The Magic of Disney Animation Soft Opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Ahead of Schedule

The Magic of Disney Animation has officially launched a soft opening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, welcoming guests days ahead of its previously announced September 14 debut. The new attraction complex transforms the former Animation Courtyard into a recreation of the Walt Disney Studios Lot, bringing a movie-making aesthetic back to the park.

The reimagined space includes several distinct areas and experiences. Guests can explore the Drawn to Wonderland indoor playground, which is inspired by Mary Blair’s original Alice in Wonderland concept art. The area also features the Once Upon a Studio Theater, the Studio Store, and an animation-themed gallery space called Treasures Untold.

A central highlight of the new lineup is Olaf Draws!, where an Audio-Animatronics figure of Olaf sits at an animator’s desk to guide guests through character drawing lessons featuring recorded instructions from Disney Animation artists. To manage crowds during busy periods, Disney plans to use an in-person virtual waitlist for Olaf Draws! rather than a continuous physical line. Guests can sign up directly with a cast member at the attraction to receive a text message return time, allowing them to explore the rest of the park while they wait.

The new area also introduces a character meet-and-greet experience known as Off the Page! Here, specific characters are stationed in designated zones that reflect different stages of the animation process. Guests can meet Mulan in Story, Rapunzel in Layout, Chip ‘n’ Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation, Donald and Daisy in Computer Animation, Goofy in Lighting, and Stitch in Effects.

Additionally, roaming characters are appearing outside in the Walt Disney Studios Lot following positive guest feedback over the summer. Visitors can encounter figures such as Pluto, Jiminy Cricket, and the White Rabbit, with individual characters rotating in the courtyard for approximately 30-minute intervals. Inside the Drawn to Wonderland playground, Alice is also available to greet visitors.

The Magic of Disney Animation operates with scheduled hours that vary by date. Operating hours are listed from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. for the initial days, with adjustments scheduled later in the month.