Magic of Disney Animation Soft-Opens at Hollywood Studios
Published September 12, 2026 · Updated October 20, 2026
According to reports on Friday, September 11, Disney softly opened The Magic of Disney Animation to guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The new space, which replaces the former Animation Courtyard, officially opens on September 14 but is reportedly welcoming visitors now. As of Saturday, September 12, the attraction is operating in an unannounced soft-opening phase.
While the attraction was accommodating walk-ups during the initial soft opening, a Cast Member reportedly indicated that a virtual queue system will be implemented for busier days, likely beginning on September 14. Notably, this virtual queue will not be managed through the My Disney Experience app; instead, guests will reportedly provide their phone number to a Cast Member at the entrance and receive a text message when it is their turn to enter.
What we know
Updated Tuesday, September 15 with new reporting.
- Drawn to Wonderland — an indoor, air-conditioned kids’ playground inspired by Mary Blair’s Alice in Wonderland concept art.
- Once Upon A Studio Theater — a viewing area showing the Emmy-winning Once Upon A Studio short film.
- Virtual Queue — reportedly handled via text message with Cast Members at the attraction, rather than through My Disney Experience.
- The Magic of Disney Animation — officially debuts at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on Monday, September 14, 2026.
- September 14 through September 17, 2026 — reportedly listed from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Included experiences — Once Upon a Studio Theater, Olaf Draws Animation Academy, Drawn to Wonderland Play Area, and Off the Page Character Meet & Greets.
- Star Wars Launch Bay — permanently closed in 2025 to make way for the returning attraction.
- Location — housed in its original building at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
What it means for your trip
- Do not build your morning around it. Soft openings are completely unpredictable—the attraction can open late, close early, or not open at all. Stick to your primary rope-drop targets like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance or Slinky Dog Dash so your morning isn’t wasted if the doors stay locked.
- Treat it as an afternoon windfall. The new space includes an air-conditioned playground and a theater, making it an ideal destination to escape the heat when waits across the park peak.
- Stick to your Lightning Lane strategy. Do not let curiosity traffic for the new attraction distract you from booking your Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections in advance. Continue to prioritize Slinky Dog Dash, as its sell-out timing remains the most critical factor in Hollywood Studios.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the soft opening happen every day until September 14?
Disney does not guarantee operating hours during soft openings; the attraction may open intermittently, run for a few hours, or remain closed entirely on any given day.
Can I book a Lightning Lane for The Magic of Disney Animation?
No Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Single Pass options have been announced for this attraction; access is currently walk-up, with a text-based virtual queue expected for busy periods.
Go deeper — the full guides: How to Book EPCOT’s Space 220 for a Large Group · First Trip to Disney World: The 101
SupaPark tracks live wait times and crowd forecasts, and pings you the second a hard-to-get reservation opens or a ride goes walk-on — free to start at supapark.com.