Following final week’s shock announcement, Walt Disney World has filed the primary development permits for the overhaul of Animation Courtyard. This shares full particulars, plus our commentary in regards to the lack of this iconic archway that is among the final remnants of the unique Disney-MGM Studios.
In case you missed it, Walt Disney World made an out-of-the-blue announcement that Animation Courtyard is being reimagined into the Walt Disney Studios Lot at Hollywood Studios. The most important change is that the Roy E. Disney Animation Constructing is changing Star Wars Launch Bay at Hollywood Studios, and can home an all-new household expertise, “The Magic of Disney Animation.”
The reimagined “The Magic of Disney Animation” is impressed by the fan-favorite brief, “As soon as Upon a Studio.” It begins because the animators have quickly stepped away, however the characters have come to life and so they’re able to play. Company will work together with and discover foolish takes on the enduring Disney Animation headquarters, together with the various completely different studio departments. You’ll see portraits come to life earlier than your eyes, discover inspiration with a brief movie, and may even pencil in a while to learn to draw your very personal character sketch.
The brand new-look land will draw inspiration from a number of buildings discovered on the Disney campuses in Burbank, California. This can embrace the Studio Theater and different buildings, which can get new appears, plus a contemporary Disney Jr. present on the soundstage. There’s additionally going to be the “Drawn to Wonderland” indoor playground.
The brand new-look Walt Disney Studios Lot can be reimagining the widespread areas of Animation Courtyard. It’ll have grassy grounds and a courtyard space the place households can take a break to play, calm down, or snack on tasty treats beneath lush bushes. Disney has additionally implied that spontaneous character appearances will happen beneath these bushes.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot and “The Magic of Disney Animation” will open in 2026. As Walt Disney World prepares for this transformation, Animation Courtyard, together with Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will shut starting September 25, 2025.
Throughout this time, company will nonetheless have the ability to go beneath the ocean with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Journey” and benefit from the displays and movie presentation at Walt Disney Presents.
This brings us to the brand new development permits which have been filed. The first allow is for 561 Stage Lane, the placement of the enduring Disney’s Hollywood Studios archway, which might be demolished as a part of the Animation Courtyard reimagining. This lists the scope of the work as “present labor, materials and/or electrical for development” and is assigned to Buena Vista Building Firm.
The second allow is for close by 551 Stage Lane. That is the tackle of the popcorn cart immediately outdoors Animation Courtyard. This can be a cool cart and has been there for years–I’ve pictures of it relationship again some time–however I doubt anybody goes to shed tears over it. And in any case, the popcorn cart might be simply being quickly relocated throughout demolition and development.
One factor to notice right here is that Buena Vista Building Firm often handles smaller-scale tasks; they’re Walt Disney World’s in-house contractor that handles primary upkeep and work. We haven’t actually seen their scope broaden to embody full-scale demolition, so that is doubtless laying the groundwork for that. It’s not the precise demolition of the gateway entrance to Animation Courtyard.
BVCC handles easier issues like relocating that popcorn cart and coping with the underlying electrical; maybe one thing related with the archway. We’re hoping that the attractive bas-relief panels on the archway are preserved and relocated–hopefully, the primary allow pertains to that. We don’t count on this archway to go behind development partitions till late September; it’ll most likely be demolished as shortly as doable as soon as it does.
In isolation, these permits aren’t all that vital. We definitely is not going to be doing a separate put up on each single inconsequential development allow filed for the Animation Courtyard, as there might be many. Nonetheless, we needed an ‘excuse’ to revisit this reimagining and substitute venture, and these permits provided that.
First, these permits ought to clarify the backdrop of the announcement within the first place. We’ve heard from various followers who’re confused and/or enthusiastic about why the Walt Disney Studios Lot could be introduced a month earlier than Vacation spot D23. In any case, this information feels tailored for an occasion like that.
It’s a singles and doubles fashion win that replaces one of many worst areas in all of Walt Disney World, and does so by bringing again an extinct attraction, weaving in nods to the corporate’s historical past, and contains placemaking upgrades. That’s catnip for diehard Walt Disney World followers!
These within the “excited” camp have assumed that the Animation Courtyard information getting preempted from Vacation spot D23 signifies that there’s a jam-packed slate of stories. That that is mainly being bumped for time. It’s our understanding that that is not correct, and we’d strongly counsel adjusting your expectations.
In all chance, this Animation Courtyard announcement got here out of left area on a random morning as a result of Walt Disney World wanted to get out forward of development permits. In the event that they didn’t make an announcement, permits during the last couple of weeks would result in rampant hypothesis.
That hypothesis may result in disappointment, as there have been rumors about longer-term plans which are bold. As a substitute of being excited a couple of small near-term victory, there’s a model of this announcement that entails disappointment as a result of it fell wanting no matter we constructed up in our heads over the following month.
