Hollywood Studios has always been a park in motion. What started as a working studio has slowly become a collection of blockbuster attractions, and now it’s undergoing one of the most ambitious transformations in its history. The days of soundstages and behind-the-scenes tours are long gone—today, the park is setting its sights on full-blown immersive worlds.
Monsters, Inc. Steps Into the Spotlight
At the center of this new era is Monstropolis, a land dedicated entirely to Monsters, Inc.. To make space, Disney is retiring Grand Avenue and saying farewell to Muppet*Vision 3D, a blow to nostalgic fans. The payoff? An elaborate cityscape straight out of the movies and the headline attraction: the Monsters, Inc. Door Coaster. This suspended thrill ride is shaping up to be one of Disney’s most daring creations in years.
The Muppets Get a Roller Coaster
Meanwhile, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster is being rethemed. Out goes Aerosmith; in comes Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem. When it reopens in 2026, guests will board a wild, music-fueled ride featuring the Muppets’ zany sense of humor. Losing Muppet*Vision 3D may hurt, but this retheme ensures the Muppets aren’t disappearing entirely.
Animation Courtyard Finds New Life
Another big change is happening at Animation Courtyard. The Star Wars Launch Bay, once a laid-back hangout for franchise fans, is closing down. In its place comes The Magic of Disney Animation, a return to the park’s roots. With hands-on drawing experiences, interactive play zones, and a renewed emphasis on creativity, this space will serve as a reminder that Disney’s heart is still in storytelling.
Stage Shows Still Have a Place
Live entertainment hasn’t been forgotten. In May 2025, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure premiered, dazzling audiences with high-tech puppetry, stunning visuals, and the music that made Ariel a household name. It proves Disney still values stage productions even as the park tilts heavily toward high-tech thrills.
The Winners and the Losers
For Monsters, Inc. fans and families with kids, this is a dream come true. For Muppet lovers, the new coaster offers hope, even if the loss of Muppet*Vision 3D feels painful. On the flip side, fans who cherished the Hollywood history vibe of the park are left grieving. Each closure chips away at that original identity, and many longtime guests feel like the soul of Hollywood Studios is slipping away.
Moving Forward
Disney’s gamble is clear: invest heavily in franchises and create lands that transport guests straight into their favorite stories. For newcomers, it’s exciting and modern. For nostalgic fans, it’s bittersweet. Hollywood Studios is no longer about the history of movies—it’s about becoming one itself.
