Walt Disney World has set the opening date for “Magic of Disney Animation” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park. This experiential attraction will open to the public on September 14th.
The animation building includes “Olaf Draws,” where an animatronic version of the “Frozen” snowman teaches character sketching classes (including a session on how to draw Olaf). Draw to Wonderland, an indoor playground inspired by concept art from Disney legend Mary Blair’s Alice in Wonderland. Meet and greet with characters with fresh themes such as Mulan, Rapunzel, and Goofy. and a theater that will screen the short film “Once Upon a Studio,” which was introduced in 2023.
The building was previously home to Star Wars Launch Bay and was once a workspace for Disney’s Florida-based glass-walled animators during the Disney and MGM Studios days. The exterior now has a similar theme to Walt Disney Animation Studios in California, right down to Mickey’s oversized wizard hat above the entrance.

These additions are part of a reconfigured animated courtyard with more seating in a park-like setting. Plus, it’s flanked by new shows that opened this year, “Disney Junior Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live,” and “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” which debuted last year. This area still houses the Walt Disney Presents attraction, which features walk-through exhibits that examine the historical development of the man and his company.
Disney: New drawing class features Olaf animatronic
Still under construction at Hollywood Studios: New land inspired by Monsters, Inc. This includes a door-themed hanging roller coaster, the Glob Theater and the Harryhausen Restaurant. An opening date has not been announced.
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