One other factor we wish to talk about is the lack of the enduring archway, which has been round because the Disney-MGM Studios days. Since I’ve been a fan, this gateway has gone by many alternative colour and emblem modifications, nevertheless it’s however managed to stay round at the same time as a lot of the park has gone extinct.
We’ve misplaced the Earful Tower and every thing else on the backlot. Grauman’s Chinese language Theater survived the substitute of Nice Film Experience, fortunately. That or Tower of Terror are most likely the park’s visible ‘icon’ now, however this archway was an in depth second for a lot of followers. I’ve numerous household pictures from over time with this serving because the backdrop.
Dropping the archway does really feel like the top of an period, and I’ll be considerably unhappy to see it go. Emphasis on considerably. Whereas I’ve my nostalgia for the arch–as do many different longtime followers–I additionally suppose a powerful case may be made for ditching this. It’s an entranceway to a “land” that exists off the principle hub of the park, and feels prefer it’s nearly gating-off what needs to be a extra open and alluring house.
It’s tough to shake the glasses of nostalgia, however I really feel like if the park have been constructed immediately from the bottom up, followers would view this archway as awkwardly-placed. Even when not, there’s one thing to be stated for changing this with the precise studio lot entrance signage, and letting the Sorcerer Mickey Hat be the “wienie” deeper contained in the Walt Disney Studio Lot that beckons company into the realm.
Clearing that sightline to make this space extra inviting is a great transfer, and a doubtlessly useful one. It’s stunning simply how useless Animation Courtyard has felt over time regardless of being proper there within the dead-center of the park.
Though the removing of the archway does really feel symbolically-significant for the demise of the Disney-MGM Studios, the substance is what issues extra. “The Magic of Disney Animation” strikes me as a return-to-form and the primary “studios park” change at DHS in a very long time.
Above all else, it’s heartening to see development permits filed so quick, and that the rationale this announcement got here earlier than Vacation spot D23 was as a result of Walt Disney World desires to start out transferring on the venture earlier than then. Initiatives introduced final 12 months are beginning to acquire momentum, and there’s lots to stay up for in 2026 and past.
For Animation Courtyard to shut in late September and be reimagined within the span of roughly a 12 months is a very quick turnaround time. Simply take a look at how lengthy World Celebration in EPCOT took! Granted, that was “extra bold” (air quotes) and delayed, however this received’t be as easy because it may appear. The reimagining seems to contain numerous placemaking, with facade work and upgraded widespread areas. That’s on high of no matter modifications are made to transform Star Wars Launch Bay again into the Magic of Disney Animation.
Animation Courtyard is presently a sea of concrete that isn’t precisely an inviting place. I spent a while within the land on the day this announcement was made, and the realm was really the busiest I had seen it shortly due to Cool Child Summer season. Regardless of it being a ‘warmth advisory’ day, there have been numerous households and youngsters enjoying with characters, plus perpetually lengthy traces for the Little Mermaid – A Musical Journey.
I’m excited for a placemaking venture with a quicker turnaround time than World Celebration in EPCOT. I’m additionally pretty assured from the idea artwork and the overall objectives of the venture that the top consequence right here might be an precise enchancment. If something, my hope is that Imagineering is given sufficient money and time to do that proper. I’d somewhat have this open in Spring 2027 if that’s what it takes, particularly if this space might be round for a decade or longer.
This could be a stopgap, singles and doubles-style venture–nevertheless it has the potential to be a large enchancment over Animation Courtyard, and a real asset to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Dropping the archway is bittersweet, however dropping the useless mall space is a big win. Gaining an out of doors house that’s really a nice, shaded place to spend time could be a large win. The Walt Disney Studios Lot has the potential to be a triple. Perhaps even an inside-the-park residence run.
Planning a Walt Disney World journey? Find out about resorts on our Walt Disney World Motels Opinions web page. For the place to eat, learn our Walt Disney World Restaurant Opinions. To save cash on tickets or decide which kind to purchase, learn our Suggestions for Saving Cash on Walt Disney World Tickets put up. Our What to Pack for Disney Journeys put up takes a novel take a look at intelligent gadgets to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Experience Guides will assist. For complete recommendation, the very best place to start out is our Walt Disney World Journey Planning Information for every thing you want to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you consider Animation Courtyard being reimagined into the Walt Disney Studios Lot? Do you view the demolition of the Disney-MGM Studios archway as an enormous loss, or a web constructive for opening up the realm and having the overhauled house be extra on-theme to Burbank? Trying ahead to an all-new ‘The Magic of Disney Animation’ coming to Walt Disney World? Excited for this reimagined land? Or would you like a blockbuster new land that connects Toy Story Land to Sundown Boulevard? Some other ideas or commentary so as to add? Any questions we might help you reply? Listening to your suggestions–even if you disagree with us–is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
Following final week’s shock announcement, Walt Disney World has filed the primary development permits for the overhaul of Animation Courtyard. This shares full particulars, plus our commentary in regards to the lack of this iconic archway that is among the final remnants of the unique Disney-MGM Studios.
