Disney Travel News

Disney Adventure Updates: Disney Adventure Arrives to its Homeport in Singapore

(Disney Destinations) — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:05:14 -0500

Welcome to the official ship’s log for the Disney Adventure. Our guests are invited to follow along on this page for an exclusive look at how this new ship comes to life. This archive will document the important milestones of the Disney Adventure’s journey, which is setting sail from Singapore starting March 10, 2026.

March 3, 2026: Disney Adventure Arrives to its Homeport in Singapore

Welcome home, Disney Adventure! After an incredible two-month journey around the globe, Disney Cruise Line reached a major milestone as the Disney Adventure made its highly anticipated arrival at its new home port of Singapore on the evening of March 3.

The atmosphere was electric as the ship approached Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, greeted by a stunning water salute and cheers from Cast Members, partners, and fans alike. The night sky sparkled with dazzling fireworks, marking the beginning of a new chapter for cruise vacations in the region.

“The arrival of the Disney Adventure in Singapore marks a significant milestone in our global expansion, introducing Disney cruising to Asia for the very first time,” said Joe Schott, president of Disney Signature Experiences. “Honoring Disney Cruise Line’s legacy of unforgettable journeys, our newest ship brings together our signature storytelling and creativity in an exciting new region.”

Singapore is a leading cruise hub in Asia, with direct flights from more than 160 cities and world-class cruise infrastructure, including the recently expanded Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore. The Disney Adventure’s five-year homeporting commitment marks a major milestone.

The festivities didn’t end there! To celebrate this momentous occasion, the red carpet was rolled out for more than 200 Singapore Cast Members and their family members and loved ones, as well as partners, who gathered in style for the Disney Adventure’s arrival. The celebration was inspired by the Hollywood Spotlight Club, one of the ship’s rotational dining locations, and paid tribute to the golden age of Hollywood. The evening sparkled with gourmet food and plenty of glitz and glamour.

When the Disney Adventure sets sail on its maiden voyage on March 10, guests can look forward to seven uniquely themed areas, with itineraries designed for days of fun at sea. The ship will introduce a series of firsts to the region, from regionally inspired cuisine and attractions at sea to new retail locations and numerous entertainment options at both the Walt Disney Theatre and the Garden Stage.

February 24, 2026: Disney Adventure Arrives in Tokyo

The countdown to the maiden voyage continues as the Disney Adventure has arrived in Tokyo. This milestone marks the end of an incredible two-week journey across the Pacific Ocean, including a crossing of the International Date Line. The ship was welcomed with a special drum ceremony at the pier in Tokyo.

Now, the Disney Adventure is onto the final stretch of its nearly two-month voyage. We are one step closer to reaching Singapore!

Throughout the journey, crew members are ensuring every detail onboard is ready for guests. From finishing touches and final rehearsals to special experiences being prepared for families to enjoy, excitement is building across the ship.

The team is eager to welcome guests aboard in Singapore, where the Disney Adventure will begin a new chapter of adventures.

February 9, 2026: Disney Adventure Arrives in Los Angeles

Ahoy from the West Coast! After an epic journey as the largest passenger vessel to travel through the Panama Canal, the Disney Adventure arrived in Los Angeles, marking another milestone on its nearly two-month, world-spanning voyage from Germany to Singapore.

The excitement is palpable as the cast and crew prepare to welcome guests aboard for the maiden voyage on March 10. Stay tuned for more updates as the Disney Adventure crosses the Pacific Ocean. Next stop: Tokyo!

January 27, 2026: Just Announced – Fireworks Coming to the Disney Adventure

Prepare to be dazzled! Disney Cruise Line, the only cruise line to feature fireworks at sea, will continue this guest-favorite tradition onboard the Disney Adventure with the exclusive, “The Lion King: Celebration in the Sky.” This spectacular will be a tribute to the beloved tale of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ The Lion King and its characters as it lights up the night sky.

“The Lion King: Celebration in the Sky” celebrates the story and its characters through stunning pyrotechnics and dramatic lighting effects, and honors the iconic songs from the film. These include original arrangements of “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” “He Lives in You,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” performed by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra with the unique voices of the Ndlovu Youth Choir from South Africa.

Alongside the fireworks and musical numbers, internationally acclaimed star and entertainment icon Shah Rukh Khan, who voiced Mufasa in the Hindi-language version of Disney’s The Lion King (2019) and Mufasa (2024), will narrate the show, connecting guests to the story in a new way.

