We previewed The Magic of Disney Animation: What to know before it opens

Disney invited us out to preview The Magic of Disney Animation and we have the basics of what you need to know before stepping into the magical studio.

walt disney animation studios open house sign to enter magic of disney animation attraction — *Entrance to The Magic of Disney Animation.*
_{All photos by Matt Roseboom}

The Magic of Disney Animation originally opened with the park in 1989 as an experience showcasing the work and magic that goes into developing an animated feature. The attraction closed to make way for Star Wars Launch Bay from 2015-2025 to showcase props and sets from the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Now restored to its former glory, the animation building has been given new life and even more modern Disney magic.

Step inside The Magic of Disney Animation

Our publisher Matt experienced everything the new indoor attraction has to offer and believes Walt Disney Imagineering has done the original space justice. The space feels familiar but with significant technological and quality-of-life upgrades. That same spirit from the original attraction is alive once more, filled with plenty of details, easter eggs, and interactive elements that guests will want to invest time in.

Statues of Lost Boy, Moana, and Minnie Mouse — *Lost Boy, Moana, and Minnie Mouse*

Statues of Micky Mouse, Mad Hatter, and Flounder — *Mickey Mouse, Mad Hatter, and Flounder*

The interior of The Magic of Disney Animation — *Interior of The Magic of Disney Animation*

Things you can do inside

While the space is not open to the public just yet (officially opening on September 14th), we have our first impressions and even some tips for your first visit that we’d love to share.

Olaf Draws!

Everyone’s favorite talking snowman brings a new twist to the classic Animation Academy. Olaf, joined by Disney Animators, will take you through the process of drawing some of your favorite Disney characters, step-by-step. An Olaf animatronic will follow along with the class, delivering the kind of hilarious quips along the way.

Sketch drawing of Stitch as drawn by reporter Matt Roseboom — *Matt’s rendition of Stitch*

Disney has confirmed that there will be a digital sign at the Olaf Draws! location with a schedule of class times and what character you can expect to learn to draw. Near the entrance to Animation Courtyard, you’ll also be able to find an A-frame sign with the same information, so you can make your decision without having to walk all the way inside.

Off the Page brings animated characters into the studio

Off the Page builds on the “Once Upon a Studio” premise that Disney’s animated characters come to life inside the studio, giving guests opportunities to meet them as part of the attraction’s story.

Characters will not be limited to the indoor experience, either. Danny Handke, senior creative director at Walt Disney Imagineering, said Disney still plans to use characters outside in Animation Courtyard, but in new and unique ways that build on the playful character activity guests have seen there over the past few months.

The Gallery makes Disney art interactive

The Gallery combines displays of Disney Animation artwork with interactive digital screens that let guests explore the art and characters in greater depth. Guests can interact with animated scenes from Disney movies, adding a hands-on element to what might otherwise feel like a traditional animation exhibit.

animated poster screen smong disney animation stills on a wall — *Interactive screen in the Gallery area.*

It’s all in the details

If you’re a Disney fan, there is so much more here for you than just the experiences found inside. The space is filled with references, interactive elements, and plenty of small details inside for all fans of Disney Animation to find and enjoy! The area brings new life and feels cohesive compared to the previous iteration that felt like it was suffering an identity crisis.

Here are some magical details we found during our preview:

From left to right: Bolt's toy carrot, Mirabel's accordion, Map of Treasure Planet, The Black Cauldron, The Sheperd's Journal from Atlantis , Tangled Lantern, Minnie's cat Figaro, Microbot from Big Hero 6, Sundrop Flower from Tangled, a vase from Hercules — From left to right: Bolt’s toy carrot, Mirabel’s accordion, Map of Treasure Planet, The Black Cauldron, The Sheperd’s Journal from Atlantis , Tangled Lantern, Minnie’s cat Figaro, Microbot from Big Hero 6, Sundrop Flower from Tangled, a vase from Hercules

Display highlighting the Walt Disney Feature Animation Florida studio — *A display highlighting the projects worked on at the Walt Disney Feature Animation Florida studio, including: Mulan, Lilo & Stitch, and Brother Bear*

Mural featuring sketch drawings of various Disney characters — *Sketch mural of various characters across Disney Animation.*

Drawn to Wonderland gives kids room to play

The Drawn to Wonderland indoor play area brings the world of “Alice in Wonderland” to life with colorful, interactive spaces where younger guests can climb, explore and even head down a slide. It is also one of the features that makes The Magic of Disney Animation especially appealing for families with kids, with air conditioning and places for parents to take a break while children play.

*Drawn to Wonderland slide.*
_{Photo by Matt Roseboom}

You can see even more details in our first look video of the animator’s office inside The Magic of Disney Animation:

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