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Magic of Disney Animation Opens at Hollywood Studios: What Orlando Families Should Know
A brand-new indoor experience is opening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios—and it may be especially appealing to families with younger children, Disney fans and kids who love drawing and imaginative play.
The Magic of Disney Animation officially opens September 14, 2026, inside the reimagined Animation Courtyard. The new space brings several animation-inspired activities together, including character encounters, a drawing experience, an indoor playground and a theater featuring Disney’s Once Upon a Studio.
Here’s what Orlando families should know before visiting.
Magic of Disney Animation: Quick Details
● Opening date: September 14, 2026
● Location: Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
● Experiences: Indoor play, character encounters, drawing and a short film
● Separate ticket: Disney has not listed a separate attraction ticket, but valid admission to Hollywood Studios is required
● Hours: Disney currently lists 9:00 AM–9:00 PM for opening day, but hours may change
Families should check the My Disney Experience app or the official attraction page before visiting.
What Is Inside the Magic of Disney Animation?
The Magic of Disney Animation isn’t one traditional ride. It is a collection of interactive experiences celebrating Disney animation and the artists who bring its characters to life.
Drawn to Wonderland
Drawn to Wonderland is an indoor playground inspired by Mary Blair’s colorful concept art for Disney’s Alice in Wonderland.
Disney describes it as a place where little ones can explore and use their imaginations. For Central Florida parents, the indoor setting may also provide a welcome break from the heat or afternoon rain.
Disney has not published detailed height, age or accessibility requirements for the play area yet. Parents should check posted rules when they arrive.
Olaf Draws!
During Olaf Draws!, families can learn how to sketch a Disney character with help from everyone’s favorite snowman.
This experience could be especially fun for elementary-aged children, aspiring artists and homeschool families exploring animation, storytelling or visual arts.
Off the Page!
Off the Page! brings families into different areas inspired by the animation process. Visitors can explore themed spaces, spot animation details and meet popular Disney characters.
Character appearances can change, so families should not promise children a specific character unless that character is listed in the My Disney Experience app on the day of their visit.
Once Upon a Studio Theater
Families can also watch the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon a Studio. The film reunites Mickey Mouse with characters from throughout Disney Animation’s history.
Disney says the theater includes additional surprises that place guests inside the celebration.
Hidden Details for Disney Fans
Disney has incorporated references to all 64 Walt Disney Animation Studios feature films throughout the new area.
Families may find sketches, character models, props and small references to movies including Hercules, Treasure Planet, The Fox and the Hound, Lilo & Stitch and The Emperor’s New Groove.
Turning the visit into a scavenger hunt could help older children stay engaged while younger siblings enjoy the playground and character experiences.
Try asking children to find:
● A character from a movie they haven’t watched
● A drawing from one of their favorite films
● A character model or maquette
● A hidden reference from an older Disney movie
● An example of how animation has changed over time
What Ages Will Enjoy It Most?
Based on Disney’s current description, The Magic of Disney Animation appears to offer the most for toddlers through elementary-aged children.
Younger children may be drawn to the indoor playground and character encounters, while older children may enjoy learning to draw, searching for movie references and exploring how animated films are created.
Because this is not a thrill ride, it may also work well when your family needs a slower activity between larger Hollywood Studios attractions.
However, Disney has not yet released complete information about playground restrictions, activity duration or character schedules. Families visiting during opening week should expect procedures to evolve as Disney begins operating the space.
Is It Included With Hollywood Studios Admission?
Disney has not announced a separate ticket for The Magic of Disney Animation. The experiences are located inside Hollywood Studios, so families will need valid theme-park admission.
Opening-week crowds may affect how quickly families can enter individual areas. Check the Disney app for operating information and ask a Cast Member whether any experiences use a standby line, virtual queue or scheduled entry.
What Should Parents Bring?
A few simple items can make a Hollywood Studios day more comfortable:
● A portable phone charger
● Refillable water bottles
● A lightweight park bag
● A stroller fan for younger children
● An autograph book
● A small folder for protecting drawings
● Child-size hearing protection for children sensitive to crowded or noisy areas
● A poncho or compact umbrella
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A Fun Homeschool Connection
The Magic of Disney Animation can become more than a theme-park stop. Homeschool families can use it as an introduction to careers in animation, illustration, filmmaking, character design and storytelling.
Before visiting, ask your child to create an original character. After the experience, have them:
1. Draw the character from multiple angles.
2. Describe the character’s personality.
3. Create a setting for the story.
4. Write or narrate a short scene.
5. Explain how music, lighting or color could change the mood.
Younger children can simply draw their favorite part of the day and dictate a sentence about what they experienced.
Mama’s Thoughts 💌: Is the Magic of Disney Animation Worth Adding to Your Day?
For families already visiting Hollywood Studios, this looks like a worthwhile stop—especially if your children enjoy Disney characters, art or imaginative play.
It could also provide something the park greatly needs for many parents: an indoor, lower-pressure experience where children can play, create and cool down without meeting a height requirement.
Families visiting during the first few weeks should remember that crowds may be higher and operating procedures can change. We’ll update this guide as Disney releases more information and families begin sharing their opening-week experiences.
Would your child head to the playground, drawing experience or character area first?
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