The brand-new experience will be available on select nights during three- and four-night voyages aboard the Disney Adventure. For the most up-to-date information, guests should refer to the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app once onboard.

January 15, 2026: Disney Adventure Arrives in Port Canaveral

After a nearly two-week transatlantic crossing, more than 250 cast members, along with Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse, welcomed the Disney Adventure to Florida, marking the end of the first leg of its journey to its homeport in Singapore.

What’s next for the vessel? The Disney Adventure will sail through the Panama Canal, stop in Los Angeles, then voyage across the Pacific Ocean to Tokyo. The nearly two-month adventure will conclude in early March when the ship reaches Singapore ahead of its maiden voyage on March 10.

December 16, 2025: Another Disney Adventure Milestone Celebrated

On December 13, the crew members of the Disney Adventure, shipyard team, and Meyer Werft team commemorated another milestone celebrating the legal handover of the ship in Bremerhaven, Germany. The ceremony included a traditional flag-raising, and the Walt Disney Imagineering team presented a gift to the Meyer Werft team honoring the partnership behind bringing the Disney Adventure to life.

The Disney Adventure is one step closer to arriving to its homeport of Singapore. Stay tuned here for your first looks at the ship and more details about the incredible entertainment, dining, and experiences in store!

November 7, 2025: Sneak Peek at the Rotational Dining Restaurants on the Disney Adventure

When the Disney Adventure sets sail on its Maiden Voyage in March 2026, it’ll be home to quite the tasty lineup of restaurants for guests to try throughout their trip. Drawing inspiration from beloved Disney Animation, Pixar Animation Studios, and Marvel characters and cuisines from around the globe, these locations will transport guests through their taste buds. Let’s take a first look at the rotational dining restaurants coming to the Disney Adventure.

Navigator’s Club and Hollywood Spotlight Club

For those first-time or seasoned sailors out there looking for a nautical-inspired spot, the Navigator’s Club is for them. Included in one of the rotational dining lineups, this restaurant will feature musical acts and interactions with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck.

Sister restaurant to the Navigator’s Club, the Hollywood Spotlight Club brings the golden age of Hollywood to life. Guests can walk the red carpet as they step into this glamourous location. Here too, they can enjoy musical performances and Mickey Mouse and his friends in their Hollywood best.

For entrees, keep an eye on the horizon for dishes like the Duck Confit Pastilla with filo, saffron, cinnamon, and blackberry. Some other stars of the show include the Prawns Mumbai Bhel made with sweet corn, rice puffs, avocado, cilantro, aïoli, and tamarind, the Porcini Spiced Ahi Tuna Sashimi with pickled lotus root, oyster mushrooms, black sesame brittle, wasabi, and yuzu mayonnaise, and the Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass with baby Napa kimchi.

Animator’s Palate and Animator’s Table

A beloved restaurant among Disney Cruise Line fans, Animator’s Palate is back aboard the Disney Adventure along with its sister restaurant, Animator’s Table. Bringing to life Walt Disney’s legacy of animation, these locations transform over the course of dinner, going from black-and-white to a rainbow of color.

Throughout the spaces there’s even animation boards and props from cherished films, like Disney Animation’s The Little Mermaid and Encanto, and Pixar’s Toy Story. The food is sure to ignite guests' palates too. Savory items include the Hainanese Chicken Rice with sweet dark soy sauce, ginger garlic sauce, and chili sauce, and the Laksa Lemak with prawn, Tau pok, laksa leaf, and chili.

Sweet lovers out there are in for a treat with the Chocolate Decadence made with bitter chocolate crème, truffle crème, hazelnut chiffon, and chocolate sauce. The Salted Caramel Cheesecake features a vanilla cheesecake, salted dulce de leche glaze, and peanut butter rice crisps. Or, for an extra Disney touch, the Mickey Chocolate Tart.

Enchanted Summer Restaurant and Pixar Market Restaurant

Next up, we have Enchanted Summer Restaurant and Pixar Market Restaurant, whose menus are filled with can’t-miss bites. Guests can step into summer all year long at the Enchanted Summer Restaurant. This eatery transports guests to a village dining hall with rooms inspired by Disney Animation’s Tangled and Frozen. During the day for breakfast and lunch, a buffet filled with regional and international cuisines is sure to delight. As the nighttime comes around, this restaurant transforms into a traditional seated experience for rotational dining.

