Disney Imagineers Unveil Monsters, Inc. Land
At the D23 Ultimate Disney Fan Event in August 2024, Disney unveiled plans for an exciting addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios—a brand-new Monsters, Inc.-themed land featuring an all-new roller coaster. The announcement and concept art sparked excitement among fans, eager to see how this beloved Pixar franchise would come to life in the parks.
Where Will Monsters, Inc. Land Be Located?
While Disney confirmed that the Monsters, Inc. land would be part of Hollywood Studios, the exact location remained a mystery at first. Speculation ran wild, with many believing it would take over the Star Wars Launch Bay or the Muppet*Vision 3D area. As it turns out, the new land will replace Muppet*Vision 3D and its surrounding courtyard. However, Disney reassured fans that the Muppets wouldn’t be leaving—they are getting a new home in Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, replacing Aerosmith.
Concept Art Hints at the Future
Concept art shared at D23 2024 provided subtle hints about the land’s location. Fans quickly noticed Harryhausen’s restaurant from Monsters, Inc., suggesting that the new land would take over the former Muppet Courtyard area. The artwork also hinted at the removal of the Miss Piggy Fountain, replaced by a grand Monsters, Inc. entrance feature.
What’s Happening to Muppet*Vision 3D?
The transition from Muppet*Vision 3D to Monsters, Inc. Land is a significant shift for Hollywood Studios. While Disney has not confirmed exact details, speculation suggests that Rizzo’s Pizzeria and Gonzo’s Royal Flush could be rethemed to fit the Monsters, Inc. aesthetic. The popular Stage 1 Company Store and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano may also be repurposed, with Harryhausen’s restaurant taking shape in this area.
A Coaster Like No Other
One of the most thrilling aspects of the announcement is the new Monsters, Inc. roller coaster. Much like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT, this attraction will likely be built behind the existing themed land, extending into a backstage area. This clever use of space allows Disney to introduce a massive new ride without dramatically altering Hollywood Studios’ existing footprint.
More Questions Remain
With so many changes ahead, fans continue to speculate. What will happen to the former Muppet*Vision 3D theater? Could Disney relocate Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor from Magic Kingdom to Hollywood Studios? If so, this move could be the first step in a larger Tomorrowland overhaul at Magic Kingdom.
The Future of Hollywood Studios
As excitement grows for Monsters, Inc. Land, one thing is clear—Disney Imagineers are once again redefining Hollywood Studios. With this major expansion and the Muppets’ relocation to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, the park is undergoing one of its most significant transformations in years. Stay tuned for more details as Disney releases official updates!
