitors can anticipate an engaging environment that brings the magic of Disney filmmaking to life. According to Disney, the new area will encapsulate the essence of animation and storytelling, capturing the excitement of the characters coming alive.
As the park endeavors to tap into the nostalgia of its roots while propelling itself into the future, the closure of Launch Bay paves the way for these inventive alterations, promising a thrilling experience for guests of all ages.
The closure of Star Wars: Launch Bay was not the only significant change occurring at Disney. The farewell to Muppets Courtyard also marked the end of an era for the beloved park. Guests fondly remembered attractions like Muppet*Vision 3D, as well as dining spots such as PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano.
As part of the ongoing changes, the new Monstropolis area inspired by Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. is set to take center stage, featuring exciting experiences that include a suspended roller coaster starring Mike and Sully. This transition signals a broader shift in Disney’s strategy, moving from nostalgic favorites to innovative themed experiences that cater to contemporary audiences.