Those who love Pixar are in for a treat. The sister location, Pixar Market Restaurant, pays homage to the art and the artists who have created the iconic stories from Pixar Animation Studios. During the day, for breakfast and lunch, guests can enjoy a delicious buffet, while dinner transitions to a table-service restaurant for rotational dining.

Some of the dishes they'll want to try are the Shiromaru with tonkotsu pork broth, egg noodles, pork belly chasu, sesame kikurage mushrooms, bean sprouts, menma, and spring onions, and the Green Papaya Salad with long beans, chili, and grape tomatoes with palm sugar lime dressing.

For those with a sweet tooth, the Lemon Thai Basil Tart with lemon curd, Thai basil whipped ganache, Swiss meringue, and raspberry sauce is a must.

This is just a sneak peek at the delicious offerings coming to the Disney Adventure, but there’s so much more to try when the Disney Adventure sets sail in March 2026!

_{(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)}

October 29, 2025: First Look! Storybook Castle Installed in Disney Imagination Garden Aboard the Disney Adventure

The storybook castle, standing three decks tall, has taken its place at the creative heart of the Disney Adventure in Disney Imagination Garden. The art piece is a first-of-its-kind in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, bringing guest-favorite fairytales to life.

The Walt Disney Imagineering team drew inspiration from the iconic castles featured in beloved Disney films and Disney Parks around the world. The paper cut-out style, reminiscent of a pop-up storybook, invites guests to step into their own story.

The castle is inspired by the spirit of adventure and the sea, with nods to timeless Disney storytelling. Artistic details, from the wave pattern surrounding the frame to the rich blues that color the facade, create a celebration of water for the first Disney castle at sea.

At the center of the castle is the Disney family crest (which every Disney Parks castle around the world also features!) and a beautiful three-panel-stained glass window. Each panel represents a Disney heroine and princess. On these panels, you will find elements of nature including the water, sky and the heart of Te Fiti from Moana; the sun, earth and the Sundrop flower from Tangled; and the glistening ice and wind from Frozen.

There are a number of “Easter eggs,” too, with tributes to Disney traditions and even a hidden Mickey. At the base of the storybook castle is a waterfall reminiscent of the Walt Disney Pictures castle shown before every Disney film.

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes looks at how the Disney Adventure is being prepared for its maiden voyage out of Singapore in March 2026!

June 18, 2025: Just Announced! Brand New Retail Locations and Merchandise Coming to the Disney Adventure

The Disney Adventure is introducing some new retail offerings – and bringing some cruise favorite shopping locations – to the high seas when it sets sail from Singapore this December. With nearly 17,000 square feet of retail space, this ship will offer more shopping opportunities than ever before, including several exciting firsts for Disney Cruise Line!

The beloved Disney Parks shopping destination, World of Disney, will debut on Disney Cruise Line aboard the Disney Adventure. From familiar nautical favorites, to a wide range of never-before-seen designs inspired by the rich natural beauty and cultural icons of Southeast Asia, World of Disney is sure to be a must-visit for every guest onboard.

Another first for Disney Cruise Line, the National Geographic Store will open its doors at sea, offering a line of exclusive co-branded merchandise. Think stylish shirts, hats, adventure-ready bags, and more — perfect for explorers of all ages. Take a sneak peek at some of the exciting new products!

This one is for Duffy and Friends fans! The Disney Adventure will be home to the first-ever dedicated Duffy and Friends Shop. Expect exclusive merchandise that showcases Duffy and all his friends in adorable nautical-themed outfits, making this a can’t-miss spot for collectors and fans alike.

Concierge guests will be treated to an elevated shopping experience with access to two exclusive boutiques: Palace Treasures, including luxury goods and fine jewelry, and 3 Wishes, a boutique with one-of-a-kind apparel, souvenirs and collectibles.

Popular retail venues from across the Disney Cruise Line fleet will also be onboard, including Diamonds & Wishes and Treasures Untold. These curated shops will continue to offer an elegant mix of luxury items, limited-edition collectibles, and high-end accessories for guests looking for that perfect keepsake.

