Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios closed its doors for the last time yesterday, September 24, 2025, at 6 p.m. This marks the end of an era for Star Wars fans visiting the park.
That Park Place Reporter Ron Bradley meets Darth Vader in The Star Wars Launch Bay – Follow The Bradley’s Fun
From what I witnessed myself, that fandom is diminishing, as the area was not nearly as busy as one might expect for a Star Wars–themed experience. Even the wait to meet Darth Vader—once a “must-do” attraction with lines stretching over an hour—topped out at just 30 minutes. And this was on its very last day of operation ever.
History of Star Wars Launch Bay
Star Wars Launch Bay officially opened on December 1, 2015, replacing The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Opening crawl in The Star Wars Launch Bay on its final day – Follow The Bradley’s Fun
It was launched as part of Disney’s celebration of the Star Wars franchise and tied directly to the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Featuring exhibits, character meet-and-greets, and exclusive memorabilia, its greater purpose was to build excitement for the upcoming Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which opened in 2019. Initially, it was expected the Star Wars Launch Bay would be closed with the debut of Galaxy’s Edge, but it remained open into 2020—until the parks shuttered that March due to the global lockdowns.
Not the Star Wars Area You Were Looking For…
When Hollywood Studios reopened during the lockdown era, not everything came back online as before. In Animation Courtyard, the theater for Voyage of the Little Mermaid remained dark, while Launch Bay quietly reopened.
Although Galaxy’s Edge had opened in 2019, Launch Bay required fewer cast members to operate since it consisted mostly of exhibits and a few meet-and-greets.
People in The Star Wars Launch Bay on its final day – Follow The Bradley’s Fun
Darth Vader, BB-8, and Chewbacca (who could also be found roaming Galaxy’s Edge) were the characters available on its closing day. The overlap caused confusion for some guests, who expected Launch Bay to be the “Star Wars area” of the park.
After reopening, Disney didn’t seem to know what to do with it. But given its low cost of operation, especially during budget-tight times, Star Wars Launch Bay lingered long past when it arguably should have closed.
Being Replaced by a Brand-New Experience? Not Exactly.
So what will replace Star Wars Launch Bay? On July 22, 2025, Disney announced via the Disney Parks Blog that The Magic of Disney Animation would return to Hollywood Studios in 2026.
Concept art for The Magic of Disney Animation at Walt Disney World – Disney Parks Blog
If that name sounds familiar, it’s because the original version once occupied the very same building. Of course, this won’t be a direct copy. Disney describes the new version as inspired by the short film Once Upon a Studio.
Concept art for The Magic of Disney Animation at Walt Disney World – Disney Parks Blog
The attraction will feature a behind-the-scenes look at Disney animation, interactive elements, and the chance to meet beloved animated characters. This transition represents a return to Disney’s animation roots—blending nostalgia with a fresh twist. As the saying goes, “what’s old is new again.”
Conclusion
While Star Wars Launch Bay likely overstayed its welcome, the decision to bring back The Magic of Disney Animation feels more like a safe choice than an imaginative one. Disney may call it a budget-friendly redo, but for many it feels like a placeholder rather than a bold new direction.
The mural in The Star Wars Launch Bay on its final day – Follow The Bradley’s Fun
Still, with Galaxy’s Edge and Star Tours, Star Wars remains well represented in the park.
Will you miss the Star Wars Launch Bay now that it has closed? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