In case you missed it, Walt Disney World made an out-of-the-blue announcement that Animation Courtyard is being reimagined into the Walt Disney Studios Lot at Hollywood Studios. The most important change is that the Roy E. Disney Animation Constructing is changing Star Wars Launch Bay at Hollywood Studios, and can home an all-new household expertise, “The Magic of Disney Animation.”
The reimagined “The Magic of Disney Animation” is impressed by the fan-favorite brief, “As soon as Upon a Studio.” It begins because the animators have quickly stepped away, however the characters have come to life and so they’re able to play. Company will work together with and discover foolish takes on the enduring Disney Animation headquarters, together with the various completely different studio departments. You’ll see portraits come to life earlier than your eyes, discover inspiration with a brief movie, and may even pencil in a while to learn to draw your very personal character sketch.
The brand new-look land will draw inspiration from a number of buildings discovered on the Disney campuses in Burbank, California. This can embrace the Studio Theater and different buildings, which can get new appears, plus a contemporary Disney Jr. present on the soundstage. There’s additionally going to be the “Drawn to Wonderland” indoor playground.
The brand new-look Walt Disney Studios Lot can be reimagining the widespread areas of Animation Courtyard. It’ll have grassy grounds and a courtyard space the place households can take a break to play, calm down, or snack on tasty treats beneath lush bushes. Disney has additionally implied that spontaneous character appearances will happen beneath these bushes.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot and “The Magic of Disney Animation” will open in 2026. As Walt Disney World prepares for this transformation, Animation Courtyard, together with Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will shut starting September 25, 2025.
Throughout this time, company will nonetheless have the ability to go beneath the ocean with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Journey” and benefit from the displays and movie presentation at Walt Disney Presents.
This brings us to the brand new development permits which have been filed. The first allow is for 561 Stage Lane, the placement of the enduring Disney’s Hollywood Studios archway, which might be demolished as a part of the Animation Courtyard reimagining. This lists the scope of the work as “present labor, materials and/or electrical for development” and is assigned to Buena Vista Building Firm.
The second allow is for close by 551 Stage Lane. That is the tackle of the popcorn cart immediately outdoors Animation Courtyard. This can be a cool cart and has been there for years–I’ve pictures of it relationship again some time–however I doubt anybody goes to shed tears over it. And in any case, the popcorn cart might be simply being quickly relocated throughout demolition and development.
One factor to notice right here is that Buena Vista Building Firm often handles smaller-scale tasks; they’re Walt Disney World’s in-house contractor that handles primary upkeep and work. We haven’t actually seen their scope broaden to embody full-scale demolition, so that is doubtless laying the groundwork for that. It’s not the precise demolition of the gateway entrance to Animation Courtyard.
BVCC handles easier issues like relocating that popcorn cart and coping with the underlying electrical; maybe one thing related with the archway. We’re hoping that the attractive bas-relief panels on the archway are preserved and relocated–hopefully, the primary allow pertains to that. We don’t count on this archway to go behind development partitions till late September; it’ll most likely be demolished as shortly as doable as soon as it does.
In isolation, these permits aren’t all that vital. We definitely is not going to be doing a separate put up on each single inconsequential development allow filed for the Animation Courtyard, as there might be many. Nonetheless, we needed an ‘excuse’ to revisit this reimagining and substitute venture, and these permits provided that.
First, these permits ought to clarify the backdrop of the announcement within the first place. We’ve heard from various followers who’re confused and/or enthusiastic about why the Walt Disney Studios Lot could be introduced a month earlier than Vacation spot D23. In any case, this information feels tailored for an occasion like that.
It’s a singles and doubles fashion win that replaces one of many worst areas in all of Walt Disney World, and does so by bringing again an extinct attraction, weaving in nods to the corporate’s historical past, and contains placemaking upgrades. That’s catnip for diehard Walt Disney World followers!
These within the “excited” camp have assumed that the Animation Courtyard information getting preempted from Vacation spot D23 signifies that there’s a jam-packed slate of stories. That that is mainly being bumped for time. It’s our understanding that that is not correct, and we’d strongly counsel adjusting your expectations.
In all chance, this Animation Courtyard announcement got here out of left area on a random morning as a result of Walt Disney World wanted to get out forward of development permits. In the event that they didn’t make an announcement, permits during the last couple of weeks would result in rampant hypothesis.
That hypothesis may result in disappointment, as there have been rumors about longer-term plans which are bold. As a substitute of being excited a couple of small near-term victory, there’s a model of this announcement that entails disappointment as a result of it fell wanting no matter we constructed up in our heads over the following month.
