Posted on July 09, 2026
Disney is known for bringing the iconic stories and animations that made our childhood unforgettable. Each line of ink and splash of color brings back memories of our beloved Disney characters and their tales.
So, for the ultimate treat of nostalgia and pure magic, Walt Disney World® Resort is bringing them closer to us. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, capture the magic of Disney animation with immersive experiences to try:
Are you ready to go down memory lane and experience the timeless magic of Disney animation? Read on.
It's like stepping into a dream at Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, where all the magic happens. Artists go in, and all those cherished characters and films come out. Just imagine being inside those iconic walls and seeing Disney Animation characters jump off the screen into real life.
The Emmy-winning short film, Once Upon A Studio, is set to inspire a new experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®. You can catch "The Magic of Disney Animation" in a venue that resembles the Roy E. Disney Animation Building, where there will be some awesome animation on display. The Magic of Disney Animation starts later, but outdoor storytelling kicks off on May 26. The courtyard changes into “The Walt Disney Studios,” inspired by Burbank's studio lot. It presents the Studio Theater for The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and a Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! soundstage in a beautiful park setting.
The Clubhouse is calling your name starting May 26, and guess what? You’re on the guest list! This live performance is inspired by Disney Jr.’s famous series Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+. It’s a joyful show where you help make the fun happen. Mickey and Minnie are all set to start the celebration, but when their friends are nowhere to be seen, it turns into a fun search party.
As the music plays, you'll find yourself clapping, cheering, and dancing along to the story! And just like that, Goofy, Daisy Duck, and Pluto will show up to really bring the Clubhouse party to life.
In late summer 2026, the old Star Wars: Launch Bay will turn into a fun place for kids and anyone young at heart to play, make art, and explore. Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat will be placed on top of the building, just like the one in California! We are exploring this exciting new area while the animators are on break!
But there’s still a lot going on as the characters come to life and get ready to play! Explore and interact with humorous takes on the Disney Animation headquarters and its studio departments. This time, our favorite characters have taken the lead in creating fun adventures. Every corner holds playful and interactive moments for you to enjoy. Witness portraits spring to life like in Once Upon A Studio; get inspired by a short film (with a twist) and draw your own character.
At the “Drawn to Wonderland” playground, young animators can explore a musical flower garden, a Mad Tea Party, and a Tulgey Wood area inspired by Mary Blair's “Alice in Wonderland.” It’ll be the perfect whimsical indoor play area for little ones to grow “curiouser and curiouser!” We know y’all are visual people just like us, so here’s the artist’s take on this immersive experience:
There are so many places to check out and have fun. And we haven't even mentioned all the character greetings yet! This summer, your family will enjoy fun together when “The Magic of Disney Animation” starts at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®.
Sprinkles of magic from the Sorcerer’s Hat go beyond The Magic of Disney Animation. The courtyard is being reworked into “The Walt Disney Studios,” inspired by Burbank buildings. This pays tribute to the well-known Walt Disney Studios Lot with a fresh on the Studio Theater. which “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” will be screened. Plus, new Disney Jr. show on the soundstage.
Families can discover the studio grounds and courtyard, pausing to play, relax, or snack under tall trees. Also, keep an eye out. You might see someone playing in the branches, soaking in the sun, or digging in the grass.
You're going to enjoy "Off the Page." It's a wonderful spot to see beloved characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios and appreciate the art in every scene. Every spot is perfect for amazing photos with beloved characters. You can find Mulan in the Story department, taking a picture in front of a giant storyboard panel.
Check out the Layout department where you can see Rapunzel in a scene inspired by the classic multiplane camera. See how the layers of backgrounds and painted cells come together like magic. These areas showcase important parts of the animation process, each made lively through character interactions. Get ready to find some characters like:
“Off the Page!” brings you into the world of animation, created by Walt Disney Imagineering with Walt Disney Animation Studios. Dan Abraham, the Director of Walt Disney Animation Studios and co-director of Once Upon a Studio, is super excited to hear what ideas guests come up with after their visit. Here’s what he said:
“It’s so cool because you’re waiting in line to have fun with the characters… and you’re getting to see a bit of the history of the studio as well. It could very well inspire people to move our studio into the future when they join Walt Disney Animation Studios and carry on this legacy that has meant so much to so many people.”
Discover the exciting new Animation Academy adventure, Olaf Draws!, featuring our beloved snowman as the enthusiastic host. With his usual warmth, positivity, and fun humor, Olaf encourages everyone, no matter their age, to dive into character drawing. You can now meet an exciting new Audio-Animatronics version of Olaf. He will greet you in a setting inspired by his amazing scenes from Once Upon A Studio. He’s sitting at an animator’s desk, happily experiencing the joy of drawing.
Guests of all ages can learn to draw in a newly designed animator's studio inspired by Frozen. At sleigh-themed tables, young animators unleash their creativity, with animator-desk workstations providing a studio atmosphere. Josh Gad's recording was influenced by Olaf's encouragement of young artists.
“I’m so thrilled that a whole new generation of kids can dream of becoming animators one day and can actually begin their journey right there on the studio lot,” Gad highlighted how Olaf Draws! makes imagination come to life.
Olaf isn’t the best at drawing by himself, so he seeks help from some legendary Disney Animation artists. The class comes alive with their pre-recorded guidance. Soak in the Disney magic as you walk through the creative process. Listen as they share tips and studio stories on creating iconic Disney Animation characters.
Excited to get guided by the magical hands that drew your favorite Disney icons? You’ll find yourself sketching these characters:
Discover The Magic of Disney Animation, featuring an enchanted art gallery with beloved Disney characters. This may seem like an ordinary gallery, but magic can animate your favorite characters in exclusive new animations!
Your journey continues in the Once Upon A Studio Theater. It's time to enjoy the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon A Studio. This theater marks over a hundred years of Disney Animation, with upgraded effects bringing even more magic. While watching, you might see characters appearing in the artwork on the walls, immersing you in the enchanting story.
We all know how thrilled you are about these experiences waiting for you at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®. Animation is one of the most precious parts of Disney’s history, and the hands behind each character are equally excited! Prepare to be in awe of sparkling colors, marvel at the magical details, and take in the nostalgic feels.
Disney Animation artists and Imagineers at Walt Disney are coming together to create a magical experience that families will love. Share these enchanting and one-of-a-kind experiences with your loved ones. Grab your Walt Disney World® discount tickets for more unforgettable adventures at the Most Magical Place on Earth. See you there!
FunEx has amazing deals to make your dream visit a reality. Save up to $100 now!
