Step Inside The Magic of Disney Animation, A Brand-New Experience Opens September 14

July 15, 2026

Step Inside the Magic of Disney Animation a Brand new Experience Opens September 14

For generations, Disney Animation has inspired dreamers, artists, and storytellers around the world. This fall, guests will have the chance to step inside that creative legacy as The Magic of Disney Animation officially opens on September 14, bringing an all-new collection of immersive experiences that celebrate the artistry, imagination, and beloved characters that have defined Disney Animation for more than a century.

Step Inside the Magic of Disney Animation a Brand new Experience Opens September 14

Located inside a stunning new building inspired by the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building, complete with Mickey’s famous Sorcerer Hat perched on top—this exciting destination invites guests of all ages to explore the magic behind Disney’s animated masterpieces through interactive exhibits, character encounters, hands-on creativity, and unforgettable storytelling.

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Welcome to The Magic of Disney Animation

Colorful Isometric Map of a Disney Animation Studio with Labeled Sections and Cartoon Characters Guiding Through the Experience

The moment you step inside, you’ll discover a reimagined version of Disney Animation Studios where familiar studio departments have been transformed into playful adventures hosted by some of Disney’s most beloved characters.

Every hallway offers something new to discover. Portraits magically spring to life just as they did in Once Upon A Studio, aspiring artists can learn to sketch their favorite Disney characters, and interactive experiences encourage guests to laugh, create, and imagine together.

Among the exciting experiences guests can enjoy are:

  • Drawn to Wonderland
  • Off the Page!
  • Olaf Draws!
  • Once Upon A Studio Theater
  • and more

Whether you’re visiting with young children or simply grew up loving Disney animation, there’s something here designed to spark your imagination.

Step Into Alice’s Whimsical World

Drawn to wonderland poster

One of the highlights of the new experience is Drawn to Wonderland, an immersive indoor playground inspired by legendary Disney artist Mary Blair’s original concept artwork for Alice in Wonderland.

Young adventurers can wander through colorful environments inspired by:

  • The Mad Tea Party
  • The Mad Hatter’s House
  • The Queen of Hearts’ Rose Garden
  • The mysterious Tulgey Wood

2026 wdw drawn to wonderland rendering

Filled with bold colors, whimsical shapes, and imaginative play areas, this attraction encourages kids to climb, explore, and create their own Wonderland adventure while remaining completely immersed in Disney storytelling.

It’s the perfect place for families to relax, play, and let little imaginations run wild.

Meet Favorite Disney Characters in “Off the Page!”

Off the page poster

The creative process comes to life inside Off the Page!, where guests journey through various Disney Animation departments while meeting beloved characters from across Disney’s animated history.

Each department represents a different stage of animation production and serves as the backdrop for unique character encounters.

Guests may meet:

  • Mulan in the Story Department
  • Rapunzel in the Layout Department
  • Chip ‘n Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation
  • Donald Duck & Daisy Duck in Computer Animation
  • Goofy in Lighting
  • Stitch in Effects

Every location is designed with incredible photo opportunities while showcasing how Disney animated films come together from concept to finished masterpiece.

The experience was developed through a collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios, creating an attraction that celebrates both Disney’s characters and the incredible artists who bring them to life.

Learn to Draw with Olaf

Olaf draws

One of the most exciting additions is Olaf Draws!, where everyone’s favorite snowman becomes your cheerful art instructor.

Featuring an all-new Audio-Animatronics Olaf, the experience places guests at an animator’s desk inspired by Once Upon A Studio. Olaf enthusiastically guides visitors through Disney’s drawing process while Disney Animation artists share professional tips, stories, and techniques.

Guests may learn to draw characters including:

  • Mickey Mouse
  • Minnie Mouse
  • Donald Duck
  • Genie
  • Moana
  • Stitch
  • Olaf
  • Ursula
  • Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde

Each lesson is led by Disney Animation artists and directors responsible for bringing these iconic characters to life.

Adding even more charm, Josh Gad recorded brand-new dialogue exclusively for the attraction, making Olaf as funny and encouraging as ever while inspiring future generations of Disney artists.

Celebrate More Than 100 Years of Disney Animation

Once upon a studio theater

The magic continues inside the Once Upon A Studio Theater, where guests can enjoy the Emmy Award-winning animated short that inspired the attraction.

Enhanced theatrical effects make the experience even more immersive, while hidden character surprises throughout the theater reward observant fans.

Guests can also visit an enchanting art gallery showcasing beautiful Disney Animation artwork. But don’t expect a traditional museum—thanks to a little Disney magic, favorite characters can suddenly leap from the artwork into brand-new animated moments created exclusively for this experience.

A New Home for Disney Storytelling

The Magic of Disney Animation is much more than a collection of attractions—it’s a celebration of creativity, imagination, and the artists whose work has inspired generations.

2026 wdw magic of disney animation 11 scaled

From climbing through Wonderland and meeting beloved characters to learning directly from Disney animators and enjoying Once Upon A Studio in a dedicated theater, this new experience promises to become a must-visit destination for Disney fans of every age.

When the doors open on September 14, guests will have the opportunity to step inside the heart of Disney Animation itself and experience firsthand how stories, dreams, and imagination continue to come to life.

Whether you’re an aspiring artist, lifelong Disney fan, or simply looking to create magical family memories, The Magic of Disney Animation is sure to become one of Disney’s most enchanting new experiences.


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Scott Atwood Co-Owner, Writer, Webmaster
Scott Atwood is the Co-Owner, Co-Creator, and Webmaster of The Main Street Mouse, one of Florida's leading Disney and theme park news sources. With an 18-year background in technical support and systems management, Scott brings a detail-oriented, research-driven approach to everything he does — from managing the technical infrastructure of TMSM to covering the latest Disney news, Marvel updates, and technology developments. As Project Planner and Business Relations Manager for TMSM, Scott works behind the scenes to ensure the site runs smoothly while also contributing articles on topics he's passionate about — including Star Wars, Marvel, Disney Parks, and the latest in tech and pop culture. What started as a hobby alongside his wife Michele has grown into a full-time labor of love, reaching Disney fans across the country every day. Scott is also Co-Host of the TMSM Weekly Podcast and Co-Owner of the House of Mouse Expo. He feels blessed to spend his days doing what he loves alongside his best friend and partner in all things Disney.



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