One other factor we wish to talk about is the lack of the enduring archway, which has been round because the Disney-MGM Studios days. Since I’ve been a fan, this gateway has gone by many alternative colour and emblem modifications, nevertheless it’s however managed to stay round at the same time as a lot of the park has gone extinct.
We’ve misplaced the Earful Tower and every thing else on the backlot. Grauman’s Chinese language Theater survived the substitute of Nice Film Experience, fortunately. That or Tower of Terror are most likely the park’s visible ‘icon’ now, however this archway was an in depth second for a lot of followers. I’ve numerous household pictures from over time with this serving because the backdrop.
Dropping the archway does really feel like the top of an period, and I’ll be considerably unhappy to see it go. Emphasis on considerably. Whereas I’ve my nostalgia for the arch–as do many different longtime followers–I additionally suppose a powerful case may be made for ditching this. It’s an entranceway to a “land” that exists off the principle hub of the park, and feels prefer it’s nearly gating-off what needs to be a extra open and alluring house.
It’s tough to shake the glasses of nostalgia, however I really feel like if the park have been constructed immediately from the bottom up, followers would view this archway as awkwardly-placed. Even when not, there’s one thing to be stated for changing this with the precise studio lot entrance signage, and letting the Sorcerer Mickey Hat be the “wienie” deeper contained in the Walt Disney Studio Lot that beckons company into the realm.
Clearing that sightline to make this space extra inviting is a great transfer, and a doubtlessly useful one. It’s stunning simply how useless Animation Courtyard has felt over time regardless of being proper there within the dead-center of the park.
Though the removing of the archway does really feel symbolically-significant for the demise of the Disney-MGM Studios, the substance is what issues extra. “The Magic of Disney Animation” strikes me as a return-to-form and the primary “studios park” change at DHS in a very long time.
Above all else, it’s heartening to see development permits filed so quick, and that the rationale this announcement got here earlier than Vacation spot D23 was as a result of Walt Disney World desires to start out transferring on the venture earlier than then. Initiatives introduced final 12 months are beginning to acquire momentum, and there’s lots to stay up for in 2026 and past.
For Animation Courtyard to shut in late September and be reimagined within the span of roughly a 12 months is a very quick turnaround time. Simply take a look at how lengthy World Celebration in EPCOT took! Granted, that was “extra bold” (air quotes) and delayed, however this received’t be as easy because it may appear. The reimagining seems to contain numerous placemaking, with facade work and upgraded widespread areas. That’s on high of no matter modifications are made to transform Star Wars Launch Bay again into the Magic of Disney Animation.
Animation Courtyard is presently a sea of concrete that isn’t precisely an inviting place. I spent a while within the land on the day this announcement was made, and the realm was really the busiest I had seen it shortly due to Cool Child Summer season. Regardless of it being a ‘warmth advisory’ day, there have been numerous households and youngsters enjoying with characters, plus perpetually lengthy traces for the Little Mermaid – A Musical Journey.
I’m excited for a placemaking venture with a quicker turnaround time than World Celebration in EPCOT. I’m additionally pretty assured from the idea artwork and the overall objectives of the venture that the top consequence right here might be an precise enchancment. If something, my hope is that Imagineering is given sufficient money and time to do that proper. I’d somewhat have this open in Spring 2027 if that’s what it takes, particularly if this space might be round for a decade or longer.
This could be a stopgap, singles and doubles-style venture–nevertheless it has the potential to be a large enchancment over Animation Courtyard, and a real asset to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Dropping the archway is bittersweet, however dropping the useless mall space is a big win. Gaining an out of doors house that’s really a nice, shaded place to spend time could be a large win. The Walt Disney Studios Lot has the potential to be a triple. Perhaps even an inside-the-park residence run.
Planning a Walt Disney World journey? Find out about resorts on our Walt Disney World Motels Opinions web page. For the place to eat, learn our Walt Disney World Restaurant Opinions. To save cash on tickets or decide which kind to purchase, learn our Suggestions for Saving Cash on Walt Disney World Tickets put up. Our What to Pack for Disney Journeys put up takes a novel take a look at intelligent gadgets to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Experience Guides will assist. For complete recommendation, the very best place to start out is our Walt Disney World Journey Planning Information for every thing you want to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you consider Animation Courtyard being reimagined into the Walt Disney Studios Lot? Do you view the demolition of the Disney-MGM Studios archway as an enormous loss, or a web constructive for opening up the realm and having the overhauled house be extra on-theme to Burbank? Trying ahead to an all-new ‘The Magic of Disney Animation’ coming to Walt Disney World? Excited for this reimagined land? Or would you like a blockbuster new land that connects Toy Story Land to Sundown Boulevard? Some other ideas or commentary so as to add? Any questions we might help you reply? Listening to your suggestions–even if you disagree with us–is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
Following final week’s shock announcement, Walt Disney World has filed the primary development permits for the overhaul of Animation Courtyard. This shares full particulars, plus our commentary in regards to the lack of this iconic archway that is among the final remnants of the unique Disney-MGM Studios.
