If you’ve been to Walt Disney World recently, you’ve probably noticed it—construction walls, closed-off areas, and longtime attractions quietly fading away. Disney is in one of its most significant evolution phases ever. From ride overhauls to entire lands being rebuilt from the ground up, the parks are racing toward a bold new future.
One of the more surprising additions to the closure list is Star Wars Launch Bay, a fan-favorite hangout since 2015.
Monsters, Cars, and a Galaxy Reboot
Gigantic changes are well underway across Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom. In Hollywood Studios, the Muppets are stepping aside to make room for an ambitious Monsters, Inc. land. Once home to Muppet Vision 3D, Mama Melrose’s, and PizzeRizzo, the space will soon feature a wild door-themed roller coaster, monster-themed dining, and a new energy that leans heavily into Pixar storytelling.
Over at Magic Kingdom, Disney is transforming Frontierland by permanently closing Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle riverboat. These closures clear the way for Piston Peak National Park—a Cars-themed land that captures the look and feel of a rugged, forested national park. Disney plans to include two new attractions in the area, blending scenic exploration with high-speed adventure.
And Star Wars fans can still celebrate. Disney will update Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run with a brand-new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu, set to launch in 2026.
A Star Wars Classic Closes
Star Wars Launch Bay, located in Animation Courtyard, will officially close its doors on September 24, 2025. Originally opened in December 2015, the experience was designed to keep fans engaged while they waited for Galaxy’s Edge to be built. It offered meet-and-greets with Darth Vader and Chewbacca, behind-the-scenes Star Wars props, and rare character photo ops for years.
But in the shadow of Galaxy’s Edge, Launch Bay has slowly faded into the background. Disney is ready to move on.
The Return of Disney Animation
In its place, a brand-new offering will debut: The Magic of Disney Animation. This isn’t just a nostalgia play—it’s a full-blown interactive journey through Disney’s creative process. The experience will feature themed animation “departments,” hands-on drawing stations, animation tutorials, and meet-and-greets with modern and old-school characters.
One section, Drawn to Wonderland, brings Mary Blair’s whimsical style to life with an indoor playground. Imagine oversized flowers, musical elements, and vibrant storybook scenery where little ones can explore and create.
Disney plans to reimagine the entire area as The Walt Disney Studios. The plan is to style it after Walt’s original Burbank animation campus with art deco architecture and studio-style signage. Rumors point to the iconic Sorcerer Hat making a comeback to crown the courtyard, reintroducing a beloved visual landmark with a bold new purpose.
Looking at the Timeline
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2015 – Launch Bay opens
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2019 – Galaxy’s Edge debuts
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July 2025 – Closure announcement made
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September 24, 2025 – Launch Bay closes
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2026 – Animation Courtyard reopens with a new theme
Fresh Starts and Nostalgic Nods
Saying goodbye to Launch Bay might sting a little, but Disney fans have much to look forward to. With Pixar-heavy expansions, immersive new lands, and a celebration of Disney’s animation history, this next chapter looks even more magical.
