Walt Disney World has just announced plans to transform the Animation Courtyard section of Disney’s Hollywood Studios into a new area called The Walt Disney Studios. The new Studios Lot section of the park will see some work on the existing buildings and the demolition of the Hollywood Studios archway, among other changes. To support the work, Animation Courtyard, the Star Wars: Launch Bay, and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will all be closed starting September 25, 2025. Here’s the latest details on the upcoming operational changes.
Animation Courtyard Permanently Closing September 25th
Here’s the announcement from Disney about the closure of the Animation Courtyard and surrounding buildings. Note that The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Walt Disney Presents will remain open during the work.
In addition to the new offerings, the exteriors of several existing buildings will be reimagined with design elements inspired by buildings found in Burbank. To prepare for the transformation, Animation Courtyard, Star Wars: Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning Sept. 25, 2025. Guests can continue to enjoy “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and Walt Disney Presents while the transformation is completed.
Here’s a look at two pieces of concept art released by Walt Disney World for the transformation.
Some of the biggest changes come in the form of reimagining the facade of the Star Wars Launch Bay, and the demolition of the Hollywood Studios archway. Here’s a look at each of those offerings as they stand today.
For more details on what to expect when The Walt Disney Studios area opens to guests in 2026, check out the announcement from Walt Disney World in our article below!
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!