The Disney Adventure promises an unforgettable retail experience, ensuring guests can take home a little piece of their Disney Cruise Line adventure. With so many unique shops and exclusive merchandise, guests will have plenty of magical mementos to remember their journey!

June 12, 2025: Disney Adventure Celebrates Another Milestone: Stern Characters Installed

The Disney Adventure reached another Disney Cruise Line milestone with the installation of the stern characters — the oversized Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse — on the back of the ship, and we’re bringing everyone behind the scenes for a first look at the process.

The 18-foot-tall and 12-foot-wide anchor fixture was carefully lifted by the Meyer Wismar shipyard team using cranes to then bolt to the ship’s stern. This Disney Cruise Line tradition adds an extra touch of magic to the exterior, as different beloved Disney characters can be found on the stern of each ship across the fleet. The Disney Adventure is the first Disney Cruise Line ship to feature the captains as the stern characters.

The Walt Disney Imagineering team included some can’t-miss details on the incredible statue, from the dripping yellow filigree paint to the bows adorned to Captain Minnie’s shoes.

The characters are in their iconic captain looks, hard at work putting the final touches on the ship’s stern filigree with their larger-than-life paint brushes.

April 19, 2025: The Disney Adventure Marks New Construction Milestone

Today, April 19th, 2025, Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse, joined by cheering spectators, welcomed the Disney Adventure as it floated out of Meyer Werft’s hall in Wismar, Germany, and into the shipyard harbor.

The moment was celebrated with fireworks as a tugboat carefully guided the ship’s bow out of the building, eventually docking in the location where it will stay for the next few months while the team continues construction on what will be the largest vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet.

The team has an exciting few weeks ahead as they begin making some major updates to the ship’s exterior. One of the most anticipated milestones is the installation of the iconic Disney Cruise Line funnels on the upper decks. But this time, it’s not just the classic two funnels—Disney Adventure will feature four funnels!

And there’s more magic on the horizon. Soon, we will start to see the addition of the iconic yellow lifeboats on the sides of the ship and thrilling new attractions, including Marvel Landing’s Groot Galaxy Spin and Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever coaster, Ironcycle Test Run.

This exciting construction milestone brings the Disney Adventure one step closer to setting sail—and to welcoming guests later this year in Singapore!

Stay tuned for more updates on the Disney Adventure as the journey continues.

New Walt Disney World Offer for Disney Visa Cardmembers Available March 5

(Disney Destinations) — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:53:49 -0500

Disney Visa Rewards recently shared that a new Walt Disney World Resort special offer will be coming for Disney Visa Cardmembers to take advantage of beginning March 5, 2026. Details on this offer will be available on March 5, and to assist with booking this offer, Disney Central will be opening at 7 a.m. on March 5-6.

New Dates Added! Limited-Time Offer: 20% Off Voyage Fare and $250 Onboard Credit on Select Sailings

(Disney Destinations) — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:35:17 -0500

New dates added for August and September 2026! Seas the moment and plan a magical escape on a Disney Cruise! Guests can embark on select Disney Wish and Disney Dream sailings and enjoy 20% off voyage fare - plus $250 onboard credit to spend during their vacation at sea.

This offer is available on select sailings aboard the Disney Wish and Disney Dream between April and September 2026.

Eligible sailings*

*Availability is subject to change without notice.

Disney Wish sailing from Port Canaveral

April 6, 2026
April 10, 2026
April 17, 2026
April 20, 2026
May 1, 2026
May 8, 2026
May 18, 2026
May 22, 2026
May 29, 2026
June 1, 2026
June 5, 2026
June 12, 2026
June 15, 2026
June 19, 2026
June 26, 2026
June 29, 2026
July 3, 2026
July 10, 2026
July 13, 2026
July 17, 2026
July 20, 2026
July 24, 2026
July 27, 2026
July 31, 2026
NEW! August 7, 2026
NEW! August 10, 2026
NEW! August 14, 2026
NEW! August 21, 2026
NEW! August 24, 2026
NEW! August 28, 2026
NEW! August 31, 2026
NEW! September 7, 2026
NEW! September 11, 2026
NEW! September 18, 2026
NEW! September 21, 2026
NEW! September 25, 2026

Disney Dream sailing from Fort Lauderdale

~~April 10, 2026~~
April 13, 2026
~~April 17, 2026~~
~~April 24, 2026~~
~~April 27, 2026~~

Your clients must book this offer by March 29, 2026. Visit the Offers page for complete details. A Job Aid for travel advisor use only is available for download here.

