Disney World has closed off two areas within one of its parks, so the official mobile app shows an entirely different map to millions of guests.
A Disney World Park Has Closed Down Two Sections: A New Map Has Spawned on the Official App
If you opened the My Disney Experience app this week, your first reaction might be a gasp. Animation Courtyard, one of Hollywood Studios’ most beloved areas, looks… different. A closer look reveals the missing attractions: Star Wars Launch Bay and the Disney Jr. Theater are gone.
For more than ten years, these locations have been gathering points for fans of all ages. Star Wars Launch Bay allowed Jedi and Star Wars lovers to immerse themselves in the galaxy, while the Disney Jr. Theater gave the youngest guests a place to sing, dance, and meet their favorite characters. Their disappearance leaves a noticeable gap—both on the map and in the hearts of parkgoers.
Disney has confirmed this isn’t temporary: these attractions are permanently closed. But rather than mourning what’s gone, fans are being invited to get excited about what’s coming next.
The New Direction for Animation Courtyard
The closures pave the way for Disney’s Walt Disney Studios lot, inspired by the real-life studio in Burbank, California. While details are still emerging, the lot promises an immersive peek behind the scenes of Disney filmmaking.
Here’s a look at the updated digital map of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars Launch Bay is now closed to make way for The Magic of Disney Animation opening next year. Darth Vader is now meeting guests near Star Tours. – @ScottGustin on X
Here’s a look at the updated digital map of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars Launch Bay is now closed to make way for The Magic of Disney Animation opening next year. Darth Vader is now meeting guests near Star Tours. pic.twitter.com/rKI37GMLwl
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) September 25, 2025
Even more exciting is the return of The Magic of Disney Animation in 2026. Ironically, this is the very attraction Star Wars Launch Bay replaced years ago. The new version promises hands-on experiences where guests can draw, play, and interact with Disney characters. Features will include the Animation Academy, meet-and-greets, and an Alice in Wonderland–inspired playground, all themed around Walt Disney Animation Studios’ short film Once Upon a Studio.
Meanwhile, the Disney Jr. Theater is also getting a refresh, with a new show replacing Disney Jr. Play and Dance! Guests can expect a lively, updated space designed to entertain the youngest parkgoers.
Planning Your Visit Amid the Changes
Here’s how to navigate Hollywood Studios while these areas are in transition:
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Check the app first. The My Disney Experience map now reflects the closures, so you won’t waste time looking for attractions that no longer exist.
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Adjust your itinerary. With Animation Courtyard under construction, nearby attractions like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway or Walt Disney Presents may be less crowded and worth prioritizing.
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Look ahead to 2026. Plan to experience The Magic of Disney Animation when it opens—it’s shaping up to be a must-see.
Hidden Tips Fans Will Love
Even during construction, there are perks that only insiders notice:
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Quieter photo spots: With fewer attractions drawing crowds, this section of the park may be temporarily less busy—ideal for snapshots.
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Alternate character locations: Characters who were at Star Wars Launch Bay may appear elsewhere in the park, especially around Galaxy’s Edge and Pixar Place.
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Sneak previews: Disney often soft-opens new attractions ahead of the official launch. Keep an eye on social media or the app for early-access chances.
Why These Changes Matter for the Disney World Parks
For many, Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Theater were more than attractions—they were part of cherished Disney memories. Their removal signals a shift toward a renewed focus on Disney animation and storytelling.
The return of The Magic of Disney Animation reconnects Hollywood Studios with its roots while offering fresh, interactive experiences for both kids and adults. For fans, this isn’t just a map update—it’s a chance to see Disney reinvent itself while honoring its history.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is evolving once again. While longtime fans may feel nostalgic for Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Theater, the new experiences promise to captivate guests in entirely new ways. Whether you’re planning a trip in 2025 or eagerly awaiting 2026, this section of the park is ready to surprise and delight.
