News Summary
Walt Disney World is set to close two beloved attractions, Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance!, permanently on September 25. Guests have until September 24 to enjoy these experiences. The closures will allow for the introduction of a new attraction, The Magic of Disney Animation, promising an interactive space for guests. Changes at Walt Disney World also include an adult lounge and updated reservation policies, aimed at enhancing visitor experiences while preserving a mix of nostalgia and innovation.
Orlando, Florida—Major changes are afoot at Walt Disney World with the announcement of the permanent closure of two popular attractions: Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! Both attractions are set to close their doors on September 25, 2025. Guests will have until September 24 to experience these beloved features located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The closures pave the way for a new attraction titled The Magic of Disney Animation, which aims to offer guests an interactive space where animation comes to life.
Walt Disney World is committed to enhancing guest experiences with several recent modifications. The new offerings include an adult lounge where visitors can enjoy alcoholic beverages, alongside stricter reservation requirements for annual pass holders. These changes are part of a broader initiative to continually improve the park’s attractions and services.
Star Wars Launch Bay has been a popular destination for fans of the franchise, offering opportunities to meet and interact with iconic characters. Meanwhile, Disney Jr. Play and Dance! has provided young guests with an engaging stage show representing beloved Disney Junior characters. The decision to close these attractions came as part of a strategic plan to introduce fresh entertainment options that appeal to families.
Disney plans for The Magic of Disney Animation to emulate the experience found at the Walt Disney Animation Studios in California. This new venue is envisioned as a “place of pure magic,” where visitors will have the chance to engage in various interactive activities, including drawing and exploration. It will also feature the iconic Mickey Mouse sorcerer hat atop its structure, promising a unique and visually delightful experience.
The announcement regarding the closures has generated mixed reactions among fans on social media platforms like Reddit, Instagram, and X. While many expressed nostalgia for the longstanding attractions, others are enthusiastic about the upcoming developments and potential experiences that The Magic of Disney Animation will provide. Disney has confirmed that although Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will be replaced, some attractions will remain available at the current location.
In addition to the changes at Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World is undergoing extensive construction projects throughout the resort. At the Magic Kingdom Park, work is ongoing at the former Rivers of America, where a new area themed around the Cars franchise is being developed. This new attraction, dubbed Piston Peak National Park, will feature a thrilling rally race experience.
Preparations for Piston Peak National Park are already underway, including silt removal and necessary site preparations. Construction walls and scaffolding are being put in place to shield the ongoing work from guests, ensuring minimal disruption to the visitor experience during this transformative period.
As the timeline progresses towards the inauguration of The Magic of Disney Animation in 2026, the anticipation continues to build among Disney enthusiasts. With the promise of new experiences and the retention of beloved attractions, Disney aims to strike a balance between innovation and nostalgia, all while ensuring memorable moments for families visiting the resort.
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Additional Resources
- The Travel
- Wikipedia: Walt Disney World
- Disney Dining
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Walt Disney World
- WDW Info
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