Updated marketing materials are available to support this offer on Disney Copyright, including a PDF flyer, ad shell, display banners and social media graphics. Use the search term 'Seas the Moment Savings 2026.'

Walt Disney World Resort Guests: Save Up to 25% Off Voyage Fare on Select Sailings

(Disney Destinations) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:41:45 -0500

Keep the magic going! Guests who recently stayed in a Walt Disney World Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort can save up to 25% off their voyage fare! View eligible sailings on the Offers page, including departures from Florida, Texas and California.

Guests must book this offer within 7 days of their check-out date. Visit the Offers page on the Disney Travel Agents website for the full list of details.

Marketing resources, including an email template, are available for Future Travel offers on DisneyCopyright.com. A job aid is also available to assist you with Future Travel Offers. As a reminder, Job Aids are for travel trade use only and should not be shared with clients.

Club Level Guests Save 20% on a Disney Private VIP Tour for a Limited Time

(Disney Destinations) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:01:32 -0500

For a limited-time, Guests staying in Club Level Rooms or Club Level Suites at Walt Disney World Resort on select dates this spring and summer can save 20% on a Disney Private VIP Tour during their stay!

Guests can live their dream Disney day when they set off on a magical adventure with their very own private Disney VIP Tour Guide. Guests enjoy benefits like customizable experiences and private transportation, all with the care and insight of some of the most knowledgeable and friendly Cast Members around.

This offer is bookable now through Oct. 3, 2026, for tours from April 26 - Oct. 3, 2026. Bookings will qualify for commission based on the Standard Commission Policy, which can be viewed on the Commissions Page. To book Walt Disney World VIP Tours, Travel Agents can call (407) 560-4033. When calling, please state that you are a Travel Agent, and confirm your IATA number.

Offer is valid for a tour April 26 - Oct. 3, 2026 during a Resort stay (subject to block-out dates May 22-24, 2026 and July 3-5, 2026). The number of tours allocated for this offer is limited. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same tour. Reservations required. Valid for new reservations only. Offer is nontransferable and proof of eligibility may be required at the time of booking and at the time of the tour. Valid Theme Park admission for each Park visited on the tour is required and is not included. Offer may not be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.

Walt Disney World Room Offer for Recent Disney Cruise Line Guests

(Disney Destinations) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:29:12 -0500

Keep the magic going! Guests who recently sailed with Disney Cruise Line are invited to save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels in Florida. Your clients must book within 14 days of disembarking their eligible sailing, which includes all sailings departing between February 18 and May 17, 2026. Full offer details can be found on the Offers page.

This offer is eligible for stays from:

March 3 to May 21, 2026
May 25 to July 1, 2026
July 6 to September 2, 2026
September 7 to September 29, 2026
October 26 to November 25, 2026
November 29 to December 24, 2026

As a reminder, guests checking out of any Disney Resort hotel at Walt Disney World Resort may continue to book a return visit at a discounted rate.

Additional Marketing Assets for EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

(Disney Destinations) — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:28:34 -0500

Additional Marketing Assets are now available on Disney Copyright for the 2026 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. The toolkits contain a flyer and social assets to support this Walt Disney World Resort event taking place March 4 to June 1, 2026.

You can find these assets by searching for “Walt Disney World,” “EPCOT” or “FY26 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival."

Robert Downey Jr. Named Godparent of Disney Adventure

(Disney Destinations) — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:42:54 -0500

Robert Downey Jr. will be the godparent for the Disney Adventure, the newest and largest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Disney shared the news ahead of the vessel’s maiden voyage next month out of its home port in Singapore.

“Our new ship continues Disney Cruise Line’s tradition of bringing great stories to life at sea, and we are honored that Robert Downey Jr., who has guided audiences through unforgettable Marvel stories, is the official godparent for the Disney Adventure,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences and incoming Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company.

Downey’s portrayal of Tony Stark/Iron Man was the cornerstone of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the highest-grossing film franchise of all time. His unparalleled decade-plus cinematic journey as the iconic character culminated in Avengers: Endgame, which amassed more than $2.79 billion at the global box office. Downey was named an official Disney Legend in 2019 and will now star as Doctor Doom in Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Doomsday, in theaters December 18.

