Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Animation Courtyard

Lake Buena Vista, Florida: In the corner of Disney’s Hollywood Studios there is a place where the art of Disney animation comes alive. Pass through the gates of the Animation Courtyard and follow the story of Walt Disney and his characters through the years. Animation Courtyard is also home to the characters of Playhouse Disney as well as two live stage shows.

As you enter the courtyard, the first attraction you encounter is the Voyage of the Little Mermaid. This seventeen minute stage show combines live actors, special effect and more to tell the story of Ariel, the Little Mermaid. Enter the theater and quickly take a trip under the sea and follow the story inspired by the film The Little Mermaid.

Directly across the courtyard is the other live stage show, Playhouse Disney Live on Stage. The twenty two minute stage show is geared towards the younger audience. It features characters from the Playhouse Disney cartoon shows like Handy Manny, Little Einsteins, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and My Friends Tigger and Pooh. The show incorporates songs and characters from the shows to get the kids to interact with the show.

In the back of the courtyard is the Magic of Disney Animation attraction. The tour takes guests on an inside look at the animation process and the history of Disney animation. The tour begins with an animator who shows the process of creating a character. The tour follows the animation process and then finishes with an interactive exhibit where you can try to draw your favorite character. At one time, you could view the animators at work here in the production studio, however the animation production has been relocated to California and the studio here is no longer in service.

As you exit the courtyard and head down the adjacent Mickey Avenue, the next attraction you will come across is One Man’s Dream. Here you will learn about the history of Walt Disney and see how he turned is vision into reality. The tour starts with a film that explores Disney’s life. Afterwards, you can tour the museum that is home to memorabilia from throughout Disney’s lifetime. This attraction was originally designed for the 100 year anniversary celebration, but was extended indefinitely due to its popularity.

The last attraction found on Mickey Avenue is Journey to Narnia. The walk-through attraction takes you through the Soundstages from the movie Journey to Narnia. The attraction opened in 2005 with the opening of the movies and has been updated with each of the sequels. The soundstage includes props, costumes and more from the film that was inspired by the CS Lewis books.

There are no restaurants here and the following shops can be found in the Animation Courtyard:

  • AFI Showcase Shop: merchandise from Disney films and TV shows.
  • Animation Courtyard Shops: merchandise and costumes from Disney films.
  • Animation Gallery: original art and collectibles from Disney animations.

Click on the photo above to view the Animation Courtyard photo gallery.

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