In case you missed it, Walt Disney World made an out-of-the-blue announcement that Animation Courtyard is being reimagined into the Walt Disney Studios Lot at Hollywood Studios. The most important change is that the Roy E. Disney Animation Constructing is changing Star Wars Launch Bay at Hollywood Studios, and can home an all-new household expertise, “The Magic of Disney Animation.”
The reimagined “The Magic of Disney Animation” is impressed by the fan-favorite brief, “As soon as Upon a Studio.” It begins because the animators have quickly stepped away, however the characters have come to life and so they’re able to play. Company will work together with and discover foolish takes on the enduring Disney Animation headquarters, together with the various completely different studio departments. You’ll see portraits come to life earlier than your eyes, discover inspiration with a brief movie, and may even pencil in a while to learn to draw your very personal character sketch.
The brand new-look land will draw inspiration from a number of buildings discovered on the Disney campuses in Burbank, California. This can embrace the Studio Theater and different buildings, which can get new appears, plus a contemporary Disney Jr. present on the soundstage. There’s additionally going to be the “Drawn to Wonderland” indoor playground.
The brand new-look Walt Disney Studios Lot can be reimagining the widespread areas of Animation Courtyard. It’ll have grassy grounds and a courtyard space the place households can take a break to play, calm down, or snack on tasty treats beneath lush bushes. Disney has additionally implied that spontaneous character appearances will happen beneath these bushes.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot and “The Magic of Disney Animation” will open in 2026. As Walt Disney World prepares for this transformation, Animation Courtyard, together with Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will shut starting September 25, 2025.
Throughout this time, company will nonetheless have the ability to go beneath the ocean with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Journey” and benefit from the displays and movie presentation at Walt Disney Presents.
This brings us to the brand new development permits which have been filed. The first allow is for 561 Stage Lane, the placement of the enduring Disney’s Hollywood Studios archway, which might be demolished as a part of the Animation Courtyard reimagining. This lists the scope of the work as “present labor, materials and/or electrical for development” and is assigned to Buena Vista Building Firm.
The second allow is for close by 551 Stage Lane. That is the tackle of the popcorn cart immediately outdoors Animation Courtyard. This can be a cool cart and has been there for years–I’ve pictures of it relationship again some time–however I doubt anybody goes to shed tears over it. And in any case, the popcorn cart might be simply being quickly relocated throughout demolition and development.
One factor to notice right here is that Buena Vista Building Firm often handles smaller-scale tasks; they’re Walt Disney World’s in-house contractor that handles primary upkeep and work. We haven’t actually seen their scope broaden to embody full-scale demolition, so that is doubtless laying the groundwork for that. It’s not the precise demolition of the gateway entrance to Animation Courtyard.
BVCC handles easier issues like relocating that popcorn cart and coping with the underlying electrical; maybe one thing related with the archway. We’re hoping that the attractive bas-relief panels on the archway are preserved and relocated–hopefully, the primary allow pertains to that. We don’t count on this archway to go behind development partitions till late September; it’ll most likely be demolished as shortly as doable as soon as it does.
In isolation, these permits aren’t all that vital. We definitely is not going to be doing a separate put up on each single inconsequential development allow filed for the Animation Courtyard, as there might be many. Nonetheless, we needed an ‘excuse’ to revisit this reimagining and substitute venture, and these permits provided that.
First, these permits ought to clarify the backdrop of the announcement within the first place. We’ve heard from various followers who’re confused and/or enthusiastic about why the Walt Disney Studios Lot could be introduced a month earlier than Vacation spot D23. In any case, this information feels tailored for an occasion like that.
It’s a singles and doubles fashion win that replaces one of many worst areas in all of Walt Disney World, and does so by bringing again an extinct attraction, weaving in nods to the corporate’s historical past, and contains placemaking upgrades. That’s catnip for diehard Walt Disney World followers!
These within the “excited” camp have assumed that the Animation Courtyard information getting preempted from Vacation spot D23 signifies that there’s a jam-packed slate of stories. That that is mainly being bumped for time. It’s our understanding that that is not correct, and we’d strongly counsel adjusting your expectations.
In all chance, this Animation Courtyard announcement got here out of left area on a random morning as a result of Walt Disney World wanted to get out forward of development permits. In the event that they didn’t make an announcement, permits during the last couple of weeks would result in rampant hypothesis.
That hypothesis may result in disappointment, as there have been rumors about longer-term plans which are bold. As a substitute of being excited a couple of small near-term victory, there’s a model of this announcement that entails disappointment as a result of it fell wanting no matter we constructed up in our heads over the following month.