“It’s impossible to describe the majesty of the Adventure, and to be its godparent is an honor. As the largest ship in the Disney fleet, a gargantuan blessing must be bestowed … I’ll do my darndest,” Downey said.

The Disney Adventure brings more than 100 years of Disney storytelling to life across seven themed areas, including several Marvel experiences. At Marvel Landing on the top decks, guests can have the ultimate Super Hero adventure on Tony Stark’s Ironcycle Test Run, the first roller coaster on a Disney Cruise Line ship and the longest of its kind at sea. In the open-air Disney Imagination Garden area, the “Avengers Assemble!” live stage production will feature jaw-dropping stunts and special effects during an action-packed battle of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains. And inside Disney’s Oceaneer Club, the Marvel WEB Workshop invites young recruits to try out new Super Hero suit prototypes and conduct training simulations using top-secret Avengers technology.

The new ship offers signature Disney entertainment and hospitality: character encounters, Broadway-style shows, themed staterooms and concierge accommodations, and more than 20 dining and lounge venues featuring world-class international and Asian-inspired cuisines and beverages.

The maritime tradition of appointing a godparent to bless a new ship is a centuries-old custom believed to bring good fortune before a maiden voyage.

Disney Animation-Inspired Experience Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios

(Disney Destinations) — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:16:37 -0500

Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, is a place of pure magic – artists go in… beloved characters and films come out. Now, imagine stepping inside those iconic walls and seeing Disney Animation characters leap off the screen and into our world.

That was the heart and premise of the Emmy Award-winning short film, “Once Upon A Studio,” and soon, it will inspire a brand-new experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Housed in a building reminiscent of the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building, this upcoming family experience, “The Magic of Disney Animation,” is getting ready to bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.

New Adventures Under the Sorcerer Hat

In 2026, the current home of Star Wars: Launch Bay will transform into a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences. Topping the building will be Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat (just like the real building in California!), which will cast a spell with pixie dust.

Our story in this newly reimagined space begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away… but the building is still buzzing with activity as the characters have come to life and they’re ready to play!

Inside, guests will interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.

The playful and interactive moments will be around every corner. See portraits come to life before your eyes just like they did in “Once Upon A Studio", find inspiration with a short film (with a twist, of course) and even pencil in some time to learn how to draw their very own character sketch.

Our youngest animators-to-be can explore the “Drawn to Wonderland” playground filled with an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area, all inspired by the original “Alice in Wonderland” concept art from Disney Legend Mary Blair. It’ll be the perfect whimsical indoor play area for little ones to grow “curiouser and curiouser!”

All of those places to explore and create, and we haven’t even talked about character greetings… and there are lots! The whole family will be drawn to all the creative ways to play together when “The Magic of Disney Animation” opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios next year.

The Walt Disney Studios Lot Comes to Life at Hollywood Studios

The pixie dusting from the Sorcerer’s Hat will extend far beyond the walls of “The Magic of Disney Animation” as the entire courtyard is reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios,” taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank. This special nod to the legendary Walt Disney Studios Lot includes our version of the Studio Theater, which will continue to house “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” and over at the soundstage, you’ll find a fresh Disney Jr. show.

While exploring the studio grounds and courtyard area, families can take a break to play, relax, or snack on tasty treats under lush trees. And make sure to look around, too. You never know who you might see playing in the branches, soaking up the sun, or digging in the grass.

Explore “Off the Page!” and Spot Favorite Friends

Guests will also be able to venture into “Off the Page!” – a stunning area where they can meet some of their favorite friends from Walt Disney Animation Studios stories while celebrating the artistry behind every frame.

Each space offers incredible photo opportunities with favorite characters. Guests can meet Mulan in the Story department, posing in front of an oversized storyboard panel. Or step into the Layout department where Rapunzel waits in a setting inspired by the classic multiplane camera where guests will see layers of backgrounds and painted cells come together like magic.

Together, these spaces highlight key stages of the animation process, each brought to life through character encounters. Some of characters guests may spot are:

Mulan in Story
Rapunzel in Layout
Chip n’ Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation
Donald and Daisy in CG Animation
Goofy in Lighting
Stitch in Effects

Every corner of “Off the Page!” is designed to immerse guests in the craft of animation, as this experience is a collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios. Dan Abraham, Walt Disney Animation Studios Director and co-director of the Once Upon a Studio short, says he can’t wait to see what guests dream up after visiting the space.

