The Magic of Disney Animation was a beloved attraction located in Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that celebrated the artistry and history of Walt Disney Feature Animation. Opening with the park in 1989 as Disney-MGM Studios, the attraction originally functioned as both a guest experience and a working animation facility, giving visitors a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Disney animated films were created.
In its earliest years, guests could actually observe real Disney animators at work through glass windows overlooking production offices. During the 1990s, artists working inside the Florida animation studio contributed to major animated films including Mulan, Lilo & Stitch, and Brother Bear. This gave the attraction a unique authenticity that set it apart from traditional theme park experiences. Rather than simply presenting animation as entertainment, The Magic of Disney Animation showcased it as an active creative process happening in real time.
The attraction evolved over the years, but its core mission remained the same: introducing guests to the magic and craftsmanship behind Disney animation. A typical visit began with a pre-show starring Mushu from Mulan and a live-action appearance by comedian Walter Cronkite in earlier versions. Mushu humorously guided guests through the world of animation while explaining concepts like storyboarding, character design, voice acting, and movement.
Following the pre-show, guests entered the main gallery and interactive exhibit spaces. Displays highlighted Disney’s animation history, featuring artwork, maquettes, props, and behind-the-scenes materials from classic and contemporary films. The attraction celebrated both hand-drawn and computer animation, allowing visitors to better understand the enormous amount of work involved in bringing animated characters to life.
One of the most popular components was the Animation Academy, where guests could participate in instructor-led drawing classes teaching them how to sketch Disney characters step-by-step. This interactive experience became a fan favorite, appealing to both children and adults while giving guests a tangible souvenir they created themselves.
Additional interactive stations allowed guests to experiment with voice acting, digital coloring, and basic animation techniques. These hands-on experiences reinforced the attraction’s educational focus while still maintaining Disney’s signature sense of fun and accessibility.
The Magic of Disney Animation also played an important role in the identity of Disney-MGM Studios and later Hollywood Studios. During the park’s early decades, the attraction strongly supported the original “working studio” concept, where guests could witness film and television production firsthand. As the park gradually shifted away from active production facilities and toward immersive themed lands and attractions, the animation building became increasingly nostalgic for longtime fans.
The attraction officially closed in 2015 to make way for Star Wars Launch Bay during Hollywood Studios’ large-scale transformation. Its closure marked the end of one of the park’s last major connections to its original behind-the-scenes studio concept.
Although it no longer exists, The Magic of Disney Animation remains one of the most fondly remembered attractions in Hollywood Studios history. It combined entertainment, education, and genuine creative insight in a way few Disney attractions ever attempted, giving generations of guests a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind Disney animation.