One other factor we wish to talk about is the lack of the enduring archway, which has been round because the Disney-MGM Studios days. Since I’ve been a fan, this gateway has gone by many alternative colour and emblem modifications, nevertheless it’s however managed to stay round at the same time as a lot of the park has gone extinct.
We’ve misplaced the Earful Tower and every thing else on the backlot. Grauman’s Chinese language Theater survived the substitute of Nice Film Experience, fortunately. That or Tower of Terror are most likely the park’s visible ‘icon’ now, however this archway was an in depth second for a lot of followers. I’ve numerous household pictures from over time with this serving because the backdrop.
Dropping the archway does really feel like the top of an period, and I’ll be considerably unhappy to see it go. Emphasis on considerably. Whereas I’ve my nostalgia for the arch–as do many different longtime followers–I additionally suppose a powerful case may be made for ditching this. It’s an entranceway to a “land” that exists off the principle hub of the park, and feels prefer it’s nearly gating-off what needs to be a extra open and alluring house.
It’s tough to shake the glasses of nostalgia, however I really feel like if the park have been constructed immediately from the bottom up, followers would view this archway as awkwardly-placed. Even when not, there’s one thing to be stated for changing this with the precise studio lot entrance signage, and letting the Sorcerer Mickey Hat be the “wienie” deeper contained in the Walt Disney Studio Lot that beckons company into the realm.
Clearing that sightline to make this space extra inviting is a great transfer, and a doubtlessly useful one. It’s stunning simply how useless Animation Courtyard has felt over time regardless of being proper there within the dead-center of the park.
Though the removing of the archway does really feel symbolically-significant for the demise of the Disney-MGM Studios, the substance is what issues extra. “The Magic of Disney Animation” strikes me as a return-to-form and the primary “studios park” change at DHS in a very long time.
Above all else, it’s heartening to see development permits filed so quick, and that the rationale this announcement got here earlier than Vacation spot D23 was as a result of Walt Disney World desires to start out transferring on the venture earlier than then. Initiatives introduced final 12 months are beginning to acquire momentum, and there’s lots to stay up for in 2026 and past.
For Animation Courtyard to shut in late September and be reimagined within the span of roughly a 12 months is a very quick turnaround time. Simply take a look at how lengthy World Celebration in EPCOT took! Granted, that was “extra bold” (air quotes) and delayed, however this received’t be as easy because it may appear. The reimagining seems to contain numerous placemaking, with facade work and upgraded widespread areas. That’s on high of no matter modifications are made to transform Star Wars Launch Bay again into the Magic of Disney Animation.
Animation Courtyard is presently a sea of concrete that isn’t precisely an inviting place. I spent a while within the land on the day this announcement was made, and the realm was really the busiest I had seen it shortly due to Cool Child Summer season. Regardless of it being a ‘warmth advisory’ day, there have been numerous households and youngsters enjoying with characters, plus perpetually lengthy traces for the Little Mermaid – A Musical Journey.
I’m excited for a placemaking venture with a quicker turnaround time than World Celebration in EPCOT. I’m additionally pretty assured from the idea artwork and the overall objectives of the venture that the top consequence right here might be an precise enchancment. If something, my hope is that Imagineering is given sufficient money and time to do that proper. I’d somewhat have this open in Spring 2027 if that’s what it takes, particularly if this space might be round for a decade or longer.
This could be a stopgap, singles and doubles-style venture–nevertheless it has the potential to be a large enchancment over Animation Courtyard, and a real asset to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Dropping the archway is bittersweet, however dropping the useless mall space is a big win. Gaining an out of doors house that’s really a nice, shaded place to spend time could be a large win. The Walt Disney Studios Lot has the potential to be a triple. Perhaps even an inside-the-park residence run.
Planning a Walt Disney World journey? Find out about resorts on our Walt Disney World Motels Opinions web page. For the place to eat, learn our Walt Disney World Restaurant Opinions. To save cash on tickets or decide which kind to purchase, learn our Suggestions for Saving Cash on Walt Disney World Tickets put up. Our What to Pack for Disney Journeys put up takes a novel take a look at intelligent gadgets to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Experience Guides will assist. For complete recommendation, the very best place to start out is our Walt Disney World Journey Planning Information for every thing you want to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you consider Animation Courtyard being reimagined into the Walt Disney Studios Lot? Do you view the demolition of the Disney-MGM Studios archway as an enormous loss, or a web constructive for opening up the realm and having the overhauled house be extra on-theme to Burbank? Trying ahead to an all-new ‘The Magic of Disney Animation’ coming to Walt Disney World? Excited for this reimagined land? Or would you like a blockbuster new land that connects Toy Story Land to Sundown Boulevard? Some other ideas or commentary so as to add? Any questions we might help you reply? Listening to your suggestions–even if you disagree with us–is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
Following final week’s shock announcement, Walt Disney World has filed the primary development permits for the overhaul of Animation Courtyard. This shares full particulars, plus our commentary in regards to the lack of this iconic archway that is among the final remnants of the unique Disney-MGM Studios.