“It’s so cool because you’re waiting in line to have fun with the characters… and you’re getting to see a bit of history of the studio as well,” Abraham said. “It could very well inspire people to move our studio into the future when they [join Walt Disney Animation Studios] and carry on this legacy that has meant so much to so many people.”

Learn to Draw with Olaf!

Step into a new Animation Academy experience with Olaf Draws!, where everyone’s favorite snowman takes center stage as a cheerful host. With his signature warmth, optimism, and playful humor, Olaf invites guests of all ages to explore the art of character drawing.

Brought to life as an all-new Audio-Animatronics figure, Olaf welcomes guests into a space inspired by one of his most memorable moments from Once Upon A Studio sitting at an animator’s desk, joyfully discovering the art of drawing.

Stepping into a reimagined animator’s studio with playful nods to Frozen, guests of all ages are invited to sit down and learn to draw. Young animators in the making can spark their creativity at sleigh‑themed tables, while animator‑desk–style workstations invite kids at heart to feel as though they’ve stepped right into the studio.

The happy snowman’s spirit of curiosity and encouragement is what inspired Josh Gad, the voice of Olaf, as he recorded original dialogue for the experience while also considering what it might spark in young artists.

“I’m so thrilled that a whole new generation of kids can dream of becoming animators one day and can actually begin their journey right there on the studio lot,” Gad shared, underscoring how Olaf Draws! turns imagination into possibility.

Since Olaf can’t quite draw on his own, he turns to the expertise of some legendary Disney Animation artists whose pre-recorded guidance brings the class to life. Together, they guide guests step-by-step through the creative process, sharing tips, techniques, and stories straight from the studio as they learn how beloved Disney Animation characters come to life.

Each class features a different character, inspired by timeless classics and modern favorites, giving guests a unique reason to return again and again. They may find themselves sketching:

Mickey Mouse, with Dan Abraham, director (Once Upon A Studio, Baymax!)
Minnie Mouse, with Hyun Min Lee, animator (Frozen 2, The Princess and the Frog)
Donald Duck, with Austin Traylor, animator (Once Upon A Studio, Moana 2)
Genie, with Eric Goldberg, animator (Aladdin, Hercules)
Moana, with Samantha Vilfort, story artist (Encanto, Zootopia 2)
Stitch, with Fawn Veerasunthorn, director and head of story (Wish, Raya and the Last Dragon)
Olaf, with Trent Correy, director (Once Upon A Studio, Frozen 3)
Ursula, with Michael Woodside, animator (Big Hero 6, Encanto)
Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde, with Byron Howard director, (Zootopia, Zootopia 2)

Where Art Springs to Life

As guests explore The Magic of Disney Animation, guests will discover an enchanted art gallery, a beautifully curated space filled with artwork featuring beloved Disney Animation characters. At first glance, it feels like a traditional gallery, but with a little pixie dust a favorite character may spring to life in all-new animations created exclusively for this experience!

From there, the journey continues in the Once Upon A Studio Theater, where guests can enjoy the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon A Studio. Inside this dedicated theater honoring more than a century of Disney Animation storytelling, enhanced effects add an extra layer of magic.

As guests enjoy the film, they may spot characters popping up within the artwork along the theater walls, placing them right in the middle of this enchanting story.

Disney Animation artists and Walt Disney Imagineers are working hand-in-hand to bring the wonder and nostalgia of Disney Animation films to the whole courtyard in new and immersive ways families will love. We can’t wait for guests to experience this fantastical place in late summer 2026.

As we prepare for this transformation, Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. During this time, guests will still be able to go under the sea with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and enjoy the exhibits and film presentation at Walt Disney Presents.

And guests can catch the inspiration for this brand new adventure – Disney Animation’s Once Upon a Studio – on Disney+.

New Walt Disney World Cool KIDS' SUMMER Marketing Toolkits on Disney Copyright

(Disney Destinations) — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:58:57 -0500

NEW Walt Disney World Cool KIDS' SUMMER marketing toolkits are available for download on Disney Copyright.

The toolkits contain the following:

Photography
Approved copy docs
Social assets

Clients are encouraged to download these toolkits on DisneyCopyright.com. Additional resources will be added for Cool KIDS' SUMMER will be added in the future.