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Credit: Lee (myfrozenlife), FlickrIf you’ve been thinking about a Disney’s Hollywood Studios trip, you might want to keep both eyes open. Significant shifts are brewing—some already in motion, others still a year or two away. The park could feel entirely different when this wave of updates rolls through. We’re talking closures, fresh attractions, movie tie-ins, and complete reimaginings.
The tricky part? Not all the news is in-your-face obvious right now. Some of these changes are hiding in plain sight, with construction walls quietly going up and attractions suddenly disappearing from the map. Others are splashy announcements with opening dates already circled in red. One thing’s certain—Hollywood Studios is stepping into a whole new era.
Farewell to Muppet Vision 3D
Let’s start with the shocker for long-time fans. Muppet*Vision 3D has officially taken its final bow. The quirky comedy show has been a fixture since the park’s early days, but Disney closed the curtain to make way for something much bigger. That space will soon become the heart of a brand-new land dedicated to Pixar’s Monsters, Inc.
For some, saying goodbye to the Muppets in this form stings. But this isn’t the last you’ll see of Kermit and the gang. They’re just moving to a different—and much faster—stage.
Monsters, Inc. Land Is Coming
Disney is going all-in on Monstropolis, the vibrant city from Monsters, Inc. and Monsters University. Set to debut in 2027 or 2028, the new land invites guests to enter the monster world, picking up after the first film’s ending, when humans are welcome to visit.
The headline attraction? The Monsters, Inc. Doors Coaster. Imagine zipping through the Laugh Factory while hundreds of doors swing past you, echoing the wild chase scene from the movie. It’s a concept that blends Disney’s knack for storytelling with pure coaster thrills. Expect immersive details, character meet-and-greets, and plenty of nods to Mike, Sulley, and Boo.
A New Mission for Smugglers Run
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is also getting a fresh twist. On May 22, 2026—the same day The Mandalorian & Grogu movie hits theaters—Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will debut an entirely new mission starring the beloved bounty hunter and his tiny green companion.
This update is a big deal for repeat visitors who’ve flown the Falcon countless times. Instead of the familiar heist scenario, you’ll join Mando and Grogu on a brand-new adventure. It’s a smart move that ties park entertainment directly to what’s happening on the big screen.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster’s Muppet Makeover
Here’s where things get interesting for thrill-seekers. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, famous for its high-speed launch and Aerosmith soundtrack, is closing at the end of this year or the beginning of 2026. When it reopens later in 2026, it will have a completely new identity—this time featuring the Muppets.
Details on the storyline are still under wraps, but knowing the Muppets, expect comedy, chaos, and plenty of music (just not from Aerosmith). It’s an unusual pairing—puppets and roller coasters—but it might be precisely the kind of unpredictable fun the park needs.
Animation Courtyard Becomes The Magic of Disney Animation
Another major puzzle piece is Animation Courtyard, which will be reimagined into The Magic of Disney Animation in 2026. The Roy E. Disney Animation Building will be at its center.
The new space promises to celebrate Disney’s animation legacy, likely blending interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes looks, and hands-on activities. The surrounding area will also get a facelift, with open lawns, shady seating areas, and fresh entertainment offerings—including the “Drawn to Wonderland” indoor playground for younger visitors.
Star Wars and Disney Jr. Make Way for Something New
To make way for this transformation, Star Wars Launch Bay and the Disney Jr. Play and Dance! show will close starting September 25, 2025. While their departure means saying goodbye to two popular experiences—one beloved by Star Wars superfans and the other a hit with young kids—it clears the space for The Magic of Disney Animation to take center stage in 2026.
Two Fresh Shows
While most big changes are still in progress, two new shows have already debuted. On May 27, 2025, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure made its splashy entrance, replacing the long-running Voyage of the Little Mermaid. It’s a fresh take with updated effects and a bolder design while keeping the heart of the original puppet-and-performer format.
That same day, Villains Unfairly Ever After took the stage, plunging audiences into the reflective realm of the Magic Mirror. Iconic baddies like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent break through the glass to perform in elaborate production numbers. Both shows give guests more lower-wait entertainment options—a welcome change in a park often dominated by long lines for headliner rides.
Extended Evening Hours Shake-Up
There are also changes revolving around extended evening hours. Traditionally, these after-hours sessions have been a perk for deluxe resort guests, giving them extra time to enjoy rides with shorter waits. However, Disney is tweaking the schedule for Hollywood Studios, adjusting the dates and availability.
This move could shift how guests plan their park days, especially if they’re hoping to hit popular attractions like Tower of Terror, Rise of the Resistance, or Slinky Dog Dash with minimal lines. Keep an eye on the official calendar so you don’t get caught off guard.
Why This Overhaul Matters
It’s not every day that Disney pulls the trigger on this many significant changes in one park. Between the fresh entertainment already open, the massive projects set to debut over the next few years, and the schedule shake-ups for extended evening hours, Hollywood Studios is entering a period of serious transformation.
If you love the park as it is now, visit soon—you’ll want to experience these attractions before they’re gone. And if you’re eager for something new, the next few years might deliver the most exciting lineup Hollywood Studios has ever seen.