In case you missed it, Walt Disney World made an out-of-the-blue announcement that Animation Courtyard is being reimagined into the Walt Disney Studios Lot at Hollywood Studios. The most important change is that the Roy E. Disney Animation Constructing is changing Star Wars Launch Bay at Hollywood Studios, and can home an all-new household expertise, “The Magic of Disney Animation.”
The reimagined “The Magic of Disney Animation” is impressed by the fan-favorite brief, “As soon as Upon a Studio.” It begins because the animators have quickly stepped away, however the characters have come to life and so they’re able to play. Company will work together with and discover foolish takes on the enduring Disney Animation headquarters, together with the various completely different studio departments. You’ll see portraits come to life earlier than your eyes, discover inspiration with a brief movie, and may even pencil in a while to learn to draw your very personal character sketch.
The brand new-look land will draw inspiration from a number of buildings discovered on the Disney campuses in Burbank, California. This can embrace the Studio Theater and different buildings, which can get new appears, plus a contemporary Disney Jr. present on the soundstage. There’s additionally going to be the “Drawn to Wonderland” indoor playground.
The brand new-look Walt Disney Studios Lot can be reimagining the widespread areas of Animation Courtyard. It’ll have grassy grounds and a courtyard space the place households can take a break to play, calm down, or snack on tasty treats beneath lush bushes. Disney has additionally implied that spontaneous character appearances will happen beneath these bushes.
The Walt Disney Studios Lot and “The Magic of Disney Animation” will open in 2026. As Walt Disney World prepares for this transformation, Animation Courtyard, together with Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will shut starting September 25, 2025.
Throughout this time, company will nonetheless have the ability to go beneath the ocean with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Journey” and benefit from the displays and movie presentation at Walt Disney Presents.
This brings us to the brand new development permits which have been filed. The first allow is for 561 Stage Lane, the placement of the enduring Disney’s Hollywood Studios archway, which might be demolished as a part of the Animation Courtyard reimagining. This lists the scope of the work as “present labor, materials and/or electrical for development” and is assigned to Buena Vista Building Firm.
The second allow is for close by 551 Stage Lane. That is the tackle of the popcorn cart immediately outdoors Animation Courtyard. This can be a cool cart and has been there for years–I’ve pictures of it relationship again some time–however I doubt anybody goes to shed tears over it. And in any case, the popcorn cart might be simply being quickly relocated throughout demolition and development.
One factor to notice right here is that Buena Vista Building Firm often handles smaller-scale tasks; they’re Walt Disney World’s in-house contractor that handles primary upkeep and work. We haven’t actually seen their scope broaden to embody full-scale demolition, so that is doubtless laying the groundwork for that. It’s not the precise demolition of the gateway entrance to Animation Courtyard.
BVCC handles easier issues like relocating that popcorn cart and coping with the underlying electrical; maybe one thing related with the archway. We’re hoping that the attractive bas-relief panels on the archway are preserved and relocated–hopefully, the primary allow pertains to that. We don’t count on this archway to go behind development partitions till late September; it’ll most likely be demolished as shortly as doable as soon as it does.
In isolation, these permits aren’t all that vital. We definitely is not going to be doing a separate put up on each single inconsequential development allow filed for the Animation Courtyard, as there might be many. Nonetheless, we needed an ‘excuse’ to revisit this reimagining and substitute venture, and these permits provided that.
First, these permits ought to clarify the backdrop of the announcement within the first place. We’ve heard from various followers who’re confused and/or enthusiastic about why the Walt Disney Studios Lot could be introduced a month earlier than Vacation spot D23. In any case, this information feels tailored for an occasion like that.
It’s a singles and doubles fashion win that replaces one of many worst areas in all of Walt Disney World, and does so by bringing again an extinct attraction, weaving in nods to the corporate’s historical past, and contains placemaking upgrades. That’s catnip for diehard Walt Disney World followers!
These within the “excited” camp have assumed that the Animation Courtyard information getting preempted from Vacation spot D23 signifies that there’s a jam-packed slate of stories. That that is mainly being bumped for time. It’s our understanding that that is not correct, and we’d strongly counsel adjusting your expectations.
In all chance, this Animation Courtyard announcement got here out of left area on a random morning as a result of Walt Disney World wanted to get out forward of development permits. In the event that they didn’t make an announcement, permits during the last couple of weeks would result in rampant hypothesis.
That hypothesis may result in disappointment, as there have been rumors about longer-term plans which are bold. As a substitute of being excited a couple of small near-term victory, there’s a model of this announcement that entails disappointment as a result of it fell wanting no matter we constructed up in our heads over the following month.
One other factor we wish to talk about is the lack of the enduring archway, which has been round because the Disney-MGM Studios days. Since I’ve been a fan, this gateway has gone by many alternative colour and emblem modifications, nevertheless it’s however managed to stay round at the same time as a lot of the park has gone extinct.
We’ve misplaced the Earful Tower and every thing else on the backlot. Grauman’s Chinese language Theater survived the substitute of Nice Film Experience, fortunately. That or Tower of Terror are most likely the park’s visible ‘icon’ now, however this archway was an in depth second for a lot of followers. I’ve numerous household pictures from over time with this serving because the backdrop.
Dropping the archway does really feel like the top of an period, and I’ll be considerably unhappy to see it go. Emphasis on considerably. Whereas I’ve my nostalgia for the arch–as do many different longtime followers–I additionally suppose a powerful case may be made for ditching this. It’s an entranceway to a “land” that exists off the principle hub of the park, and feels prefer it’s nearly gating-off what needs to be a extra open and alluring house.
It’s tough to shake the glasses of nostalgia, however I really feel like if the park have been constructed immediately from the bottom up, followers would view this archway as awkwardly-placed. Even when not, there’s one thing to be stated for changing this with the precise studio lot entrance signage, and letting the Sorcerer Mickey Hat be the “wienie” deeper contained in the Walt Disney Studio Lot that beckons company into the realm.
Clearing that sightline to make this space extra inviting is a great transfer, and a doubtlessly useful one. It’s stunning simply how useless Animation Courtyard has felt over time regardless of being proper there within the dead-center of the park.
Though the removing of the archway does really feel symbolically-significant for the demise of the Disney-MGM Studios, the substance is what issues extra. “The Magic of Disney Animation” strikes me as a return-to-form and the primary “studios park” change at DHS in a very long time.
Above all else, it’s heartening to see development permits filed so quick, and that the rationale this announcement got here earlier than Vacation spot D23 was as a result of Walt Disney World desires to start out transferring on the venture earlier than then. Initiatives introduced final 12 months are beginning to acquire momentum, and there’s lots to stay up for in 2026 and past.
For Animation Courtyard to shut in late September and be reimagined within the span of roughly a 12 months is a very quick turnaround time. Simply take a look at how lengthy World Celebration in EPCOT took! Granted, that was “extra bold” (air quotes) and delayed, however this received’t be as easy because it may appear. The reimagining seems to contain numerous placemaking, with facade work and upgraded widespread areas. That’s on high of no matter modifications are made to transform Star Wars Launch Bay again into the Magic of Disney Animation.
Animation Courtyard is presently a sea of concrete that isn’t precisely an inviting place. I spent a while within the land on the day this announcement was made, and the realm was really the busiest I had seen it shortly due to Cool Child Summer season. Regardless of it being a ‘warmth advisory’ day, there have been numerous households and youngsters enjoying with characters, plus perpetually lengthy traces for the Little Mermaid – A Musical Journey.
I’m excited for a placemaking venture with a quicker turnaround time than World Celebration in EPCOT. I’m additionally pretty assured from the idea artwork and the overall objectives of the venture that the top consequence right here might be an precise enchancment. If something, my hope is that Imagineering is given sufficient money and time to do that proper. I’d somewhat have this open in Spring 2027 if that’s what it takes, particularly if this space might be round for a decade or longer.
This could be a stopgap, singles and doubles-style venture–nevertheless it has the potential to be a large enchancment over Animation Courtyard, and a real asset to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Dropping the archway is bittersweet, however dropping the useless mall space is a big win. Gaining an out of doors house that’s really a nice, shaded place to spend time could be a large win. The Walt Disney Studios Lot has the potential to be a triple. Perhaps even an inside-the-park residence run.
Planning a Walt Disney World journey? Find out about resorts on our Walt Disney World Motels Opinions web page. For the place to eat, learn our Walt Disney World Restaurant Opinions. To save cash on tickets or decide which kind to purchase, learn our Suggestions for Saving Cash on Walt Disney World Tickets put up. Our What to Pack for Disney Journeys put up takes a novel take a look at intelligent gadgets to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Experience Guides will assist. For complete recommendation, the very best place to start out is our Walt Disney World Journey Planning Information for every thing you want to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you consider Animation Courtyard being reimagined into the Walt Disney Studios Lot? Do you view the demolition of the Disney-MGM Studios archway as an enormous loss, or a web constructive for opening up the realm and having the overhauled house be extra on-theme to Burbank? Trying ahead to an all-new ‘The Magic of Disney Animation’ coming to Walt Disney World? Excited for this reimagined land? Or would you like a blockbuster new land that connects Toy Story Land to Sundown Boulevard? Some other ideas or commentary so as to add? Any questions we might help you reply? Listening to your suggestions–even if you disagree with us–is each fascinating to us and useful to different readers, so please share your ideas under within the feedback!
